HOW IS ARTISTRY JUDGED IN RHYTHMIC GYMNASTICS?
An overview based on the FIG 2025–2028 Code of Points
Artistry is often seen as the most subjective part of a rhythmic gymnastics routine. However, in reality, it is judged through a structured penalization system.
The Artistry jury decides whether the routine presents a coherent artistic exercise from beginning to end. Then, applies deductions whenever one or more required components are underdeveloped, inconsistently presented, or absent. Rather than rewarding “beauty” in a general sense, the Code of Points breaks artistry down into specific criteria, each of which is attached to a defined deduction.
1. Guiding Idea and Character of Movement
The first category is the guiding idea/theme of the exercise: whether the routine has a clear artistic image, and whether this image is maintained throughout the whole routine.
If the theme is clearly expressed in only the majority of the routine, the deduction is 0.30 points. If the theme appears only in separate parts of the routine, even with a minimum of four identifiable sections, the penalty increases to 0.60 points.
If the routine does not clearly prioritize the theme, meaning fewer than four parts demonstrate a recognizable artistic image, the deduction is 1.00 points.
This makes theme/character one of the most heavily judged categories of artistry on the entire panel.
2. Body and Facial Expression
The Code distinguishes between body expression and facial expression.
For body expression, judges assess whether the whole body actively participates in conveying the music through the movements.
If good body expression is clearly shown in at least two parts of the routine, and there are fewer than four moments where the body looks stiff or not expressive, the deduction is 0.30 points.
If body expression is only shown briefly or not properly developed (less than two expressive parts), or there are four or more stiff or passive moments, the deduction is 0.60 points.
Facial expression is penalized 0.30 points when it is only briefly developed or when the face repeatedly appears blank, concentrated, or disconnected from the artistic image.
3. Dance Steps Combinations
Each routine must include two valid Dance Step combinations performed in rhythm and connected to the theme. For each missing valid Dance Steps combination, the Artistry jury deducts 0.30 points. A Dance Steps combination is not recognized if it lacks:
The full 8-second duration, rhythm, defined character, variety, or if there is a technical issue like apparatus loss, or if the apparatus is static.
4. Dynamic Changes and Effects with Music
The Code also requires a total of two Dynamic Changes and/or Effects with Music.
For each missing Dynamic Change or Effect, the deduction is 0.30 points.
This rule checks if the gymnast shows variety in their performance, like changes in speed, energy, and mood, rather than keeping the same style the whole time.
5. Connections
Artistry also depends on the construction of the routine. Whenever unrelated or illogical connections appear between elements, judges deduct 0.10 points each time, up to a maximum of 2.00 points. In other words, the routine should not look like a series of random technical elements, but rather each movement should transition naturally into the next
6. Rhythm and Harmony Between Music and Movement
One of the most repeatedly penalized categories is rhythm.
Whenever movement is disconnected from the music,
performed ahead of or behind the music, or separated from the tempo established by the music. A deduction of 0.10 points is applied each time, and up to 2.00 points can be deducted.
7. Use of the Floor Area
The gymnast must show sufficient use of the floor.
If the routine shows little use of the entire floor area, the deduction is 0.30 points.
This prevents routines from remaining in one area and contributes to the overall flow of the performance.
8. Interruption of Continuity
If a technical problem breaks the continuity of the routine for 4 or more seconds, the Artistry jury applies an overall deduction of 0.60 points once per exercise.
This could be mistakes like loss of the apparatus, replacement of the apparatus,
long pauses while resolving technical issues, or a visible stop in the portrayal of the artistic image.
9. Additional Musical Faults
The Code also includes several isolated musical deductions:
0.30 points for a musical introduction of 4 or more seconds before movement begins
0.30 points for lack of harmony between music and movement at the end of the exercise
0.30 points if the music itself does not conform to the regulations
These deductions ensure that the routine is judged as one complete artistic exercise, including beginning and end.
Conclusion
Based on the current Code of Points, even though artistry may seem subjective, and in many cases is from the perspective of the audience. It is, nevertheless, evaluated and judged by a strict penalization system.
Written by Natalis —The RG Explainer
