How to do a Split Leap
A Split Leap is a leap on floor exercise that gymnasts usually learn between Levels 2 and 3.
Also called: leap, split jump.
Quick facts
| Apparatus | Floor Exercise |
|---|---|
| Typical level (estimate) | Levels 2-3 |
| Difficulty (Stickd rating) | 3/10 |
| Time to learn (estimate) | About 3 weeks |
| Fear factor (Stickd rating) | 0/5 |
Levels, ratings and timelines are Stickd estimates for planning, not USAG requirements.
Step-by-step progression
A Split Leap is a starting skill with no required prerequisite.
- 1
Split Leap
Learn a Split Leap. Allow about 3 weeks (estimate).
Drills that build a Split Leap
- Split Holds with Blocks
- Leap Power & Height Drills
- Straight Jump Series
- Pointed Toe & Foot Articulation
- Split Jump & Straddle Jump Drills
Technique focus areas: Insufficient split.
What good form looks like
Leap from one foot with the legs in a split at the peak.
- hips: open
- knees: straight
- ankles: pointed
Common deductions on a Split Leap
| Deduction | What it means | Typically |
|---|---|---|
| Insufficient Split | Split not reaching 180 degrees in leaps and jumps | 0.1 |
| Step on Landing | Taking a step after landing a skill | 0.1 |
| Low Leap Height | Leap or jump does not achieve sufficient height off the apparatus | 0.1 |
Typical values; judges scale each deduction by how noticeable it is, and the judges' score is the official one.
Skills a Split Leap unlocks
- Switch Leap (Floor Exercise, Levels 5-6)
Watch an example
Watch a Split Leap tutorial on YouTube (opens in a new tab).
Frequently asked questions
- What level do gymnasts learn a Split Leap?
- Gymnasts usually learn a Split Leap between Levels 2 and 3. That is a typical range, and every gymnast and gym moves at a different pace.
- How long does it take to learn a Split Leap?
- About 3 weeks of regular practice, as a rough estimate. Real timelines vary a lot from gymnast to gymnast.
- What are the most common deductions on a Split Leap?
- The ones to watch for are Insufficient Split (usually about 0.1), Step on Landing (usually about 0.1) and Low Leap Height (usually about 0.1). Judges scale each deduction by how noticeable it is.