As a senior-rated coach with over 30 years of experience, I've not only witnessed firsthand the transformative power of Skating Skills tests in a skater's journey. I've had the privilege of guiding numerous skaters to achieve their U.S. Figure Skating gold medals. These assessments, formerly known as "Moves in the Field," are integral to developing a skater's technical foundation, emphasizing edge quality, exension, turn execution, power, and continuous flow, while progressively challenging and developing the skater's abilities. They encompass a series of patterns and exercises designed to enhance edge work, turns, steps, and overall skating quality. The importance of these tests cannot be overstated, as they serve as both milestones and motivators, guiding skaters toward excellence.​

Why Testing is Essential for Competitive Figure Skating

For those aspiring to compete, participating in the U.S. Figure Skating test structure is mandatory. Skaters must pass specific Skating Skills tests to qualify for various competition levels. This structured progression ensures that competitors possess the necessary technical proficiency to perform at their respective levels, maintaining the sport's integrity and high standards. ​

Benefits for Non-Competitive Skaters

Even if competition isn't your goal, undertaking Skating Skills tests offers numerous advantages:​

• Skill Development: These tests encompass a comprehensive range of steps and turns, teaching skaters to navigate the ice with precision and confidence.​

• Enhanced Performance: By focusing on extension, power, and flow, skaters cultivate a more polished and graceful style, enriching their overall skating experience.​

• Personal Achievement: Setting and accomplishing testing goals provides immense personal satisfaction. Achieving milestones, such as earning a U.S. Figure Skating Gold Medal, is a testament to dedication and commitment to years of hard work.

Beyond the Rink: Academic and Professional Advantages

The discipline and commitment required to progress through Skating Skills tests are qualities that resonate beyond the ice rink:​

• College Applications: Admissions committees value applicants who demonstrate perseverance, goal-setting, and the ability to overcome challenges. Highlighting achievements in figure skating will set you apart. ​

• Professional Resumes: The dedication showcased by advancing through rigorous testing levels reflects a strong work ethic and commitment—traits highly regarded in any profession. ​

Top 10 Frequently Asked Questions About Skating Skills Testing

1. What are Skating Skills tests?

   • They assess a skater's proficiency in fundamental movements, focusing on edge quality, control, power, and flow.​

2. Why are these tests important for competitors?

   • Passing specific tests is a prerequisite to qualify for various competitive levels, ensuring skaters meet the technical standards required. ​

3. Should non-competitive skaters take these tests?

   • Absolutely. They promote continuous improvement, skill mastery, and personal achievement.​

4. How do these tests enhance skating skills?

   • They teach comprehensive steps and turns, fostering better edge control, extension, power, and flow.​

5. What personal rewards come from testing?

   • Achieving set goals, such as earning a U.S. Figure Skating Gold Medal, provides immense personal satisfaction and recognition. ​

6. How can these tests benefit academic pursuits?

   • They demonstrate qualities like dedication and perseverance, which are attractive to college admissions committees. ​

7. Do these achievements enhance professional resumes?

   • Yes, they reflect a strong work ethic and commitment, traits valued in any career. ​

8. What is the structure of these tests?

   • They are organized into progressive levels, each increasing in complexity to systematically develop a skater's skills.​

9. How should one prepare for these tests?

   • Consistent practice under the guidance of a qualified coach, focusing on technique and areas of improvement, is essential.​

10. What if a skater doesn't pass a test?

    • They can continue training and retake the test after further preparation, as perseverance is key to progression.

Embarking on the Skating Skills testing journey, whether for competition or personal growth, offers invaluable benefits that extend beyond the ice. Each test passed is a testament to a skater's dedication, resilience, and passion for the sport.