In case your younger gymnast exhibits robust expertise early and desires of reaching the elite stage sometime, chances are high you’ve heard whispers in regards to the TOPs Program. Possibly you’ve heard it’s intense. Possibly you’ve heard it’s a pathway to greatness. Possibly you’re questioning: Is it proper for my baby?
Let’s break down what the Expertise Alternative Program (TOPs) is, who it’s for, and what to anticipate in case your gymnast is aiming for the highest.
🤸♀️ What Is the TOPs Program?
The TOPs Program (brief for Expertise Alternative Program) is a expertise identification and growth system created by USA Gymnastics. It’s designed to search out bodily gifted gymnasts between ages 7 and 10 and supply them with the sources, teaching, and construction to arrange for elite-level gymnastics.
TOPs focuses on bodily skills testing and fundamental talent analysis—not full routines. Gymnasts who excel could also be invited to coach at Nationwide TOPs camps and enter a fast-track pipeline towards elite gymnastics.
🎯 Who Is TOPs For?
TOPs is for:
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Younger gymnasts (ages 7–10) with distinctive power, flexibility, and physique management
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Athletes with the want and self-discipline to coach at a excessive stage from an early age
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Households dedicated to intensive coaching schedules and long-term objectives like elite, NCAA, and even Olympic gymnastics
It’s not required to turn out to be elite—however it’s a widespread stepping stone for a lot of who do.
🧪 What Does TOPs Testing Contain?
TOPs testing is completed on the state and nationwide stage. It contains two essential elements:
1. Bodily Talents Testing (examples):
2. Primary Ability Testing (for older age teams):
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Tumbling and beam fundamentals (turns, leaps, handstands)
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Type, precision, and method
Athletes usually practice for months prematurely with particular conditioning regimens to arrange for these checks.
📍 What Is the Course of?
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Health club Participation
Solely TOPs-participating gyms can ship athletes for testing. Discuss to your coach to see in case your gymnasium provides a program or prep group. -
Native Testing (Summer time)
State checks often occur in June or July. Primarily based on scores, prime athletes could qualify for Nationwide TOPs Testing. -
Nationwide Testing (Fall)
Held at a central location, typically Texas. High gymnasts are invited primarily based on scores and efficiency. -
Nationwide TOPs Crew
The best scorers are named to the Nationwide TOPs Crew and invited to attend a TOPs Camp on the Nationwide Coaching Heart, alongside prime coaches and USAG workers.
🕒 How A lot Time Does TOPs Require?
TOPs athletes typically practice 15–20+ hours per week, even at ages 7–10. It’s not nearly expertise—it’s about time, repetition, and self-discipline.
Households concerned in TOPs usually decide to:
🤔 Is TOPs Proper for My Little one?
TOPs could also be a very good match if:
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Your gymnast thrives on power and conditioning
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They’re mentally and bodily ready for additional coaching
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Your loved ones understands the long-term elite gymnastics timeline
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You have got a supportive coach who believes within the pathway
TOPs could not be very best if:
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Your baby prefers a extra balanced schedule or different sports activities
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They’re newer to gymnastics or nonetheless creating fundamentals
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Your gymnasium doesn’t provide structured help for this system
✨ What Are the Advantages of TOPs?
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Early publicity to elite coaches and requirements
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Targeted talent growth throughout important early years
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Clear suggestions on the place your gymnast stands nationally
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Alternatives to fast-track into HOPES and Elite packages
Even when a gymnast doesn’t “make” the TOPs staff, the coaching concerned typically helps them excel within the Developmental Program (JO) or different aggressive tracks.
💬 Remaining Ideas
The TOPs Program isn’t the one path to success—nevertheless it’s an unbelievable alternative for gymnasts with large desires and large drive. Whether or not your baby turns into an Olympian or just grows stronger by means of the method, the self-discipline and resilience they develop by means of TOPs will serve them in gymnastics and past.
For those who assume your gymnast has what it takes—or in the event you’re simply curious—speak to your coach and discover what your gymnasium provides. The journey may be intense, however for the precise athlete, it may also be unforgettable.
