What are the rules for spins in figure skating?
I · Intermediate · Singles elements · 5 of 8A spin has three basic positions: camel, sit and upright. A position counts only if held for at least two revolutions. A spin combination must use two basic positions, and all three for full value. Spinning fewer than three rotations is a skating movement, not a spin. Levels come from features such as difficult variations.
How it works
- Camel: free leg back, knee above hip level.
- Sit: upper part of the skating leg at least parallel to the ice.
- Upright: skating leg straight or slightly bent; layback and Biellmann count here.
- Two revolutions: needed for a position to count.
- Change of foot: at least three revolutions before and after.
- Combination: two basic positions; all three for full value.
- Flying spin: a jump entry; at least eight revolutions in the short program landing position.
- Fewer than three rotations: a skating movement, not a spin.
The glossary has the spin positions, the sit spin, the layback spin, the combination spin, the flying spin and the level features (spins).
Tricky cases
Is a layback spin an upright spin?
Yes. Layback, Biellmann and similar positions count as upright.
A skater falls entering a spin and spins again at once. Does it count?
No. A spin straight after a fall or failed spin is allowed to fill time but is not counted as an element.
Can a spin start with a jump?
Only a flying spin; other short program spins cannot.
How are spin levels set?
By the number of features, such as a difficult variation, change of edge or eight revolutions in one position, from Basic to Level 4.
Why the rule exists
Minimum revolutions make each position a real test of balance and centring. Requiring all three positions for full value rewards range.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Singles | Camel, sit and upright | ISU 610 |
| Pairs | Pair spin combination; eight revolutions | ISU 620 (4) |
| Ice dance | Dance spins in hold | ISU 704 |
From the rule book
ISU, Sports Rules: Single & Pair Skating and Ice Dance (as of 12 June 2026), rules 610, 611 (4) and 612, with ISU Communication 2788, Levels of Difficulty and Guidelines for marking GOE and Program Components (2026/27) (spin features). Checked 14 October 2026. Official documents: the ISU Sports Rules and the season's ISU Communications.