Understanding Team Gymnastics Levels

Women's Developmental Gymnastics Levels:

What They Mean, Where Xcel Fits, and How USAG, NGA, and AAU Compare

When my daughter first joined team, I thought “levels” were like school grades — neat, predictable, and universal. Then I learned that gymnastics levels are… not that. At all.

Different organizations use different systems. Some gyms compete Level 1, some don’t. Some use numbers, some use colors. Some combine levels, some separate them. And then there’s Xcel — the program no one warns you about until suddenly your child is in it.

If you’re confused, you’re not alone. Let’s break it all down in a way that actually makes sense.

The Three Main Competitive Pathways

Most gyms in the U.S. follow one of these organizations:

• USAG (USA Gymnastics)

• NGA (National Gymnastics Association)

• AAU (Amateur Athletic Union)

All three offer:

• Compulsory levels

• Optional levels

• An alternative program (like Xcel)

• Local and regional competitions

• A focus on safe skill progressions

But the structure, rules, and philosophy vary slightly between them.

Before we compare the organizations, let’s talk about the three big pathways your gymnast might follow.

1. Compulsory Levels (The “Everyone Does the Same Routine” Stage)

Compulsory levels are the foundation of competitive gymnastics. Every gymnast performs the same routines, with the same choreography, to the same music.

Purpose of Compulsory

• Build strong basics

• Teach body shapes and technique

• Develop consistency

• Prepare gymnasts for harder skills later

Typical Compulsory Levels

• USAG: Levels 1–5

• NGA: Levels 1–6 (similar structure, slightly different skill requirements)

• AAU: Levels 1–5 (more flexibility in routine construction)

Not all gyms compete every level. Some skip Level 1 or 2 entirely and start at Level 3 or 4.

2. Optional Levels (The “Personalized Routine” Stage)

Optional gymnastics is where routines become individualized. Gymnasts choose skills that fit their strengths, and routines are choreographed specifically for them.

Purpose of Optional

• Encourage creativity

• Allow gymnasts to showcase strengths

• Introduce higher‑level skills

• Prepare for advanced competition

Typical Optional Levels

• USAG: Levels 6–10

• NGA: Levels 7–10

• AAU: Levels 6–Open Optional

Optional gymnastics is what most people think of when they picture “competitive gymnastics.”

3. Xcel: The Flexible, Family‑Friendly Alternative Path

Now let’s talk about Xcel, because this is where many parents get confused — and where many gymnasts thrive.

Xcel is a separate competitive program designed to offer:

• More flexibility

• More creativity

• Less training time

• Lower cost

• A more balanced schedule

Xcel is NOT “less than” the traditional levels. It’s simply different — and for many gymnasts, it’s the perfect fit.

Xcel Levels

Most organizations use these divisions:

• Bronze

• Silver

• Gold

• Platinum

• Diamond

• Sapphire (in some programs)

Where Xcel Fits Compared to Compulsory/Optional

Think of it like this:

Program	Rough Equivalent
Bronze	Level 1–2
Silver	Level 2–3
Gold	Level 3–5
Platinum	Level 6
Diamond	Level 7–8
Sapphire	Level 8–9

These are not exact matches, but they help show the general skill range alignment.

*It's important to note that some gymnastics programs have an xcel program instead of a compulsory program. Both tracks progress perfectly into optional levels.

Why Families Choose Xcel

• Less practice time

• Lower cost

• More flexibility in routines

• Great for multi‑sport athletes

• Perfect for gymnasts who love the sport but don’t want the intensity of the traditional path

• A wonderful option for older beginners

Many gyms run both programs and place gymnasts based on readiness, goals, and family needs.

How USAG, NGA, and AAU Compare

Here’s a simple, parent‑friendly breakdown of the three major organizations.

USAG (USA Gymnastics)

The largest and most widely recognized program.

What USAG Offers

• Levels 1–10

• Xcel Bronze–Sapphire

• Elite track (for advanced athletes)

• Very structured rules and progressions

Best For

• Gyms that want a traditional, structured path

• Families who want the most widely recognized competitive system

• Gymnasts who may eventually pursue higher‑level gymnastics

NGA (National Gymnastics Association)

A newer organization created to offer a more flexible, coach‑friendly alternative.

What NGA Offers

• Levels 1–10

• Xcel‑style divisions (Bronze–Diamond)

• More flexibility in routine construction

• A focus on positive culture and accessibility

Best For

• Gyms wanting more freedom in skill selection

• Families who want competitive gymnastics without the strictness of USAG

• Gymnasts who thrive with more individualized routines even at lower levels

AAU (Amateur Athletic Union)

A long‑standing organization known for being family‑friendly and accessible.

What AAU Offers

• Levels 1–Open Optional

• Xcel divisions

• Lower cost and lower pressure

• Meets that are often more relaxed and fun

Best For

• Families wanting a more flexible, budget‑friendly option

• Gyms that want to offer competition without the intensity of USAG

• Multi‑sport athletes or gymnasts who want balance

Similarities Across All Three Organizations

No matter which program your gym follows, you’ll see:

• Compulsory levels

• Optional levels

• Xcel or Xcel‑style divisions

• Safe skill progressions

• Local and regional competitions

• A focus on athlete development

  
  

All three organizations aim to help gymnasts grow safely, confidently, and joyfully.

Differences Parents Actually Notice

Here’s what tends to matter most to families:

1. Flexibility in Routines

• USAG: Most structured

• NGA: More flexible

• AAU: Most flexible

  
  

2. Cost

• USAG: Typically highest

• NGA: Moderate

• AAU: Often lowest

3. Pressure/Intensity

• USAG: Most intense

• NGA: Balanced

• AAU: More relaxed

4. Meet Atmosphere

• USAG: Formal, competitive

• NGA: Positive, athlete‑focused

• AAU: Fun, family‑friendly

A Final Note From One Gym Mom to Another

When my daughter first joined team, I didn’t know the difference between Level 3, Xcel Gold, or NGA Silver. I didn’t know which organization our gym belonged to or why it mattered. I just wanted to understand what she was doing and how to support her.

If you’re feeling the same way, you’re doing great. You’re learning. You’re showing up. You’re supporting your gymnast — and that’s what matters most!

No matter the program, level, or organization, your gymnast is building strength, confidence, resilience, and joy. And you get to be part of that journey.