How much can the judges deduct for any spotting assistance seen during landing?

When assessing spotting assistance during landing in gymnastics, judges are particularly attentive to any physical help that a gymnast receives after a skill has been performed. Spotting is intended to ensure safety and can sometimes occur unintentionally. The deduction for spotting assistance is significant because it affects the overall execution and difficulty of the routine, reflecting both the performance quality and the gymnast's ability to land independently.

The correct deduction for any spotting assistance seen during landing is 0.5. This higher deduction underscores the importance of an independent landing, as being able to execute and control landings without outside help is crucial for showcasing skill, technique, and confidence. A deduction of this magnitude emphasizes that spotting, which aids in landing, detracts from the athlete's performance quality and should be minimized.

In contrast, lower deductions (such as 0.1, 0.2, or 0.3) would not adequately reflect the impact that spotting assistance has on a gymnast's performance and the expectations at the Level 10 standard, where precision and independence are paramount.