How many couples dance in the para dance final?
I · Intermediate · Dancing and judging · 2 of 4Couples dance in heats of up to eight. In preliminary rounds each adjudicator marks yes or no, and at least half the couples go through; small fields still get two rounds, and larger ones add a re-dance. Under the skating system six couples reach the final. Under absolute points up to 12 do, dancing in heats of three.
How it works
- Heats: up to eight couples.
- Every dance: everyone dances it.
- Preliminary marks: yes or no.
- Advance: at least 50%.
- Small fields: two rounds.
- Large fields: re-dance, semi-final.
- Skating final: six.
- Points final: up to 12, heats of three.
The glossary has the heat, the preliminary rounds, the re-dance, the final, the skating judging system and the Chairperson of Adjudicators.
Tricky cases
Who decides a tie for the last place in the next round?
The chairperson of adjudicators.
Can the skating final have seven couples?
Yes, if the chairperson adds one.
How large can a points final grow?
To 15.
Are dancers mixed between heats?
Yes.
Why the rule exists
Two rounds even in small fields give each couple a second chance to be seen.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Preliminary | Yes or no | R 4.2.5.1 |
| Skating final | Six | R 4.2.5.1 |
| Points final | Up to 12 | R 4.2.5.4 |
From the rule book
World Para Dance Sport, 2026 Rules and Regulations, articles 4.2.5.1 to 4.2.5.4. Checked 15 October 2026. Official documents: WPDS 2026 Rules and Regulations and the classification pages.