What is a footwork sequence in artistic roller skating?
I · Intermediate · Free skating · 4 of 4A footwork sequence is a timed run of turns and steps, given a level by its features; seniors have up to 40 seconds. The long program also has a choreographic sequence of up to 30 seconds. Leaving out a required element costs 1.0, as does an illegal one, such as a double Axel by an espoir skater.
How it works
- Footwork: turns and steps across the floor, given a level.
- Time: up to 40 seconds for seniors; less for younger groups.
- Jumps in footwork: one single-rotation jump at most; more costs 1.0.
- Choreographic sequence: long program, up to 30 seconds, level 1.
- Missing mandatory element: 1.0, and the last element of that group starred out.
- Illegal element: 1.0.
- Extra but legal element: starred out, no penalty.
- Kneeling or lying: once, for up to five seconds.
The glossary has the footwork sequence, the choreographic sequence, the missing mandatory element, the illegal element, the starred out and the kneeling or lying on the floor.
Tricky cases
A skater does a double jump inside the footwork. Penalty?
Yes, 1.0.
A skater lies on the floor twice. Penalty?
Yes, 1.0.
An attempted element fails badly. Is it missing?
No. Any attempt counts, even with a fall.
Who applies these penalties?
The technical panel, except falls and timing, which the referee applies.
Why the rule exists
Footwork tests skating skill between the big elements. Clear penalties for missing or illegal elements keep programs within the rules.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Senior short program | Footwork up to 40 seconds | AF p7 |
| Cadet | Footwork up to 30 seconds, level 3 | AF p7 |
| Long program | Choreographic sequence instead of footwork | AF p8 |
From the rule book
World Skate, Free Skating Rules for Artistic Skating (2026), Footwork and Choreo Sequence and Penalizations. Checked 14 October 2026. Official documents: the World Skate artistic technical rules 2026.