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Rhythmic Gymnastics Music Rules (Ultimate Guide)

Guide Overview

This guide will teach you how to choose gymnastics music. Based on the rules and recommendations set fourth by FIG & USAG. 

You will learn what music length is right for you.

Some penalties and point deductions for not following rules.

Where to get your music.

 

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Table of Contents

Rhythmic Gymnastics Music Length for USAG & FIG

This information is directly from USAG and FIG some of the language maybe quoted. 

When does rhythmic gymnastics music timing begin?

USAG and FIG describe that the stopwatch (timing) begins when the rhythmic gymnast(s) makes her first move (action) and ends when the rhythmic gymnast(s) is/are completely still.  A musical tone is allowed at the beginning of the routine music. 

What are the proper lengths of music time for individual rhythmic gymnastics competition routines?

Individual Routines

  • Level 3 – 1 minute 15 seconds maximum 
  • Level 4 – 1 minute to 1 minute 30 seconds maximum 
  • Level 5 – 1 minute to 1 minute 30 seconds maximum 
  • Level 6 – 1 minute to 1 minute 30 seconds maximum 
  • Level 7 – 1 minute 15 seconds to 1 minute 30 seconds maximum 
  • Level 8 – 1 minute 15 seconds to 1 minute 30 seconds maximum 
  • Level 9 – 1 minute 15 seconds to 1 minute 30 seconds maximum – Can have words (they use fig program)
  • Level 10 – 1 minute 15 seconds to 1 minute 30 seconds maximum – Can have words (they use fig program) 

What are the proper lengths of music time for USAG Junior Olympic Group Program?

Group Routines Music Length

  • Beginner Group – 1 minute 30 to 2 minutes
  • Intermediate Group – 2 minutes to 2 minutes 30 seconds
  • Advanced Group – 2 minute to 2 minutes 30 seconds

What are the proper lengths of music time for individual rhythmic gymnastics routines under FIG?

FIG states that for Senior and junior gymnasts each exercise should be between 1 minute 15 seconds to 1 minute 30 seconds. Music within these lengths is acceptable.

What are the proper lengths of music time for Group rhythmic gymnastics routines under FIG?

FIG states that for Senior and junior gymnasts each exercise should be between 2 minute 15 seconds to 2 minute 30 seconds. Music within these lengths is acceptable.

Citation: You find the rules from USAG here (Bottom of page 1).

Music Penalties & Technical Issues Guide

This information is directly from USAG and FIG some of the language maybe quoted. Disclaimer: Rules for USAG & FIG change these rules were written guidelines for 2018-2020 USAG Womens Rules JO

What kind of rhythmic gymnastics music can I choose for USAG or FIG?

USAG and FIG States that music can have one or many instruments. Voice is also considered to be an instrument if used without words. Music must conform to typical rhythmic gymnastics style music. USAG lists a few examples of forbidden music “Sirens, Car Engines, etc.” Both federations describe that they do not allow two song (dynamically different) to be edited into one routine.

Songs with Words

USAG –  words or singing is not allowed in for routine songs. If you have questions about a song containing words and eligibility you can forward your concerns to the Regional Technical Committee Chairman. He will forward to the proper directors of approval or disapproval. In the case the music is approved the coach/ athlete mus carry the approved forms to the competition.

FIG – Music with words can be used for 2 individual exercises and 1 group exercise. It is the responsibility of the national federation to declare the exercise(s) will have words used in it. 

What are some of the penalties that can be received in relation to the music?

  • Failure for not conforming to music can result in a 0.50 point penalty for not typical music.
  • Failure to have working .mp3 file/cd or low/bad quality of file/cd can result in a 0.50 point penalty.
  • Music that is going over the maximum amount of time required will be subject to a 0.05 point penalty for every second, that it goes over or under. (time judge)
  • For USAG the absence of music or music with words is a 1.00 point penalty taken from the average score by the Chief Judge.
  • FIG – Penalty by 1.00 point for each exercise over the limit. Coordinator Judge’s responsible for making penalty.
  • FIG – Penalty of 0.30 for musical introduction without movement longer than 4 seconds.

What happens if the wrong music plays or their is a technical error during a competition?

If the wrong music plays the gymnast(s) is/are required to stop their routine and exit the competition floor. They will then re-start again with their music. 

It is rare but in cases of extreme technical error during rhythmic gymnastics competitions (complete system failure – audio, electrical, etc) This is only done with the approval of the Meet Referee.  

Citation: You find the rules from USAG here (Bottom of page 1) from FIG here top of page 4.

Where Can I Buy Rhythmic Gymnastics Music or Cutting Service?

Where can I buy uncut music legally?

We always advise buying your music legally. We recommend using iTunes for purchasing raw music files. 

Where to buy custom cut rhythmic gymnastics music?

Jenerg offers professional music cutting service for artistic, acrobatic and rhythmic gymnastics. Individual/ Group Routines, with music at various lengths, check out our portfolio. Some of our clients include well known athletes that have competed in the Olympics with the music we serviced for them. 

Where to buy ready made tracks for RG (not custom)?

There are a few places that you can purchase ready made music tracks. But we always recommend advising with your coach before choosing or purchasing music or cuts. They will have a better understanding on the type of music that would work for your specific routine and the athletes experience.

  • Jose Gonzalz
    May 24, 2020 at 5:23 am

    This is the best guide for gymnastics music that I have come across. Thank you for the supporting documentation quoting USAG and FIG rules. Great blog article.

  • Sveta Krichmar
    March 17, 2021 at 6:26 am

    Amazing article on rhythmic gymnastics rules. Really enjoyed learning more about the process. Thank you

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