What elements are in the figure skating short program?
I · Intermediate · Singles elements · 4 of 8The singles short program has seven required elements in any order: an Axel, a solo jump, a jump combination, a flying spin, a spin in one position, a spin combination and a step sequence. Seniors may choose their jumps within limits; juniors must do the prescribed ones. An element tried and failed is not replaced.
How it works
- Elements: seven, in any order.
- Axel: double or triple.
- Senior men: a triple or quad solo jump; combination may include a quad.
- Senior women: a triple solo jump; combination of a double and triple, or two triples.
- Spins: a flying spin, a spin in one position and a spin combination with one change of foot.
- Step sequence: using the full ice surface.
- Juniors: prescribed jumps and spins that change each season.
- Music: vocal music with lyrics allowed.
The glossary has the short program, the required element, the Axel, the flying spin, the combination spin and the footwork sequence.
Tricky cases
A skater falls on the triple Axel. Can they try it again?
No. Only the first attempt counts, and repeats are not marked.
Can senior women try a quad in the short program?
No. For senior women the solo jump is a triple and the combination is doubles and triples.
Is a triple Axel allowed in both the Axel box and the combination?
No. If the triple Axel is done as the Axel, it cannot be repeated.
What are the junior jumps for 2026-27?
A double Lutz or triple Lutz as the solo jump, with a double or triple Axel (double for junior women).
Why the rule exists
Setting the elements lets judges compare skaters on the same tasks. A failed element is not repeated, so the short program tests consistency.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Senior men | Triple or quad solo jump | ISU 611 (2) |
| Senior women | Triple solo jump | ISU 611 (2) |
| Juniors 2026-27 | Double or triple Lutz; flying camel spin | ISU 611 (3) |
From the rule book
ISU, Sports Rules: Single & Pair Skating and Ice Dance (as of 12 June 2026), rule 611. Checked 14 October 2026. Official documents: the ISU Sports Rules and the season's ISU Communications.