Choreography: Turning Elements Into Art
Choreography & Program Requirements: Building a Competition-Ready Figure Skating Program
As skaters prepare for the upcoming competition season, successful programs are built step by step. After season planning and music selection, the next critical piece is choreography; specifically, choreography that meets program requirements for the skater’s competitive level and also connects those required elements to the music in a way that enhances flow, expression, and overall performance quality.
At Skate VIDA, we work with skaters throughout Austin and Central Texas to design programs that are not only creative and expressive, but also strategically structured to meet U.S. Figure Skating requirements and maximize performance potential.
Why Program Requirements Matter
Every track in figure skating—whether Compete USA, Aspire, Excel, Adult, or Qualifying—has specific required elements and expectations. Choreography must be intentionally built around these requirements to:
Ensure programs are valid and rule-compliant
Avoid missed elements or costly deductions
Highlight a skater’s strengths within the rules of their level
Strong choreography balances technical content with performance quality, making the program both effective and enjoyable to watch.
What Choreography Really Includes
Choreography is more than placing jumps and spins in a program. A well-designed program includes:
Strategic placement of required elements
Transitions and connecting steps
Use of ice coverage and pattern
Musical interpretation and phrasing
Choreographic details that enhance performance and flow
Programs should feel intentional from start to finish—not rushed, cluttered, or empty.
Understanding Program Requirements by Track
Because requirements vary by competitive pathway, it’s important for skaters and families to understand what applies to their level.
Compete USA and Aspire
These programs are developmental competition tracks designed to encourage participation, confidence, and skill-building for skaters at all ages and levels. These pathways provide a welcoming introduction to competing, with accessible requirements that support growth and a positive first competition experience.
👉 COMPETE USA (BASIC 1-6) PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS
EXCEL
The Excel Series provides a flexible competitive option that emphasizes growth and participation, allowing skaters to progress while balancing training, school, and other commitments. Program requirements are adaptable, making Excel an accessible pathway for continued development and enjoyment of the sport.
CHAMPIONSHIP TRACK
The Championship Track is a structured, qualifying pathway with defined well-balanced requirements for skaters pursuing higher-level competition. This track emphasizes technical precision, performance quality, and long-term development toward sectional, national, and elite-level events.
👉 CHAMPIONSHIP TRACK SHORT PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS
👉 CHAMPIONSHIP TRACK FREE SKATE (LONG PROGRAM) REQUIREMENTS
Adult Skating
Adult skating programs are designed to support skaters who begin skating later in life or return to the sport, emphasizing artistry, skating skills, and personal achievement. These events offer flexibility and a supportive competitive environment focused on growth and enjoyment.
👉 ADULT 1-6 PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS
👉 ADULT BEGINNER-BRONZE PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS
👉 ADULT WELL-BALANCED PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS
When to Start Choreography
Choreography should begin early in the season, once music is finalized. Starting early allows time to:
Adjust layouts if requirements change
Build endurance and consistency
Refine transitions and performance quality
Practice programs repeatedly before competition
Early choreography leads to calmer, more confident competition experiences. However, choreography is an iterative process and your program will likely grow and evolve with you throughout the season. It is very common to continually revisit and revamp program choreography during the competition season.
How Skate VIDA Supports Program Development
At Skate VIDA, choreography is a collaborative process. Coaches work closely with skaters to:
Design programs that meet requirements
Highlight individual strengths
Align choreography with long-term skating goals
Whether a skater is preparing for their first Compete USA event or a qualifying competition, our coaching team supports thoughtful, strategic program development across Austin and Central Texas.
👉 Explore Skate VIDA’s Coaching Team
If you’re getting ready for the upcoming season and have questions about choreography, requirements, or program readiness, we’re here to help every step of the way!