What is the penalty for a balance beam routine that does not include acro elements in both backward and forward or side directions?

The penalty for a balance beam routine that fails to include acro elements in both backward and forward (or side) directions is significant because this is a critical requirement in gymnastics rules. Acro skills are essential for demonstrating the gymnast's ability to execute a range of movements, showcasing their balance and agility.

In Level 10 routines, judges look for a well-rounded performance that includes a variety of skills. If a routine is missing acro elements in either direction, it does not meet the established criteria for composition. The set penalty for such omissions is 0.2—indicating the seriousness of not including diverse acrobatic elements and how it affects the overall quality of the routine. This deduction reflects the importance of fulfilling the composition requirements laid out in the Code of Points, highlighting the expectation for gymnasts to perform a comprehensive range of skills on the beam.