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.
Athlete B
Athlete B is equivalent to the "man" in the ISU regulations.
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.
Axis
Refers to the imaginary line(s) which divide(s) the ice surface (e.g. long axis, short axis).
Axis Of Intersection
In synchronized skating, refers to the axis where the skaters are passing/intersecting with one another. In the case of a collapsing intersection (box, triangle, etc.), the axis of intersection is defined as the area within the shape once the corners have started to intersect and before the skaters exit the intersection and pass through at the final corners.
Beats
A note defining the regular recurring divisions of a piece of music.
Bracket
A turn executed on one foot from an outside edge to an inside edge or an inside edge to an outside edge, with the exit curve continuing on the same lobe as the entry curve. The skater turns in the direction opposite to the curve.
Camel Spin
A spin in which the skater remains in a camel position while rotating. The free leg (including the knee and foot) must be held at hip level or higher.
Choreographic Element
In ice dance, a listed or unlisted movement or series of movement(s) as specified by the ISU Ice Dance Technical Committee.
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 at least two different movements like spirals, arabesques, spread eagles, Ina Bauers, hydroblading, any jumps with maximum of two revolutions, spins, etc. Steps and turns may be used to link the two or more different movements together. 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 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.
Counter
A turn executed on one foot from an outside edge to an outside edge or an inside edge to an inside edge, with the exit curve on a different lobe from the entry curve. The skater turns in the direction opposite to the entry curve (i.e. in the direction of the exit curve).
Dance Spin
A spin skated by the team together in any hold. It should be performed on the spot around a common axis on one foot with or without change(s) of foot by one or both partners.
Death Spiral
Athlete B performs a pivot, holding one hand of Athlete A with their arms fully extended. Athlete A circles around Athlete B on one foot in a position nearly parallel to the ice. The edge skated by Athlete A determines the name of the death spiral. i.e. backward outside, backward inside, forward outside, forward inside.
Edge
May refer either to part of the skate blade, or the visible tracing of a skate blade on one foot that is on one curve. An edge may be either inside (towards the body) or outside (away from the body), and forward or backward, for a total for four different edges.
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, travelling, body movements, etc. are determined annually and published in a Skate Canada and ISU Communication.
Flip
A toe jump with natural rotation that takes off from a backward inside edge; listed in the Scale of Values according to the number of revolutions.
Flip Jump
A toe jump with natural rotation that takes off from a backward inside edge; listed in the Scale of Values according to the number of revolutions.
Flying Spins
- A spin with a flying entrance with no change of foot or position. The name of the flying spin corresponds to its landing position.
Spin with a flying entrance:
- All flying spins that are not 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 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).
Hydroblading
The skaters are in a low sit-like position that is counter-balanced, where the supporting leg is bent to at least ninety degrees (parallel to the ice) and the free leg and hands are not resting on the ice surface. The skaters’ torsos, including the shoulders, are leaning far in towards the centre of the circle and the free leg is placed to the outside of that circle. The move is executed on an edge and on one foot.
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.
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 or three jumps of any number of revolutions, in which the second and/or third jump is an axel-type jump with a direct step from the landing curve of the first/second jump to the take-off curve of the axel jump. 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 sequence 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 or three jumps of any number of revolutions, in which the second and/or third jump is an axel-type jump with a direct step from the landing curve of the first/second jump to the take-off curve of the axel jump. 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 sequence 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
Turn: 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.
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.
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
Turn: 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.
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.
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.
Measures
A unit of music which is defined by the periodic recurrence of the accent. Such units are of equal number of beats.
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.
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 team to dance music with designated rhythm(s) and/or theme(s) selected annually by the ISU Ice Dance Technical Committee.
Rocker
A turn executed on one foot from an outside edge to an outside edge or an inside edge to an inside edge, with the exit curve on a different lobe from the entry curve. The skater turns in the direction of the entry curve.
Salchow
An edge jump with natural rotation that takes off from a backward inside edge; listed in the Scale of Values according to the number of rotations.
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 Sequential Twizzles
In ice dance, a series of two twizzles with up to one step between twizzles.
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.
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. C step, S step).
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. C step, S step).
Twist
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.
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.
1. Singles
1.1. Pre-Juvenile Singles
Pre-Juvenile is part of the Learn to Train stage of development of Skate Canada’s Long-Term Development (LTD) and is not part of the Podium Pathway.
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
- One jump must be an Axel-type Jump
- Only one jump may be repeated
- Maximum of two Jump Combinations: maximum two jumps in a combination
- 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; one spiral must be unsupported.
1.2. Juvenile Singles
Juvenile is part of the Learn to Train stage of development of Skate Canada’s Long-Term Development (LTD) and is not part of the Podium Pathway.
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
- One jump must be an Axel-type Jump
- Only one jump may be repeated
- Maximum of two Jump Combinations: maximum of two jumps in a combination
- 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 1 (achieved through difficult steps and turns): must fully utilize the ice surface
1.3. Pre-Novice Singles
Assessment: Must have passed the complete STAR 6 (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 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 or Camel Spin; minimum of five revolutions, no change of foot, no flying entry
- Men - Camel Spin with one change of foot, minimum of four revolutions on each foot, no flying entry
- 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 or two Jump Combinations and one Jump Sequence: one Jump Combination or Jump Sequence may contain three jumps
- 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
1.4. 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 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
- Must be double Loop Jump or higher
- 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 or Camel Spin; minimum of six revolutions; no change of foot, no flying entry
- Men - Camel Spin with one change of foot; minimum of five revolutions on each foot, no flying entry
- 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 or two Jump Combinations and one Jump Sequence; one Jump Combination or Jump Sequence may contain three jumps
- 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 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
1.5. 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 Flip Jump
- 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 Flip Jump
- 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, any air position allowed; the required eight revolutions can be executed in any variation of the landing position; no change of foot
- Combination Spin with change of foot: only one change of foot; minimum of six revolutions on each foot; no flying entry
- Step sequence: must fully utilize the ice surface
Men:
- Double or triple Axel
- Double or triple Flip Jump
- Jump Combination: one double and one triple jump or two triple jumps
- No repetition of double Axel or double or triple Flip Jump
- Same jumps are permitted in the Jump Combination
- Flying Camel Spin: minimum of eight revolutions, any air position allowed; the required eight revolutions can be executed in any variation of the landing position; no change of foot
- 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; no flying entry
- 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 or two Jump Combinations and one Jump Sequence; one Jump Combination or Jump Sequence 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 Choreographic Sequence
1.6. 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; landing position must be different from the Solo Spin; the required eight revolutions can be executed in any variation of the landing position; no change of foot or 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; landing position must be different from the Solo Spin; the required eight revolutions can be executed in any variation of the landing position; no change of foot or 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 or two Jump Combinations and one Jump Sequence; one Jump Combination or Jump Sequence 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
2. Pairs
2.1. Juvenile Pairs
Juvenile is part of the Learn to Train stage of development of Skate Canada’s Long-Term Development (LTD) and is not part of the Podium Pathway.
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 or Group 2
- Maximum of one Twist Lift: juvenile or 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 or Jump Sequence (maximum of two jumps in a combination or 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 1 (achieved through difficult steps and turns): must fully utilize the ice surface
2.2. Pre-Novice Pairs
Assessment Must have passed the complete STAR 6 (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 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 Athlete B
- Juvenile, single, or double Twist Lift, called to maximum Level 2
- Single or double Throw Jump: no double Axel Throw Jump permitted
- 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:
- Must be from different groups, unless both are from Group 1
- No credit Features – change of rotational direction by Athlete B, and carry
- Maximum of one Twist Lift, juvenile, 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 or Jump Sequence (maximum of two jumps in a combination or 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
2.3. 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 of two minutes 40 seconds in length (plus or minus 10 seconds) containing the following elements:
- One lift: any hand-to-hand lift take-off, Group 4
- No credit Features – change of rotational direction by Athlete B
- Juvenile, single, or double Twist Lift; take-off must be Flip or Lutz
- Double Salchow Throw Jump
- Solo jump: double Flip Jump or double Axel
- Solo Spin combination: only one change of foot with a minimum of four revolutions on each foot by both partners
- Backward outside 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 Athlete B
- Maximum of one Twist Lift, juvenile, single, double, or triple
- 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 or Jump Sequence (maximum of two jumps in a combination or sequence)
- Maximum of one pair Spin: may be in combination; minimum of six revolutions
- Maximum of one Death Spiral
- Maximum of one Choreographic Sequence
2.4. 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 hand-to-hand lift take-off, Group 4
- Double or triple Twist Lift; take off must be Flip or Lutz
- Double or triple Salchow Throw Jump
- Double Flip Jump 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
- Backwards outside 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 Athlete B 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 or Jump Sequence (two or three jumps in a combination or 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
2.5. 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 hand-to-hand lift take-off, Group 4
- Double or triple Twist Lift; take off must be Flip or Lutz
- Double or triple Throw Jump
- 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
- Backward outside 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 Athlete B 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 or Jump Sequence (two or three jumps in a combination or 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
3. Ice Dance
3.1. Pre-Juvenile Ice Dance
Pre-Juvenile is part of the Learn to Train stage of development of Skate Canada’s Long-Term Development (LTD) and is not part of the Podium Pathway.
Assessment: At least one partner must have passed the complete STAR 5 (or equivalent) Dance Assessment or higher
Age: Pre-Juvenile Ice Dance competitors must not have reached the age of 14 before July 1 preceding the Event
This competition consists of two Pattern Dances
Pattern Dance
Two pattern dances:
- Baby Blues (three Sequences)
- Fiesta Tango (three Sequences)
3.2. Juvenile Ice Dance
Juvenile is part of the Learn to Train stage of development of Skate Canada’s Long-Term Development (LTD) and is not part of the Podium Pathway.
Assessment: At least one partner must have passed the complete STAR 5 (or equivalent) Dance Assessment or higher
Age: Juvenile Ice 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:
- Ten-Fox (three 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 Dance Spin, called to maximum Level 2
- 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
- Retrogressions, stops and loops are not permitted
- Hand-In-Hand Hold with fully extended arms cannot be established
- Pattern must maintain the integrity or basic shape of the chosen pattern
- Maximum of one Choreographic Element
- chosen from choreographic lift, choreographic spinning movement, and choreographic twizzling movement
- choreographic twizzling movement must be performed after the required element of the same type
- choreographic spinning movement or choreographic lift may be performed anywhere in the program
3.3. Pre-Novice Ice Dance
Assessment: At least one partner must have passed the complete STAR 6 (or equivalent) Dance Assessment or higher
Age: Pre-Novice Ice 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)
- Starlight Waltz (two 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: stationary, curve, straight line or rotational
- Maximum of one Dance Spin
- Maximum of one Set Of Synchronized Twizzles; up to three steps between Twizzles; partners may touch between Twizzles
- 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
- Retrogressions, stops, and loops are not permitted
- Hand-In-Hand Hold with fully extended arms cannot be established
- Pattern must maintain the integrity or basic shape of the chosen pattern
- Must be different shape from pattern of choreographic step sequence if chosen as choreographic element
- 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, choreographic assisted jump movement, choreographic sliding movement, or choreographic hydroblading movement may be performed anywhere in the program
3.4. Novice Ice Dance
Assessment: At least one partner must have passed the complete STAR 8 (or equivalent) Dance Assessment or higher
Age: Novice Ice Dance competitors 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
- Starlight Waltz (two Sequences)
- Argentine Tango (two Sequences)
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
- Maximum of one Dance Spin
- 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 may be in contact between the first and second Twizzles
- One Style B step sequence performed in hold
- Straight line or curve
- Separations permitted, no more than two arms' lengths apart; maximum five seconds
- Retrogressions, stops, and loops are not permitted
- Hand-In-Hand Hold with fully extended arms cannot be established
- Pattern must maintain the integrity or basic shape of the chosen pattern
- Must be different shape from pattern of choreographic step sequence if chosen as choreographic element
- One one-foot turns sequence: Difficult turns performed on one foot by each partner and must be started with the first difficult 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, choreographic assisted jump movement, choreographic sliding movement, or choreographic hydroblading movement may be performed anywhere in the program
3.5. Novice Solo Ice Dance
Assessment: Must have passed the complete STAR 8 (or equivalent) Dance Assessment or higher
Age: 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
- Argentine Tango (two Sequences)
- Westminster Waltz (two Sequences)
Free Dance
A free dance to music of two minutes 20 seconds in length (plus or minus 10 seconds). A well-balanced Novice solo free dance contains:
- Maximum of one Short Edge Element, maximum Level 3
- Maximum of one Dance Spin, no flying entry, maximum Level 3
- Maximum of one Set Of Sequential Twizzles; two Twizzles, up to one step between Twizzles, maximum Level 3
- One Style B step sequence, maximum Level 3:
- Circular, midline, or diagonal
- Retrogressions, stops, and loops are not permitted
- Hand-In-Hand Hold with fully extended arms cannot be established
- Pattern must maintain the integrity or basic shape of the chosen pattern
- Must be different shape from pattern of choreographic step sequence if chosen as choreographic element
- Maximum of one Choreographic Element chosen from: choreographic spinning movement, choreographic twizzling movement, choreographic sliding movement, and choreographic step sequence.
3.6. Junior Ice Dance
Assessment: At least one partner must have passed the Gold A and Gold B Dance Assessments or higher
Age: For Domestic Competition Junior Ice Dance competitors must not have reached the age of 21 before July 1 preceding the competition.
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 Ice 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 (Communication No. 2630). The elements for the Junior Rhythm Dance are:
- Pattern Dance Element: two sequences of the Paso Doble, skated to any dance style with the Tempo range: 56 measures of 2 beats per minute (112 beats per minute) plus or minus 2 beats per minute.
- 1PD and 2PD: steps #1-28
- Maximum of one Short Lift
- One step sequence not touching (Style B);
- Specifications to Style B, Rhythm Dance:
- skated to any dance style of the prescribed decades
- 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 (this will count as one of the permitted stops), must be performed not touching
- Touching the ice with any part of the body is allowed for no more than 5 seconds
- Skated no more than two arms' lengths apart
- Retrogressions not permitted
- Loops not permitted
- 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 different type Short Lifts or one Combination Lift;
- Maximum of one Dance Spin: optional change of foot by one or both partners
- One step sequence in hold (Style B):
- Straight line or curve
- Separations permitted, no more than two arms' lengths apart, maximum five seconds
- Retrogressions not permitted
- Loops not permitted
- Hand-In-Hand Hold with fully extended arms cannot be established
- Stops not permitted
- Pattern must maintain the integrity or basic shape of the chosen pattern
- Must be different shape from pattern of choreographic step sequence if chosen as choreographic element
- One one-foot turns sequence, not touching: Difficult turns performed on one foot by each partner and must be started with the first difficult turn at the same time
- 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 may be in contact between the first and second Twizzles
- Two different Choreographic Elements chosen from: choreographic lift, choreographic spinning movement, choreographic assisted jump movement, choreographic twizzling movement, choreographic sliding movement, choreographic character step sequence, and choreographic hydroblading movement.
3.7. Junior Solo Ice Dance
Assessment: Must have passed the Gold A and Gold B Dance Assessments or higher
Age: For Domestic Competition Junior Ice Dance competitors must not have reached the age of 21 before July 1 preceding the competition.
This competition consists of two parts as defined by the ISU: Rhythm Dance and Free Dance. Reference the Solo Ice Dance section of the ISU website for all specific rules for Junior Solo Ice 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 Solo Rhythm Dance are:
- Pattern Dance Element: two sequences of the Paso Doble, skated to any dance style with the Tempo range: 56 measures of 2 beats per minute (112 beats per minute) plus or minus 2 beats per minute.
- 1PD and 2PD: steps #1-28
- Maximum of one Short Edge Element
- One step sequence(Style B);
- Specifications to Style B, Rhythm Dance:
- skated to any dance style of the prescribed decades
- 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
- Touching the ice with any part of the body is allowed for no more than 5 seconds
- Retrogressions not permitted
- Loops not permitted
- One Set Of Sequential Twizzles: at least two Twizzles, up to one step between Twizzles.
Free Dance
A free dance to music of three minutes in length (plus or minus 10 seconds).
A well balanced Junior solo free dance contains:
- Maximum of two different type Short Edge Elements or one Combination Edge Element;
- Maximum of one Dance Spin: may change feet more than once, flying spins or flying entries are illegal elements
- One step sequence in hold (Style B):
- Serpentine, circular, midline, or diagonal
- Retrogressions, loops, and stops not permitted
- Pattern must maintain the integrity or basic shape of the chosen pattern
- Must be different shape from pattern of choreographic step sequence if chosen as choreographic element
- One one-foot turns sequence: must include the following difficult turns: Rocker, Bracket, Counter, Twizzle
- One Solo Twizzle Series: minimum two and up to four steps between first and second Twizzles
- Two different Choreographic Elements chosen from: choreographic spinning movement, choreographic twizzling movement, choreographic sliding movement, and choreographic character step sequence.
3.8. Senior Ice 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 Ice 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 (Communication No. 2630). The elements for the Senior Rhythm Dance are:
- Maximum of one pattern dance type step sequence (Style D) skated to any dance style - minimum tempo 110 beats per minute, in 2/2, 2/4, or 4/4 time. Reference ISU Communication 2630 for detailed technical requirements.
- Maximum of one Choreographic Rhythm Sequence skated to any dance style. The Choreographic Rhythm Sequence is evaluated as a Choreographic Element. Reference ISU Communication 2630 for detailed technical requirements.
- Maximum of one Short Lift
- One step sequence not touching (Style B)
- Specifications to Style B, Rhythm Dance:
- Skated to any dance style of the prescribed decades
- 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 (this will count as one of the permitted stops), must be performed not touching
- Touching the ice with any part of the body is allowed for no more than 5 seconds
- Skated no more than two arms' lengths apart
- Retrogression not permitted
- Loops not permitted
- 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 (different type than in combination lift) and one Combination Lift;
- Maximum of one Dance Spin: optional change of foot by one or both partners
- one step sequence in hold (Style B):
- Straight line or curve
- Separations permitted, no more than two arms' lengths apart, maximum five seconds
- Retrogressions not permitted
- 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
- Must be different shape from pattern of choreographic step sequence if chosen as choreographic element
- One one-foot turns sequence, not touching: Difficult turns performed on one foot by each partner and must be started with the first difficult turn at the same time
- 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 maybe in contact between the first and second Twizzles
- Three different Choreographic Elements chosen from: choreographic character step sequence, choreographic assisted jump movement, choreographic lift, choreographic spinning movement, choreographic twizzling movement, choreographic sliding movement and choreographic hydroblading movement.
3.9. Senior Solo Ice Dance
Assessment: 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: Rhythm Dance and Free Dance. Reference the Solo Ice Dance section of the ISU website for all specific rules and communications for Senior Solo Ice 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 Solo Rhythm Dance are:
- Maximum of one pattern dance type step sequence (Style D) skated to any dance style - minimum tempo 110 beats per minute, in 2/2, 2/4, or 4/4 time. Reference ISU Communication 2630 for detailed technical requirements.
- Maximum of one Choreographic Rhythm Sequence skated to any dance style. The Choreographic Rhythm Sequence is evaluated as a Choreographic Element. Reference ISU Communication 2630 for detailed technical requirements.
- Maximum of one Short Edge Element
- One step sequence not touching (Style B)
- Specifications to Style B, Rhythm Dance:
- Skated to any dance style of the prescribed decades
- 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 (this will count as one of the permitted stops)
- Touching the ice with any part of the body is allowed for no more than 5 seconds
- Retrogression not permitted
- Loops not permitted
- One combination Set Of Sequential Twizzles: at least two Twizzles, up to one step between Twizzles.
Free Dance
A free dance to music of three minutes 30 seconds in length (plus or minus 10 seconds). A well-balanced Senior Solo free dance program contains:
- Maximum of three Short Edge Elements or one Short Edge Element (different type than in combination lift) and one Combination Edge Element;
- Maximum of one Dance Spin: may change feet more than once, flying spins or flying entries are illegal elements
- One step sequence in hold (Style B):
- Serpentine, circular, midline, or diagonal
- Retrogressions, loops, and stops not permitted
- Pattern must maintain the integrity or basic shape of the chosen pattern
- Must be different shape from pattern of choreographic step sequence if chosen as choreographic element
- One one-foot turns sequence: must include the following difficult turns: Rocker, Bracket, Counter, Twizzle
- One Solo Twizzle Series: minimum two and up to four steps between first and second Twizzles
- Three different Choreographic Elements chosen from: choreographic spinning movement, choreographic twizzling movement, choreographic sliding movement, and choreographic character step sequence.
4. Synchronized Skating
4.1. Novice Synchronized Skating
Teams consist of 12 to 16 skaters.
Age: Skaters must not have reached the age of 16 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 three minutes 30 seconds in length (plus or minus 10 seconds). A well-balanced Novice Synchronized Skating program contains:
- Intersection element with optional Point of Intersection
- Move element
- No hold element with optional step sequence
- Pivoting element - block
- Travelling element
- Twizzle element
- Choice of one artistic element chosen from block, circle, line, or wheel
- Synchronized spin element
The total score of the free program will be multiplied by a factor of 1.0 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.
4.2. Junior Synchronized Skating
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).
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: if using a group D feature, the block feature is required, all skaters must start in the same fm, second fm is permitted only as a part of a feature, different feet are permitted
- No hold element: must be one open block. Features are required and only features will be counted. Maximum sB will be called
- Pivoting element – block: Pivoting must be executed in three lines, lines must be as equal as possible
- Twizzle element
Free Program
A Free Skating Program to music three minutes 30 seconds in length (plus or minus 10 seconds). A well-balanced Junior Synchronized Skating Free Skating Program contains:
- Creative Element - Group Lift
- Two different intersection elements: must be different, whip intersection not permitted; Additional Feature Point Of Intersection will be called if included
- Choice of one artistic element chosen from block or line
- No hold element: Additional Feature step sequence will be called if included. Maximum NHEB will be called (Features will not be called if included)
- Synchronized Spin element
- Traveling element
- Choice of one of:
- Move Element: maximum four different types of fms, only two different fms are permitted at the same time OR
- Pair element
These are basic requirements. See current ISU Communications for more detailed information pertaining to the Junior Synchronized Skating Short and Free Programs.
4.3. Senior / Senior Elite 12 Synchronized Skating
Teams consist of 16 / 12 skaters.
Age: Skaters must have reached at least the age of 17 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: if using a group D feature, the block feature is required, all skaters must start in the same fm, a second fm is permitted only as part of a feature, different feet are permitted
- No hold element: must be one Closed Block. Additional Feature step sequence is required. Maximum NHEB will be called (Features are not permitted)
- Synchronized Spin element
- Travelling element
Free Program
A Free Skating Program to music four minutes in length (plus or minus 10 seconds). A well-balanced Senior Synchronized Skating Free Skating Program contains:
- Choice of one artistic element chosen from circle or wheel
- Creative element – lift
- Group lift element
- Two different intersection elements:
- angled intersection is not permitted.
- Intersections may be done in any order
- Intersection #1 – Additional Feature Point of Intersection will be called if included
- Intersection #2 – Must include a movement at the axis of intersection other than the Additional Feature (pi rotation) (individual fe.fm, pair fe/fm, rotations). A maximum of Point of Intersection Base (piB) will be called.
- Move element: Max four different fm’s, only two different fms permitted at the same time. If using a group D feature, the Block Feature is not permitted.
- No hold element: Must be one closed or open block. NHE level will be called if features are included. Maximum sB will be called
- Pair element
- Pivoting element - block: must be one closed block using a pyramid or diamond shape
- Twizzle element
These are basic requirements. See current ISU Communications for more detailed information pertaining to the Senior Synchronized Skating Short and Free Programs.
