How is ice dance different from pair skating?
I · Intermediate · Pairs and ice dance · 8 of 8Ice dance couples skate a rhythm dance to rhythms set each season, then a free dance to music of their choice. It is built on steps, edges and holds, not big jumps or throws. Partners may separate only briefly, and kneeling or sitting on the ice counts as a fall. The music must have an audible beat.
How it works
- Rhythm dance: rhythms and themes chosen each season by the ISU; 2 minutes 50 seconds.
- Free dance: the couple's choice of music; 4 minutes for seniors.
- Music: must have a rhythmic beat; vocals allowed.
- Free dance music: at least one change of tempo and expression.
- Separations: no more than two arm lengths apart; in the free dance, no more than 5 seconds.
- Stops: none longer than 10 seconds at the start or end.
- Hands on the ice: not allowed.
- Kneeling or sitting: treated as a fall.
The glossary has the ice dance, the rhythm dance, the free dance, the pattern dance, the ice dance music and the dance holds.
Tricky cases
Can ice dancers jump?
Only small dance jumps of up to one rotation; more is illegal.
Can the music start without a beat?
Yes, for up to 10 seconds at the start; in the free dance also at the end and once during.
What is a pattern dance?
A set dance to prescribed steps and patterns, such as the Fourteenstep, skated at some competitions and inside the junior rhythm dance.
Who sets the rhythm dance theme?
The ISU Ice Dance Technical Committee, each season.
Why the rule exists
Ice dance comes from ballroom dancing, so its rules protect the dance: close holds, rhythm and footwork. Limiting separations stops it turning into pair skating without the throws.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Rhythm dance | Up to two extra full stops of 5 seconds | ISU 709 (1)(h) |
| Free dance | Separations up to 5 seconds | ISU 710 (1)(f) |
| Pattern dances | Set steps and tempo | ISU 707 |
From the rule book
ISU, Sports Rules: Single & Pair Skating and Ice Dance (as of 12 June 2026), rules 502, 704, 707, 709 and 710. Checked 14 October 2026. Official documents: the ISU Sports Rules and the season's ISU Communications.