Figure Skating

What is pairs figure skating?

In pairs figure skating, two skaters perform a dance routine on an ice rink.

How skaters perform in pairs

A male and female skater perform a series of moves to music. The skaters’ movements must complement each other and must be in sync with the music (and, sometimes, with each other). Included in the performance are set moves that are difficult to complete successfully.

How to win

The skaters’ performance is scored by a panel of judges, and the pairs team with the highest score wins. Scores are based on the technical difficulty of the moves attempted, how well they were completed and how artistic the performance looked to the judges.

Pairs on-ice moves

Throw triple sow – the male skater tosses his female partner into the air, spinning her body around and around; she lands and spins around again
Lasso lift – the male skater locks hands with the female skater and lifts her above his head, holding her there as she spreads her legs in a V shape
Star reverse star – the male skater lifts the female skater over her head, and they spin around as she stretches her arms and legs out in a star pattern

Equipment

Figure skates – the skates have special blades designed to help skaters with their dance moves
Costumes – the female skater often wears a dress, and sometimes gloves, and skintight leggings, while the male wears pants and a shirt