Rules of Figure Skating

Introduction

Figure skating is a popular winter sport that involves individuals or pairs performing artistic routines on ice. It is a sport that requires skill, grace, and precision. In order for the competitions to be fair, there are specific rules and regulations that must be followed. In this article, we will discuss the rules of figure skating in detail.

Scoring System

The scoring system used in figure skating has gone through significant changes in recent years. The current system is known as the ISU Judging System (IJS), which replaced the old 6.0 system in 2004. The IJS is a more complex system that takes into account different elements of a skater's performance such as technical difficulty, execution, and artistry. Each element has a base value, which is then multiplied by a grade of execution (GOE). The GOE is a score given by the judges based on how well the element was performed compared to the standard.

Rules and Regulations

There are several rules and regulations that must be followed in figure skating competitions. Here are some of the most important ones:1. Age limit: Skaters must be at least 14 years old before July 1st of the preceding year to be eligible to compete in senior international competitions.2. Costume regulations: Costumes must be tasteful and appropriate for the program. They must not have any political, religious, or racial connotations.3. Music: Skaters must select their own music and it must not contain any lyrics or vocals. The music must also be within a specific time limit depending on the program.4. Elements: Skaters must perform a specific set of elements such as jumps, spins, and footwork. The elements are assigned a base value and the skater must execute them with precision and accuracy.5. Judging: The judging panel consists of nine judges who score the performance based on the rules and regulations. The highest and lowest scores are discarded, and the remaining scores are added up to determine the final score.In conclusion, figure skating is a beautiful and challenging sport that requires discipline and commitment. The rules and regulations ensure that the competitions are fair and just for all participants. The scoring system and judging process are designed to reward skaters for their technical and artistic abilities, making figure skating a sport that is both exciting and rewarding to watch.