What deduction is assessed for hesitation in a jump, press, or swing to handstand on the balance beam?

When a gymnast demonstrates hesitation in a jump, press, or swing to handstand on the balance beam, a deduction of 0.1 is warranted. This deduction reflects the impact of hesitation on the overall quality and execution of the skill. Hesitation can interrupt the fluidity and dynamics necessary for a strong performance on the beam, which is crucial for achieving a high score. The 0.1 deduction signifies a minor fault, as it acknowledges that while the skill was completed, the execution was not as polished as required for a top-level routine. This type of deduction is in line with the gymnastics judging guidelines, which aim to encourage seamless transitions and confidence in performances.