What is Singles Figure Skating?
- BritishIceSkating
- Jan 29
- 5 min read
The 2025 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 Singles 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 Singles Skating?
Singles skating is one of the most iconic disciplines in figure skating, showcasing individual athleticism, artistry, and precision. This discipline is divided into two categories: Men’s Singles and Women’s Singles, each featuring skaters performing intricate routines that combine technical elements and captivating choreography.
In singles skating, athletes perform on their own, executing a series of required elements during their programs. These elements include:
Jumps: Such as the famous Triple Axel (the ‘triple’ indicates how many times the skater must rotate in the air during the jump).
Spins: Including upright, sit, and ‘camel’ positions, they demonstrate flexibility and control.
Step Sequences: Complex footwork patterns that cover the ice, often showcasing the skater’s artistry and quality of the steps and turns.
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 technical execution of elements. Each element, such as a jump or spin, has a base points value assigned by the ISU (International Skating Union). For example, a triple Lutz has a base value of 5.90 points, while a quad Lutz (requiring an additional rotation in the air) starts at 11.50 points.
Judges add or subtract points based on the element’s Grade of Execution (GOE) – how well it has been performed – ranging from -5 to +5.
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.
Singles Skating Competition Format
Singles skating competitions consist of two segments:
Short Program: A routine lasting 2 minutes and 40 seconds, where skaters must complete specific required elements. The short program tests a skater's precision, consistency, and ability to meet strict requirements within a limited timeframe.
The short program is designed to highlight a skater’s technical proficiency and composure under pressure, as even minor errors can significantly impact the overall score. At most major competitions, skaters must rank highly enough in the short program to qualify for the second program - the free skate.
2. Free Skate: A longer routine lasting 4 minutes that allows skaters to showcase a greater variety of skills and their endurance.
In the free skate, skaters are encouraged to push the boundaries of their technical and artistic abilities. Successful execution of difficult elements, such as quad jumps or intricate step sequences, can make a significant difference in their overall score. Conversely, errors such as under-rotated jumps or falls can carry heavy deductions, emphasising the importance of consistency and precision.
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!
Who to Watch at the 2025 European Championships
Key names to watch out for in the Singles categories at this year’s European Championships:
Edward Appleby (Great Britain): A rising star in British men’s singles, Edward Appleby brings athleticism and precision to the ice. As the reigning British men’s champion, Appleby achieved the qualifying scores for the World Championships at the Golden Spin of Zagreb. He aims to build on his recent success and challenge Europe’s elite in Tallinn. Watch Ed’s 2024 Short Program HERE:
Kristen Spours (Great Britain): Representing Great Britain in women’s singles, Kristen Spours has had a standout season. With fourteen senior international medals to her name, Spours recently won gold at the 2024 British Championships and silver at the Sofia Trophy in January 2025. Known for her intricate footwork and dynamic spins, she is a strong contender to make an impact in Tallinn. You can watch Kristen’s British Championship winning Free Skate HERE:
Adam Siao Him Fa (France): The men’s singles champion dazzled audiences with his technical precision and artistic expression. Skating to the soundtrack of The Leftovers, he overcame early challenges in his free skate to achieve the highest score of the day. Known for his consistency and innovative routines, Adam will be a strong contender for back-to-back titles. You can watch his outstanding Free Skate from 2024 HERE.
Loena Hendrickx (Belgium): Hendrickx captured gold at last year’s European Championships with a program set to "Break My Soul" by Beyoncé and Madonna. Her free skate highlighted her exceptional edge quality and emotional connection to the music, securing her victory. A two-time world medallist, Loena continues to raise the bar for artistic and technical excellence. Check out Loena’s captivating Short Program from 2024 HERE.
Why Watch Singles Skating?
At the 2025 European Championships in Tallinn, the singles events promise 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 outlined on this page, you can better 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 on the BBC - find out more here!
Alternatively you can watch via the ISU's Youtube Channel.
Women’s Singles Short Program: 29th January from 11:00 (GMT)
Women’s Singles Free Program: 31st January from 16:00 (GMT)
Men’s Singles Short Program: 30th January from 11:10 (GMT)
Men’s Singles Free Program: 1st February from 16:00 (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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