What is the penalty for falling on mat to knees or hips?

A fall to the mat on the knees or hips during a gymnastics routine results in a 0.5 deduction. This penalty is assessed because falling is viewed as a significant error that impacts the overall execution and stability of the performance. In gymnastics judging, maintaining a high level of control and balance is essential, and a fall indicates a loss of that control. The 0.5 deduction reflects the severity of this mistake, as it can disrupt the flow of the routine and affect the gymnast's overall score.

Understanding this deduction is crucial for both gymnasts and judges, as it emphasizes the importance of solid execution and technique in competitive performances. Other options reflect either lower penalties or no penalty at all, which do not align with the established judging criteria for this specific violation.