What are the different figure skating levels?

When you start figure skating, you usually begin with a beginner course that is appropriate for your age group, whether for children, teenagers, or adults. In these classes, the basic skills are taught, such as balance, first steps on the ice, and simple movement patterns. The goal is to build a solid foundation for further development.

After completing this basic course, skaters enter the club’s internal test system. This system can vary from club to club. In our case, it consisted of a star system ranging from one to four stars. For each of these tests, specific elements such as step sequences, jumps, and spins must be learned and demonstrated. These tests are organized by the club itself and mainly serve as preparation for the next levels.

The next step is the Inter-Bronze test, which represents the first official stage in the national test system. This test is based on the guidelines of Swiss Ice Skating and is recognized nationwide. Although it is often organized by the skater’s club, standardized rules apply and official judges must be present. Skaters perform various technical elements that are evaluated according to fixed criteria.

After successfully passing Inter-Bronze and Bronze, further tests follow, which have a special role. Unlike the previous levels, these can no longer be completed in a separate test session, but only during competitions. This means that the required elements must be performed under real competitive conditions. There is no alternative way to complete these levels.