In figure skating, a twizzle is a fast, traveling turn on one foot. Unlike a spin, which stays in one spot on the ice, a twizzle moves across the ice while the skater rotates.
It is most common in Ice Dance, where it is a required element that judges grade heavily on synchronized timing and speed.
How a Twizzle Works
To perform a successful twizzle, a skater must balance several technical moves at once:
- Continuous Rotation: The skater rotates their body quickly and without stopping.
- Constant Motion: The skater must travel across the ice in a clear line or curve while spinning.
- One-Foot Balance: The skater performs the entire turn on a single blade.
- No Pushing: The skater cannot use their other foot to “kick” or gain momentum once the turn starts; they must use their core strength to keep spinning.
Twizzles in Pairs
In Ice Dance or Pairs skating, partners usually perform twizzles side-by-side. Fans and judges look for:
- Synchronization: The partners should rotate at the exact same speed and stay perfectly in line with each other.
- Distance: The partners try to stay as close together as possible without colliding.
- Arm Variations: Skaters often change their arm positions (like putting hands over their heads) to make the move more difficult and earn more points.
Why It Is Difficult
Twizzles are notoriously tricky because even a tiny wobble or a slight catch of the toe pick can ruin the rotation. If a skater loses their balance, they will stop traveling or fall out of the turn, resulting in a large deduction in their score.