What is Pairs Figure Skating?
- BritishIceSkating
- Jan 29
- 6 min read
The 2025 ISU European Figure Skating Championships has arrived! One of the most prestigious events on the figure skating calendar, attracting top athletes from across the continent, this year’s event is taking place in Tallinn, Estonia.
This article series aims to help newcomers understand the sport and get the most out of watching the event, whether in person or from the comfort of your home!
Read on to learn about Pairs Figure Skating, find out who will be representing GB at this year’s European Championships and key information about the competition format and scoring, plus when and where to watch!
What is Pairs Skating?
Pairs skating is one of the most awe-inspiring disciplines in figure skating, showcasing the seamless coordination, strength, and artistry of two skaters performing together. This discipline features intricate lifts, synchronised jumps and spins, and daring throw jumps that captivate audiences worldwide. For newcomers to the sport, pairs skating offers an exciting introduction to the unique combination of athleticism and partnership on the ice.
In pairs skating, two athletes perform together, combining individual technical elements with unique partner elements. These include:
Lifts: The male partner lifts the female partner overhead, showcasing strength, balance, and creativity in positions, with a variety of holds and variations.
Throw Jumps: The male partner throws the female partner into the air, where she executes rotations before landing.
Side-by-Side Jumps: Both skaters perform jumps simultaneously, demonstrating synchronisation and precision.
Twist Lifts: The male partner assists the female partner into the air, where she completes rotations before being caught.
Death Spirals: The female partner circles the male partner in a dramatic low position while holding his hand, demonstrating edge control and trust - although not quite as dramatic as the name suggests!
How is Pairs Skating Scored?
Each performance is evaluated using the International Judging System (IJS), which scores skaters based on the technical execution of elements and the presentation of their routine. The IJS breaks down scores into two main components:
Technical Element Score (TES): Points awarded for the execution of technical elements. For example, a triple twist lift has a base value, and judges adjust the score based on the element’s Grade of Execution (GOE), which ranges from -5 to +5. Precise timing, clean landings, and innovative variations can boost the GOE, whereas mistakes, or lower quality can lead to a reduced GOE.
Program Components Score (PCS): This reflects the artistic and presentation aspects of the performance. PCS is divided into three categories:
Skating Skills: Quality of edge work and overall control.
Composition: Choreographic structure and coherence.
Presentation: Demonstration of engagement, expression and musicality.
The combined TES and PCS form the total score for each program.
Pairs Skating Competition Format
Similar to other disciples, pairs skating competitions consist of two segments:
Short Program: A routine lasting 2 minutes and 40 seconds, where pairs must complete specific required elements. The short program tests the pair's synchronisation, precision, and ability to execute challenging technical elements.
Each element in the short program has a base value, and judges closely assess the Grade of Execution (GOE) for every move, with synchronicity playing a big factor. Precision and unison are critical, as even minor missteps can lead to significant deductions.
In most major competitions, pairs must rank highly enough in the short program to progress to the free skate.
Free Skate: A longer routine, lasting 4 minutes, that allows pairs to showcase a greater variety of skills, creativity, and endurance. Elements include:
Multiple lifts with varied positions and transitions.
Two different throw jumps.
A choreographic sequence emphasising musicality and connection.
Side-by-side spins and step sequences.
Two side-by-side jumping passes, often including combos.
The free skate encourages pairs to push the boundaries of their technical and artistic abilities. Successful execution of complex elements, such as a triple twist lift with a +5 GOE, can significantly boost their TES. Errors, such as failed lifts or unsteady landings, result in deductions.
A skater’s scores from their Short Program and Free Skate are added together to give them their final overall score and determine who makes it to the podium!
Unique Elements of Pairs Skating
Pairs skating includes several unique and spectacular elements that set it apart from other disciplines:
Twist Lifts: A signature element where the male partner assists the female partner into the air for multiple rotations. The male partner catches her mid-air as she lands gracefully.
Throw Jumps: One of the most daring moves in pairs skating, where the male partner throws the female partner into a high jump. She completes rotations and lands independently.
Death Spirals: A visually stunning move where the female partner circles the male partner in a low, dramatic position, often with her head just above the ice.
Overhead Lifts with Rotations: These lifts include complex rotational movements and highlight the strength and balance of both skaters.
Each of these elements requires exceptional timing, trust, and coordination between partners, making pairs skating a breathtaking spectacle.
The Importance of Partnership:
The hallmark of pairs skating is the deep connection and trust between partners. Unlike singles skating, where athletes focus solely on their performance, pairs must maintain constant awareness of their partner's movements. This requires countless hours of practice to achieve synchronisation and seamless transitions between elements. Strong partnerships often display a balance of strength, grace, and emotional connection, which enhances the audience's experience.
Who to Watch at the 2025 European Championships
Key names to watch out for in the Pairs categories at this year’s European Championships:
Anastasia Vaipan-Law and Luke Digby (Great Britain): Representing Great Britain, Luke Digby and Anastasia Vaipan-Law have shown tremendous growth and potential. As the reigning British champions, they are known for their elegant lifts and synchronised jumps, making them strong contenders to leave a mark in Tallinn. Watch their captivating Free Skate from earlier in the season HERE:
Lucrezia Beccari and Matteo Guarise (Italy): The Italian champions have earned acclaim for their innovative twists and throw jumps, consistently challenging the top ranks in international competitions. Coming into Tallinn as defending champions, all eyes will be on them to retain the title. Watch their medal winning FS from 2024 HERE.
Minerva Fabienne Hase and Nikita Volodin (Germany): With their dynamic lifts and synchronised spins, this German pair has been a force on the European circuit, demonstrating remarkable consistency and flair. The pair have recently secured a gold at the Grand Prix Final and are hot contenders to challenge for gold. Watch their Grand Prix Final winning performance from earlier in this season HERE.
Why Watch Pairs Skating?
Pairs skating captures the essence of figure skating’s appeal: the thrilling lifts, synchronised spins, and emotional storytelling of each program.
At the 2025 European Championships in Tallinn, pairs skating promises to be a highlight of the competition, featuring top athletes from across Europe vying for gold. This event provides the perfect opportunity for fans old and new to experience the pinnacle of the sport. By understanding the elements and scoring, you can fully appreciate the dedication, skill, and artistry that go into every performance.
How to Watch the ISU European Figure Skating Championships 2025
Fans across the UK can catch all the action from the 2025 European Championships live and on demand! Every event will be available to stream for free on the ISU YouTube channel and on the BBC…..
Men’s Singles Short Program: DATE/START TIME (GMT)Women’s Singles Short Program: DATE/START TIME (GMT)
Men’s Singles Free Program: DATE/START TIME (GMT)Women’s Singles Free Program: DATE/START TIME (GMT)
Watch the Best of European Figure Skating In Person: Sheffield 2026
The excitement doesn’t stop with the 2025 European Championships!
Looking ahead, the ISU Figure Skating European Championships 2026 will be taking place in Sheffield, UK at the Utilita Arena Sheffield, from 13th-18th January 2026 - the first time the UK has hosted this event in over a decade. This prestigious event will showcase the best skaters from across Europe on British ice, offering fans the opportunity to experience world-class figure skating up close.
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