About Figure Skating

Puerto Rican Figure Skating Federation ( PRFSF ) is the national governing body for the sport of figure skating in the Island of Puerto Rico . PRFSF is al member of the International Skating Union (ISU), the international federation for figure skating, and working has a member of the Puerto Rican Olympic Committee (COPUR).

PRFSF National headquarters is located in Condado San Juan. One rink in Aguadilla P.R. at the Aguadilla Ice Skating Rink and a rink in Carolina P.R. at the Muceo Historico De La Biblia. In the U.S. more than 1,000 volunteers serve on U.S. Figure Skating's Executive Committee. Board of Directors and numerous committees. Thousands of additional volunteers dedicate their time to club activities, judging, officiating and competition management. We have received a great deal of support from the ISU and the US Figure Skating and will strive to achieve the kinds of success that they have enjoyed over the years. While we are very small with a few skaters, we are confident that the PRFSF along with the Aguadilla and Carolina leadership will produce many competitive skaters in the future.

Viewer's Guide - Explains 6.0 system & · Contains 2004-2005 season elements

This guide was created to help viewers understand some of the technical specifications of what you see on television. Although each program may look different because of costumes and music, all programs are based on some standard elements. This guide will show you what those specific elements are for short programs, and you will also learn some of the specifics about creating a well-balanced free skate or free dance. Because elements change yearly, this guide will also be updated at the beginning of every season.

There are five separate disciplines or divisions in competitive figure skating: men's singles, ladies singles, pairs, ice dancing and synchronized team skating. Figures were eliminated from international competition in the 1991-92 season .

Within singles, pairs and dance there are five different competitive skill levels that we have adopted from the the U.S. that are based on proficiency tests — juvenile, intermediate, novice, junior and senior. Each level draws on similar techniques but adheres to increasingly more difficult skills as well as different rules and guidelines.

The following information pertains to skaters competing at the junior and senior competitive levels — the two highest levels within the U.S. and PRFSF competition structure.

Programs At A Glance

Singles/Pairs — Short Program
Judge's First Mark: Required Elements
Judge's Second Mark: Presentation
Time Length: 2:50 (maximum)

Singles/Pairs — Free Skate
Judge's First Mark: Technical Merit
Judge's Second Mark: Presentation
Time Length: 3:30 +/- 10 seconds (junior ladies), 4:00 +/- 10 seconds (senior ladies, junior men and pairs), 4:30 +/- 10 seconds (senior men and pairs)

Dance — Compulsory Dance(s)
Judge's First Mark: Technique
Judge's Second Mark: Timing/Expression
Time Length: Varies according to dance

Dance — Original Dance
Judge's First Mark: Composition
Judge's Second Mark: Presentation
Time Length: 2:30 +/- 10 seconds

Dance — Free Dance
Judge's First Mark: Technical Merit
Judge's Second Mark: Presentation
Time Length: 3:00 +/- 10 seconds (junior), 4:00 +/- 10 seconds (senior

Singles Skating

Form, style, technique, concentration and the ability to perform under great pressure are the key requirements in men's and ladies singles events. The rules are similar for both men's and ladies divisions. Each competition is composed of two separate parts: the short program, which is skated first, followed by the free skate. In the 6.0 scoring system, the short program counts for 33.3 percent of a skater's total score for the competition. It consists of eight required moves or elements: three jumps, three spins, and two fast step sequences or footwork. The required elements for the 2004-05 season are as follows:

Senior Ladies

1. Double Axel
2. One triple jump (entry steps required)
3. One jump combination consisting of one double jump and a triple jump or two triple jumps
4. Flying spin (minimum of eight revolutions)
5. Layback or sideways leaning spin (minimum of eight revolutions)
6. Spin combination with only one change of foot and at least two changes of position (minimum of six revolutions on each foot)
7. One spiral step sequence
8. One step sequence of a different pattern

Junior Ladies

1. Double Axel
2. One double or triple loop (entry steps required)
3. One jump combination consisting of two double jumps or a double and a triple jump
4. Flying camel spin (minimum of eight revolutions)
5. Layback or sideways leaning spin (minimum of eight revolutions)
6. Spin combination with only one change of foot and at least two changes of position (minimum of six revolutions on each foot)
7. Spiral step sequence
8. Step sequence of a different pattern

Senior Men

1. Double or triple Axel
2. One triple or one quadruple jump (entry steps required)
3. One jump combination consisting of a double jump and a triple jump, two triple jumps, a quad and a double or a quad and a triple
4. Flying spin (minimum of eight revolutions)
5. Camel spin or sit spin with only one change of foot (minimum of six revolutions on each foot)
6. Spin combination with only one change of foot and at least two changes of position (minimum of six revolutions on each foot)
7/8. Two step sequences of a different nature

Junior Men

1. Double Axel
2. One double or triple loop
3. One jump combination consisting of a double and triple or two triple jumps
4. Flying camel spin (minimum of eight revolutions)
5. Sit spin with only one change of foot (minimum of six revolutions on each foot)
6. Spin combination with only one change of foot and at least two changes of position (minimum of six revolutions on each foot)
7/8. Two step sequences of a different nature

The moves may be done in any order within a 2:50 time limit to music selected by the skater. The judges award two marks: one for required elements, which evaluates how well each element is performed, and a second for presentation, which evaluates the overall program.

The free skate is worth 66.7 percent of a skater's total score for the competition. The free skate has a length limitation of 4:30 for senior men and senior pairs; 4 minutes for senior ladies, junior men and junior pairs; and 3:30 for junior ladies. Skaters select their own music and theme, and choreograph the jumps, spins, footwork and interpretive moves to best display their technical and artistic skills. Change of pace, creativity and innovative moves are encouraged. Technical and artistic perfection are paramount to the skater and to the judges. Judges consider the difficulty of the moves and jumps and how well they are executed, as well as the overall presentation.

As defined in the ISU regulations, a well-balanced singles free skate must contain:

Jumps: There is a maximum of eight jump elements for men and seven jump elements for ladies. One must be an Axel-type jump. Only two triple or quad jumps can be repeated and they must be a part of a jump combination or jump sequence. There may be up to three jump combinations or sequences; any repeated jumps must be in combination or sequence.

Spins: A maximum of four spins of a different nature — one must be a spin combination, one a flying spin and one with only one position.

Steps: A maximum of two different step sequences. For ladies one of these must be a spiral step sequence.

Two marks also are given for the free skate — the first for technical merit, the second for presentation.

Pairs Skating

Pairs skating is essentially free skating performed in unison by partners, with the addition of daring and difficult overhead lifts, throw jumps and spins. The key to pairs skating is exact timing and unison. Whether the partners are together or apart, their movements should be synchronized with matching body lines, gestures and footwork.

The pairs competition, like singles, has a short program that counts for 33.3 percent of a team's total score and a free skate program that counts for 66.7 percent of the total score. The judges award two sets of marks for each portion as done during singles events — required elements and presentation marks following the short program and a technical merit mark and a presentation mark for the free skate.

The pairs short program consists of eight required elements, which include overhead lifts, side-by-side solo jumps and solo spins done in unison, footwork, pair spins and a death spiral, all performed to music of the skaters' choice. The short program is 2:50 in length and requires the following elements for the 2004-05 season:

Senior Pairs Short Program

1. Any lasso lift take-off
2. Double twist lift
3. One throw jump (double or triple)
4. One solo jump (double or triple)
5. Solo spin combination with only one change of foot and at least one change of position
6. Pair spin combination with only one change of foot and at least one change of position (sit, camel, upright or any variation thereof)
7. Death spiral backward inside
8. Spiral step sequence

Junior Pairs Short Program

1. Toe lasso lift take-off
2. Double twist lift
3. Double or triple toe loop throw jump
4. Double flip or double Axel (solo jump)
5. Solo spin combination with only one change of foot and at least one change of position
6. Pair spin combination with only one change of foot and at least one change of position
7. Death spiral backward inside
8. Spiral step sequence

The free skate consists of technical and artistic moves choreographed to best display the skaters' individual strengths, skills and ability to perform as a team throughout the 4:30 +/- 10 seconds program (4 minutes +/- 10 seconds for junior). Difficult double and triple solo and throw jumps will be seen, along with unique lifts and spins and variations on standard moves, as well as original moves. Shadow skating, in which partners perform identical maneuvers some distance apart, and mirror skating, where the pair's moves are in opposite directions and mirror each other, are challenging aspects of pairs skating.

A well-balanced pairs free skate must contain:

· Maximum of three lifts (one must be of group three or four)

· Maximum of one twist lift

· Maximum of two different throw jumps

· Maximum of one solo jump

· Maximum of one jump combination or sequence

· Maximum of one solo spin or solo spin combination

· Maximum of one pair spin or pair spin combination

· Maximum of one death spiral

· Maximum of one step sequence

· Maximum of one sequence of spirals, Ina Bauers, spread eagles and other moves in the field

· Senior level optional element: Maximum of one additional optional element, which can be a death spiral (different from above), another solo spin combination, or a solo or pair spin

Glossary of Terms

ACCOUNTANT — An official at a figure skating competition who compiles and computes marks awarded by judges to determine the placement of competitors.

AXEL JUMP — One of the most difficult jumps which takes off from the forward outside edge and is landed on the back outside edge of the opposite foot. A single Axel consists of 1 1/2 revolutions, a double is 2 1/2 revolutions, and a triple is 3-1/2 revolutions. The jump is named for its inventor, Axel Paulsen. It is easily recognizable as it is the only jump that takes off from a forward position.

CAMEL SPIN — A spin which is done on one leg with the non-skating leg, or free leg, extended in the air in a position parallel to the ice. The body remains in this "spiral" position while spinning.

CHOCTAW — A turn from forward to backward (or backward to forward) from one foot to the other in which the curve of the exit edge is in the opposite direction to the curve of the entry edge. The change of foot is from outside edge to inside edge or from inside edge to outside edge.

COMBINATION SPIN — The combination of several spins where the skater changes feet and positions while maintaining speed throughout the entire spin.

COMPULSORY DANCE — A dance that has prescribed rhythms and specific steps that must be done in an exact manner with exact placement on the ice. All skaters do the same compulsory dance in an event. At most senior events nationally and internationally, only one compulsory dance is competed and it is worth 20 percent of the total score.

CROSSOVERS — A method of gaining speed and turning corners in which skaters cross one foot over the other. There are both forward and backward crossovers.

DEATH SPIRAL — A pairs move in which the man spins in a pivot position while holding one hand of his partner, who is spinning in a horizontal position with her body low and parallel to the ice.

DRAW — The process to determine the starting or skating order for each event. Either the referee or chair of the competition conducts the process in the presence of other judges (closed draw) or in an open setting where the athletes participate and actually draw a number from a pouch (open draw).

EDGES — The two sides of the skate blade on either side of the grooved center. There is an inside edge — the edge on the inner side of the leg — and an outside edge — that on the outer side of the leg. There is a forward and backward for each edge, equaling a total of four different edges.

EDGE JUMP — A jump where the skater takes off from the entry edge of the skating foot without bringing the free foot in contact with the ice to assist the take off. The Axel, loop and Salchow are common edge jumps.

ELIGIBLE — The term used to define skaters or competitions that meet the requirements and follow the rules of U.S. Figure Skating and/or the ISU. All eligible skaters, judges and officials are members of U.S. Figure Skating and have not participated in any activities, competitions or events that are not sanctioned by U.S. Figure Skating or the ISU.

ENVELOPE SYSTEM — In the U.S., the envelope system separates skaters for ASUPP funding levels. Based on prescribed criteria, U.S. athletes can be placed in Team A, B, C or the reserve team. The U.S. Figure Skating Athlete Support Fund (ASUPP) financially supports the U.S. Team envelope athletes by assisting them with their skating expenses.

FALLING LEAF — A jump taking off from a backward outside edge as in a loop jump takeoff, and projecting the free leg forward turning 1/2 revolution. The landing is forward on the toe of this lifting leg and either steps into a forward glide position on the opposite leg (original take-off leg) or steps into a forward inside three-turn.

FLIP JUMP — A toe-pick assisted jump taken off from the back inside edge of one foot and landed on the back outside edge of the opposite foot.

FOOTWORK — A sequence of step maneuvers carrying the skater across the ice in patterns — generally straight, circular or serpentine. Footwork is intended to show the precision and dexterity of the skater's movements.

FREE DANCE — The free dance, which reflects 50 percent of a dance team's total score, is relatively unrestricted, and skaters select the mood and tempo as long as it is danceable. Skaters are allowed 4 minutes to display their full range of technical skills, interpretation and inventiveness.

FREE SKATE (OR FREE SKATING) — In OBO scoring, the free skate counts for 66.7 percent of a skater's or team's final score in singles and pairs. It does not have required elements, so skaters select their own music and theme, and choreograph the many difficult jumps, spins and footwork to best display their technical and artistic skills. The free skate (for senior level) has a length of 4 1/2 minutes for men and pairs, and 4 minutes for ladies.

HAND-TO-HAND LOOP LIFT — A lift in which the man raises his partner, who is in front of him and facing the same direction, above his head. She remains facing the same direction, in the sitting position with her hands behind her, while her partner supports her by the hands.

HYDRANT LIFT — A lift in which the man throws his partner over his head while skating backwards, rotates one-half turn and catches his partner facing him.

LAYBACK SPIN — Generally performed by women, the layback spin involves an upright spin position where the head and shoulders are dropped backwards and the back arches.

LIFTS — Pair moves in which the man lifts his partner above his head with arm(s) fully extended. Lifts consist of precise ascending, rotational and descending movements.

LOBE — The pattern made on the ice by an edge or steps, forming an arc of a circle that starts and finishes on an axis.

LONG PROGRAM — Old term for the free skate portion of the singles and pairs competitions.

LOOP JUMP — An edge jump, taken off from a back outside edge and landed on the same back outside edge.

LUTZ JUMP — A toe-pick assisted jump taken off from a back outside edge and landed on the back outside edge of the opposite foot. The skater glides backward on a wide curve, taps his toe pick into the ice, and rotates in the opposite direction of the curve. The jump is named for its inventor, Alois Lutz.

MOHAWK — A turn from forward to backward (or backward to forward), from one foot to the other, each edge forming parts of the same curve.

MOVES IN THE FIELD — One of three test structures in U.S. Figure Skating (including free skating and dance). Moves in the field tests help develop all basic fundamental edges and turns while emphasizing edge quality, extension, quickness and power.

NONQUALIFYING COMPETITION — Also referred to as a club competition, nonqualifying events are those that are not part of the U.S. qualifying structure leading up to the U.S. Championships.

OBO SYSTEM — The one-by-one system is the scoring system currently used in international competitions including the World Championships.

ORDINAL — In the 6.0 scoring system, each skater or team is given a score that is converted into an ordinal or "place." The skater or team that receives the highest marks from a judge is awarded the first-place mark or ordinal from that judge.

ORIGINAL DANCE — The second competition phase in ice dancing which counts for 30 percent of the team's total score. Skaters are given a prescribed rhythm (such as the paso doble or rhumba) with a defined tempo range and must create a completely original version of the dance. It has a time limit of 2 minutes.

OVERHEAD LIFTS — The group of pair lifts in which one or both of the man's arms are fully extended as he holds his partner overhead. The man does not let go of his partner during the lift, except momentarily during changes in her position or during the dismount.

PLATTER LIFT — A lift in which the man raises his partner overhead with his hands resting on her hips. She is horizontal to the ice, facing the back of the man, in a platter position.

PRESENTATION MARK — The second of two marks awarded when judging the singles and pairs short program and free skate, and the original and free dance. Judges consider the program's relationship to the music, the speed, utilization of the ice surface, carriage and style, originality and unison.

QUALIFYING COMPETITION — In the U.S., qualifying competitions are those that are part of the competition structure leading to the U.S. Championships, U.S. Adult Championships, U.S. Synchronized Team Skating Championships, and U.S. Junior Championships. Qualifying competitions are all regional and sectional events.

REFEREE — The official at a competition who has full authority over all aspects of the event and is the chairperson for the panel of judges. It is the referee's responsibility to ensure that all rules are observed, that a high standard of judging is maintained and that all technical aspects of the competition are satisfactory.

REGIONALS — The regional championships are the first step in the U.S. qualifying competition structure that leads to the U.S. Championships. U.S. Figure Skating currently breaks down the U.S. into nine regional areas and competitions. Skaters must place in the top four at their regional event to advance to sectionals (the second step in the qualifying competition structure). Juvenile and intermediate skaters go directly from regionals to the U.S. Junior Championships (top four places only).

REQUIRED ELEMENTS MARK — The first mark given by the judges in the singles and pairs short program evaluating how well each element is performed. There are defined deductions that are made due to errors skaters make when executing the required elements.

ROCKER — A turn made on one foot from a forward to backward (or backward to forward) edge maintaining the same character, i.e., outside to inside or inside to outside.

SALCHOW — Another edge jump taken off from the back inside edge of one foot and landed on the back outside edge of the opposite foot. Created by Ulrich Salchow.

SANCTION — Permission or approval given by U.S. Figure Skating or the ISU to member clubs, competition organizers, individuals or national federations to conduct competitions, shows or events featuring eligible athletes. Registered U.S. Figure Skating athletes can only participate in sanctioned activities to remain eligible.

SECTIONALS — The sectional championships are the second and final step in the U.S. qualifying competition structure that leads to the U.S. Championships. The top four finishers from each sectional advance to the U.S. Championships. There are currently three sectionals - Eastern, Midwestern and Pacific Coast - within U.S. Figure Skating competition structure.

SCRATCH SPIN — Also known as an upright spin. After entering from a controlled forward outside edge, the spin begins on a back inside edge. Gradual acceleration begins by moving and placing the free foot toward the top of the skating knee and drawing the arms close to the body. The spin exits into a backward outside edge.

SHADOW SKATING — Any movement in pairs skating performed by both partners simultaneously while skating in close proximity.

SHORT PROGRAM — Official name for a 2 minute, 40 second program in singles and pairs that consists of eight required elements and is set to music of the skater's choice. No more than eight required elements can be done. Failure to complete, or elimination of any element is penalized in the scoring.

SIT SPIN — A spin which is done in a "sitting" position. The body is low to the ice with the skating (spinning) knee bent and the non-skating, or "free" leg, extended beside it.

SPIRAL — A move in which a skater demonstrates flexibility and a fluid line by extending his or her non-skating leg behind them into the air during a long glide.

SPIRAL SEQUENCE — A sequence of steps which incorporates various spirals in a pattern across the ice. Spirals in a spiral sequence may be done going forward, backwards, in a straight line or on a curve, or on an inside or an outside edge.

STAR LIFT — A lift in which the man raises his partner by her hip, from his side into the air. She is in the scissor position, with either one hand touching his shoulder, or in a hands-free position.

STARTING ORDER — The result of the draw which lists the order the athletes will compete and the group each athlete will warm up in prior to competition.

STEP SEQUENCE — A sequence of steps that immediately follow one another, executed in time to the music and are choreographically related to each other.

STROKING — Fluid movement used to gain speed in which a skater pushes off back and forth from the inside edge of one skate to the inside edge of the other skate.

SWIZZLE — A method of two-foot progression, either forward or backward, by an in-and-out movement of the feet on inside edges.

TECHNICAL MERIT MARK — The first of two marks awarded when judging the free skate (singles and pairs) and the free dance (ice dancing), which measures the difficulty of the performance, variety and cleanness.

TECHNICAL PROGRAM — Former term for the short program.

TECHNIQUE MARK — The first of two marks awarded when judging the compulsory dance, based on the conformity of the dance steps, accuracy, style, form and carriage.

THROW JUMP — A pairs move in which the male partner assists the woman into the air, she then executes one, two, or three revolutions and lands skating backwards.

TIMING/EXPRESSION MARK — The second of two marks awarded when judging the compulsory dance, based on the steps being to the beat of the music, correct timing and a clear expression of the nature of the dance.

TOE LOOP — A toe-pick assisted jump that takes off and lands on the same back outside edge.

TOE OVERHEAD LIFT — A lift in which the man swings his partner from one side of his body, around behind his head and into a raised position. She is facing the same direction as the man in a split position.

TOE PICKS — The teeth at the front of the blade used primarily for jumping and spinning.

TWIST LIFTS — The group of pairs lifts where both partners begin skating backwards and the man lifts his partner over his head and tosses her in the air. While airborne, she will rotate full or half rotations. The man catches his partner and places her back on the ice.

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, and then placed beside the skating foot to skate the next steps.

WALTZ JUMP – A jump involving a half-turn in the air in which the skater takes off from a forward outside edge on one foot and lands on the backward outside edge of the other.

TERMS APPLYING TO ISU NEW JUDGING SYSTEM

SKATING SKILLS — Methods used by a skater/couple to create movement over the ice surface.

TRANSITIONS — Skating steps/elements linking program highlights.

PERFORMANCE/EXECUTION - The evaluation of the skater's/couple's ability to exhibit a pleasing appearance through body awareness and projection.

CHOREOGRAPHY — The evaluation of the program layout in relationship to elements and their linking steps. Program highlights should be evenly distributed over the ice surface demonstrating the skater's/couple's skills.

INTERPRETATION — The use of the body and skating elements to express outwardly the mood and character of the chosen music.

TECHNICAL CONTROLLER — The person who supervises the call and the input of performed elements.

TECHNICAL SPECIALIST (CALLER) — The person who identifies and calls performed elements. This person has the highest knowledge of figure skating or ice dancing.

SCALE OF VALUE — The Scale of Value determines how much each performed element is worth.

GRADE OF EXECUTION — The grade of execution, ranging from –3 to +3 is given for every element per the judge's discretion.

PROGRAM COMPONENT SCORE — The sum of scores for the five program components – skating skills, transitions, performance/execution, choreography and interpretation.

TOTAL ELEMENTS SCORE — The sum of scores for the technical portion of a skater's program.

SYNCHRONIZED TEAM SKATING TERMS

BLOCK — A formation in which skaters line up one behind the other in more than two straight lines forming a block or formation. The block moves on the ice utilizing the entire surface.

CIRCLE — A maneuver in which skaters are linked and rotate with step combinations in a circular motion. Skaters can skate forward or backward trying to hold form for a perfect circle.

INTERSECTION — An intersection is a required element for the synchronized team skating short program and a common synchronized team skating formation. It is any type of maneuver that incorporates movement of one part of the team through the other part of the team.

LINE — A formation in which the skaters are arranged in a single line, side by side. For the synchronized team skating short program, the line must extend across the ice surface width and travel the full length of the ice.

WHEEL — A formation in which skaters form lines that are connected and rotating from one central point, similar to the spokes on a bicycle wheel.

Tests and Skating Levels

Figure skating in the U.S. can be either competitive or recreational, and those learning to skate can choose either route. While competitive skaters are required to participate in the U.S. testing structure to eventually compete in qualifying competitions, recreational skaters can also opt to take tests in order to continually challenge themselves and their abilities.

The official tests of U.S. Figure Skating may be taken by all figure skaters who are members of a member club or collegiate club, individual members who are currently registered with the U.S. Figure Skating and are otherwise qualified under these rules, as well as by members of a member association of the ISU. Each candidate must present a current registration card before taking a test (see the 2004 U.S. Figure Skating Rulebook TR 2.01).

Tests can only be taken under the auspices of a member club. Fees are involved and vary by club. Sessions are organized and run under procedures outlined in the U.S. Figure Skating rulebook. Any person who is interested in participating in the U.S. Figure Skating testing structure is encouraged to purchase a rulebook. The rulebook addresses such questions as coaching and the conduct of candidates at test sessions.

Tests are marked on a “pass” or “retry” basis. Some tests have numeric marks associated with them that determine if the test is a “pass” or “retry.” These are used to establish a “passing” average, and judges use this number as a basis for the quality of the test. Different tests have different standards for “pass” and “retry,” along with different procedures for reskating elements in a test. For details, candidates should consult the rulebook for the particular test to be taken. If a test is marked “retry” a skater may not retake the test prior to the 27th following the date of the original test.

For all tests other than adult and masters tests, age is not a factor. To qualify for an adult test, the candidate must be 25 years of age or older. To qualify for masters tests, the candidate must be 50 years of age or older.

Kinds of Tests

There are several classes of tests in the U.S. Figure Skating structure:

Moves in the field (standard track and adult)
Free skating (standard track and adult)
Pairs (standard track and adult)
Compulsory Dance (standard track, solo, adult and masters)
Free dance (standard track and masters)
Synchronized
Figures (standard track)

The order in which tests are taken is important. According to USFSA rule TR 2.02 in the rulebook: A candidate shall not be eligible to take a higher-level test until all of the preceding tests in the same category have been passed or completed except as otherwise specified in these rules. A certificate or other satisfactory evidence of the highest test previously passed or completed shall be presented before taking a test.

In this section of the web site, we will provide very basic information on the elements required for each test. This information is provided only as an OVERVIEW of the tests; while the elements are mentioned, the detailed description and explanation of the elements is not. It is important to refer to the U.S. Figure Skating rulebook in order to understand all of the test rules and expectations before testing. Further description of the elements of each test is available in the rulebook.

Tests and Competitions

The skaters you see on TV or in other competitions at your local rink have all passed certain tests to compete at their current level. The chart below demonstrates which tests skaters must have passed in order to compete at a certain level in qualifying events.

PRFSF is requiring that all figure skating members remain members of the USFSA for the purposes of testing and competing in Non-Qualifying events.

The PRFSF is using the USFSA's rulebook until it's own rulebook is finalize

TESTS AND COMPETITIONS
COMPETITION LEVEL	TESTS PASSED
Senior singles	Senior moves test and senior free skating test
Senior pairs	Both partners must have passed the senior moves test and senior pair test
Senior dance	Both partners must have passed the senior moves test, the gold dance test or higher and the senior free dance test
Junior singles	Junior moves test or higher and the junior free skating test but no higher
Junior pairs	Both partners must have passed the junior moves test or higher and the junior pair test
Junior dance	Both partners must have passed the junior moves test or higher, at least two pre-gold dances and the junior free dance
Novice singles	Novice moves test or higher and the novice free skating test but no higher
Novice pairs	Both partners must have passed the novice moves test or higher and the novice pair test
Novice dance	Both partners must have passed the novice moves test or higher, at least one dance of the silver dance test and the novice free dance test
Intermediate singles	Intermediate moves test or higher and the intermediate free skating test but no higher
Intermediate pairs	Both partners must have passed the intermediate moves test or higher and the intermediate pair test
Intermediate dance	Both partners must have passed theintermediate moves test or higher, the bronze dance test or higher, and the intermediate free dance test
Juvenile singles	Juvenile moves test or higher and juvenile free skating test but no higher
Juvenile pairs	Both partners must have passed the juvenile moves test or higher and the juvenile pair test
Juvenile dance	Both partners must have passed the juvenile moves test or higher, the preliminary dance test or higher and the juvenile free dance test
Championship Masters Free Skating	At least the standard intermediate free skating test, or prior to Oct. 1, 1977, the 3rd figure test
Championship Adult Gold Free Skating	The adult gold free skating test and no higher than the standard juvenile free skating test or the ISI freestyle 6, or prior to Oct. 1, 1977, the 2nd figure test
Championships Adult Dance	One partner must have passed at least one pre- gold dance; the other partner must have passed at least one silver dance standard or adult

Note (for junior, novice, intermediate and juvenile pairs): It is permissible for one or both of the partners to have passed the next higher pair test and still remain eligible to compete at the lower test level, provided that neither skater has competed at the higher pair level in qualifying competitions. Further, if the skater chooses to compete at the lower pair level, they must do so with a partner other than the one with whom they passed the higher pair test.

Note (for junior, novice, intermediate and juvenile dance): It is permissible for one or both of the partners to have passed the next higher free dance test and still remain eligible to compete at the lower dance level, provided that neither skater has competed at the higher dance level in qualifying competitions. Further, if the skater chooses to compete at the lower dance level, they must do so with a partner other than the one with whom they passed the higher free dance test.

Moves In the Field Tests

The UFSA's standard moves in the field tests are divided into eight classes to be taken in the following order: Pre-preliminary, preliminary, pre-juvenile, juvenile, intermediate, novice, junior and senior. Furthermore, there are also adult levels of the moves tests: pre-bronze, bronze, silver and gold.

As stated in TR 21.01 of the USFSA rulebook, moves in the field tests may be taken and passed independently of the free skating, pair and dance tests. A skater may take and pass moves in the field tests higher than the corresponding free skating tests and still be qualified to compete in qualifying and nonqualifying competitions in free skating events at the level defined by the highest free skating test passed. Competitors should refer to test and age requirements in in 3107 and 3730 in the rulebook.

Pre-Preliminary Moves in the Field Test (PPM)
The purpose of this test is to encourage beginning skaters to learn the fundamentals of ice skating. No great deal of technical ability, carriage or flow is expected. The candidate must show knowledge of the steps, fairly good edges and some evidence of good form.

Forward Perimeter Stroking
Basic Consecutive Edges
Forward Right and Left Foot Spirals
Waltz Eight

Preliminary Moves in the Field Test (PM)
The purpose of this test is to continue the encouragement of beginning skaters to learn the fundamentals of ice skating. The candidate must show knowledge of the steps and a good sense of power (speed and flow). Attention should be given to depth of edges and proper curvature of lobes.

Forward and Backward Crossovers
Consecutive Outside and Inside Spirals
Forward Power 3-Turns
Alternating Forward 3-Turns
Alternating Backward Crossovers to Backward Outside Edges

Pre-Juvenile Moves in the Field Test (PJM)
The fundamentals of ice skating must be demonstrated, although not necessarily mastered. Good edges, flow, power, extension and posture are required and must be strongly emphasized.

Forward Perimeter Power Crossover Stroking - Counterclockwise only
Backward Perimeter Power Crossover Stroking - Counterclockwise only
FO-BI 3-Turns in the Field
FI-BO 3-Turns in the Field
Forward and Backward Power Change of Edge Pulls
Five Step Mohawk Sequence

Juvenile Moves in the Field Test (JM)
Candidates must skate the correct steps and turns on good edges, with good form, flow, power, and preciseness to their steps.

Eight Step Mohawk Sequence
Forward and Backward Free Skating Cross Strokes
Backward Power 3-Turns
Forward Double 3-Turns

Intermediate Moves in the Field Test (IM)
Strong, true edges, smooth turns, correct posture and effortless flow are expected of the candidate.

Stroking: Forward Power Circle
Stroking: Backward Power Circle
Backward Perimeter Power Crossover Stroking with Backward Power 3-Turns
Backward Double 3-Turns
Brackets in the Field Sequence
Inside Slide Chassé Pattern

Novice Moves in the Field Test (NM)
The candidate must give a performance that is generally good. The preciseness of the footwork should be nearly faultless, the body motion well timed and the flow and power very good. No major consistent errors should be in evidence.

Backward Perimeter Power Stroking with Back Inside 3-Turns and Forward Inside 3-Turns
Forward Perimeter Power Crossover Stroking to a Backward Quick Rocker-Turn Sequence
Forward and Backward Outside Counters
Forward and Backward Inside Counters
Backward Rocker Choctaw Sequence
Spiral Sequence
Bracket Three Bracket Pattern

Junior Moves in the Field Test (JRM)
The candidate must give a performance that is generally very good in all respects. Focus should be on power, flow, edge quality and line and footwork control.

Forward Power Circles
Backward Power Circles
Forward and Backward Outside Rockers
Forward and Backward Inside Rockers
Power Pulls
Choctaw Sequence

Senior Moves in the Field Test (SRM)
The candidate must give an excellent performance, displaying power, strong edge control and depth, extension, and precise footwork control.

Sustained Edge Step
Extension Spiral Step
Backward Outside Power Double 3-Turns to Power Double Inside Rockers
Backward Inside Power Double 3-Turns to Power Double Outside Rockers
Quick Edge Step

Adult Moves In The Field Tests

To qualify for any adult test, the candidate must be twenty-five (25) years of age or older and must have passed the preceding adult test within the classification unless otherwise specified within these rules.

Adult Pre-Bronze Moves in the Field (APBM)
The purpose of this test is to encourage beginning adult skaters to learn the fundamentals of ice skating. No great deal of technical ability, carriage or flow is expected. Candidates must show knowledge of the steps, fairly good edges and some evidence of good form.

Forward Perimeter Stroking (PPM Pattern 1)
Basic Consecutive Edges (PPM Pattern 2)
Forward and Backward Crossovers (PM Pattern 1)
Alternating Forward 3-Turns (PM Pattern 4)

Adult Bronze Moves in the Field (ABM)
The fundamentals of ice skating must be demonstrated although not necessarily mastered. Candidates must show knowledge of the steps and a good sense of power (speed and flow). Attention should be given to depth of edges and proper curvature of lobes.

Forward Perimeter Crossover Stroking (PJM Pattern 1)
Backward Perimeter Power Crossover Stroking (PJM Pattern 2)
Forward Power 3-Turns (PM Pattern 3)
Alternating Back Crossovers to Back Outside Edges (PM Pattern 5)
Five Step Mohawk Sequence (PJM Pattern 6)

Adult Silver Moves in the Field (ASM)
Candidates must skate the correct steps and turns on good edges showing good form, flow, power and preciseness to their steps.

Eight Step Mohawk Sequence (JM Pattern 1)
Forward & Backward Free Skating Cross Strokes (JM Pattern 2)
FO-BI 3-Turns in the Field (PJM Pattern 3)
FI-BO 3-Turns in the Field (PJM Pattern 4)
Forward Right & Left Foot Spirals (PPM Pattern 3)
Inside Slide Chassé Pattern (IM Pattern 6)

Adult Gold Moves in the Field (AGM)
Candidates must give a strong performance showing strong true edges, smooth turns, correct posture and effortless flow.

Stroking: Forward Power Circle (IM Pattern 1)
Stroking: Backward Power Circle (IM Pattern 2)
Forward Double 3-Turns (JM Pattern 4)
Backward Double 3-Turns (IM Pattern 4)
Backward Perimeter Power Stroking with BI 3-Turns and FI 3-Turns (NM Pattern 1)
Brackets in the Field (IM Pattern 5)

Free Skating Tests

The standard free skating tests are divided into eight classes to be taken in the following order: pre-preliminary, preliminary, pre-juvenile, juvenile, intermediate, novice, junior and senior. The standard moves in the field test of the same level is the prerequisite to a standard free skating test.

There are also four classes of adult free skating tests to be skated in the following order: pre-bronze, bronze, silver and gold.

Pre-Preliminary Free Skating Test (PPF)
The purpose of this test is to encourage beginning skaters to learn the fundamentals of free skating. No great deal of technical ability, carriage or flow is expected. The candidate must show knowledge of the elements, fairly good edges and some evidence of good form. The skater shall successfully complete the following required elements:

Jumps

Waltz jump
Salchow
Toe loop
1/2 flip - land on either foot
1/2 Lutz - land on either foot

Spins

One-foot spin (minimum 3 revolutions) optional free leg position toward knee level

Preliminary Free Skating Test (PF)
The purpose of this test is to continue the encouragement of beginning skaters to learn the fundamentals of free skating. The candidate must demonstrate knowledge of the elements and a good sense of power (speed/flow). A relationship with the music should be attempted in the program. The following elements are required:

Jumps

Waltz jump
Salchow
Loop
Flip
One jump combination - Waltz jump, toe loop (no turn or change of foot between jumps)

Spins

One-foot upright spin, optional free foot (3 revolutions)
One-foot backspin - entry optional (3 revolutions)
Sit spin - in recognizable sit position (3 revolutions)

Steps

Connecting moves and steps should be demonstrated throughout the program

Duration: Ladies and Men – 1 1/2 minutes to music of the skater's choice

Pre-Juvenile Free Skating Test (PJF)
The fundamentals of free skating must be demonstrated, although not necessarily mastered. Good edges, flow, power, extension and posture are required for all of the elements of free skating (jumps, spins, as well as connecting moves). The program should utilize the ice surface and demonstrate some relationship with the music. The following elements are required:

Jumps

Loop
Flip
Lutz
One jump combination - choice of above with a loop jump (no turn or change of foot between jumps). The loop jump must be the second jump.

Spins

One camel spin (minimum 3 revolutions)
One combination spin: camel spin to sit spin. No change of foot (minimum 6 revolutions in positions)
Front scratch to back scratch - exit on spinning foot (minimum 4 revolutions on each foot)

Steps

Connecting moves and steps should be demonstrated throughout the program

Duration: Ladies and Men - 2 minutes to music of the skater's choice

Juvenile Free Skating Test (JF)
The candidate must skate the selected elements (jumps, spins, as well as connecting steps) on good edges, with good form, flow, power and preciseness. The candidate must also skate to the music and utilize the ice surface. The following elements are required:

Jumps

Three different single jumps, one of which must be an Axel
One jump from the following: Split jump, stag jump, falling leaf, half loop jump
One jump combination consisting of two single jumps (no turn or change of foot between jumps)

Spins

Forward sit spin (minimum 4 revolutions in position)
Ladies: Layback or attitude spin (minimum 4 revolutions in position). Men: Forward camel spin (minimum 4 revolutions in position)
One spin with one change of foot, change of position optional (minimum 4 revolutions each foot). Must include one of the following positions: camel, sit or attitude.

Steps

Connecting moves consisting of spirals, strong edges etc. should be demonstrated throughout the program

Duration: Ladies and Men – 2 1/4 minutes to music of the skater's choice

Intermediate Free Skating Test (IF)
Strong, smooth edges and turns, combined with correct posture and effortless flow, utilizing the music and the ice surface are expected of the candidate in all types of free skating elements (jumps, spins, as well as connecting steps). The following elements are required:

Jumps

Single loop, flip and Lutz
Axel
One double jump: double Salchow, double toe loop, or double toe Walley
One jump combination consisting of two single jumps (no turn or change of foot between jumps)
One jump combination consisting of either one single and one double jump or consisting of two double jumps (no turn or change of foot between jumps)

Spins

Sit spin to change foot sit spin (minimum 4 revolutions on each foot in position)
Flying camel spin (minimum 5 revolutions in position)
Spin combination consisting of one change of foot and one change of position (minimum 4 revolutions on each foot)

Steps

Connecting moves consisting of spirals, spread eagles, etc., should be demonstrated throughout the program

Duration: Ladies and Men – 2 1/2 minutes to music of the skater's choice

Novice Free Skating Test (NF)
The candidate must give a performance that is generally good. The preciseness of the footwork should be nearly faultless; body motions well timed with the music, and the flow and power very good in all free skating elements (jumps, spins, as well as connecting steps). The program should fully utilize the ice surface and no major or consistent errors should be in evidence. The following elements are required:

Jumps

Double Salchow
Double toe loop
Double loop
One jump combination consisting of two double jumps (no turn or change of foot between jumps)

Spins

Choice of camel spin, sit spin or layback spin (minimum 6 revolutions in position)
Camel spin to backward camel spin (minimum 4 revolutions on each foot in position)
Spin combination consisting of one change of foot and one change of position (minimum 5 revolutions on each foot)

Steps

One straight-line step sequence consisting of steps and turns in the field such as threes, brackets, spirals and spread eagles, etc.
Connecting moves and steps should be demonstrated throughout the program

Duration: Ladies - 3 minutes, Men – 3 1/2 minutes to music of the skater's choice

Junior Free Skating Test (JRF)
The candidate must give a performance that is generally very good in all respects. Focus should be on power, flow, edge quality, line and footwork control. The program should demonstrate a good, harmonious composition that is skated to the music with rhythm and expression, while utilizing the full ice surface. The following elements are required:

Jumps

At least three different double jumps, one of which must be a double flip
One jump combination consisting of two double jumps (no turn or change of foot between jumps)
One jump sequence consisting of small jumps, followed by any double jump

Spins

Flying sit spin or flying change (reverse) sit spin (minimum 6 revolutions in position)
Layback or crossfoot spin (minimum 6 revolutions in position)
Spin combination consisting of three positions and one change of foot (minimum 5 revolutions on each foot)

Steps

One circular step sequence of advanced difficulty, covering the ice surface, consisting of steps and turns in the field such as spread eagles, spiral combinations, three turns, brackets, etc.
Connecting moves and steps should be demonstrated throughout the program

Duration: Ladies – 3 1/2 minutes, Men - 4 minutes, to music of the skater's choice

Senior Free Skating Test (SRF)
The candidate must give an excellent performance displaying power, strong edge control and depth, extension and precise footwork control in all aspects of the selected elements. The program should fully utilize the ice surface, have a change of pace and superbly express the mood and rhythm of music. Harmonious steps and connecting movements in time to the music should be maintained throughout the program. The following elements are required:

Jumps

At least four different double or triple jumps, one of which must be a double Lutz. If the skater elects to perform triple jumps, only one may be repeated in combinations or jump sequences.
Two different jump combinations consisting of two double jumps or a double and a triple jump (no turn or change of foot between jumps)

Spins

At least four different spins (solo spins must be minimum 6 revolutions in position)

One must be a flying spin
One must be a spin combination consisting of at least two positions and at least one change of foot (minimum 10 total revolutions)

Steps

One serpentine step sequence of very advanced difficulty with complex sequences of turns in the field that cover the entire ice surface and include counters and rockers
Connecting moves and steps should be demonstrated throughout the program

Duration: Ladies - 4 minutes, Men – 4 1/2 minutes, to music of the skater's choice

Adult Free Skating Tests

Adult Pre-Bronze Free Skating Test (PBF)
The purpose of this test is to encourage beginning adult skaters to learn the fundamentals of free skating. No great deal of technical ability, carriage or flow is expected. The candidate must show knowledge of the elements, fairly good edges and some evidence of good form. The following required elements are to be skated individually, without music.

Jumps

Two different jumps, either one-half or one full revolution

Spins

A one-foot upright spin (minimum 3 revolutions in position)
A two-foot upright spin (minimum 3 revolutions in position)

Steps

Crossovers - forward and backward (either direction)
Lunge or spiral

Adult Bronze Free Skating Test (BFR)
The candidate must give a reasonably good performance showing a command of the following required elements, a sense of speed, flow and depth of edge. The fundamentals of free skating must be demonstrated, although not necessarily mastered.

Jumps

At least three different single jumps of which one must be a Salchow and one must be a toe loop
One jump combination consisting of a waltz jump and a toe loop (no turn or change of foot between jumps)

Spins

One-foot upright spin (minimum 4 revolutions in position)
One-foot backspin - entry optional (minimum 3 revolutions in position)
Sit spin (minimum 3 revolutions in position).

Steps: Connecting moves, steps and edges throughout the program
Duration: Ladies and Men – Not to exceed 1 minute 40 seconds to music of the skater's choice

Adult Silver Free Skating Test (SFR)
The candidate must give a good performance and demonstrate a command of the following required elements, showing good form, edges, flow, power and extension.

Jumps

At least three different single jumps of which one must be a loop and one must be a flip
One jump combination consisting of two single jumps (no turn or change of foot between jumps)
One jump sequence consisting of one-half or single revolution jumps

Spins

One camel spin (minimum 3 revolutions in position)
One layback, attitude or sit spin (minimum 4 revolutions in position)
One combination spin with only one change of position - change of foot is optional - (minimum 3 revolutions in each position)

Steps: Connecting moves consisting of spirals, strong edges, and fair use of the music and full utilization of the ice surface
Duration: Ladies and Men - Not to exceed 2 minutes 10 seconds to music of the skater's choice

Adult Gold Free Skating Test (GFR)
A candidate must give a strong performance and demonstrate a command of the following required elements, showing very good form and carriage, strong true edges, effortless flow and a preciseness of steps.

Jumps

Axel jump
Lutz jump
Two additional different single jumps
One jump from the following: split jump, stag jump, falling leaf, half loop
One jump combination consisting of two different single jumps (no turn or change of foot between jumps)

Spins

Two different solo spins (minimum 4 revolutions in position)
One combination spin consisting of only one change of foot and at least one change of position (minimum 4 revolutions on each foot)

Steps

One step sequence - either straight line or circular
Connecting moves consisting of spirals, strong edges, good use of the music and full utilization of the ice surface

Duration: Ladies and Men - Not to exceed 2 minutes 40 seconds to music of the skater's choice

Pairs Tests
The standard pair tests are divided into six classes to be taken in the following order: preliminary, juvenile, intermediate, novice junior and senior/gold. The standard moves in the field test of the same level is the prerequisite to a standard pair test. There are also three classes of adult pair tests to be taken in the following order: bronze, silver and gold.

Preliminary Pair Test (PPR)
The preliminary pair test shall consist of elements skated with or without music. These elements may be skated individually or in a program. Pairs must demonstrate good form with some degree of unison, especially as it pertains to stroking and basic pair skating and footwork.The following elements are required:

Jumps

One jump (single)

Spins

One pair spin with no change of position or change of foot (minimum 3 revolutions in position)
One solo spin (minimum 3 revolutions in position)

Lifts

One lift selected from Group 1 or a waist loop lift from Group 2

Steps

Stroking both forward and backward, clockwise and counterclockwise
Footwork and connecting moves such as spirals, spread eagles, etc., utilizing at least one-half the ice surface

Duration: 1 1/2 minutes to music of the skaters' choice (optional - only if skaters wish to skate to music)

Juvenile Pair Test (JVP)
The juvenile pair test shall consist of a program with a variety of moves and connecting steps skated to the music. The pair must utilize the ice surface, with some degree of unison in good form while demonstrating the fundamentals of pair skating. The following elements are required:

Jumps

Two single jumps (Axel may be included)

Spins:

One pair camel spin (minimum 3 revolutions in position)
One solo spin with one change of position (minimum 4 revolutions total)

Lifts:

Two different lifts selected from Group 1 or a waist loop lift from Group 2

Steps

One serpentine, circular or straight-line step sequence

Duration: 2 1/4 minutes to music of the skaters' choice

Intermediate Pair Test (IPR)
The intermediate pair test shall consist of a program skated rhythmically and in harmony with the music. The pair must show a moderate degree of pair unison, with good form and flow, while fully utilizing the ice surface. It is also expected that the pair will demonstrate some of the more advanced fundamentals of pair skating including intermediate-based moves in the field in mirror and/or shadow skating. The following elements are required:

Jumps

One single or double jump, synchronized
One jump combination or sequence of jumps

Spins

One pair sit spin (minimum 4 revolutions in position)
One solo spin with change of foot and/or change of position (minimum 5 revolutions total)

Lifts

Three different lifts – all lifts may be selected from Group 1, however one lift may be selected from Groups 2-4, and one may be a single twist lift.

Death Spiral or Pivot Spiral

One death-type spiral (hand hold and pivot are optional), or a pivot spiral in which the man attains a pivot position while the lady circles around him in spiral position

Steps

Stroking in unison;
Connecting moves and turns in the field such as spirals together, spread eagles and pivots, as well as simple dance steps and stroking illustrating both mirror and shadow skating
One serpentine, circular or straight-line step sequence

Duration: 3 minutes to music of the skaters' choice

Novice Pair Test (NPR)
The novice pair test shall consist of a program with connecting moves and footwork. The pair must demonstrate basic pair unison and good form and flow. The program should utilize the full ice surface and be skated with expression in time to the music. The following elements are required:

Jumps

Axel plus one multi-revolution jump such as double toe loop or double Salchow synchronized

Spins

One pair spin such as pair sit, catch waist camel or one pair combination spin (minimum 5 revolutions in position)
One solo spin combination with at least one change of position (change of foot optional) (minimum 5 revolutions in position)

Lifts

One, waist loop lift (Group 2)
Two additional different lifts selected from Groups 1-4

Death Spiral

One, with at least one-half revolution by the lady after pivot position attained by the man. Hand hold must be a regular one-hand hold.

Throw

One throw single jump

Steps

Serpentine, circular or straight-line step sequence

Duration: 31/2 minutes to music of the skaters' choice

Junior Pair Test (JPR)
The junior pair test shall consist of a program of good, harmonious composition skated to the music with rhythm and expression. The program should have a change of pace, utilize the full ice surface and be skated in good form with very good flow. The pair must demonstrate good partner relationship and show a good degree of pair unison. The following elements are required:

Jumps

Axel plus one additional multi-revolution jump such as double Salchow, double toe loop or double loop, synchronized
One jump sequence (number of jumps to be included free)

Spins

One pair combination spin with at least one change of position (minimum 6 revolutions total)
One solo spin, synchronized, with one change of foot (minimum 5 revolutions on each foot)

Lifts

One single or double twist lift
Two other lifts selected from Groups 1-6

Death Spiral

One (pivot position mandatory) with a minimum of one revolution after the pivot position is attained by the man

Throw

One throw Axel or throw double jump

Steps

One serpentine, circular or straight-line step sequence
One spiral sequence and/or free skating moves such as spread eagles, fully utilizing the ice surface

Duration: 4 minutes to music of the skaters' choice

Senior Pair Test (GPR)
The senior/gold pair must give an excellent performance. Both partners should move together in complete harmony showing a marked degree of pair unison, good form and excellent flow. The program should fully utilize the ice surface, have a change of pace and superbly express the mood and rhythm of music. Harmonious steps and connecting movements in time to the music should be maintained throughout the program. The following elements are required:

Jumps

Two double jumps, synchronized
One jump sequence (number of jumps to be included free)

Spins

One pair spin such as pair camel, pair sit or catch waist camel (minimum 5 revolutions)
One pair combination spin with at least one change of position (minimum 8 revolutions total)
One solo spin such as change sit spin, flying camel or camel with change of foot, synchronized (minimum 6 revolutions in position, or 5 revolutions each foot in case of change of foot spin)

Lifts

One double twist lift
Two additional lifts selected from Groups 1-6

Death Spirals

Two different death spirals with minimum of one revolution after the man attains the pivot position

Throw

One throw double jump

Steps

One serpentine, circular or straight-line step sequence
One sequence of spirals and/or free skating moves such as spread eagles, fully utilizing the ice surface

Duration: 4 1/2 minutes to music of the skaters' choice

Adult Bronze Pair Test (ABP)
The adult bronze pair test shall consist of a program with a variety of moves and connecting steps skated to music, in good form with some degree of pair unison. The pair must utilize the ice surface while demonstrating the basic moves of pair skating. The following elements are required:

Jumps:

One jump (single)
One jump combination or sequence of jumps (half and single jumps)

Spins:

One pair spin with no changes of position or change of foot such as an upright pair spin or a pair camel spin (minimum 3 revolutions in position)
One solo spin (minimum 3 revolutions in position)

Lifts

One lift such as a waltz or half flip (no overhead)

Pivot Spiral

One pivot spiral in which the man attains the pivot position while the lady circles around him in a spiral position (hand hold and pivot positions are optional)

Steps

Stroking in unison, both forward and backward, clockwise and counterclockwise
Footwork and connecting moves such as spirals, spread eagles, etc., utilizing at least one-half the ice surface

Duration: 2 minutes to music of the skaters' choice

Adult Silver Pair Test (ASP)
The adult silver pair test shall consist of a program skated rhythmically and in harmony with the music. The pair should show a moderate degree of pair unison with good form and flow, while fully utilizing the ice surface. The pair is expected to demonstrate the fundamentals of pair skating including synchronized connecting movements, mirror and/or shadow skating. The following elements are required:

Jumps

One jump (single), synchronized
One jump combination or sequence synchronized (half and single jumps). No Axel or multi-rotation jumps.

Spins

One pair spin with no change of position or change of foot (minimum 3 revolutions in position)
One solo spin with one change of position (minimum 4 revolutions total)

Lifts

Two different lifts such as a waist loop, Lutz or waltz (no overheads)

Death or Pivot Spiral

One death-type spiral (hand hold, pivot and ladies edge are optional), or pivot spiral in which the man attains a pivot position while the lady circles around him in spiral position

Steps

Stroking in unison illustrating mirror and/or shadow skating, footwork, connecting moves such as turns in the field, spirals, pivots and basic dance steps
One serpentine, circular or straight-line step sequence or spiral sequence

Duration: 2 1/2 minutes to music of the skaters' choice

Adult Gold Pair Test (AGP)
The adult gold pair test shall consist of a program with connecting moves and footwork to be skated rhythmically and in harmony to the music. The pair should demonstrate partner relationship, unison, good flow and form. The program should utilize the full ice surface and be skated with expression in time to the music. The following elements are required:

Jumps

1. One single or double jump, synchronized
2. One jump combination or sequence utilizing single or multi-rotation jumps, synchronized

Spins

1. One pair spin such as pair sit, pair camel or pair combination spin (minimum 4 revolutions in position)
2. One solo spin combination with change of foot and/or change of position (minimum 5 revolutions total), synchronized

Lifts

1. Three different lifts — all lifts may be selected from Group 1, however one lift may be selected from Groups 2-4, and one may be a single twist lift

Death Spiral

1. One death-type spiral with the pivot position attained by the man (lady's edge optional). Hand hold should be a regular one-hand hold.

Throw

1. One throw single jump

Steps

1. Connecting moves, moves in the field, footwork, stroking in good unison and mirror and/or shadow skating
2. One serpentine, circular or straight-line step sequence or spiral sequence

Duration: 3 minutes to music of the skaters' choice

Compulsory Dance Tests
According to TR 41.01, moves in the field tests are not required as a prerequisite for compulsory dance tests; however, prior to entering dance competitions, competitors must have taken and passed at least the equivalent level moves in the field test. See 3107 and 3730 in the rulebook. This rule does not apply to adult dance competitors.

All of the dances in a dance test need not be taken at the same test session. Those dances that are passed shall be credited towards the completion of the test. (TR 41.02)

There are also standard, adult, solo and masters variations of many of the compulsory dances tests. If applicable, those tests will be noted by a different abbreviation.

For information on partnering and details about the tests, please see the USFSA rulebook.

Preliminary Dance Test and Solo Preliminary Dance Test
DANCES: Dutch Waltz (DW), Canasta Tango (CT), Rhythm Blues (RB). Solo: ZDW, ZCT, ZRB

Pre-Bronze Dance Test, Masters Pre-Bronze Dance Test and Solo Pre-Bronze Dance Test
DANCES: Swing Dance (SD), Cha-Cha (CC), Fiesta Tango (FIT). Masters: MSD, MCC, MFI. Solo: ZSD, ZCC, ZFI

Bronze Dance Test, Masters Bronze Dance Test and Solo Bronze Dance Test
DANCES: Hickory Hoedown (HH), Willow Waltz (WIW), Ten-Fox (TF). Masters: MHH, MWI, MTF. Solo: ZHH, ZWI, ZTF

Pre-Silver Dance Test, Adult Pre-Silver Dance Test, Masters Pre-Silver Dance Test and Solo Pre-Silver Dance Test
DANCES: Fourteenstep (14S), European Waltz (EW), Foxtrot (FT). Adult: A14, AEW, AFT. Masters: M14, MEW, MFT. Solo: Z14, ZEW, ZFT

Silver Dance Test, Adult Silver Dance Test, Masters Silver Dance Test and Solo Silver Dance Test
DANCES: American Waltz (AW), Tango (T), Rocker Foxtrot (RF). Adult: AAW, AST, ARF. Masters: MAW, MST, MRF. Solo: ZAW, ZT, ZRF

Pre-Gold Dance Test, Adult Pre-Gold Dance Test, Masters Pre-Gold Dance Test and Solo Pre-Gold Dance Test
DANCES: Kilian (K), Blues (BL), Paso Doble (PD), Starlight Waltz (SW). Adult: AK, ABL, APD, ASW. Masters: MK, MBL, MPD, MSW. Solo: ZK, ZBL, ZPD, ZSW

Gold Dance Test, Adult Gold Dance Test, Masters Gold Dance Test and Solo Gold Dance Test
DANCES: Viennese Waltz (VW), Westminster Waltz (WW), Quickstep (QS), Argentine Tango (AT). Adult: AVW, AWW, AQS, AAT. Masters: MVW, MWW, MQS,MAT. Solo: ZVW, ZWW, ZQS, ZAT

International Dance Test, Adult International Dance Test and Masters International Dance Test
DANCES: Austrian Waltz (AUS), Cha Cha Congelado (CON), Golden Waltz (GW), Midnight Blues (MB), Ravensburger Waltz (RW), Rhumba (R), Silver Samba (SAM), Tango Romantica (TR) and Yankee Polka (YP). Adult: AAU, ACO, AGW, AMB, ARW, AR, ASA, ATR, AYP. Masters: MAU, MCO, MGW, MMB, MRW, MR, MSA, MTR, MYP

Free Dance Tests
The free dance tests are divided into five classes to be taken in the following order. There are exceptions to this order — see TR 50.01 for further information.

Free Dance Test: Prerequisite
Juvenile Free Dance: None
Intermediate Free Dance: Complete Preliminary Compulsory Dance Test and Juvenile Free Dance Test
Novice Free Dance: Complete Bronze Compulsory Dance Test and Intermediate Free Dance Test
Junior Free Dance: Complete Silver Compulsory Dance Test and Novice Free Dance Test
Senior Free Dance: Complete Gold Compulsory Dance Test and Junior Free Dance Test

Juvenile Free Dance Test (JFD)
The purpose of this test is to encourage beginning dancers to learn the fundamentals of free dancing. The use of varied dance positions and holds to be included are Kilian, Foxtrot (Open), Waltz (Closed), Cross Arm. In addition, basic maneuvers such as Layover/Drape, Pull through legs, Side Pull, Front Drop and other original dance moves may be used.

Lifts required: At least one, no more than two
Dance Spins: One (1), but no more
Synchronized Twizzles: At least one twizzle is required and it shall be separate from any twizzle(s) that may be done in the footwork sequence
Separations: No limit
Step Sequence: One (circular, straight line or diagonal)

Intermediate Free Dance Test (IFD) and Masters Intermediate Free Dance (MIFD)
General requirements outlined for the preliminary compulsory dance test apply equally to the intermediate free dance test. The program presented must conform to the rules for free dancing. The program should display fairly good edges and some evidence of good form. An intermediate free dance program must include:

Lifts: Minimum of one, maximum of three
Dance Spins: One (1), but no more
Synchronized Twizzles: At least one twizzle is required and it shall be separate from any twizzle(s) that may be done in the footwork sequence
Separations: No limit
Step Sequence: One (circular, straight line or diagonal)

Novice Free Dance Test (NFD) and Masters Novice Free Dance (MNFD)
General requirements outlined for the bronze compulsory dance test apply equally to the novice free dance test. The program presented must conform to the rules for free dancing. While technically a basic program demonstrating fundamental dance moves, it should have moderately good edges and flow, good timing, some expression and display moderately good form and unison. A refined presentation is not expected. A novice free dance program must include:

Lifts: minimum of two, maximum of four
Step Sequence: one (circular, straight line or diagonal)

Junior Free Dance Test (JRFD) and Masters Junior Free Dance Test (MJRD)
General requirements outlined for the silver compulsory dance test apply equally to the junior free dance test. The program presented must conform to the rules set forth for free dancing. It must be moderately difficult, contain a good variety of movements, and be well composed and well placed on the ice surface. A junior free dance program must include:

Lifts: minimum of three, maximum of five
Step Sequence: two different (circular, straight line or diagonal)

Senior Free Dance Test (SRFD) and Masters Senior Free Dance Test (MSRD)
General requirements outlined for the gold compulsory dance test apply equally to the senior free dance test. The program presented must conform to the rules set forth for free dancing. It must be difficult, varied and display originality. Choreography, expression and utilization of space must be excellent. A senior free dance program must include:

Lifts: minimum of five, maximum of seven
Step Sequence: two different (circular, straight line or diagonal)