What is the penalty for providing verbal cues to a gymnast during their performance?

The correct answer identifies that the penalty for providing verbal cues to a gymnast during their performance is 0.2. This penalty is imposed because verbal cues are considered outside assistance, which is not allowed as it can disrupt the flow of the gymnast's routine and is viewed as a form of interference.

In gymnastics, maintaining the integrity of the performance is crucial, so any outside help can affect how the judges evaluate the routine. The designated penalty of 0.2 reflects the seriousness of this infraction, as it can impact the gymnast’s final score.

Understanding the reasoning behind this penalty is important for judges, coaches, and athletes alike, as it emphasizes the importance of self-reliance and performance independence during competitions.