Parents USAIG or XCEL?

[pullover]

We are interested in a less intense (and less costly) program for our daughter. I was previously only aware of the xcel program for this but have recently learned that some gyms offer USAIG to fill this role. Can anyone tell me how this differ and if you would recommend one over the other? I understand that xcel is run by USAG but otherwise what are the differences?

Thanks!

 

[MaryA]

Personally, I'd focus more on the gym than on the program. I think either of these can be good programs if well run. I'd find a gym that's a good fit (cost, distance, philosophy, coaching) and do whichever one they offer.

I know all levels of Xcel allow gymnasts to have their own music and routines (which is more fun from both a competing and a watching perspective) and I think USAIG is the same, but I wouldn't swear to it.

 

[raenndrops]

lol, I know of a gym that competes both USAG and USAIGC. They take their USAG JO Compulsory gymnasts and give them the opportunity to compete USAIGC so they can do optional routines and get more competition experience.
The main difference between Xcel and USAIGC is that in Xcel, a gymnast must compete all events in the same division (Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum, or Diamond). In USAIGC, the gymnast that has 1-2 stronger events can compete those events 1 level higher than she competes the weaker events... USAIGC also encourages event specialists if that will prevent frustration for a gymnast. (Levels are Copper, Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum). A gymnast that is stronger on beam and floor could compete at the Platinum level for Beam and floor while still competing Gold level for Vault and Bars, as an example.