Figure Skating Skills: Every Great Skater Starts Here

Most skaters who take U.S. Figure Skating tests begin with the Skating Skills track. This track teaches the basic skills needed for all other areas of figure skating, like pattern dance or pairs. Skaters can move through the Skating Skills levels on their own. However, they must pass the matching level before testing in the other four areas.

The U.S. Figure Skating testing structure is often called the “backbone” of figure skating. The structure provides athletes with a national benchmark for progress and a clear path toward gold medalist status. To reach that status or test in other disciplines, skaters must begin with Skating Skills.

What Is the Skating Skills Test for Figure Skating?

U.S. Figure Skating has five testing areas, and Skating Skills is the foundation. 

• Edge quality: clean, deep inside/outside edges
• Accuracy: precise pattern placement
• Power and extension: strong push and full leg stretch
• Flow: seamless movement and control
• Turn execution: rockers, counters, brackets, and more
• Quickness: agility in footwork
  

Without these core techniques, skaters would struggle in any other area. Skating Skills develop the control and refinement necessary to move confidently into more advanced disciplines.

What Is the Purpose of Skating Skills?

Skating Skills tests are designed to assess a skater’s technical development and guide them toward improvement. It’s about technical excellence. 

The goal is:

• Develop strong, consistent skating fundamentals
• Build control, balance, and power across both feet and edges
• Prepare skaters for more advanced movement in other disciplines

Each level builds on the last, becoming progressively more difficult. 

The levels include:

• Pre-preliminary
• Preliminary
• Pre-bronze
• Bronze
• Pre-silver
• Silver
• Pre-gold
• Gold
  

These tests help skaters identify strengths and weaknesses while mastering foundational skating techniques required for all disciplines.

What Is the Difference Between Skating Skills and Moves in the Field?

Skating Skills levels were formerly known as Moves in the Field and used terms like juvenile, intermediate, novice, junior, and senior. 

In July 2023, U.S. Figure Skating updated the names to reflect the true purpose of the tests: skill development. Though the names changed, the skills evaluated remain the same.

What Will You Be Tested On?

Testing begins at the pre-preliminary level. Skaters must pass each level in order and cannot skip ahead. Each test includes four to six set patterns. Skaters must perform skills in both clockwise and counterclockwise directions on both the right and left feet. Additionally, they must perform on both inside and outside edges. 

These patterns focus on the following:

• Directional control: skating clockwise and counterclockwise
• Foot balance: right and left foot proficiency
• Edge use: inside and outside edge mastery
• Turns: three-turns, brackets, counters, rockers, and loops
• Power: pushing and stroking efficiently
• Flow: smooth, continuous movement without hesitation

Every level builds on the techniques introduced at earlier stages, adding complexity as skaters progress. Patterns for each level are outlined in the U.S. Figure Skating Rulebook. The rulebook includes descriptions and diagrams to help skaters prepare effectively.

How Long Does It Take To Pass the Skating Skills Tests?

On average, skaters take six years to reach the gold level, though everyone progresses at their own pace. (Some competitive skaters move more quickly, while recreational skaters may prefer to take their time.)

• Pre-Preliminary: 4–6 months with regular practice (1–2 hours per week)
• Intermediate Levels (Bronze/Silver): 6–12 months with focused training
• Gold: Often takes 1–2 years of advanced edge work and conditioning

There’s no perfect timeline. The key is to build skills thoroughly before testing, rather than rushing through the levels.

Tips for Succeeding at Skating Skills Tests

To improve your figure skating skills and pass tests with flying colors, consistency and attention to detail are key. 

Here are tips to level up your performance:

• Practice consistently: Small, regular practice sessions are more effective than infrequent long ones.
• Work both sides equally: Bilateral skills are essential. Don’t neglect your weaker side.
• Use the Rulebook: Study diagrams and descriptions to understand what judges expect.
• Get feedback: Regular check-ins with your coach can help target problem areas early.
• Record yourself: Watching your patterns on video can reveal issues you may not feel while skating.
• Don’t rush: Master each level fully before moving on, you’ll be better prepared in the long run.
• Stay positive: Progress takes time, and setbacks are part of the learning process.

Partners in Young People’s Progress: The Parent-Coach Connection

Behind every confident young skater is a team of support. Parents, you play an important role by reinforcing routines and encouraging healthy practice habits. Coaches guide technical growth and test readiness, but communication between the two is vital. 

Share observations from home, ask questions, and support your coach’s training plan. Avoid over-scheduling or pressuring perfection. Progress takes time. Celebrate small wins, not just test results. A unified approach fosters trust and confidence, helping the skater thrive. When parents and coaches work together, they become the ultimate support team on and off the ice.

Blades & Boots Matter at Every Skill Level

The right equipment can make or break a Skating Skills test. 

• Boots: Skaters need boots with proper stiffness for support and blades that allow clean edge work and quick transitions. Too soft, and stability suffers; too stiff, and flexibility is lost. 
• Boot fitting: Ensure skates are professionally fitted, especially as skill demands increase with each level.
• Blades: Regular sharpening and maintenance matter. Dull blades can lead to sloppy execution. 

Look for signs of outgrowing gear: sore feet, blisters, or trouble holding edges. When in doubt, consult your coach or a skate tech. Investing in quality equipment early on builds confidence, performance, and long-term skating success.

Level Up With Riedell Ice

Having the right equipment is essential for success in Skating Skills testing. Your skates are your most valuable tool. Riedell offers a full line of options for skaters at every level. Explore our Developmental series to find the perfect fit for your needs and goals.