If there is a brush touch or hit of the mat after landing, what is the maximum deduction?

In gymnastics judging, the rules regarding deductions for falls or touches during landing are clearly defined. A brush touch or hit of the mat after landing indicates that there has been some loss of control during the dismount or landing phase. When a gymnast has a minor brush or touch with their hands, it is considered an indication that they did not maintain optimal body control.

The maximum deduction for these types of errors is 0.30. This deduction reflects the significance of maintaining balance and stability upon landing; therefore, a very minor contact with the mat results in a moderate deduction. The 0.30 point deduction appropriately emphasizes the importance of the landing in the overall execution of a routine, ensuring that gymnasts strive for a perfect finish.

Other values, such as 0.10 or 0.20, would not adequately reflect the level of control expected in competition at Levels 4 and 5, while higher values like 0.40 would represent a more significant error, such as a complete fall to the mat, which is not applicable to a simple brush touch.