what is the basis for the age requirement in olympic gymnastics?

A female gymnast's peak is actually in her early to mid-teens since they are more flexible, have a greater strength-to-weight ratio, and boast psychological advantages (more fearless, less to lose). However, since their bodies are still developing, that kind of stress on the body is detrimental and can have negative long-term effects on their bodies. Thus, the minimum age requirement is set at sixteen.

Gymnastics is terribly harsh on the body. The Olympic level training required for these gymnast takes a really big toll on the body. 6+ hours of training. They don't want 12-14 year olds training that much, which most gyms wouldn't even allow. Most girls that age only train about 4 hours a day. The body at that age isn't nearly as developed as it needs to be to handle that kind of stress.

yo have to be 16 by the time the olympics start if ur not u cant compete