International Governance & Guidance

Single skating is a term used to describe the discipline of freeskate. Generally, this is the most recognized form of figure skating.

Pair skating involves two individuals skating as a unit performing freeskating moves. Pair skating also includes lifts, death spirals and throws.

Inspired by ballroom dancing, this discipline incorporates musicality, performances and athletisim to all your favourite rhythms.

Synchronized skating, or “synchro” is a specialized discipline of skating involving groups of eight or more skaters performing various group formations and maneuvers. The objective is for the team to perform as one unit executing circles, blocks, lines, wheels and intersections in unison to the music, while demonstrating quality edges, power and flow. Synchronized Skating categories  accommodate skaters at any age and skill level.

Speed skating is a competitive form of ice skating in which the competitors race each other in travelling a certain distance on skate.

Types of speed skating are long track speed skating, short track speed skating, and marathon speed skating. 

In World Championship competition, men and women skate four distances: 500, 1,000, 1,500 and 3,000 m and relay races over 3,000 m for women and 5,000 m for men. 

Racing in pairs, counterclockwise, on two lanes of a 400 m oval track, the skaters change lanes every lap in order to equalize the distance covered. The skater in the outside lane has the right-of-way at the crossover if the skaters arrive at the same time. At most competitions, four distances are raced — 500, 1,500, 3,000 and 5,000m for women and 500, 1,500, 5,000 and 10,000m for the men.