compulsories

Non-optional program segments

Compulsories are required elements or exercises in competitive sports like gymnastics, figure skating, or diving—set routines that all competitors must perform before moving to freestyle portions.

The term contrasts with optionals or free programs, where athletes choose their own movements: She scored well on compulsories but struggled in the freestyle.

regulation

mandatory

Required by rule

requisiteSomething absolutely needed
obligatoryRequired by rule
prescribedOfficially recommended or mandated

stipulated · required · standardized · uniform · protocol · baseline · benchmark · qualification · prerequisite · conformity

competition

judges

Legal proceeding overseers

scoresAchieves points; many
evaluationDetermining worth or quality
criteriaStandards for judgment

assessment · marks · rating · scoring · deductions · artistic impression · difficulty · execution · precision · accuracy

gymnastics

balance beam

Elevated narrow plank for routines

uneven barsStaggered horizontal rails apparatus
vaultSecure storage chamber
floor exerciseApparatus-free gymnastics event

tumbling · apparatus · pike · tuck · layout · handstand · cartwheel · mount · dismount · split

figure skating

axel

Rotating ice leap

lutzBackward-edge skating jump
salchowFigure skating jump
toe loopEdge-launched skating jump

spin · jump · edge · turn · footwork · sequence · choreography · ice dance · pairs · solo

Opposites

requirement vs. choice

compulsoriesoptionals

Nonmandatory items or features

electives · voluntaries · extras · supplementals · choices

standardization vs. creativity

compulsoriesfreestyle

Without prescribed technique

free skate · freestyles · free dance · improvisation · exhibition

Family

Familiarity: Top 1,000,000
Profile: Used worldwide · Timeless · Rated G