Floor Exercises for Beginning Gymnastics

For a beginning gymnast, mastering a floor exercise routine can be an exciting experience. According to USA Gymnastics, Levels 1 through 4 are considered beginner gymnastics levels. Often, beginner gymnasts ages 6 and older will start training at Level 4 almost right away. A Level 4 floor exercise routine requires precision, power, flexibility, artistry and strength.

  1. Tumbling

    • A beginner must do a handstand, holding the position for one second, into a forward roll. She should also learn to master a handstand into a back bridge to kick over, and a back roll with her back and chest in a hollow position. Finally, the big and most difficult beginner tumbling pass is a roundoff back handspring into a high rebound. This will serve as a building block for future, more advanced tumbling.

    Dance

    • USA Gymnastics has choreographed a beginner floor exercise routine. Each of the steps is outlined in detail in the Junior Olympic Code of Points, which most coaches will use. A beginner should also work on dance skills borrowed from ballet, such as a the chasse, plie and releve. She should also know how to do a full 180-degree side split on the ground and a half turn with her support ankle at releve.

    Leaps And Jumps

    • A beginner gymnast should master a split jump with her legs apart at 90 degrees or more. She should also complete a split leap with her legs apart at 90 degrees or more. She must make sure that her knees are extended fully and her toes are always pointed to add to the beauty of the skill.

    Music

    • Beginner gymnasts must use the music selected by USA Gymnastics. The music is changed every few years, so it's best to check the most recent Code of Points for the latest updates. Once a gymnast advances to the higher levels, she is able to select music that suits her style and personality best.