If your young gymnast shows strong talent early and dreams of reaching the elite level someday, chances are you’ve heard whispers about the TOPs Program. Maybe you’ve heard it’s intense. Maybe you’ve heard it’s a pathway to greatness. Maybe you’re wondering: Is it right for my child?
Let’s break down what the Talent Opportunity Program (TOPs) is, who it’s for, and what to expect if your gymnast is aiming for the top.
🤸♀️ What Is the TOPs Program?
The TOPs Program (short for Talent Opportunity Program) is a talent identification and development system created by USA Gymnastics. It’s designed to find physically gifted gymnasts between ages 7 and 10 and provide them with the resources, coaching, and structure to prepare for elite-level gymnastics.
TOPs focuses on physical abilities testing and basic skill evaluation—not full routines. Gymnasts who excel may be invited to train at National TOPs camps and enter a fast-track pipeline toward elite gymnastics.
🎯 Who Is TOPs For?
TOPs is for:
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Young gymnasts (ages 7–10) with exceptional strength, flexibility, and body control
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Athletes with the desire and discipline to train at a high level from an early age
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Families committed to intensive training schedules and long-term goals like elite, NCAA, or even Olympic gymnastics
It’s not required to become elite—but it is a common stepping stone for many who do.
🧪 What Does TOPs Testing Involve?
TOPs testing is done at the state and national level. It includes two main components:
1. Physical Abilities Testing (examples):
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Press handstands
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Rope climbs (without legs)
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Leg lifts (toe to bar)
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Flexibility and splits
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Sprinting and strength elements
2. Basic Skill Testing (for older age groups):
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Tumbling and beam basics (turns, leaps, handstands)
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Form, precision, and technique
Athletes typically train for months in advance with specific conditioning regimens to prepare for these tests.
📍 What Is the Process?
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Gym Participation
Only TOPs-participating gyms can send athletes for testing. Talk to your coach to see if your gym offers a program or prep group. -
Local Testing (Summer)
State tests usually happen in June or July. Based on scores, top athletes may qualify for National TOPs Testing. -
National Testing (Fall)
Held at a central location, often Texas. Top gymnasts are invited based on scores and performance. -
National TOPs Team
The highest scorers are named to the National TOPs Team and invited to attend a TOPs Camp at the National Training Center, alongside top coaches and USAG staff.
🕒 How Much Time Does TOPs Require?
TOPs athletes often train 15–20+ hours per week, even at ages 7–10. It’s not just about talent—it’s about time, repetition, and discipline.
Families involved in TOPs typically commit to:
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Year-round training
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Extra conditioning
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Regional travel for testing and camps
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Close communication with coaches and national staff
🤔 Is TOPs Right for My Child?
TOPs may be a good fit if:
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Your gymnast thrives on strength and conditioning
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They are mentally and physically prepared for extra training
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Your family understands the long-term elite gymnastics timeline
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You have a supportive coach who believes in the pathway
TOPs may not be ideal if:
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Your child prefers a more balanced schedule or other sports
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They’re newer to gymnastics or still developing basics
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Your gym doesn’t offer structured support for the program
✨ What Are the Benefits of TOPs?
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Early exposure to elite coaches and standards
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Focused skill development during critical early years
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Clear feedback on where your gymnast stands nationally
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Opportunities to fast-track into HOPES and Elite programs
Even if a gymnast doesn’t “make” the TOPs team, the training involved often helps them excel in the Developmental Program (JO) or other competitive tracks.
💬 Final Thoughts
The TOPs Program is not the only path to success—but it’s an incredible opportunity for gymnasts with big dreams and big drive. Whether your child becomes an Olympian or simply grows stronger through the process, the discipline and resilience they develop through TOPs will serve them in gymnastics and beyond.
If you think your gymnast has what it takes—or if you're just curious—talk to your coach and explore what your gym offers. The journey might be intense, but for the right athlete, it can also be unforgettable.