The pre-preliminary freestyle figure skating test is designed to assess the basic skills and proficiency of skaters who are progressing beyond the beginner levels. It is often the first formal test that skaters take in the U.S. Figure Skating test structure, which provides a clear path for development and advancement in the sport. The test focuses on fundamental jumps, spins, and footwork, ensuring that skaters have a solid foundation before moving on to more advanced elements.

Elements of the Pre-Preliminary Freestyle Test:

  1. Jumps:
    • Waltz Jump: A basic jump that involves a half revolution in the air.
    • Salchow Jump: A jump that takes off from a backward inside edge and lands on the opposite foot's backward outside edge.
    • Toe Loop Jump: A jump that uses a toe pick to assist in the takeoff, with a rotation in the air and a landing on the opposite foot's backward outside edge.
  2. Spins:
    • Two-Foot Spin: A basic spin performed on both feet.
    • One-Foot Upright Spin: A spin performed on one foot with an upright body position.
  3. Footwork:
    • Forward Crossovers: Skating forward while crossing one foot over the other in a continuous motion, both clockwise and counterclockwise.
    • Backward Crossovers: Skating backward while crossing one foot over the other in a continuous motion, both clockwise and counterclockwise.
    • Forward Outside Three-Turns: A turn from a forward outside edge to a backward inside edge.
    • Forward Inside Three-Turns: A turn from a forward inside edge to a backward outside edge.

Test Structure:

  • Warm-up: Skaters typically get a brief warm-up period to acclimate to the ice and prepare for the test.
  • Judging: The test is judged by a panel of qualified figure skating judges who assess the skater's performance based on criteria such as edge quality, control, posture, and execution of elements.
  • Pass/Fail: Skaters receive a pass or fail for each element and for the test overall. Passing the test allows skaters to move on to the next level of testing and competition.

Goals and Importance:

The pre-preliminary freestyle test serves as an important milestone in a skater's development. It ensures that skaters have mastered essential skills necessary for safe and effective progression in the sport. Passing this test builds confidence and sets the foundation for tackling more complex jumps, spins, and footwork in higher-level tests and competitions.

Test Process

  1. Warm-up:
    • Skaters typically get a few minutes on the ice to warm up and prepare for the test. This time is used to practice elements and get comfortable with the ice conditions.
  2. Judging:
    • The test is evaluated by a panel of judges who are certified by U.S. Figure Skating.
    • Judges look for proper technique, edge quality, control, and execution of each element.
    • Each element is scored individually, and feedback is provided.
  3. Pass/Fail Criteria:
    • To pass the test, skaters must demonstrate proficiency in each required element.
    • A pass indicates that the skater is ready to move on to the next level, while a fail means the skater needs to continue practicing and retake the test at a later date.
  4. Feedback:
    • Skaters receive feedback from the judges, which helps them understand their strengths and areas for improvement.
    • This feedback is valuable for future practice and preparation for higher-level tests.