<P> The age limit is arguably one of the most contentious rules in gymnastics, and is frequently debated by coaches, gymnasts and members of the media . While some members of the sport, such as former USA Gymnastics president Bob Colarossi, have expressed support for the age limit of 16, others, such as coach Béla Károlyi, have heavily criticized it . </P> <P> Supporters of the age restrictions have pointed out that it has encouraged older gymnasts to remain in the sport . The average age of an international gymnast was 18.10 years in 2005 . In contrast, in 1994, before the new age requirements, it was 16.49, and in 1989, gymnasts who had reached the age of 17 were already often considered to be of retirement age . </P> <P> Opponents of the rule have countered that by barring younger gymnasts from top level meets, they are denying them valuable competitive experience . They have also argued that junior gymnasts perform and are scored under the same Code of Points as the seniors, perform the same skills, and are thus not avoiding the physical impact of training and performing high - level skills . It is also argued that the current Code of Points, with its increased requirements for difficult skills, is more suited to younger and lighter athletes, and puts older athletes at greater risk of injury . </P> <P> Age falsification is the practice of advancing gymnasts' ages to make them age - eligible for senior - level competition . Reports of age falsification among top - level international gymnasts first began to surface in the 1980s, after the age limit was raised from 14 to 15 . This has frequently taken the form of inconsistently reported birthdates; at other times, speculation has been raised due to the young appearance of the gymnasts . Age falsification has been revealed and confirmed in several ways . In some cases, gymnasts themselves have come forward and publicly confirmed and verified the falsification . In other cases, documents revealing inconsistencies, such as original birth certificates, have been researched and uncovered by the press . Inconsistencies with reported birth dates and ages at international and national competitions have also led to the discovery of age falsification . </P>

At what age can you go to the olympics