Terms used:

Additional Feature

Refers to technical content in synchronized skating that increases the difficulty of an element, such as step sequences, free skating moves, free skating elements and points of intersection. 

Axel

An edge jump with natural rotation that takes off from a forward outside edge; listed in the Scale of Values according to the number of rotations. Unlike other single jumps which are one rotation, a single Axel has one-and-a-half rotations.

Axel-type Jump

Either a waltz jump or axel jump of any number of rotations.

Beats

A note defining the regular recurring divisions of a piece of music.

Camel Spin

A spin in which the skater remains in a spiral position while rotating. The free leg (including the knee and foot) must be held at hip level or higher.

Category

The name for each level of competition within a discipline.  Examples of categories are STAR 1, STAR 2, Pre-Juvenile, Juvenile, Pre-Novice, etc.

Choreographic Elements

In ice dance, a listed or unlisted movement or series of movement(s) as specified by the ISU Ice Dance Technical Committee.

Choreographic Sequence

Consists of any kind of movements like steps, turns, spirals, arabesques, spread eagles, Ina Bauers, hydroblading, any jumps with maximum of two revolutions, spins, etc. The pattern is not restricted, but the sequence must be clearly visible.

Combination Lift

A dance lift which does not exceed 12 seconds in duration.  This lift combines two rotational lifts in different directions or two curve lifts on two different curves forming a serpentine pattern or two different types of short lifts.

Combination Spin

A combination spin has different definitions depending on the discipline as follows:

  • Singles: A spin which includes a change of position. A combination spin must include a minimum of two different basic positions with two revolutions in each of these positions anywhere within the spin. To receive full value, a spin combination must include all three basic positions.  
  • Pairs:  A pair spin which consists of at least one change of foot and one change of position of both partners. The pair spin combination must include a minimum of two different basic positions with two revolutions in each of these positions by both partners anywhere within the spin. To receive full value, a spin combination must include all three basic positions by both partners. 
  • Ice Dance: A dance spin which has a change of foot performed simultaneously by both partners.  
  • Synchronized Skating: The spin combination must include a minimum of two different basic positions (sit, camel, upright or any variation thereof) and only one change of foot. The change of foot and the change of position must occur at the same time by all skaters executing the spin. 

Configuration

In synchronized skating, a configuration is the number of lines, spokes and circles in an element (for example Block or Wheel, etc.).

Dance Spin

A spin skated by the couple together in any hold. It should be performed on the spot around a common axis on one foot by each partner simultaneously.

Death Spiral

A pivot figure in which the man is in a backward outside pivot, holding one hand of the woman with one hand.  The woman skates around the man on one foot with her body in a well-arched position, very close to the surface of the ice. The edge skated by the lady determines the name of the death spiral. i.e. backward outside, backward inside, forward outside, forward inside.

Event

The name given to a group of skaters entered in a category.  There may be one event per category or several events per category depending on the number of total entries.  Each event is independent of the other events within the category. 

Features

Technical content that increases the difficulty of an element which may become part of the difficulty group of an element.  Features such as pivoting, traveling, body movements, etc. are determined annually and published in a Skate Canada and ISU Communication.

Flying Spin

Novice and lower and STAR:

  • Spins that enter with a jump and land in a spinning position. The spin may have a change of foot or a change of position or both. 

ISU definitions for Junior and Senior:

  • A spin with a flying entrance with no change of foot or position.  The name of the flying spin corresponds to its landing position. This definition is specific to junior and senior short programs.  

Spin with a flying entrance:

  • This is the ISU definition for all flying spins that are not ‘flying spins’ as defined above.

Free Skating Program

A program of a specified length, skated to music of the skater’s choice. The skater is free to choose the number and the type of elements to be included, subject to the requirements outlined in the requirements for individual assessments/tests and competitions.

Hand-in-hand Hold

Facing in same direction – The partners face in the same direction and are skating side by side or one behind the other with their arms extended and their hands clasped. A variation of this is the arm-in-arm side by side hold.

Facing in opposite directions – The partners usually face each other while one skates backward and the other skates forward with the arms extended to the side but sometimes the hold can be skated back to back (e.g. steps 22-25 in the Cha Cha Congelado).

International Skating Union

The International Skating Union (ISU) is the exclusive international sport federation recognized by the International Olympic Committee administering the sports of Figure Skating and Speed Skating throughout the world. The ISU is composed of a number of national associations called ISU Members that administer ISU sports at the national level and recognize that all international matters are under the sole jurisdiction and control of the ISU.

Judges

An individual sixteen years of age or older who has been trained and appointed to officiate at or below a specified level of competition in one or more of singles, pairs, ice dance or synchronized skating.

Jump Combination

Singles and Pairs: Two or more jumps in which the landing foot of the first jump is the take-off foot of the next jump and so on. There is no change of foot or turn between the jumps, although the toe may be used to assist the take-off. One full revolution on the ice between the jumps (free foot can touch the ice, but no weight transfer) keeps the element within the definition of a jump combination.

Synchronized Skating: Any number of jumps of at least one revolution that may be linked with turns, steps or with a slight touch down.

Jump Combinations

Singles and Pairs: Two or more jumps in which the landing foot of the first jump is the take-off foot of the next jump and so on. There is no change of foot or turn between the jumps, although the toe may be used to assist the take-off. One full revolution on the ice between the jumps (free foot can touch the ice, but no weight transfer) keeps the element within the definition of a jump combination.

Synchronized Skating: Any number of jumps of at least one revolution that may be linked with turns, steps or with a slight touch down.

Jump Elements

An individual jump, a jump combination or a jump sequence.

Jump Sequence

Singles and Pairs:  Two jumps of any number of revolutions, beginning with a listed jump immediately followed by an axel-type jump with a direct step from the landing curve of the first jump to the take-off curve of the axel jump.  

Synchronized Skating: Consists of any number of jumps of any number of revolutions that may be linked with small hops and dance jumps, immediately following each other while maintaining the jump rhythm (knee); there can be no crossovers or stroking between jumps during the sequence.

Jump Sequences

Singles and Pairs:  Two jumps of any number of revolutions, beginning with a listed jump immediately followed by an axel-type jump with a direct step from the landing curve of the first jump to the take-off curve of the axel jump.  

Synchronized Skating: Consists of any number of jumps of any number of revolutions that may be linked with small hops and dance jumps, immediately following each other while maintaining the jump rhythm (knee); there can be no crossovers or stroking between jumps during the sequence.

Loop

A one-foot movement where the skater skates an oval pattern using the same edge. The entry and exit of the loop must cross. The loop must be clean cut without scrapes or points.

Loop Jump

An edge jump with natural rotation that takes off from a backward outside edge; listed in the Scale of Values according to the number of revolutions.

Loops

A one-foot movement where the skater skates an oval pattern using the same edge. The entry and exit of the loop must cross. The loop must be clean cut without scrapes or points.

Lutz

A toe jump with counter rotation that takes off from a backward outside edge; listed in the Scale of Values according to the number of revolutions. 

Measure

A unit of music which is defined by the periodic recurrence of the accent. Such units are of equal number of beats.

Measures

A unit of music which is defined by the periodic recurrence of the accent. Such units are of equal number of beats.

Membership

That status of being in one of the classes as outlined in section 3.1 hereof [of the bylaws].

Pattern Dance Element

A series of prescribed steps, turns and movements in a rhythm dance consisting of a sequence of a pattern dance or a section of a pattern dance or a combination of steps/turns from pattern dances

Pivot

A two-footed movement in which the toe picks of one foot are inserted into the ice by a skater as a central pivoting point while the other foot travels in a circular pattern around the pivot point.

Pivoting

A two-footed movement in which the toe picks of one foot are inserted into the ice by a skater as a central pivoting point while the other foot travels in a circular pattern around the pivot point.

Point of Intersection

In synchronized skating, the point of intersection is an additional feature for the intersection element and is a type of movement/rotation that the skaters execute at the axis of intersection.

Retrogression

In synchronized skating, the team shows a movement in a direction opposite to that of the initial direction.  The team must show a reverse of the first direction, before resuming the initial direction.

Retrogressions

In synchronized skating, the team shows a movement in a direction opposite to that of the initial direction.  The team must show a reverse of the first direction, before resuming the initial direction.

Rhythm

The regularly repeated pattern of accented and unaccented beats which gives the music its character.

Rhythm Dance

A dance created by an ice dance couple to dance music with designated rhythm(s) and/or theme(s) selected annually by the ISU Ice Dance Technical Committee.

Section

An organization incorporated or organized in a particular province or territory (and in some cases, a combination thereof) strategically aligned with Skate Canada, that may receive funds from provincial or territorial Governmental Authorities and be subject to applicable sport recognition programs and transfer payment arrangements. Each Section is held to the governance and operating requirements of their respective province and / or territory(ies) and is responsible for skating in their respective jurisdictions.

Segment

The name given to a portion of an event.  Some categories have two segments (e.g., short program and free program) and some categories have only one segment.

Sequence

The set order of the prescribed steps that compose one pattern of a Pattern Dance.

Sequences

The set order of the prescribed steps that compose one pattern of a Pattern Dance.

Set Of Synchronized Twizzles

In ice dance, a series of two twizzles with up to three steps between twizzles.

Short Lift

A dance lift which does not exceed seven seconds in duration.

Short Lifts

A dance lift which does not exceed seven seconds in duration.

Sit Spin

A spin in which the skater remains in a sit position while rotating.  The supporting leg must be bent at least to a ninety-degree angle.  The thigh of the skating foot must be parallel to the ice surface.

Solo Spin

In ice dance, a spinning movement performed on one foot on the spot by one partner alone (with or without the assistance of the other partner) or by both partners simultaneously (around separate centres).

Spin

An element where the skater rapidly revolves, centred on a single point on the ice, while holding one or more body positions.  In singles and pairs, a spin must have at least three revolutions to be considered a spin. The minimum number of revolutions in a position is two without interruption.

Spins

An element where the skater rapidly revolves, centred on a single point on the ice, while holding one or more body positions.  In singles and pairs, a spin must have at least three revolutions to be considered a spin. The minimum number of revolutions in a position is two without interruption.

Spiral

A gliding position executed on one foot with free leg extended (including knee and foot) above hip level.

Spiral Sequence

A collection of at least two spirals executed on different feet.  The spirals must not be separated by other elements such as jumps or spins.  Some categories have requirements for the number of steps between the spirals, supported/unsupported and/or skating direction of the spirals.

Step

The visible tracing on the ice that is executed on one foot. A step is counted each time there is a change of foot.

Steps

The visible tracing on the ice that is executed on one foot. A step is counted each time there is a change of foot.

Style

Characteristics of levels of step sequences in ice dance.

Tempo

The speed of the music in beats or measures per minute.

Throw Jump

A partner-assisted jump in which a skater is launched into the air by a partner on the takeoff. and lands without assistance from the partner. Throw jumps are named after the basic solo jump which is initiated and executed only by the skater being assisted. 

Toe Loop

A toe jump with natural rotation that takes off from a backward outside edge; listed in the Scale of Values according to the number of rotations. 

Turn

A rotational movement in which the skater moves from forward to backward or backward to forward using one foot and on an edge and axis (e.g. Three-turn, Bracket). In a two-foot turn the rotational movement from forward to backward or backward to forward is from one foot to the other foot (e.g. Mohawk, Choctaw).

Turns

A rotational movement in which the skater moves from forward to backward or backward to forward using one foot and on an edge and axis (e.g. Three-turn, Bracket). In a two-foot turn the rotational movement from forward to backward or backward to forward is from one foot to the other foot (e.g. Mohawk, Choctaw).

Twist Lift

A hand-to-waist lift in which a skater is lifted into the air on the take-off. At the top of the lift the lifted partner is released and completes a twist, rotating freely in the air, during which time the lifting partner turns a half turn to catch the lifted partner at the waist for an assisted landing. The twist lift is named after the basic solo jump take-off - Axel, Toe Loop, Flip or Lutz – and by the number of rotations the lifted partner completes in the air before being caught. 

Twizzle

A traveling turn on one foot with one or more rotations which is quickly rotated with a continuous, uninterrupted action. The weight remains on the skating foot with the free foot in any position during the turn then placed beside the skating foot to skate the next step.

Twizzles

A traveling turn on one foot with one or more rotations which is quickly rotated with a continuous, uninterrupted action. The weight remains on the skating foot with the free foot in any position during the turn then placed beside the skating foot to skate the next step.

Non-qualifying competitions held between January 1 and June 30 of any given year may use either the current or the next season’s program requirements.
Changes in requirements for the next season can be found in the Materials Catalogue located on the Skate Canada Membership Site.

Singles

Pre-Juvenile Singles

Assessment: Must have passed the complete STAR 5 (or equivalent) Freeskate Assessment or higher

Age: Pre-Juvenile Singles competitors are grouped in two age categories:

  • U11: must not have reached the age of 11 before July 1 preceding the Event
  • U13: must not have reached the age of 13 before July 1 preceding the Event

These competitions consist of a Free Skating Program to music of either two minutes or two minutes 30 seconds in length (plus or minus 10 seconds). A well-balanced Pre-Juvenile Singles Free Skating Program contains:

  • Maximum of five Jump Elements
    • must include five different jump types, one of which must be an Axel-type Jump
    • maximum of two Jump Combinations: maximum of two jumps in a combination, one with a Toe Loop as second jump and one with a Loop Jump as second jump
    • no Jump Sequences
    • no jump may be included more than twice
    • a repeated jump must be executed as part of a Jump Combination
  • Maximum of two Spins, called to maximum Level Base
    • Combination Spin with change of foot; minimum of three revolutions on each foot; no flying entry; difficult variations permitted
    • flying Camel Spin or flying Sit Spin; minimum of four revolutions; no change of foot or position; no difficult variations permitted
  • Maximum of one Spiral Sequence, called to maximum Level Base

Juvenile Singles

Assessment: Must have passed the complete STAR 5 (or equivalent) Freeskate Assessment or higher

Age: Juvenile Singles competitors are grouped in two age categories:

  • U12: must not have reached the age of 12 before July 1 preceding the Event
  • U14: must not have reached the age of 14 before July 1 preceding the Event

These competitions consist of a Free Skating Program to music of two minutes 30 seconds (plus or minus 10 seconds). A well-balanced Juvenile Singles Free Skating Program contains:

  • Maximum of five Jump Elements
    • must include six different jump types, one of which must be an Axel-type Jump
    • maximum of two Jump Combinations: maximum of two jumps in a combination, one with a Toe Loop as second jump and one with a Loop Jump as second jump
    • no Jump Sequences
    • no jump may be included more than twice
    • a repeated jump must be executed as part of a Jump Combination
  • Maximum of two Spins: called to maximum Level Base
    • Combination Spin with change of foot; minimum of three revolutions on each foot; no flying entry; difficult variations permitted
    • flying Camel Spin or flying Sit Spin, minimum of four revolutions; no change of foot or position; no difficult variations permitted
  • Maximum of one step sequence, called to maximum Level Base: must fully utilize the ice surface

Pre-Novice Singles

Assessment: Must have passed the complete STAR 5 (or equivalent) Freeskate Assessment or higher

Age: Pre-Novice Singles competitors must not have reached the age of 16 before July 1 preceding the Event

These competitions consist of two parts: Short Program and Free Program

Short Program

A short program to music a maximum of two minutes 20 seconds in length (plus or minus 10 seconds) containing the following elements:

  • Single or double Axel
  • Double or triple solo jump
    • must be double Loop Jump or higher
  • Jump Combination
    • two double jumps or one double and one triple jump or two triple jumps
    • double Axel may be repeated
    • solo jump may not be repeated
    • same jumps permitted in Jump Combination
  • Solo Spin, called to maximum Level 3:
    • women - choice of layback/sideways leaning Spin, Sit Spin or Camel Spin; minimum of five revolutions, no change of foot
    • men - Camel Spin with one change of foot, minimum of four revolutions on each foot
  • Combination Spin with change of foot, called to maximum Level 3: minimum of four revolutions on each foot; no flying entry; only one change of foot
  • Step sequence called to maximum Level 3: must fully utilize the ice surface

Free Program

A Free Skating Program to music of three minutes in length (plus or minus 10 seconds). A well-balanced Pre-Novice Free Skating Program contains:

  • Maximum of six Jump Elements
    • one jump must be an Axel-type Jump
    • maximum of three Jump Combinations/Jump Sequences: maximum of two jumps in a combination
    • no jump may be included more than twice
    • a repeated jump must be executed as part of a Jump Combination or Jump Sequence
    • of all triple jumps, only two may be repeated
  • Maximum of two Spins, called to maximum Level 3
    • Combination Spin with change of foot; minimum of eight revolutions; flying entry optional
    • flying Sit Spin or flying Camel Spin; minimum of five revolutions; one position, no change of foot
  • Maximum of one step sequence, called to maximum Level 3

Novice Singles

Assessment: Must have passed the complete Gold Freeskate Assessment

Age: Novice Singles competitors must not have reached the age of 17 before July 1 preceding the Event

These competitions consist of two parts: Short Program and Free Program

Short Program

A short program to music a maximum of two minutes 20 seconds in length (plus or minus 10 seconds) containing the following elements:

  • Single or double Axel
  • Double or triple jump: double Axel may not be repeated
  • Jump Combination: two double jumps or one double and one triple jump or two triple jumps
    • no repetition of double Axel or solo jump
    • same jumps permitted in Jump Combination
  • Solo Spin:
    • women - choice of layback/sideways leaning Spin, Sit Spin or Camel Spin; minimum of six revolutions; no change of foot
    • men - Camel Spin with one change of foot; minimum of five revolutions on each foot
  • Combination Spin with change of foot: minimum of five revolutions on each foot; no flying entry; only one change of foot
  • Step sequence: must fully utilize the ice surface

Free Program

A Free Skating Program to music of three minutes 30 seconds in length (plus or minus 10 seconds)

A well-balanced Novice Singles Free Skating Program contains:

  • Maximum of seven Jump Elements:
    • one jump must be an Axel-type Jump
    • maximum of three Jump Combinations/Jump Sequences; one Jump Combination may contain three jumps
    • no jump may be included more than twice
    • a repeated jump must be executed as part of a Jump Combination
    • of all triple and quadruple jumps, only two can be executed twice; of the two, only one can be a quadruple jump
  • Maximum of three Spins:
    • Combination Spin with change of foot; minimum of 10 revolutions; flying entry optional
    • flying Sit Spin or flying Camel Spin; minimum of six revolutions; one position, no change of foot
    • one Spin of any nature, minimum of six revolutions; flying entry optional
  • Maximum of one step sequence: must fully utilize the ice surface

Junior Singles

Assessment: Must have passed the complete Gold Freeskate Assessment

Age: Junior Singles competitors must not have reached the age of 19 before July 1 preceding the competition

These competitions consist of two parts as defined by the ISU: Short Program and Free Program

Short Program

A short program to music of two minutes 40 seconds in length (plus or minus 10 seconds) containing the group of elements announced by the ISU for the current season.

Women:

  • Double Axel
  • Double or triple Lutz
  • Jump Combination: two double jumps or one double and one triple jump or two triple jumps
    • no repetition of double Axel or double or triple Lutz
    • same jumps permitted in the Jump Combination
  • Layback/sideways leaning Spin or Sit Spin: no flying entry; minimum of eight revolutions; no change of foot or position
  • Flying Camel Spin: minimum of eight revolutions in the landing position which may be different from the flying position; the required eight revolutions can be executed in any variation of the landing position
  • Combination Spin with change of foot: only one change of foot; minimum of six revolutions on each foot
  • Step sequence: must fully utilize the ice surface

Men:

  • Double or triple Axel
  • Double or triple Lutz
  • Jump Combination: one double and one triple jump or two triple jumps
    • no repetition of double Axel or double or triple Lutz
    • same jumps permitted in the Jump Combination
  • Flying Camel Spin: minimum of eight revolutions in the landing position which may be different from the flying position; the required eight revolutions can be executed in any variation of the landing position
  • Sit Spin with only one change of foot: change of foot may be in the form of a step over or a jump; minimum of six revolutions on each foot
  • Combination Spin with change of foot: only one change of foot; no flying entry; minimum of six revolutions on each foot
  • Step sequence: must fully utilize the ice surface

Free Program

A Free Skating Program to music three minutes 30 seconds in length (plus or minus 10 seconds).  A well-balanced Junior Free Skating Program contains:

  • Maximum of seven Jump Elements
    • one jump must be an Axel-type Jump
    • maximum of three Jump Combinations/Jump Sequences; one Jump Combination may contain three jumps
    • any double jump cannot be included more than twice
    • of all the triple and quadruple jumps, only two can be executed twice; of the two, only one can be a quadruple jump
  • Maximum of three Spins:
    • one Combination Spin; minimum of 10 revolutions
    • one Flying Spin or Spin with a flying entrance; minimum of six revolutions
    • one Spin with only one position; minimum of six revolutions
    • change of foot optional in all Spins
  • Maximum of one step sequence: must fully utilize the ice surface

Senior Singles

Assessment: Must have passed the complete Gold Freeskate Assessment

Age: No age requirement

These competitions consist of two parts as defined by the ISU: Short Program and Free Program

Short Program

A short program to music of two minutes 40 seconds in length (plus or minus 10 seconds) containing the group of elements announced by the ISU for the current season.

Women:

  • Double or triple Axel
  • Triple jump
  • Jump Combination: one double and one triple jump or two triple jumps
    • no repetition of double or triple Axel; no repetition of solo triple jump
    • same jumps permitted in Jump Combination
  • Flying Spin: minimum of eight revolutions in the landing position which may be different from the flying position; landing position must be different from the Solo Spin; the required eight revolutions can be executed in any variation of the landing position
  • Layback/sideways leaning Spin or Sit Spin or Camel Spin: no flying entry; minimum of eight revolutions; no change of foot or position; position must be different from the landing position of the Flying Spin
  • Combination Spin with change of foot: only one change of foot; no flying entry; minimum of six revolutions on each foot
  • Step sequence: must fully utilize the ice surface

Men:

  • Double or triple Axel
  • Triple or quadruple jump
  • Jump Combination: one double and one triple jump or two triple jumps or one quad and one double or one quad and one triple jump
    • no repetition of double or triple Axel; no repetition of solo triple or quadruple jump
    • same jumps permitted in Jump Combination
  • Flying Spin: minimum of eight revolutions in the landing position which may be different from the flying position; landing position must be different from the Solo Spin; the required eight revolutions can be executed in any variation of the landing position
  • Camel Spin or Sit Spin with only one change of foot: must be different from the landing position of the Flying Spin; minimum of six revolutions on each foot; change of foot may be in the form of a step over or a jump
  • Combination Spin with change of foot: only one change of foot; no flying entry; minimum of six revolutions on each foot
  • Step sequence: must fully utilize the ice surface

Free Program

A Free Skating Program to music four minutes in length (plus or minus 10 seconds).

A well-balanced Senior Free Skating Program contains:

  • Maximum of seven Jump Elements
    • One must be an Axel-type Jump
    • Maximum of three Jump Combinations/Jump Sequences; one Jump Combination may contain three jumps
    • any double jump cannot be included more than twice
    • of all the triple and quadruple jumps only two can be executed twice; of the two, only one can be a quadruple jump
  • Maximum of three Spins:
    • one Combination Spin; minimum of 10 revolutions
    • one Flying Spin or Spin with a flying entrance; minimum of six revolutions
    • one Spin with only one position; minimum of six revolutions
    • change of foot optional in all Spins
  • Maximum of one step sequence
  • Maximum of one Choreographic Sequence

Pairs

Pre-Juvenile Pairs

Assessment: Must have passed the complete STAR 5 (or equivalent) Freeskate Assessment or higher

Age: Pre-Juvenile Pairs competitors must not have reached the age of 14 before July 1 preceding the Event

This competition consists of a Free Skating Program to music of two minutes 30 seconds in length (plus or minus 10 seconds). A well-balanced Pre-Juvenile Pairs Free Skating Program contains:

  • Maximum of one Throw Jump
  • Maximum of two Jump Elements:
    • one must be a solo jump
    • the other jump may be a solo jump or a Jump Combination (maximum of two jumps in combination) or Jump Sequence
  • Maximum of one solo Spin, called to maximum Level Base: may be in combination; change of foot optional; minimum of three revolutions
  • Maximum of one pair Spin, called to maximum Level Base: must be in one position; no change of foot; minimum of three revolutions
  • Maximum of one Pivot figure or Death Spiral, called to maximum Level Base
  • Maximum of one Spiral Sequence, called to maximum Level Base

Juvenile Pairs

Assessment: Must have passed the complete STAR 5 (or equivalent) Freeskate Assessment or higher

Age: Juvenile Pairs competitors must not have reached the age of 16 before July 1 preceding the Event

This competition consists of a Free Skating Program to music of two minutes 30 seconds in length (plus or minus 10 seconds). A well-balanced Juvenile Pairs Free Skating Program contains:

  • Maximum of one lift, called to a maximum Level Base
    • any non-overhead lift permitted
    • Group 1, Group 2 or any Group Juvenile non-overhead lift
  • Maximum of one Twist Lift: must be a single; called to maximum Level Base
  • Maximum of one Throw Jump
  • Maximum of two Jump Elements:
    • one must be a solo jump
    • the other jump may be a solo jump or a Jump Combination (maximum of two jumps in a combination) or Jump Sequence
  • Maximum of one solo Spin, called to maximum Level Base: may be in combination; change of foot optional; minimum of three revolutions
  • Maximum of one pair Spin, called to maximum Level Base: may not be in combination (may have a change of foot or change of position but not both); minimum of three revolutions
  • Maximum of one Pivot figure or Death Spiral, called to maximum Level Base
  • Maximum of one step sequence, called to maximum Level Base: must fully utilize the ice surface

Pre-Novice Pairs

Assessment Must have passed the complete STAR 5 (or equivalent) Freeskate Assessment or higher

Age: Pre-Novice Pairs competitors must not have reached the age of 18 before July 1 preceding the Event

This competition consists of two parts: Short Program and Free Program

Short Program

A short program to music a maximum of two minutes 40 seconds in length (plus or minus 10 seconds) containing the following elements:

  • One lift, called to maximum Level 2:
    • must be from Group 1,2,3 or 4
    • no credit feature - change of rotational direction by the man
  • Single or double Twist Lift, called to maximum Level 2
  • Single or double Throw Jump: no double Axel Throw Jump permitted; Flip and Lutz are considered the same Throw Jumps
  • Solo jump: single Axel or any double jump
  • Solo Spin combination: only one change of foot with a minimum of three revolutions on each foot by both partners, called to maximum Level 2
  • Any Death Spiral, called to maximum Level 2
  • Step sequence: must fully utilize the ice surface

Free Program

A Free Skating Program to music of three minutes in length (plus or minus 10 seconds). A well-balanced Pre-Novice Pairs Free Skating Program contains:

  • Maximum of two lifts, called to maximum Level 2:
    • from different groups;
    • one must be from Group 1, 2, 3 or 4
    • no credit Features – change of rotational direction by man, and carry
  • Maximum of one Twist Lift, single or double, called to maximum Level 2
  • Maximum of two different Throw Jumps; flip and Lutz are considered the same Throw Jumps
  • Maximum of two Jump Elements:
    • one solo jump
    • one Jump Combination (maximum of two jumps in a combination) or Jump Sequence
  • Maximum of one pair Spin: may be in combination; minimum of six revolutions, called to maximum Level 2
  • Maximum of one Death Spiral, called to maximum Level 2
  • Maximum of one Choreographic Sequence

Novice Pairs

Assessment: Must have passed the STAR 10 Program (or equivalent) Freeskate Assessment or higher

Age: No age requirements

This competition consists of two parts: Short Program and Free Program

Short Program

A short program to music a maximum of two minutes 40 seconds in length (plus or minus 10 seconds) containing the following elements:

  • One lift: any Hip lift take-off, Group 3
    • no credit Features – change of rotational direction by man
  • Single or double Twist Lift; take-off must be Flip or Lutz
  • Double Loop Throw Jump
  • Solo jump: double Lutz or double Axel
  • Solo Spin combination: only one change of foot with a minimum of four revolutions on each foot by both partners
  • Forward inside Death Spiral
  • Step sequence: must fully utilize the ice surface

Free Program

A Free Skating Program to music of three minutes 30 seconds in length (plus or minus 10 seconds). A well-balanced Novice Pairs Free Skating Program contains:

  • Maximum of two lifts:
    • must be from different groups
    • at least one must be from Group 3 or 4
    • no credit feature – change of rotational direction by man
  • Maximum of one Twist Lift, single or double
  • Maximum of two different Throw Jumps; Flip and Lutz are considered the same Throw Jumps
  • Maximum of two Jump Elements:
    • one solo jump
    • one Jump Combination (maximum of two jumps) or Jump Sequence
  • Maximum of one pair Spin: may be in combination; minimum of six revolutions
  • Maximum of one Death Spiral
  • Maximum of one Choreographic Sequence

Junior Pairs

Assessment: Must have passed the complete Gold Freeskate Assessment

Age: No age requirements for competitions in Canada

This competition consists of two parts as defined by the ISU: Short Program and Free Program

Short Program

A short program to music of two minutes 40 seconds in length (plus or minus 10 seconds) containing the group of elements announced by the ISU for the current season:

  • Any Hip lift take-off, Group 3
  • Double or triple Twist Lift; take off must be Flip or Lutz
  • Double or triple Loop Throw Jump
  • Double Lutz or double Axel solo jump
  • Solo Spin combination: only one change of foot with a minimum of five revolutions on each foot by both partners; change of foot may be executed in the form of a step over or a jump; change of foot and change of positions may be made either at the same time or separately
  • Forward inside Death Spiral
  • Step sequence: must fully utilize the ice surface

Free Program

A Free Skating Program to music of three minutes 30 seconds in length (plus or minus 10 seconds).  A well-balanced Junior Pairs Free Skating Program contains:

  • Maximum of two lifts:
    • not all from the same group
    • lifts with at least one continuous revolution of the man may include a carry; only the first carry included in the one of such lift can be counted for a possible level feature
  • Maximum of one Twist Lift
  • Maximum of two different Throw Jumps; Flip and Lutz are considered the same Throw Jumps
  • Maximum of one solo jump
  • Maximum of one Jump Combination (two or three jumps in a combination) or Jump Sequence
    • All jumps (of solo jump, Jump Combination and Jump Sequence) of more than one rotation, must be of a different nature (different name) however the Jump Combination or Jump Sequence can include two same such jumps
  • Maximum of one pair Spin combination: must have at least one change of foot which does not have to be executed by both partners at the same time; minimum of eight revolutions
  • Maximum of one Death Spiral
  • Maximum of one Choreographic Sequence

Senior Pairs

Assessment: Must have passed the complete Gold Freeskate Assessment

Age: No age requirement

This competition consists of two parts as defined by the ISU: Short Program and Free Program

Short Program

A short program to music of two minutes 40 seconds in length (plus or minus 10 seconds) A well-balanced Senior Pairs short program contains:

  • Any Hip lift take-off, Group 3
  • Double or triple Twist Lift; take off must be Flip or Lutz
  • Double or triple Throw Jump; Flip and Lutz are considered the same Throw Jumps
  • Double or triple solo jump
  • Solo Spin combination: only one change of foot with a minimum of five revolutions on each foot by both partners; change of foot may be executed in the form of a step over or a jump; change of foot and change of positions may be made either at the same time or separately
  • Forward inside Death Spiral
  • Step sequence: must fully utilize the ice surface

Free Program

A Free Skating Program to music of four minutes in length (plus or minus 10 seconds).  A well-balanced Senior Pairs free program contains:

  • Maximum of three lifts: not all from the same group
    • if two Group 5 lifts are executed, the take-offs must be of a different nature (different abbreviations)
    • lifts with at least one continuous revolution of the man may include a carry; only the first carry included in the one of such lift can be counted for a possible level feature
  • Maximum of one Twist Lift
  • Maximum of two different Throw Jumps; Flip and Lutz are considered the same Throw Jumps
  • Maximum of one solo jump
  • Maximum of one Jump Combination (two or three jumps in a combination) or Jump Sequence
    • All jumps (of solo jump, Jump Combination and Jump Sequence) of more than two rotations (double axel and all triple and quadruple jumps), must be of a different nature (different name) however the Jump Combination or Jump Sequence can include two same such jumps
  • Maximum of one pair Spin combination: must have at least one change of foot which does not have to be executed by both partners at the same time; minimum of eight revolutions
  • Maximum of one Death Spiral different from the Death Spiral of the short program
  • Maximum of one Choreographic Sequence

Ice Dance

Pre-Juvenile Dance

Assessment: At least one partner must have passed the complete STAR 5 (or equivalent) Dance Assessment or higher

Age: Pre-Juvenile Dance competitors must not have reached the age of 14 before July 1 preceding the Event

This competition consists of two parts: Pattern Dance and Free Dance

Pattern Dance

Two pattern dances:

  • Swing Dance (two Sequences)
  • Fiesta Tango (three Sequences)

Free Dance

A free dance to music of two minutes in length (plus or minus 10 seconds). A well-balanced Pre-Juvenile free dance contains:

  • Maximum of one Short Lift not exceeding seven seconds: stationary, curve or straight line; called to maximum Level 2
  • Maximum of one Dance Spin, called to maximum Level 2: simple Spin or combination type
  • Maximum of one Set Of Synchronized Twizzles, called to maximum Level 2; up to three steps between Twizzles; partners may touch between Twizzles - not considered for level
  • Maximum of one step sequence in hold, called to maximum Level 2: Style B
    • circular, midline or diagonal
    • separations permitted, no more than two arms' lengths apart; maximum five seconds
    • one Retrogression permitted, must not exceed two Measures of music
    • stops and loops are not permitted
    • Hand-In-Hand Hold with fully extended arms not permitted
    • pattern must maintain the integrity or basic shape of the chosen pattern

Juvenile Dance

Assessment: At least one partner must have passed the complete STAR 5 (or equivalent) Dance Assessment or higher

Age: Juvenile Dance competitors must not have reached the age of 16 before July 1 preceding the Event

This competition consists of two parts: Pattern Dance and Free Dance

Pattern Dance

Two pattern dances:

  • Fourteenstep (four Sequences)
  • European Waltz (two Sequences)

Free Dance

A free dance to music of two minutes in length (plus or minus 10 seconds). A well-balanced Juvenile free dance contains:

  • Maximum of one Short Lift not exceeding seven seconds: stationary, curve or straight line
  • Maximum of one Dance Spin, called to maximum Level 2: simple Spin or combination type
  • Maximum of one Set Of Synchronized Twizzles; up to three steps between Twizzles; partners may touch between Twizzles - not considered for level
  • Maximum of one step sequence in hold: Style B
    • circular, midline or diagonal
    • separations permitted, no more than two arms' lengths apart; maximum five seconds
    • one Retrogression permitted, must not exceed two Measures of music
    • stops and loops are not permitted
    • Hand-In-Hand Hold with fully extended arms not permitted
    • pattern must maintain the integrity or basic shape of the chosen pattern

Pre-Novice Dance

Assessment: At least one partner must have passed the complete STAR 5 (or equivalent) Dance Assessment or higher

Age: Pre-Novice Dance competitors must not have reached the age of 18 before July 1 preceding the Event

This competition consists of two parts: Pattern Dance and Free Dance

Pattern Dance

  • Tango (two Sequences)
  • Blues (three Sequences)

Free Dance

A free dance to music of two minutes 30 seconds in length (plus or minus 10 seconds). A well-balanced Pre-Novice free dance contains:

  • Maximum of two different Short Lifts not exceeding seven seconds: stationary, curve, straight line or rotational
  • Maximum of one Dance Spin: simple Spin or combination type
  • Maximum of one Set Of Synchronized Twizzles; up to three steps between Twizzles; partners may touch between Twizzles - not considered for level
  • Maximum of one step sequence in hold: Style B
    • circular, midline or diagonal
    • one Retrogression permitted, must not exceed two Measures of music
    • separations permitted, no more than two arms' lengths apart; maximum five seconds
    • stops and loops are not permitted
    • Hand-In-Hand Hold with fully extended arms not permitted
    • pattern must maintain the integrity or basic shape of the chosen pattern
  • Maximum of one Choreographic Element:
    • choreographic lift or choreographic twizzling movement must be performed after the required element of the same type
    • choreographic spinning movement, choreographic character step sequence, or choreographic sliding movement may be performed anywhere in the program

Novice Dance

Assessment: At least one partner must have passed the complete STAR 8 (or equivalent) Dance Assessment or higher

Age: Women must not have reached the age of 19 and men must not have reached the age of 21 before July 1 preceding the competition.

This competition consists of two parts: Pattern Dance and Free Dance

Pattern Dance

Two dances scored using Key Points

  • Blues (three Sequences)
  • Westminster Waltz (two Sequences, each with two Sections)

Free Dance

A free dance to music of three minutes in length (plus or minus 10 seconds). A well-balanced Novice free dance contains:

  • Maximum of two different Short Lifts not exceeding seven seconds
  • Maximum of one Dance Spin: simple Spin type or combination type
  • Maximum of one Set Of Synchronized Twizzles; at least two Twizzles for each partner, with a minimum of two and up to four steps between first and second Twizzles; partners must be in contact at some point between the first and second Twizzles
  • One Style B step sequence performed in hold
    • one Retrogression permitted, must not exceed two Measures of music
    • separations permitted, no more than two arms' lengths apart; maximum five seconds
    • stops and loops are not permitted
    • Hand-In-Hand Hold with fully extended arms not permitted
    • pattern must maintain the integrity or basic shape of the chosen pattern
  • One one-foot step sequence: Turns performed on one foot by each partner and must be started with the first Turn at the same time, not touching
  • Maximum of one Choreographic Element:
    • choreographic lift or choreographic twizzling movement must be performed after the required element of the same type
    • choreographic spinning movement, choreographic character step Sequence, or choreographic sliding movement may be performed anywhere in the program

Junior Dance

Assessment: At least one partner must have passed the Gold A and Gold B Dance Assessments or higher

Age: Must meet ISU Junior age criteria (maximum age limit only applies: women must not have reached the age of 19 and men must not have reached the age of 21 before July 1 preceding the competition).

The ISU has announced an exception to the upper age limit for the Junior category for the 2020-2021 season.  Please refer to ISU communication 2316.

This competition consists of two parts as defined by the ISU and announced annually in an ISU Communication: Rhythm Dance and Free Dance.  Reference the Ice Dance Handbooks section of the ISU website for all specific rules and communications for Junior Dance.

Rhythm Dance

A Rhythm Dance to music of two minutes 50 seconds in length (plus or minus 10 seconds). The selected Rhythms for music are announced annually by the ISU Ice Dance Technical Committee and should be referenced in the applicable ISU Communication. The elements for the Junior Rhythm Dance are:

  • Pattern Dance Element: two sections of Tea-Time Foxtrot, with the range of Tempo 27 Measures of four Beats per minute (108 Beats per minute) plus or minus two Beats per minute; to be skated one after the other
    • Section 1 steps #1-31; Section 2 steps #32-54
    • Section 1 followed by section 2 with step #1 skated in front of the Judges on the side of the Judges
    • skated to Foxtrot or Quickstep rhythm and must be in the Style of the chosen rhythm
    • the Tempo of the music throughout the Pattern Dance Element must be constant
  • Maximum of one Short Lift, maximum of seven seconds duration
  • One step sequence in hold or not touching or combination of both (Style B); 
    • specifications to Style B, Rhythm Dance:
    • must be skated to a different rhythm (even within Swing Rhythms) than the one chosen for the Pattern Dance Element
    • chosen pattern may only be midline or diagonal and must maintain the integrity or basic shape of the chosen pattern
    • one stop permitted, maximum five seconds
    • separations permitted, no more than two arms' lengths apart
    • Retrogressions not permitted
    • loops not permitted
    • the hold requirement is not considered for Level
  • One Set Of Sequential Twizzles: at least two Twizzles for each partner; up to one step between Twizzles; must not be in contact between Twizzles

Free Dance

A free dance to music of three minutes 30 seconds in length (plus or minus 10 seconds).

A well balanced Junior free dance contains:

  • Maximum of two Short Lifts or one Combination Lift; both lifts including those in the Combination Lift must be different types
  • Maximum of one Dance Spin: Spin or Combination Spin
  • One step sequence in hold (Style B):
    • one Retrogression permitted (must not exceed two Measures of music)
    • separations permitted, no more than two arms' lengths apart, maximum five seconds
    • loops not permitted
    • Hand-In-Hand Hold with fully extended arms not permitted
    • stops not permitted
    • pattern must maintain the integrity or basic shape of the chosen pattern
  • One one-foot step sequence: Turns performed on one foot by each partner and must be started with the first Turn at the same time, not touching
  • One Set Of Synchronized Twizzles
    • at least two Twizzles for each partner with minimum two and up to four steps between first and second Twizzles; partners must be in contact at some point between the first and second Twizzles
  • Two different Choreographic Elements chosen from: choreographic lift, choreographic spinning movement, choreographic twizzling movement, choreographic sliding movement, choreographic character step Sequence.

Senior Dance

Assessment: At least one partner must have passed the Gold A and Gold B Dance Assessments or higher

Age: No age requirement

This competition consists of two parts as defined by the ISU and announced annually in an ISU Communication: Rhythm Dance and Free Dance. Reference the Ice Dance Handbooks section of the ISU website for all specific rules and communications for Senior Dance.

Rhythm Dance

A Rhythm Dance to music of two minutes 50 seconds in length (plus or minus 10 seconds). The selected Rhythms for music are announced annually by the ISU Ice Dance Technical Committee and should be referenced in the applicable ISU Communication. The elements for the Senior Rhythm Dance are:

  • Pattern Dance Element: one section of Finnstep, with the range of Tempo 52 Measures of two Beats per minute (104 Beats per minute plus or minus two Beats per minute)
    • Section 1 steps #1-33
    • skated to one of the following rhythms: Quickstep, Charleston or Swing and must be in the Style of the chosen rhythm
    • the Tempo of the music throughout the Pattern Dance Element must be constant
  • Maximum of one pattern dance type step sequence (Style C) skated to the same Rhythm chosen for the Finnstep
  • Maximum of one Short Lift, maximum of seven seconds duration
  • One step sequence in hold or not touching or combination of both (Style B)
    • specifications to Style B, Rhythm Dance:
    • must be skated to a different rhythm than the one chosen for the Pattern Dance Element and pattern dance style step sequence
    • chosen pattern may only be midline or diagonal and must maintain the integrity or basic shape of the chosen pattern
    • one stop permitted, maximum five seconds
    • separations permitted, no more than two arms' lengths apart
    • Retrogression not permitted
    • loops not permitted
    • Hand-In-Hand Hold with fully extended arms not permitted
    • the hold requirement is not considered for Level
  • One combination Set Of Sequential Twizzles: at least two Twizzles for each partner; up to one step between Twizzles; must not be in contact between Twizzles

Free Dance

A free dance to music of four minutes in length (plus or minus 10 seconds).  A well-balanced Senior free dance program contains:

  • Maximum of three Short Lifts or one Short Lift and one Combination Lift; all lifts including those in the Combination Lift must be different types
  • Maximum of one Dance Spin: Spin or Combination Spin
  • one step sequence in hold (Style B):
    • one Retrogression permitted (must not exceed two Measure of music)
    • separations permitted, no more than two arms' lengths apart, maximum five seconds
    • loops not permitted
    • Hand-In-Hand Hold with fully extended arms not permitted
    • stops not permitted
    • pattern must maintain the integrity or basic shape of the chosen pattern
  • One one-foot step sequence: Turns performed on one foot by each partner and must be started with the first Turn at the same time, not touching
  • One Set Of Synchronized Twizzles
    • at least two Twizzles for each partner, with minimum of two and up to four steps between first and second Twizzles; partners must be in contact at some point between the first and second Twizzles
  • Three different Choreographic Elements one of which must be a choreographic character step Sequence; two additional chosen from: choreographic lift, choreographic spinning movement, choreographic twizzling movement, choreographic sliding movement.

Synchronized Skating

For all Category program requirements, the following will apply:

Transitions: Additional elements are allowed but they must be labeled as “Transitions” on the Planned Program Content sheet

Pre-Juvenile Synchro

Teams consist of eight to 16 skaters

Age: Skaters must not have reached the age of 12 before July 1 preceding the competition

The team must perform a Free Skating Program to music a maximum of two minutes forty seconds in length. A well-balanced Pre-Juvenile Synchro program contains:

  • Intersection element with optional Point Of Intersection
  • Pivoting element - block
  • Traveling element - circle
  • Linear element - line
  • Rotating element - wheel

If there is a second Segment, the team will perform its free program a second time.

Juvenile Synchro

Teams consist of eight to 16 skaters.

Age: Skaters must not have reached the age of 15 and at least 75% of the skaters must not have reached the age of 13 before July 1 preceding the competition.

The team must perform a Free Skating Program to music a maximum of three minutes 10 seconds in length. A well-balanced Juvenile Synchro program contains:

  • Intersection element with optional Point Of Intersection
  • Move element
  • No hold element with optional step sequence
  • Pivoting element - block
  • Traveling element - circle
  • Choice of linear element line OR rotating element wheel

If there is a second Segment, the team will perform its free program a second time.

Pre-Novice Synchro

Teams consist of eight to 16 skaters.

Age: Skaters must have reached the age of 12 but must not have reached the age of 18 before July 1 preceding the competition.

Free Program: The team will perform a Free Skating Program to music a maximum of three minutes 10 seconds in length. A well-balanced Pre-Novice Synchro program contains:

  • Intersection element with optional Point Of Intersection
  • Move element
  • No hold element with optional step sequence
  • Pivoting element - block
  • Traveling element - circle
  • Choice of one artistic element chosen from line or wheel

If there is a second Segment, the team will perform its free program a second time.

Novice Synchro

Teams consist of 12 to 16 skaters.

Age: Must meet ISU Novice age criteria (skaters must have reached the age of 10 but must not have reached the age of 15 before July 1 preceding the competition

The ISU has announced an exception to the upper age limit for the Novice category for the 2020-2021 season. Please refer to ISU communication 2316.

This competition consists of two parts: Free Program #1 and Free Program #2.  The same free program is skated in both parts.

Free Program #1

A Free Skating Program to music of three minutes in length (plus or minus 10 seconds). A well-balanced Novice Synchro program contains:

  • Intersection element with optional Point Of Intersection
  • Move element
  • No hold element with optional step sequence
  • Pivoting element - block
  • Travelling element - circle
  • Twizzle element
  • Choice of one artistic element chosen from line or wheel

The total score of the free program will be multiplied by a factor of 0.5 for the first Segment of the Event

Free Program #2

The team will perform a Free Skating Program as defined above. The total score will be multiplied by a factor of 1.0 for the second Segment of the Event.

Intermediate Synchro

Teams consist of 12 to 16 skaters.

Age: Must meet ISU Junior age criteria (skaters must have reached the age of 13 but must not have reached the age of 19 before July 1 preceding the competition).

The ISU has announced an exception to the upper age limit for the Junior category for the 2020-2021 season. Please refer to ISU communication 2316.

This competition consists of two parts: Free Program #1 and Free Program #2.  The same free program is skated in both parts.

Free Program #1

A Free Skating Program to music of three minutes 30 seconds in length (plus or minus 10 seconds). A well-balanced Intermediate Synchro program contains:

  • Intersection element with optional Point Of Intersection
  • Move element
  • No hold element with optional step sequence
  • Pivoting element block
  • Travelling element - circle
  • Twizzle element
  • Choice of one artistic element chosen from line or wheel

The total score of the free program will be multiplied by a factor of 0.5 for the first Segment of the Event.

Free Program #2

The team shall perform a Free Skating Program as defined above. The total score will be multiplied by a factor of 1.0 for the second Segment of the Event.

Open Synchro

Teams consist of 12 to 16 skaters.

Age: Skaters must have reached the age of 15 before July 1 preceding the competition

This competition consists of two parts: Free Program #1 and Free Program #2.  The same free program is skated in both parts.

Free Program #1

A Free Skating Program to music of four minutes in length (plus or minus 10 seconds).  A well-balanced Open Synchro program contains:

  • Intersection element with optional Point Of Intersection
  • Move element
  • No hold element with optional step sequence
  • Pivoting element - block
  • Travelling element - circle
  • Choice of synchronized Spin element OR pair element
  • Choice of one artistic element chosen from line or wheel
  • Creative element - lift
  • Twizzle element

The total score of the free program will be multiplied by a factor of 0.5 for the first Segment of the Event.

Free Program #2

The team will perform a Free Skating Program as defined above. The total score will be multiplied by a factor of 1.0 for the second Segment of the Event.

Junior Synchro

Teams consist of 16 skaters.

Age: Must meet ISU Junior age criteria (skaters must have reached the age of 13 but must not have reached the age of 19 before July 1 preceding the competition).

The ISU has announced an exception to the upper age limit for the Junior category for the 2020-2021 season. Please refer to ISU communication 2316.

This competition consists of two parts as defined by the ISU: Short Program and Free Program

Short Program

A short program to music a maximum of two minutes 50 seconds in length containing the list of elements announced by the ISU for the current season:

  • Intersection element: whip intersection; additional Point Of Intersection is required
  • Move element: one fm executed by the entire team and must be the same fm
  • No hold element*: Additional Feature (step sequence) is required
  • Traveling element - wheel: must be in a three-spoke Configuration
  • Twizzle element*: a series of two Twizzles, one in each rotational direction is required

*The no hold element and the Twizzle element may not be executed one after the other

Free Program

A Free Skating Program to music three minutes 30 seconds in length (plus or minus 10 seconds). A well-balanced Junior Synchro Free Skating Program contains:

  • Two different intersection elements: Additional Feature Point Of Intersection is optional and will be counted if executed correctly
  • Move element: up to four different fm's
  • No hold element: Additional Feature step sequence is optional and will be counted if executed correctly
  • Pivoting element - block
  • Synchronized Spin element
  • Traveling element - circle
  • Choice of one artistic element from group A chosen from line or wheel

These are basic requirements. See current ISU Communications for more detailed information pertaining to the Junior Synchro Short and Free Programs.

Senior Synchro

Teams consist of 16 skaters.

Age: Skaters must have reached at least the age of 15 as of July 1 preceding the competition

This competition consists of two parts as defined by the ISU: Short Program and Free Program

Short Program

A short program to music a maximum of two minutes 50 second in length containing the list of elements announced by the ISU for the current season:

  • Intersection element: angled intersection: Point Of Intersection is required
  • Move element: one fm executed by the entire team and must be the same fm
  • No hold element: Additional Feature step sequence is required
  • Pivoting element – block: Pivoting must be executed in three lines
  • Travelling element - circle

Free Program

A Free Skating Program to music four minutes in length (plus or minus 10 seconds). A well-balanced Senior Synchro Free Skating Program contains:

  • Creative element – lift
  • Group lift element gliding with rotations
  • Two different intersection elements: Additional Feature Point Of Intersection is optional and will be counted if executed correctly
  • Move element: up to four different fms
  • No hold element: Additional Feature step sequence is optional and will be counted if executed correctly
  • Pair element
  • Twizzle element - a series of two Twizzles, one in each rotational direction is required
  • Choice of one artistic element from group A chosen from circle or wheel

These are basic requirements. See current ISU Communications for more detailed information pertaining to the Senior Synchro Short and Free Programs.