What must a figure skating free program contain?
A · Advanced · Singles elements · 3 of 6A senior free program may have up to six jump elements, one of them an Axel type; three spins, one a combination, one a flying spin and one a choreographic spin; one step sequence; and one choreographic sequence. Juniors have no step sequence. Elements beyond these limits are not counted.
How it works
- Jump elements: up to six, one an Axel type.
- Spins: up to three, all of different character.
- Step sequence: one, using the full ice (seniors).
- Choreographic sequence: one; two or more movements, a fixed base value.
- Choreographic spin: at least 3 revolutions, a fixed base value.
- Linking: elements joined by varied steps and movements, not crossovers.
- Spin revolutions: at least six in a flying spin and ten in a spin combination.
- Extras: not counted.
The glossary has the well-balanced program, the choreographic sequence, the choreographic spin, the free skate, the spin and the Axel.
Tricky cases
A skater repeats the same type of spin. Does it count?
No. It is deleted but still uses up a spin place.
Can a choreographic sequence include a jump?
Yes, jumps of up to two rotations, which are not called as separate elements.
The panel cannot identify the choreographic spin. What then?
The third spin performed is taken as the choreographic spin.
Do juniors skate a step sequence in free skating?
No. The junior free program has no step sequence.
Why the rule exists
A balanced program shows the full range of a skater's skills. Limits on jumps stop a program becoming a jump contest.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Senior | Step and choreographic sequence | ISU 612 |
| Junior | Choreographic sequence only | ISU 612 |
| Pairs | Lifts, throws and death spirals instead of spins and steps | ISU 621 |
From the rule book
ISU, Sports Rules: Single & Pair Skating and Ice Dance (as of 12 June 2026), rule 612. Checked 14 October 2026. Official documents: the ISU Sports Rules and the season's ISU Communications.