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Level 1 Certification

Level 1 certification is the first level of certification within USA Gymnastics University. It is the foundation of education for the University and is essential for coaches, instructors, judges, and administrators at all levels. The education provided at Level 1 will provide a solid start for individuals new to the sport of gymnastics as well as provide a great review for more experienced gymnastics professionals.

Requirements for Certification

Program & Recreational Colleges
The sole requirement of Level 1 certification within the Program or Recreational College is completion of the Fundamentals of Gymnastics Instruction course.

FUNDAMENTALS OF GYMNASTICS INSTRUCTION - This course will include education in the areas of Safety, Fun, and Athlete Development. Topics include responsibilities of gymnastics professionals, coaching philosophy and ethics, safety, gymnastics terminology, benefits of the sport, communication, lesson planning, conditioning and progressions, warm-ups and cool-downs, teaching skills, nutrition, and much more. (NOTE: this course is scheduled to be available during the fall of 2009.)

Business College
The sole requirement of Level 1 certification for the Business College is completion of the Level 1 Foundation Business course.

FOUNDATION BUSINESS COURSE: LEVEL 1 - This introductory course covers valuable information including the scope and major components of our industry (instruction, education and child care, and entertainment!), an overview of the "Magic 8" business success components (overall management, marketing, people management, information management, financial systems, facilities management, risk management, and inspiration), how program managers fit into the system, and personal organization and effectiveness. The Level 1 course provides a great foundation for training current or prospective Program Managers.

Once an individual completes the required Level 1 course, Level 1 certification will be granted. There are no elective or practical experience requirements at Level 1.

Continuing Education Requirements
Certification is valid for 4 years. To maintain certification at Level 1, individuals must complete 5 credits of education prior to certification expiration. Continuing education requirements can be completed at any time during the 4-year period. The 5 credits of continuing education may come from any combination of the following:

  • Elective course work, such as attendance at Regional or National Congress, program clinics or workshops, completion of other USA Gymnastics courses, etc.
  • Work towards certification at Level 2.

General Certification Information
To earn certification, individuals must be:

  • 15 years of age
  • A member of USA Gymnastics (Professional, Junior Professional, Instructor, Foreign Instructor, or Athlete)