Synchronized Skating!

Definition of Synchronized Skating
Synchronized skating consists of a group of about twelve to twenty figure skaters skating on the ice at one time. They work together as one unit. A synchronized skating team performs a program set to music.

Synchronized Skating Was Once Called Precision Skating
Synchronized skating was called precision skating at one time. The original emphasis was for the group of skaters to keep tight formations and to march to precise rhythms. Precision teams looked a bit like drill teams or marching bands. Synchronized skating of today requires much more complicated skating than the original precision skating teams. In 1998, the name of the sport was officially changed to "Synchronized Skating".

Synchronized Skating Programs
Synchronized skating programs are performed to music. The skaters work as a team to do formations which include circles, lines, blocks, wheels, egg-beaters and intersections.

Footwork, Lifts, Jumps, Spins, Spirals, Positions, and Holds
Complicated footwork and steps, lifts, jumps, and spins are included in synchronized skating programs. The team skates together using various holds which include basic shoulder holds, hooking elbows, hand holds, basket weave holds, and not holding at all. They do moves like spirals, lunges, shoot-the-ducks, pivots, and pass-throughs during a routine.

Male and Female Participants
Most skaters in synchronized figure skating teams tend to be female, but men also participate in synchronized skating.

Not Yet An Olympic Sport
Synchronized figure skating is not yet an Olympic sport, but there is a World Synchronized Skating Championship. The first World Synchronized Skating Championship took place in 2000. Most countries hold national synchronized skating events.

All Ages Participate
There are synchronized skating teams of all ages and levels. There are adult teams and teams made of very young children. Synchronized skating is a growing part of figure skating that encourages teamwork, friendship, and improving at figure skating skills.