What is the maximum deduction for clear hip circling elements when the angle is 45 degrees or below?

The maximum deduction for clear hip circling elements performed with an angle of 45 degrees or below is 0.4. This deduction applies specifically to instances where the gymnast demonstrates a lack of proper technique during the execution of such elements, resulting in a less than optimal performance.

When assessing clear hip circles, judges look for the quality of the movement, including the angle of the hips during the transition. An angle of 45 degrees or below indicates that the gymnast is not fully achieving the required vertical line, which is crucial for executing this skill correctly. Therefore, this angle leads to a significant deduction.

The choice of 0.4 aligns with the guidelines set forth in the Code of Points, reflecting the importance of form and technique in gymnastics scoring. A higher deduction would be reserved for more severe errors or greater deviations from the expected technique, while lower deductions would apply for less significant mistakes.