Congratulations on taking the next step in your figure skating journey by preparing for the Pre-Preliminary Skating Skills Test! This initial assessment is designed to encourage skaters to learn the foundational elements of the sport, emphasizing knowledge of the steps, fairly good edges and a beginner's level of posture and form. No great deal of technical ability, carriage or flow is expected. Passing this test not only builds confidence but also sets the stage for future progress in figure skating.

A Brief overview of the Pre-Preliminary Required Moves and Their Main Foci:

Forward Perimeter Stroking (Clockwise & Counter Clockwise) :

The first move on the Skating Skills Test emphasizes power and extension as the major focus, skaters perform continuous strokes around the perimeter of the rink with at least three forward crossovers around each end. This move must be skated in both directions.

 Test Expectations:

• Stroking by pushing with the side of the blade, without using the toe-picks

• Sustained glide with extension of turned out free leg

• Balanced over the skating foot with Some evidence of good posture and arms extended

  Common Errors: 

• Improper stroke or toe pushing, poor posture or extension, week crossovers

  Consecutive Edges (Forward Outside and Forward Inside, Backward Outside and Backward Inside): Skaters perform a series of edges, forwards and backwards on both outside and inside edges. This move focuses on edge quality, balance, and the ability to hold a sustained edge without wobbles.​

Test Expectations:

• 4-6 complete 1/2 circles with equal lobes

• Starting on correct edge close to perpendicular to the axis

• Some evidence of good posture and body lean

Common Errors:

• Toe pushing

• Not starting perpendicular to the axis

• Edges lacking control on back outside & inside edge, unable to check rotation

Forward Right and Left Foot Spirals:

In this element, the skater will do a right foot & left foot spiral down the length of the ice holding each spiral for about 4 seconds. The skater should glide straight forward with the free leg extended backward, held at or above hip level. The main focus of this element is extension. This move assesses flexibility, balance, and the ability to maintain a steady edge with proper body alignment.​

Test Expectations:

• Free leg should be held hip level or above for about 4 seconds

• Return to two feet then use one push into the next foot, stay balanced throughout

Waltz Eight:

This move creates two connected circles in the shape of an 8. Begin with a plie push to start a counter clockwise circle. The circle is skated using a waltz timing. The right forward outside three-turn is placed at the first 3rd of the circle followed by a push onto a left backward outside edge using a left backward outside “C-step” to step forward onto a forward outside edge to glide back to the starting point creating the first circle. The skater then immediately pushes onto the left foot to repeat the process to form the second circle in the figure-eight pattern. This move is designed to test the skater's edge control, accuracy in pattern execution and timing, and smooth transitions between edges.​

           Test Expectations:

• Some control of positions and edges

• Skating on waltz timing

• Control after 3-turns

• Return close to center axis

  Common Errors:

• No rhythm or timing

• Back edge too short

• Circle not cut into 3rds

• Unchecked three turns, difficulty with Back outside C-step

  Passing the the Pre-Preliminary Test is a significant milestone. Approach each element with dedication and enthusiasm, and remember that this is just the beginning of your exciting journey in figure skating.