Synchronized skating, or “synchro,” is a dynamic team discipline where groups of eight or more skaters move as one, executing beautifully fluid circles, blocks, lines, wheels and intersections to music. Open to all ages and skill levels, it celebrates unity and teamwork on and off the ice. The highest level of competition is the World Synchronized Skating Championships.
Synchronized skating features multiple levels, beginning with Aussie Skate™ Synchronized levels, where mini teams of four to twelve skaters develop foundational skills. Competitive levels progress through Novice, Junior, Senior, and Adult categories. Levels progress through Novice, Junior, Senior, and Adult categories. At the highest levels, Junior and Senior teams must perform both a short program and a free skate. While both programs are judged on technical difficulty, synchronization, execution, and artistic performance, the short program emphasizes technical precision, whereas the free skate allows for greater artistic expression, emotion, and interpretation.
The International Skating Union (ISU) publishes annual communications outlining the required elements for teams, along with the point values and criteria for technical elements. Additionally, the ISU provides regularly updated guidelines for technical panels and judges, as well as the Guidelines for Grades of Execution (GOE), which detail how elements are scored based on quality.
This complex discipline originated in 1956 and was initially called “precision skating” due to its emphasis on the maintenance of intricate and precise formations and the requirement of precise timing from all members of the group.
Synchronized Skating uses the same judging system as singles, pairs, and ice dancing skating and is judged primarily on skating skills, transitions, performance, composition, interpretation and difficulty of elements.
3 Steps to Synchronized Skating
Learn to Skate
To pursue Synchronized Skating, the first step is to learn the fundamental skills of ice skating. Learn to Skate at Iceworld™, enjoying access to our APSA Qualified Coaches and enjoy learning alongside your peers in small group lessons. After completing Test 5-6 level, you can enroll in Aussie Skate™ Synchronized 1 and learn how to apply your skating skills alongside future teammates!
Learn more about Aussie Skate™ Lessons at Iceworld™ here.
Aussie Skate™ Competition
Aussie Skate™ Competitions provide a low-pressure introduction to competitive Figure Skating and Synchronized Skating. These Competitions offer small teams that are enrolled in Aussie Skate™ Synchronized 1-4 the opportunity to show-off their skills and manoeuvres.
Learn more about Aussie Skate™ Competitions here.
Join a Club
Queensland is home to two of Australia’s top Synchronized Skating Clubs. Based at Iceworld™ Acacia Ridge and Iceworld™ Boondall respectively, QSIC and BSISC offer programs for both youth and adults. The domestic competitive season runs from September through to December, making the early months of the year the ideal time to inquire about competitive teams. However, Aussie Skate™ Synch programs and training squads accept new members year-round, so feel free to reach out and explore joining one of these top clubs.
Scroll down to learn more & Clubs’ contact details.
Synchronized Skating at Acacia Ridge
Founded in September 1983, the Queensland Synchronized Ice Skating Club (QSIC) is Australia’s longest-running synchronized skating club. Based at Iceworld™ Acacia Ridge, we are proud to have sent teams to every National Championships since synchronized skating was introduced to the Australian Figure Skating Championships in 1984. Throughout our rich history, our teams have consistently brought home medals, demonstrating the dedication and skill of our athletes. A standout achievement is our Advanced Novice team, known as the Iceskateers, who have competed in every national Championship, winning 25 gold, 7 silver, and 1 bronze medals over 33 years.
In 2000, QSIC’s Senior team qualified to represent Australia at the inaugural World Synchronized Skating Championships. This historic achievement highlights the legacy of excellence our club has brought to the sport in Australia. In recent years, QSIC teams have continued to represent Australia at numerous international Championships and Challenger Series events in both Junior and Senior divisions, as well as several World Junior Synchronized Championships.
At QSIC, we are dedicated to nurturing talent, fostering teamwork, and upholding our legacy of success on both national and international stages. We prioritize fun, team spirit, and high-quality ice skating, all while promoting character development through sport. Our athletes gain valuable life skills and core values that will positively shape their personal growth, both on and off the ice.
Sign up!
If you’re wanting to embrace synchronized skating and join Queensland Synchronized Iceskating Club, contact the club directly to learn more. If you’re ready to get on the ice, register online here for two come’n’try sessions for free!
Get Connected!
Synchronized Skating at Boondall
Established in the 1990s, Boondall Synchronized Ice Skating Club (BSISC) has developed from one adult team to a range of teams from beginner to competitive level.
At the heart of our club is the Aussie Skate™ program, designed to introduce newcomers to the joys of synchronized skating in a fun and supportive environment.
As skaters progress, they have the opportunity to join one of our competitive teams which have proudly represented our club on both national and international stages. These teams train rigorously, honing their skills and perfecting intricate programs that showcase teamwork, artistry, and athleticism.
We believe that every individual, regardless of their skating skills, should feel like part of our family. We celebrate diversity and encourage participation from all corners of the community. Our club is a place where friendships are formed, skills are developed and passion for the sport is ignited.
Sign up!
If you’re wanting to embrace synchronized skating and join Boondall Synchronized Ice Skating Club, visit their Membership page and complete the online form. Or contact BSISC and ask about trying out for first two sessions for free!