News
Significant Changes in Synchro Skating Rules for the 2024/25 Season
News
Significant Changes in Synchro Skating Rules for the 2024/25 Season
Intersections will be modified in several categories next season. (Credits: Paul Carrolo, UnisonPhoto - 2024)
The International Skating Union (ISU) has released Communication No. 2635, which replaces the previous Communication No. 2553. This new document outlines several updates and modifications to the requirements for synchronized skating programs for the 2024/25 season. Below, we detail the key specific changes introduced for various categories.
Short Program:
One of the significant changes in the Senior / Senior Elite 12 Short Program is the modification of the Intersection Element. Previously, skaters were required to perform a Triangle Intersection. The new requirement stipulates an Angled Intersection, which may present new challenges and opportunities for teams to showcase their precision and creativity. Additionally, for the Move Element, there is now a requirement for a Block Feature if using a Group D Feature. This added complexity aims to enhance the visual and technical appeal of the performance.
Free Skating:
The Senior / Senior Elite 12 Free Skating program has seen detailed adjustments in its requirements. Notably, the choice of Intersection Elements has shifted from disallowing the Triangle Intersection to prohibiting the Angled Intersection. This change necessitates that teams adapt their strategies and formations accordingly. Moreover, the introduction of Artistic Elements—either a Circle or Wheel—adds a new dimension to the performances, encouraging teams to develop more visually captivating routines. Furthermore, additional restrictions and requirements related to Block Features and Group D features have been specified, demanding a higher level of strategic planning and execution from the teams.
One of the significant changes in the Senior / Senior Elite 12 Short Program is the modification of the Intersection Element. Previously, skaters were required to perform a Triangle Intersection. The new requirement stipulates an Angled Intersection, which may present new challenges and opportunities for teams to showcase their precision and creativity. Additionally, for the Move Element, there is now a requirement for a Block Feature if using a Group D Feature. This added complexity aims to enhance the visual and technical appeal of the performance.
Free Skating:
The Senior / Senior Elite 12 Free Skating program has seen detailed adjustments in its requirements. Notably, the choice of Intersection Elements has shifted from disallowing the Triangle Intersection to prohibiting the Angled Intersection. This change necessitates that teams adapt their strategies and formations accordingly. Moreover, the introduction of Artistic Elements—either a Circle or Wheel—adds a new dimension to the performances, encouraging teams to develop more visually captivating routines. Furthermore, additional restrictions and requirements related to Block Features and Group D features have been specified, demanding a higher level of strategic planning and execution from the teams.
Short Program:
The Junior Short Program now requires a Whip Intersection instead of an Angled Intersection. This change shifts the dynamic of the performances and may require teams to develop new techniques and skills to execute this element effectively. For the Move Element, there is now a specific mention of the necessity for a Block Feature if using a Group D Feature, adding another layer of complexity to the performances and ensuring a higher standard of technical skill and uniformity.
Free Skating:
In the Junior Free Skating category, the changes are primarily focused on the Intersection Elements. The previous restriction on Angled Intersections has been replaced with a prohibition on Whip Intersections. This adjustment requires teams to rethink their approaches to intersection maneuvers. Additionally, the inclusion of Artistic Elements—either a Block or Line—offers new creative possibilities for teams, allowing for greater artistic expression within the program's technical framework.
Advanced NoviceThe Junior Short Program now requires a Whip Intersection instead of an Angled Intersection. This change shifts the dynamic of the performances and may require teams to develop new techniques and skills to execute this element effectively. For the Move Element, there is now a specific mention of the necessity for a Block Feature if using a Group D Feature, adding another layer of complexity to the performances and ensuring a higher standard of technical skill and uniformity.
Free Skating:
In the Junior Free Skating category, the changes are primarily focused on the Intersection Elements. The previous restriction on Angled Intersections has been replaced with a prohibition on Whip Intersections. This adjustment requires teams to rethink their approaches to intersection maneuvers. Additionally, the inclusion of Artistic Elements—either a Block or Line—offers new creative possibilities for teams, allowing for greater artistic expression within the program's technical framework.
Free Skating:
The Advanced Novice Free Skating category has also seen updates, particularly in the Artistic Elements. Teams now have the option to include either a Linear Element—Block or Line. This change provides teams with more flexibility in their routine construction, allowing them to play to their strengths and enhance their overall performance impact.
The Advanced Novice Free Skating category has also seen updates, particularly in the Artistic Elements. Teams now have the option to include either a Linear Element—Block or Line. This change provides teams with more flexibility in their routine construction, allowing them to play to their strengths and enhance their overall performance impact.
Team Nova Senior - Free program. (Credits: Paul Carrolo, UnisonPhoto - 2024)
Basic Novice
Free Skating:
For the Basic Novice Free Skating program, there has been a notable change in the Artistic Element requirement. Instead of a Circle, teams are now required to perform an Artistic Element—Line. This modification aims to simplify the element for newer skaters while still maintaining a focus on artistic expression. Additionally, the Synchronized Spin Element now specifies a maximum of SySp1, and the inclusion of a “Same Spin” Feature is required, ensuring uniformity and synchronization in the teams' spins.
Mixed AgeFor the Basic Novice Free Skating program, there has been a notable change in the Artistic Element requirement. Instead of a Circle, teams are now required to perform an Artistic Element—Line. This modification aims to simplify the element for newer skaters while still maintaining a focus on artistic expression. Additionally, the Synchronized Spin Element now specifies a maximum of SySp1, and the inclusion of a “Same Spin” Feature is required, ensuring uniformity and synchronization in the teams' spins.
Free Skating:
In the Mixed Age Free Skating category, the requirements have been adjusted to align more closely with the general rules for the Junior category. Teams must now include either an Artistic Element—Circle or Wheel. This alignment helps standardize the expectations across different categories and ensures consistency in the evaluation of artistic and technical elements.
In the Mixed Age Free Skating category, the requirements have been adjusted to align more closely with the general rules for the Junior category. Teams must now include either an Artistic Element—Circle or Wheel. This alignment helps standardize the expectations across different categories and ensures consistency in the evaluation of artistic and technical elements.
The modifications introduced in ISU Communication No. 2635 reflect the ISU's commitment to evolving and enhancing the sport of synchronized skating. By refining the requirements and adding new elements, the ISU aims to push the boundaries of creativity and technical proficiency in synchronized skating, ensuring that the sport continues to grow and captivate audiences worldwide.
Teams and coaches will need to carefully study these changes and adapt their training and performance strategies to meet the new standards for the 2024/25 season.
Teams and coaches will need to carefully study these changes and adapt their training and performance strategies to meet the new standards for the 2024/25 season.
Communication No. 2635
Well Balanced Program Content - 2024/25 season
Well Balanced Program Content - 2024/25 season
