Figure skating is a graceful ice sport where individuals or teams perform choreographed routines with jumps and spins. It combines athletic power with artistic expression, making it a favorite for many winter sports fans. To a new viewer, the technical names of the jumps and the scoring system can feel very confusing. However, learning terms like axel, lutz, and edge is the perfect first step. Our simple glossary explains these essential ideas in plain English for everyone. We cover everything from the basic equipment to the rules of the judging panel. Consequently, you will gain a deeper understanding of the skill and balance involved in every performance. You no longer have to guess how a score is awarded or what a fall means. Instead, we provide clear definitions.
In figure skating, a Sit Spin is a basic skating position where the skater spins on one foot while crouched low to the ice. To receive credit for a sit spin, the skater’s hips must be at least as low as the knee of the skating leg. How a Skater Performs a Sit Spin Variations […]
In figure skating, StSq stands for Step Sequence. It is a mandatory element in both the Short Program and the Free Skate where the skater performs a specific series of turns and steps in a pattern across the ice. What Happens During a Step Sequence? During an StSq, the skater stops performing jumps or spins
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
In figure skating, the toe pick refers to the jagged, saw-like teeth located at the very front of the skate blade. While the rest of the blade is smooth for gliding, the toe pick serves a specific functional purpose. How Skaters Use the Toe Pick Skaters do not use the toe pick for pushing off
A toe loop is one of the most common jumps in figure skating. It belongs to the “toe jump” family because the skater uses the toe pick of their skate to launch into the air. How a Skater Performs It To execute a toe loop, a skater follows these steps: Key Features How to Spot
