Filipino gymnastics star Carlos Yulo and his teammates are preparing for a challenging year ahead as they gear up for international competitions under a revised scoring system.
The International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) has introduced a significant overhaul in the Code of Points for the 2025-2028 Olympic cycle. These changes will impact how gymnasts are judged, requiring adjustments from athletes, coaches, and officials alike.
One of the most notable updates is the introduction of a 1/10th bonus for stuck dismounts—landings executed with a perfectly straight body—on all apparatus except the pommel horse. This bonus applies to dismounts with a difficulty rating of C or higher, making precision in landings more crucial than ever.
Yulo, 24, acknowledged the challenge ahead, particularly as he prepares for the Asian Championships in Jecheon, South Korea, this June.
“As an athlete, maintaining consistency is tough. But I will try my best,” said Yulo.
The revised Code of Points introduces stricter angle evaluations, addressing concerns that previous judging had been too lenient. Additionally, strength skills executed within five degrees of perfect form will now receive no deductions, encouraging athletes to refine their technique.
Another significant shift is the reduction in the number of difficulty elements considered for scoring. Previously, judges evaluated the top 10 skills in a routine—now, only the best eight will count toward a gymnast’s final score.
According to national team coach Aldrin Castañeda, this will result in lower overall scores across competitions.
“The scoring system has changed, so we need to study the new rules carefully,” Castañeda explained.
With the updated scoring system in effect, Yulo and his teammates—John Ivan Cruz, Juancho Miguel Besana, Jan Timbang, Justine Ace de Leon, and Jhon Romeo Santillan—are working under Castañeda’s close supervision.
The adjustments require gymnasts to strategically construct their routines, ensuring their most difficult and well-executed skills are included in their final score.
“For this Olympic cycle, instead of 10, only eight skills will be counted. That means gymnasts must build their routines creatively,” said Castañeda.
To further strengthen the team, the coaching staff has also allowed young gymnast Eldrew Yulo to join training sessions.