1. Deductions
  2. /Execution
  3. /Pre-flight Angle

What is a "Pre-flight Angle" deduction in gymnastics?

The "Pre-flight Angle" deduction is taken for insufficient angle or height in pre-flight phase. Judges typically take 0.10 for it.

On vault, the pre-flight (entry) angle wasn't quite where the judge wants it.

ExecutionTypically −0.10Vault

What it costs

The typical value for pre-flight angle is 0.10. Judges scale it by how noticeable the error was.

Typical values for pre-flight angle
DeductionSeverityTypical valueEvents
Pre-Flight AngleSmall−0.10Vault

These are typical values used for practice feedback. Official values come from the code your meet is judged under: USA Gymnastics — Rules & Policies, FIG Code of Points.

Where it shows up

Events: Vault.

Skills where pre-flight angle is common:

How to fix it

Hurdle and board-entry drills to improve the pre-flight angle off the table.

Muscles involved

Primary

  • Shoulders: Deltoids and rotator cuff for handstands, casts, and overhead positions
  • Core: Abdominals and deep stabilizers for body tension and hollow/arch positions

Secondary

  • Quadriceps: Front thigh muscles for jumps, landings, and knee extension
  • Chest: Pectorals for push-off in vault, floor, and support positions

Drills that help

Related deductions

Common questions

What is a "Pre-flight Angle" deduction in gymnastics?
Insufficient angle or height in pre-flight phase. It falls under the execution category of deductions.
How many tenths is the pre-flight angle deduction?
The pre-flight angle deduction is typically 0.10, and the judge scales it by how noticeable it was. Official values come from the USAG or FIG code your meet uses.
Why do judges take the pre-flight angle deduction?
Pre-flight is one of three vault judging phases — small angles add up.
How can my gymnast stop getting the pre-flight angle deduction?
Hurdle and board-entry drills to improve the pre-flight angle off the table.
Which events is the pre-flight angle deduction called on?
In Stickd's rule set, the pre-flight angle deduction applies on Vault.
Which skills commonly get the pre-flight angle deduction?
Stickd's skill data links the pre-flight angle deduction to 4 skills, including Front Handspring Vault (Vault), Handspring Front Tuck Vault (Vault), Tsukahara (Vault), and Yurchenko Tuck (Vault).
What drills help fix the pre-flight angle deduction?
Standard Stickd drills that target the pre-flight angle deduction include Handstand Flat Back Vault Drill, Hurdle to Board Drills, Vault Run & Approach Drills, and Yurchenko Timer Drills.

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