1. Mirror Partners in Pair Skating
Pair skating is a style of figure skating that requires a male and female competitor to match each other?s skill levels. You need to practice the multiple moves that fulfill the mirroring requirements of pair skating. Both skaters can complete the same spins, jumps and hops within feet of each other to show their skill levels. The use of a throw jump shows the physical strength of the male skater and the agility of the female partner. Judges look at gracefulness, strength and balance from start to finish in assessing scores on a 6.0 scale.
2. Compete in Ice Dancing Events
The rules for ice dancing are more restrictive than pair dancing. Ice dancing is comparable to classic dance styles, with the interplay of the skaters more important than wild flips and acrobatic moves. International skating organizations limit the number of lifts, jumps and throws used in ice dancing events to ensure the austerity of the event.
There are three elements of ice dancing competitions, ranging from local events to the Winter Games. The compulsory section of this event is designed to compare all dancers equally, with prearranged programs and music providing equal points of measurement. You are able to choose your own dance style but must accept the selected piece of music when completing the original portion of the competition. You can work with your partner on the waltz, salsa and fox trot in anticipation of the free dance program.
3. Get on the Same Page in Synchronized Skating
Synchronized skating is an event featuring up to 20 skaters completing preset programs in unison. This figure skating style places a premium on precise movement by every member of the competing team. You need to understand the short and free program elements of the synchronized skating if you plan on transitioning from single and pair dancing.
The short program is a planned synchronization set to rhythmic music. This program tests the ability of the entire skating team to perform a predetermined routine that can be judged by observers. The second element of every synchronized skating event is the free program, which allows skate teams to show off their creativity without adhering to rigid restrictions. The free program allows pairs, trios and small groups within a synchronized skating team to break apart for freestyle dance moves.
4. Learn Strict Guidelines for Compulsory Figures
Compulsory figure skating is an event within ice skating that has moved from professional to amateur levels of competition. This event features prescribed movements given to skaters by judges that are based off of figure-eights and other circular shapes. Your performance is judged on your ability to complete each of the shapes without excessive turns, gouges in the ice and dozens of other mistakes that influence the impression left on the ice. You need to focus entirely on compulsory figures early in your career to handle scrutiny by experienced judges.
There are variations on compulsory figures that have evolved from the essential figure-eight shape. Elaborations like Loops to the Outside and The Flower build loops off of the central figure to increase difficulty for skaters. A good way to train for these complex figures is drawing shapes on the ice during practice to build muscle memory.
Member Comments