Xcel vs. the Development Program: which is right for your gymnast?

When your gymnast is invited to a competitive team, you'll likely hear two names: the Development Program and Xcel. Both are USA Gymnastics programs, both compete at meets, and both can be a great fit. Here's how they differ. For the bigger picture, see the ultimate guide to gymnastics for parents.

The Development Program

Often called simply "levels," the Development Program runs from Level 1 to Level 10.

• Levels 1 to 5. USA Gymnastics groups these as developmental (1 to 3) and compulsory (4 and 5), and every gymnast at a level performs the same set routines.
• Optional levels (6 to 10). Coaches build routines for each gymnast around required elements, and difficulty rises with each level.
• The long road. Level 10 is the top of the program and the traditional path toward college gymnastics. Moving up takes more training hours as gymnasts climb.

Xcel

Xcel has six divisions: Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum, Diamond, and Sapphire, the newest.

• Flexible routines. Coaches build routines around a list of requirements, so gymnasts can show their strengths.
• Lighter training load. Xcel teams often train fewer hours than Development Program teams at similar skill levels, leaving room for school, other sports, and life.
• Real competition. Xcel gymnasts compete at invitationals and championships too.

How to choose

• Talk to your coach. Coaches place gymnasts based on skills, age, and goals, and most gyms run both programs.
• Think about time. If your family wants gymnastics alongside other activities, Xcel's flexibility can be a great fit.
• Think about goals. A gymnast with big long-term ambitions may thrive in the Development Program's progression.
• Remember it isn't permanent. Gymnasts can move between programs as their goals change.

Whichever program your gymnast joins, the ultimate guide to gymnastics meets explains what competing looks like, and what gymnastics classes cost covers team tuition.