What Is Synchronized Skating, And How Is It Judged?

Synchronized skating is an exhilarating ice skating sport that combines teamwork, precision, and artistic expression. It involves a group of 5 to 20 skaters performing a choreographed routine together, creating beautiful patterns and synchronized movements on the ice. This captivating sport originated in 1956 and has gained popularity around the world.

In synchronized skating, judging plays a crucial role in evaluating the skaters’ performances and determining the winners. The judging criteria are based on the International Judging System (IJS), which focuses on technical elements, skill execution, and overall performance. Let’s dive deeper into how synchronized skating is judged and the skills required to excel in this captivating sport.

Key Takeaways:

• Synchronized skating is a thrilling ice skating sport that involves a team of 5 to 20 skaters performing a choreographed routine together.
• The International Judging System (IJS) is used to evaluate and score synchronized skating performances.
• Skaters are assessed based on their technical elements, skill execution, composition, interpretation, and difficulty of elements.
• The judging panel consists of both a technical panel and a panel of judges responsible for evaluating the quality of elements and the overall performance.
• Synchronized skaters must possess strong skating skills, precise timing, synchronization, and artistic expression to succeed in the sport.

International Judging System (IJS)

The International Judging System (IJS) plays a pivotal role in the evaluation of synchronized skating performances. It has replaced the previous 6.0 scoring system and is now widely used in the sport. The IJS focuses on cumulative points rather than subjective rankings, making the scoring process more objective and transparent.

In the IJS, each element performed by the skaters is assigned a base value, which reflects the difficulty level of the element. The judges then award a grade of execution (GOE) score to evaluate the quality of each element. The GOE score is added or subtracted from the base value to calculate the total element score. This system allows for a more detailed assessment of each element and provides a fairer evaluation of the skaters’ performance.

“The International Judging System has revolutionized synchronized skating by introducing a more comprehensive and accurate scoring method. It gives skaters the opportunity to showcase their skills and technique while also rewarding their execution and artistry.”

The IJS also entails a technical panel, consisting of a technical controller and two technical specialists. Their role is crucial in identifying and evaluating the elements performed by the skaters. The technical panel ensures that the correct elements are recognized and assesses their level of difficulty. This objective assessment process, combined with the judges’ scoring, contributes to a more accurate and reliable evaluation of synchronized skating performances.

Element Score Calculation in the IJS

Calculating the element score in the IJS involves several steps. The technical panel identifies the elements performed and assigns them a base value. Then, the judges award GOE scores based on the quality of each element. These GOE scores are added or subtracted from the base value to determine the total element score. The highest and lowest scores for each element are discarded, and the remaining scores are averaged to ensure fairness and avoid any potential bias.

The International Judging System has significantly contributed to the advancement of synchronized skating as a sport. It has increased the accuracy and objectivity of the scoring process, allowing skaters to be evaluated fairly based on their technical skills, execution, and overall performance.

Technical Panel in Synchronized Skating

In synchronized skating, the technical panel plays a vital role in ensuring accurate element identification and assessment. The panel consists of a technical controller, two technical specialists, a data operator, and a video replay operator. Their collective expertise and attention to detail contribute to the fair judging of performances.

The primary responsibility of the technical specialists is to identify each element and determine its level of difficulty. Working in coordination, the technical controller and the second technical specialist support the primary technical specialist in making accurate element calls. Decisions on elements and difficulty levels are made based on the majority opinion of the technical controller and the two technical specialists.

The technical panel employs audio tape and video replay to verify the calls made during the performance. This ensures that the skaters receive the appropriate credit and evaluation for their executed elements. By employing a rigorous process of element identification, the technical panel ensures a fair and accurate assessment of the technical aspects of synchronized skating routines.

Element Identification and Evaluation

Element identification is a critical task performed by the technical panel in synchronized skating. Their expertise and knowledge of the sport allow them to accurately recognize each element performed by the skaters. This involves observing the movements, formations, and synchronization of the team as they execute their program. The technical panel’s attention to detail guarantees that every element is properly accounted for and evaluated.

Judges in Synchronized Skating

In synchronized skating, a panel of judges plays a crucial role in evaluating the quality of each technical element and the overall performance of the skaters. The judges are responsible for assigning a grade of execution (GOE) score to each element, which is then added or deducted from the base value. They also assess the skaters’ performance in the program components, such as composition, presentation, and skating skills. It is the judges’ task to carefully observe and analyze the skaters’ execution, precision, and artistry.

The judges in synchronized skating competitions aim to be fair and objective in their scoring. They undergo extensive training and certification processes to ensure that they have a deep understanding of the technical aspects and artistic qualities of the sport. By following the International Judging System (IJS) guidelines, the judges strive to maintain consistency and provide accurate assessments.

The judging panel typically consists of up to nine judges, each with their own expertise and perspective. The highest and lowest scores for each element and program component are discarded to eliminate any extreme outliers and potential bias. The remaining scores are then averaged to calculate the final scores. This approach helps to ensure that the overall assessment is as accurate and balanced as possible.

Role of the Judges:

• Evaluate technical element quality: The judges carefully assess the execution, difficulty, and artistry of each technical element performed by the skaters. They assign a grade of execution (GOE) score based on the skaters’ precision and mastery of the element.
• Assess program components: In addition to the technical elements, the judges evaluate the skaters’ performance in the program components. They consider factors such as the composition, presentation, and skating skills, assessing the skaters’ overall artistry and interpretation of the music.
• Ensure fairness and objectivity: The judges undergo rigorous training to ensure that their assessments are fair and objective. They follow established guidelines and criteria set by the International Skating Union (ISU) to maintain consistency in their scoring.
• Contribute to the final scores: The judges’ scores, including the grades of execution (GOE) for each technical element and the program component scores, are combined to determine the skaters’ final scores. The skater with the highest total score is declared the winner of the competition.

With their expertise and dedication, the judges play a critical role in the competitive world of synchronized skating. Their assessments and scores not only determine the winners but also provide valuable feedback to help the skaters and their coaches improve their performances in future competitions.

Total Element Score in Synchronized Skating

In synchronized skating, the total element score plays a crucial role in determining a team’s overall performance. Each element performed by the skaters is assigned a base value, which represents the credit given for executing the element. This base value is determined based on the level of difficulty of the element. The judges then evaluate the quality of each element by awarding a grade of execution (GOE) score. The GOE score is added or deducted from the base value to calculate the total element score.

The total element score is an important component of the skaters’ overall score and reflects their technical abilities. It takes into account both the difficulty of the elements performed and the execution of those elements. Skaters strive to execute each element with precision and synchronization, aiming to earn high GOE scores to maximize their total element score.

By considering the total element score, judges can assess the technical prowess of the skaters and reward their skill and execution. It serves as a reliable measure of the team’s technical performance and contributes to the overall evaluation of their routine.

With the total element score, synchronized skating competitions can objectively evaluate and compare the technical abilities of different teams. It provides a fair and standardized method for assessing the difficulty and execution of elements, ensuring that the best and most skilled teams are recognized for their performances.

The Program Components in Synchronized Skating

Synchronized skating is not just about executing technical elements with precision; it also involves a careful evaluation of the skaters’ performance in various program components. These program components, which include composition, presentation, and skating skills, play a crucial role in determining the overall score of the skaters.

The composition component evaluates the intentional arrangement of movements into a meaningful whole. Skaters are judged based on the creativity and originality of their program, as well as the strategic placement of elements and transitions. A well-composed program demonstrates a skater’s ability to showcase the theme or story of their performance, captivating the audience and the judges alike. This component adds an artistic element to synchronized skating, making it not just a technical display, but also a visually engaging experience.

Presentation is another important program component in synchronized skating. It assesses the skaters’ engagement, commitment, and understanding of the music and composition. Skaters should demonstrate a connection to the music, interpreting it through their movements and expressions. Presentation also includes aspects such as style, expression, and overall performance quality. Skaters who engage the audience and convey their emotions effectively receive higher scores in this component.

The final program component is skating skills, which evaluates the skaters’ ability to execute skating movements with control and precision. This component focuses on the technical aspects of skating, including the clarity of edges, power, speed, flow, and overall execution of required elements. Skaters who demonstrate exceptional skating skills, displaying grace and fluidity on the ice, are rewarded with higher scores in this component.

In synchronized skating, a well-rounded program requires a harmonious combination of these program components. Skaters need to excel not only in technical elements but also in composition, presentation, and skating skills. A strong performance in all these components will significantly enhance their chances of achieving high scores and ultimately, success in the sport.

Segment Score and Competition Score in Synchronized Skating

In synchronized skating competitions, the segment score and competition score play a crucial role in determining the overall performance of the skaters. The segment score is calculated by adding the total element score and the program components score. The total element score represents the sum of the scores for all elements performed, taking into account the base value and the grade of execution (GOE) scores. On the other hand, the program components score evaluates the skaters’ composition, presentation, and skating skills.

By combining the total element score and the program components score, the segment score provides a comprehensive assessment of the skaters’ technical execution and overall performance. Each segment of the competition, such as the short program or free skate, is assigned a segment score. These segment scores are then added together to determine the competition score.

The competition score represents the skater’s overall performance throughout the entire competition. It reflects the consistency and quality of their performances across different segments. The skater with the highest competition score is declared the winner of the competition.

Segment Score and Competition Score: Key Points

1. The segment score is calculated by adding the total element score and the program components score.
2. The total element score is the sum of the scores for all elements performed, considering the base value and GOE scores.
3. The program components score evaluates composition, presentation, and skating skills.
4. Segment scores for each competition segment are added together to determine the competition score.
5. The skater with the highest competition score is declared the winner.

The International Skating Union (ISU) Judging System

The International Skating Union (ISU) Judging System, also known as the Code of Points (COP) system, is the scoring system used in figure skating disciplines, including synchronized skating. Implemented in 2004, the ISU Judging System aimed to make the scoring system more objective and less susceptible to abuse, replacing the previous 6.0 system. It is now used in all international competitions sanctioned by the ISU, including the Olympic Games. The system includes a technical panel responsible for identifying elements and a panel of judges who score the technical elements and program components.

In the ISU Judging System, skaters are evaluated based on the quality of their technical elements and the overall performance. A judging panel of up to nine judges assigns a grade of execution (GOE) score to each element, which is then added or deducted from the base value. The judges also score the program components, such as composition, presentation, and skating skills. The scores from the judges are averaged, and the total technical score and presentation score are calculated, contributing to the final score of each skater.

The scoring system in the ISU Judging System involves the computation of scores based on the judges’ assessments. The GOE scores for technical elements are averaged after discarding the highest and lowest scores. These scores are then added or deducted from the base value to calculate the technical score. Similarly, the judges’ scores for program components are averaged after discarding the highest and lowest scores. The technical score and program component score are then combined to determine the final score for each skater.

List of Figure Skating Disciplines:

1. Men’s Singles
2. Ladies’ Singles
3. Pair Skating
4. Ice Dance
5. Synchronized Skating

Previous Judging System in Figure Skating

The previous judging system in figure skating was known as the 6.0 system. Under this system, skaters were evaluated based on two main components: technical merit and program presentation. The technical merit mark focused on the quality of the required elements, such as jumps, spins, and footwork. Skaters were awarded points based on the execution and difficulty of these elements.

The program presentation mark, on the other hand, assessed the overall composition, originality, use of ice, style, and expression of the music. This component took into account the skater’s ability to interpret the music and engage with the audience. Skaters were given scores for their presentation skills and artistic expression.

However, the 6.0 system faced criticism for its subjectivity and vulnerability to bias. Judges’ preferences and personal opinions could heavily influence the final scores, leading to controversy and disputes. This prompted the International Skating Union (ISU) to develop a new scoring system that would be more objective and transparent, ultimately leading to the implementation of the ISU Judging System in 2004.

Technical Panel in the ISU Judging System

In the ISU Judging System, the Technical Panel plays a vital role in ensuring accurate identification and evaluation of the elements performed by skaters. Consisting of a technical controller, technical specialist, assistant technical specialist, data operator, and replay operator, the Technical Panel is responsible for real-time element identification, determining levels of difficulty, and spotting any technical errors or falls. These dedicated individuals work together to provide objective and precise assessments of the skaters’ performances.

One of the key responsibilities of the Technical Panel is assigning a base value to each element. The base value serves as the credit given to the skaters for successfully performing the element. It is determined based on the difficulty and complexity of the element. By accurately identifying and assigning base values, the Technical Panel ensures that the skaters are rewarded for their technical skills and the level of difficulty in their routines.

Element identification is a crucial task performed by the Technical Panel. They are responsible for recognizing and labeling each element performed by the skaters. Whether it’s a lift, twist, or intricate footwork sequence, the Technical Panel’s expertise is essential in ensuring that every element is correctly identified and evaluated. Their keen eye for detail and extensive knowledge of the sport contribute to the fairness and integrity of the judging process.

Role of the Technical Panel

• Real-time element identification
• Assigning base values to elements
• Determining levels of difficulty
• Spotting technical errors or falls

“The Technical Panel plays a crucial role in ensuring that the skaters’ performances are accurately assessed and rewarded. Their expertise in element identification and base value assignment contributes to the fairness and integrity of the judging process.”

The Technical Panel in the ISU Judging System upholds the highest standards of professionalism and expertise. Their commitment to the sport and dedication to maintaining fairness make them an integral part of synchronized skating competitions. Through their efforts, skaters are given the opportunity to showcase their skills and receive recognition for their hard work and talent.

Judging Panel in the ISU Judging System

In the ISU Judging System, the judging panel plays a crucial role in evaluating the quality of technical elements and the overall performance of skaters. The panel is composed of qualified judges who are knowledgeable in the sport of synchronized skating. Each judge assesses the skaters’ performances based on the established criteria and assigns a grade of execution (GOE) score to each element.

The technical score is determined by adding or deducting the GOE score from the base value of each element. The judges also evaluate the skaters’ program components, such as composition, presentation, and skating skills. These components contribute to the presentation score. Both the technical score and presentation score are then averaged to calculate the final score for each skater.

The judging panel’s expertise and objectivity are essential in ensuring fair and accurate evaluations. Their scores and assessments are crucial in determining the winners of synchronized skating competitions. Skaters rely on the judges’ expertise to provide constructive feedback and insights that help them improve their performances.

Computation of Scores in the ISU Judging System

In the ISU Judging System, a sophisticated scoring system is used to determine the final scores in synchronized skating competitions. The judges play a crucial role in evaluating the skaters’ technical elements and overall performance. Each judge assigns a grade of execution (GOE) score to assess the quality of the technical elements. These GOE scores are then averaged after discarding the highest and lowest scores to ensure fairness and accuracy.

The GOE scores are combined with the base value of each element to calculate the technical score for each skater. The base value represents the credit given to the skaters for successfully performing the elements. Additionally, the judges assign scores for the program components, such as composition, presentation, and skating skills. These component scores are also averaged after discarding the highest and lowest scores.

Finally, the technical score and program component score are combined to determine the final score for each skater. This comprehensive scoring system ensures that both technical proficiency and artistic expression are taken into account when evaluating the skaters’ performances. It allows for a fair and objective assessment of the skaters’ abilities in synchronized skating competitions.