As a senior-rated coach with over 30 years of experience, I've guided many skaters through the intricacies of figure skating tests, including the process of re skating elements. Understanding when and how re skates are permitted is crucial for skaters aiming to progress in their testing journey.​

Understanding Re skates in Figure Skating Tests

In the U.S. Figure Skating test structure, a re skate refers to the opportunity for a skater to perform a specific element or elements again during a test session to improve their performance. This provision allows skaters to address errors and demonstrate their true capabilities.​

Re skate Policies for Different Test Formats

• In-Person Testing: During traditional in-person test sessions, skaters may be granted the opportunity to reskate certain elements. The allowance for reskates varies depending on the specific test and discipline. For instance, in Moves in the Field tests, a skater may be permitted to reskate only one element of the test. In Freeskating tests, up to two elements may be reskated to correct serious errors. The decision to allow a re skate is at the discretion of the judging panel and is typically offered when a minor error occurs that doesn't reflect the skater's usual performance level. ​

• Virtual Testing: In virtual test sessions, reskates are not permitted. Skaters must ensure that their submitted videos meet all test requirements, as each performance may only be used once for test credit. If a video has been submitted for a virtual test session, it may not be submitted again. Therefore, it's essential to thoroughly review and be satisfied with the recording before submission. ​

Process of Re skating a Test Element

1. Identification of the Issue: During the test, if a judge identifies a significant error in an element that could impact the overall test result, they may consider offering a re skate for that specific element.​

2. Judge's Discretion: The decision to allow a re skate is solely at the discretion of the judging panel. Not all errors will warrant a re skate opportunity; it is typically reserved for situations where the error is uncharacteristic of the skater's usual performance.​

3. Execution of the Re skate: If granted, the skater will have the chance to perform the specified element(s) again. It's an opportunity to correct mistakes and showcase their true skill level.​

4. Evaluation: The judges will assess the re skated element(s) in conjunction with the overall performance to determine if the skater meets the passing criteria for the test.​

Top 10 Frequently Asked Questions About Reskates

1. What is a re skate in figure skating testing?

   • A reskate is an opportunity granted during an in-person test session for a skater to redo a specific element to improve their performance.​

2. Are re skates allowed in all types of tests?

   • Re skate policies vary by test type. For example, in Moves in the Field tests, one element may be re skated, while in Freeskating tests, up to two elements may be reskated. ​

3. Who decides if I can re skate an element?

   • The judging panel overseeing the test has the discretion to offer a reskate based on their assessment of the performance.​

4. Are re skates allowed in virtual testing?

   • No, re skates are not permitted in virtual testing. Skaters must submit a complete and satisfactory performance video, as each submission is final. ​

5. If I fail a test, how soon can I retake it?

   • If a test is marked as "retry," a skater may not retake the test prior to the 14th day following the date of the original test. ​

6. Does a re skate guarantee a passing result?

   • No, a re skate provides an opportunity to improve a specific element, but the final result depends on the overall performance and judges' evaluations.​

7. Can I decline a re skate if offered?

   • Yes, a skater can choose to decline a re skate; however, this may impact the overall test result.​

8. How should I prepare for the possibility of a re skate?

   • Be mentally prepared to perform any element again and maintain focus throughout the test session.​

9. Are there additional fees for reskates?

   • Typically, there are no additional fees for re skates performed during the same test session.​

10. Can I request a reskate if I feel I underperformed?

    • No, re skates are granted at the judges' discretion, not at the skater's request.

Understanding the re skate process and policies helps skaters navigate their testing experiences more effectively. It's essential to prepare thoroughly and approach each test with confidence, knowing that opportunities exist to showcase your best abilities.​