The U.S. Figure Skating Skating Skills Tests (formerly Moves in the Field) are designed to evaluate a skater’s ability to execute fundamental skating techniques with control, balance, and precision. Each level builds on the previous one, requiring skaters to demonstrate strong edges, proper turns, smooth transitions, and efficient power generation.

As per the US Figure Skating Rulebook, to successfully pass each level, skaters must meet specific judging criteria and technical standards. The Skaters must pass these tests in the prescribed order of increasing difficulty. Not Only does the difficulty increase with each level, so does the passing standard. The general expectations remain consistent throughout the test structure, but each test level has specific performance standards outlined in the USFS Rulebook. Skaters are evaluated on their edge quality, control, power, extension, and overall mastery of required elements.Skating skills tests may be taken and passed independently of the singles Free Skating, pair, pattern dance and free dance tests. 

A. The elements in the skating skills tests must be skated in the order as set forth in the schedule of tests. 

B. Each element must be commenced from a standing, stationary position with a maximum of seven introductory steps unless specified otherwise in these rules. (See rule 5036.) 

C. The steps must be skated in general accordance with the diagrams and descriptions. 

D. Directed by the judge-in-charge, when applicable, skaters will select the area on the ice surface for their skating skills elements. 

E. Soft background music is permitted. 

F. There are no restrictions on the use of painted lines or marks on the ice for skating skills tests

Skating skills must be skated with good edges, control, flow, extension, carriage and rhythm. An even speed and flow should be maintained throughout. Maximum utilization of the ice surface is desirable. Ice coverage must not be obtained by the use of flat or shallow edges. 

In assigning marks, the following must be considered: 

A. Accuracy: The correct start, steps and adherence to the general pattern. 

B. Edge quality: Initiated through proper body alignment over the skating foot, creating a stable arc that travels uninterrupted until a required transition takes place. Depth of edge refers to the acuteness of the arc and is created by the lean of the body and the angle of the blade when it takes the ice. Good edge quality results in a confident, sure and controlled movement. 

C. Turn execution: The proper skill and technique of how the turn should be performed. The correct entry and exit edges are to be adequate and maintained throughout the turn for its identification. 

D. Extension: The general carriage should be erect, characterized by an extended bodyline. The angle of the head follows naturally from the line of the back; the arms should be naturally extended with the shoulders down and back. The skater’s hands should follow the line of the movement being executed. The final extended position should be executed in a controlled manner and should achieve the maximum length of all body lines. 

E. Quickness: Refers to foot speed. It is precise, rapid and crisp execution of turns, changes of edge and transitions. Quickness does not refer to the overall pace at which the move is skated, although in some moves the foot speed will result in a brisk and continuous cadence. Refinements to acknowledge include quick movement that is quiet, fluid and continuous without disturbing the proper and erect carriage of the upper body or interrupting the established rhythm. 

F. Power: The creation and maintenance of speed and flow without visible effort. It is developed by a continuous rise and fall of the skating knee together with the pressure of the edge of the blade against the ice. (The skater should demonstrate the ability to exert equal pressure against the surface of the ice on both the right and left foot.) End products of power are (1) velocity, speed or pace; (2) flow across the ice; and (3) acceleration. 

G. Continuous flow: The skater’s ability to maintain a consistent and undisturbed running edge across the ice. Flow does not necessarily relate to the speed at which the skater is traveling as it is sometimes best recognized as the skater starts to slow.

H. Posture/carriage: The proper alignment of the hips, back, arms and shoulders, and head over the skate. Unless the move requires a variation, typically, the skater’s back should be straight, with the spine and head perpendicular to the surface of the ice. The arms should be extended out from the shoulders, level and relaxed. The free leg should be in a straight line and slightly turned out from the free hip to the free toe. 

I. Bilateral movement: The ability to execute movements on both sides of the body, clockwise and counterclockwise, forward and backward. 

J. Strength: The creation and maintenance of balance and flow developed by a continuous rise and fall of the skating knee together with the pressure of the edge of the blade against the ice. (The skater should demonstrate the ability to exert equal pressure against the ice with both the right and left foot.) End products of strength are (1) good posture; (2) flow across the ice; and (3) consistent pace.

An effortless, flowing and graceful execution should be achieved. Subject to a general conformity with the basic requirements and within the limits of the following rules, the skater is permitted complete freedom with respect to the following positions: 

A. The head should be carried in an upright position, relaxed and held naturally; 

B. The upper body should be upright, but not stiff; 

C. The arms should be held gracefully; 

D. The free leg should be extended, with the toe pointed.

AT Edge Up Ice we believe that following these general requirements taken from the 2024-2025 US Figure SkatingRulebook, utilizing our valuable resources and trusting in a qualified Senior Coach, will give your skater the tools they need to navigate the testing process successfully and continue their progression within the sport.