Ever wondered how rhythmic gymnastics performances are scored? Let's demystify the process in a simple and engaging way!

The Basics:

• Three Main Components: Difficulty, Execution, and Artistry
• Judging Panels: Four different panels for each routine – Difficulty of Body, Difficulty of Apparatus, Artistry, and Execution

The Difficulty Panel:

• This is in place in Singapore for FIG, Age Groups, RG National Stages Programme (Stages 1-3) and RG National Levels Programme (Levels 6-7)
• Two Sub-Panels: Difficulty of Body (DB) and Difficulty of Apparatus (DA)
• Open-Ended Scoring: Judges DB1 and DB2 assess Difficulty of Body, dynamic elements with Rotation and recognition of waves while DA1 and DA2 focus on Apparatus Difficulties and the presence of required Fundamental apparatus technical elements. Each DB or DA judge will judge independently and give a common score after the evaluation of the routine.

The Artistry Judges:

• Maximum of 4 Judges: Evaluate the dance step combination and the artistic structure and composition of the routine including character, body expression, and dynamic changes.
• Total Deduction: Independently determined, eliminating highest and lowest scores, averaged to give the final artistry deduction.

The Execution Panel:

• Technical Faults: Precision, clarity, and mastery assessed.
• Common Penalties: Deductions for errors, mistakes, and issues in execution
• Common Penalties:
• Loss of apparatus: Penalties based on retrieval, ranging from 0.5 to 1.0 points.
• Jumping and Balancing: Penalized for lack of amplitude, heavy landing, or undefined shape.
• Apparatus handling: Incorrect handling of apparatus such as bounce during roll and grasping of ball.
• Total Deduction: Independently determined, eliminating highest and lowest scores, averaged to give the final artistry deduction.

Penalties:

• Floor Boundary Crossing: 0.3 point deduction for each gymnast/apparatus
• Exercise timing: 0.05 point deduction for each second exceeding 1 minute and 30 second.

Final Score Calculation:

• D, A, and E Scores: Combined for the routine's final score.
• Penalty Deductions: Subtracted from the final score -

It’s important to note that this independent scoring with multiple judges score independently, ensuring a fair and accurate evaluation. This system has been designed to guarantee fairness by preventing any single judge from unduly influencing the final outcome. It's a robust structure where independence and consistency rule the day, ensuring that every rhythmic gymnastics performance gets the objective and impartial evaluation it deserves!

This evaluation structure for Rhythmic Gymnastics has been constantly improved over the years to reduce biasness and undue influence from any one particular judge.

Judging in rhythmic gymnastics requires a blend of technical knowledge, attention to detail, and an appreciation for the artistic aspects of the sport. Regular practice, participation in workshops, and a commitment to fair and consistent evaluation contribute to our judges in Singapore becoming proficient rhythmic gymnastics judge.

Now you know the fascinating blend of art and science that goes into scoring rhythmic gymnastics performances! It's a journey of precision, creativity, and dedication from both gymnasts and judges alike.