In figure skating, turns are intricate maneuvers performed on the ice that involve a change of direction and can be executed on one or both feet. Here are some common types of turns:

Three Turn

  • Description: Named for the shape it makes on the ice, resembling the numeral "3".
  • Execution: The skater starts on one foot and changes direction while shifting from an inside edge to an outside edge (or vice versa) without changing feet.

Bracket Turn:

  • Description: Creates a bracket shape on the ice.
  • Execution: The skater starts on one foot and changes direction while moving from an outside edge to an inside edge (or vice versa), but unlike the three turn, the entry and exit edges are the same type (inside to inside, or outside to outside).

Counter Turn:

  • Description: A complex turn that involves a counter-clockwise change of direction.
  • Execution: The skater starts on one foot and switches direction and edge, where the entry and exit edges are different types.

Rocker Turn:

  • Description: Similar to the counter turn but involves a rocker shape.
  • Execution: The skater starts on one foot and changes direction, maintaining the same edge type throughout the turn (inside to inside or outside to outside).

Twizzles

  • Description: A traveling turn performed in a straight line.
  • Execution: The skater rotates on one foot while moving across the ice, usually performed in sequences and often seen in ice dancing.

Choctaw Turn:

  • Description: A turn involving a change of foot and edge, often used in ice dance.
  • Execution: The skater moves from one foot to the other, changing both the edge and the direction.

Mohawk Turn:

  • Description: A turn involving a change of foot without a change of edge.
  • Execution: The skater moves from one foot to the other, keeping the same edge (inside to inside or outside to outside) and the same direction.

Each turn has its specific technique and level of difficulty, contributing to the skater's overall performance and artistry on the ice.