Figure Skating Test Standards

Each United States Figure Skating Test has a test standard that judges use when you’re testing. The test standard describes what the judges will be looking for when you test and the deductions that will be made. It is a very good idea to look up the test standards in the rule book. You can ask your coach for a copy or look them up yourself. Either way, it’s a very good idea to have them. If you know what the judges’ focus should be, then you can take a look at your program and moves in the field and make improvements when necessary.

One method of USFS Judging is based on the 6.0 system. 0= Not skated, 1.0= very poor, 2.0= poor, 3.0 = mediocre, 4.0= good, 5.0= very good, 6.0=outstanding. Decimals in between the numbers are also used. For example a 5.5 would be a program that was better then very good but not quite outstanding.

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For a Moves in the Field test ,there are seven main things the judges could be looking for in the element you are skating. If you look at the test standards for each move, there is a primary and secondary focus. So out of the seven things listed below, there are typically two you should be focusing on the most.

1. Accuracy-correct steps, following the pattern

2. Edge quality-body alignment through the edge, making sure to maintain the desired edge and not switch edges, controlled movement

3. Extension-good bodyline, control, arms naturally extended with the shoulders

4. Quickness-foot speed. crisp turns that are controlled

5. Power-creating and maintaining speed and flow without visible effort.

6. Posture/Carriage-Proper alignment of shoulders, hips, back, arms, head.

7. Bilateral movement-executing the pattern both directions, clockwise and counterclockwise, forward and backwards.

For a free skate test, there are two main marks a judge will give when using the 6.0 scale. Technical merit is the first and presentation is the second. Technical merit is based on the required elements and how well they are executed. Presentation is how you relate to the music, the choreography, and flow of the program. Deductions can also be made for illegal elements such as lying or kneeling for a prolonged time at the beginning or end of a program.

When you get your test sheets back from the judges, take a look at your scores and the comment section. Judges typically write comments, especially if there is something they felt you could improve. A lot of times they write something you could improve on and still pass you. You may have executed the move to passing standards, but they commented on something they think you could do better. Use this feedback; it is very valuable for future tests. If you have questions for a judge after the test session is over, have your coach ask the test chair to talk with a judge. Your coach can go over with a judge his or her particular comments to make sure you understand what they meant. Judges are not the mean scary people we imagine in our heads. They are normal people that love the sport and want you to excel and progress. They want to pass you just as much as you want to pass.

Have you looked at test standards? Do you read the feedback on your tests and use them to better your skating? Have you/your coach ever talked with a judge about their feedback after a test?