The USA Gymnastics Xcel program was developed as an alternative competitive program offering a bit more freedom for gymnasts and coaches.
GymnasticsHQ compares Xcel with the traditional USAG Development Program (formerly Junior Olympic rules):
- Xcel Bronze to Levels 1–2
- Xcel Silver to Level 3
- Xcel Gold to Levels 4/5
- Xcel Platinum to Levels 5/6
- Xcel Diamond to Levels 6/7
- Xcel Sapphire to Level 8, 9 & 10

Canada also offers Xcel. And it’s used in some other nations, including Bermuda.
Sapphire is newest. It’s being piloted in USA Regions 3, 6, 7, and 8.
If interested, check the documentation on USAGym.org.
If you know Xcel, click over to GymnasticsHQ which has a succinct summary of changes for 2022-2026.
