Andrew Tombs, the new president of the Men’s Artistic Gymnastics Technical Committee, has begun his tenure with a clear vision for the future of men’s gymnastics, highlighting the reduction of counting elements in routines from ten to eight. This proposal, championed by Tombs since taking office, aims to prioritize gymnasts’ safety and promote their longevity in competition. The decision is based on the recognition that increasingly complex routines have led to a rise in long-term injuries, particularly in the shoulders, which has been a growing concern in the sport.

The change has already shown positive results in recent competitions, such as the first World Cup of the season in Cottbus, Germany. Veteran gymnasts like Vahagn Davtyan and Robert Tvorogal have excelled in their performances, possibly relieved by the reduction in difficulty load. Additionally, young gymnast Hamlet Manukyan has also expressed his approval of this modification, suggesting that the new regulation is being well received by athletes of various ages and experience levels.

INNOVATIONS IN THE CODE OF POINTS

The new Code of Points for the 2025-2028 cycle not only reduces the number of elements but also increases the value of certain spectacular moves, such as the triple backflip. Tombs emphasizes that this strategy will allow gymnasts to focus more on technical execution and aesthetic details, making routines more exciting and enjoyable for the audience.

Furthermore, the collaboration with Fujitsu to develop artificial intelligence software has provided new tools for judges, improving the accuracy of technical evaluations. Tombs has also expressed his intention to implement innovative and accessible competition formats, including online trials to reduce costs and facilitate participation. With these changes, the Technical Committee aims not only to enhance the quality of the sport but also to make gymnastics more inclusive and appealing to new generations.