What Are Moves in the Field in Figure Skating (2026) Guide

Moves in the Field are structured skill tests in figure skating that evaluate a skater’s edge control, power, and technique through specific patterns of turns, steps, and edge movements. These tests replaced the traditional compulsory figures system after it was abolished in 1990 and now serve as the foundation for all competitive figure skating in the United States. Every skater who wants to compete must progress through eight standard test levels, from Pre-Preliminary through Senior, demonstrating mastery of increasingly complex skills.

If you are a parent watching your child skate for the first time or a beginner trying to understand the testing structure, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Moves in the Field (MITF). We will cover the test levels, specific moves you will encounter, typical progression timelines, and why this system matters for developing strong skating fundamentals.

What Are Moves in the Field: Definition and Purpose?

Moves in the Field, often abbreviated as MITF, are a set of standardized tests administered by US Figure Skating that require skaters to perform specific patterns on the ice. These patterns demonstrate mastery of turns, edges, steps, and other fundamental skating skills. Unlike freestyle skating where creativity and performance matter, MITF focuses on technical precision, edge quality, and proper form.

The name itself tells you what is being tested: “moves” refers to the technical elements like turns and steps, while “in the field” describes the patterns skated across the ice surface. Each test level introduces new skills while building on the foundations established in previous levels. This creates a progressive learning structure that ensures skaters develop strong fundamentals before advancing to more complex elements.

The History: From Compulsory Figures to MITF

Before 2026, figure skating competition included compulsory figures, which required skaters to trace precise patterns on clean ice using just their blade edges. The International Skating Union abolished compulsory figures from international competition in 1990, recognizing that they were time-consuming to practice and difficult for audiences to appreciate.

US Figure Skating developed Moves in the Field to preserve the technical foundation that compulsory figures provided while creating a more practical testing system. MITF tests still teach the edge control, body alignment, and blade technique that made compulsory figures valuable, but in patterns that translate more directly to free skating and competitive programs. This evolution kept the technical rigor while making the sport more accessible.

Why MITF Matters for Skaters

Working through the MITF test structure builds the foundational skills necessary for jumps, spins, and advanced freestyle elements. Strong edge control developed through MITF patterns directly translates to better jump takeoffs and landings. Proper carriage and posture practiced in moves improve a skater’s overall presentation and help prevent injuries.

Beyond the technical benefits, the MITF structure provides clear goals and measurable progress markers. From what I have seen in skating communities, having specific test dates to work toward keeps skaters motivated and focused. The structured progression also helps coaches identify areas where a skater needs additional work before advancing to more challenging skills.

How to Progress Through the 8 Test Levels of Moves in the Field In 2026?

The standard Moves in the Field tests are divided into eight classes that progress from basic fundamentals to elite-level skills. Each level must be passed before a skater can test at the next level or compete at the corresponding competition level. Understanding what each test emphasizes helps skaters and parents set realistic expectations for progression.

Pre-Preliminary Moves in the Field

The Pre-Preliminary test is the entry point for new figure skaters, typically completed within the first year of training. This level focuses on basic forward skating skills including forward perimeter stroking, basic consecutive edges, forward crossovers, and a simple half-circle pattern. The emphasis is on developing proper posture, basic edge control, and consistent speed.

Skaters at this level are learning how their body position affects their blade’s interaction with the ice. Coaches look for straight back, engaged core, and quiet arms. The patterns are simple enough that skaters can focus on quality rather than complexity, building habits that will serve them through higher test levels.

Preliminary Moves in the Field

The Preliminary test introduces backward skating fundamentals and basic turns. Key elements include backward perimeter stroking, backward crossovers, forward three-turns in both directions, and a waltz eight pattern. This level begins teaching skaters to transition between forward and backward skating smoothly.

Many skaters find the waltz eight pattern particularly valuable as it introduces the continuous flow that defines higher-level skating. The pattern requires a full circle on each foot with a three-turn at the top, teaching edge control through the entire rotation. Success at this level indicates a skater is ready for more complex turn combinations.

Pre-Juvenile Moves in the Field

The Pre-Juvenile test marks a significant step up in difficulty with the introduction of mohawks and power three-turns. Skaters must demonstrate forward outside and inside three-turns with power, a forward perimeter power stroking sequence, and a basic mohawk sequence. Edge quality becomes more important at this level, with judges looking for clean turns without scraping or hesitation.

This is often the first test where skaters experience real challenge, as the power elements require both strength and technique. The mohawk sequence introduces the concept of matching feet, where the skater transitions from one foot to another while maintaining flow and direction. Many coaches describe this level as the bridge between beginner and intermediate skating.

Juvenile Moves in the Field

The Juvenile test includes power crossovers, spiral sequences, and the first introduction to bracket turns. Skaters demonstrate forward and backward power crossovers around the ends of the rink, a spiral sequence showing extension and edge control, and alternating forward outside and inside brackets. The spiral sequence particularly tests flexibility and balance.

According to forum discussions among skating parents, this level marks where practice time needs to increase significantly. The bracket turns require precise blade placement and quick rotation, skills that develop only through consistent repetition. Skaters who pass Juvenile MITF have established themselves as committed to figure skating training.

Intermediate Moves in the Field

The Intermediate test introduces rocker and counter turns, plus more complex step sequences. Key elements include forward outside and inside rockers, forward outside counters, a swing roll sequence, and a consecutive edge sequence demonstrating continuous flow. This level requires better understanding of turn mechanics and body rotation.

From community discussions, many skaters find Intermediate to be their first major plateau. The rocker and counter turns require the upper body to rotate against the lower body in ways that feel unnatural at first. Skaters often spend several months at this level developing the quickness and control needed for these advanced turns.

Novice Moves in the Field

The Novice test includes choctaws, twizzles, and more complex combinations. Skaters must demonstrate forward inside and outside choctaws, a forward outside three-turn mohawk sequence, and a forward and backward swing roll sequence with quick changes of edge. The choctaw, which changes from one edge to the opposite edge on a different foot, is particularly challenging.

Novice MITF causes significant anxiety for many skaters based on forum discussions. The test represents the transition from intermediate to advanced skating, with skills that require years of practice to master. Skaters passing Novice MITF are typically training multiple days per week and working seriously toward competitive goals.

Junior Moves in the Field

The Junior test features advanced turns and sequences including backward choctaws, backward twizzles, and complex step sequences. This level demands consistent edge quality throughout extended patterns, with no room for errors in carriage or flow. The twizzle, a traveling turn on one foot, requires exceptional balance and edge control.

Junior level skaters are typically competing at high levels and using MITF skills directly in their programs. The turns practiced in these tests appear in competitive step sequences and transitions between elements. Passing Junior MITF indicates a skater has developed elite-level technical foundations.

Senior Moves in the Field

The Senior test is the final level, featuring the most complex patterns and highest technical standards. Elements include advanced bracket sequences, multiple twizzle combinations, and complex step sequences with directional changes. The patterns require sustained power, perfect carriage, and seamless flow from element to element.

Average time to complete all MITF tests from Pre-Preliminary through Senior is approximately six years according to community reports. Senior-level skaters have developed the complete technical foundation needed for elite competition. Many skaters testing Senior have been training seriously for eight or more years.

Adult Moves in the Field Track

US Figure Skating offers an Adult track for skaters age 21 and older, with six test levels: Pre-Bronze, Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Masters Intermediate/Advanced. These tests cover similar skills to the standard track but with some modifications for adult skaters. Many adult skaters appreciate the structure MITF provides for their training.

The Adult track recognizes that adult learners often have different training schedules and physical considerations than young skaters. Patterns may have slight variations to accommodate adult flexibility ranges. The progression still builds technical skills systematically while respecting that many adult skaters train recreationally rather than competitively.

Key Elements and Specific Moves in the Field

Understanding the specific elements tested at each level helps skaters focus their practice effectively. The core MITF skills fall into several categories: edges, turns, steps, and extended moves. Each category builds on previous skills while introducing new challenges.

Edges and Edge Quality

Every MITF test evaluates edge control, which refers to how cleanly a skater rides on either the inside or outside edge of their blade. Inside edges curve toward the center of the skater’s body, while outside edges curve away. Quality edges show no scraping, maintain consistent depth, and create smooth arcs.

Basic consecutive edges, tested from Pre-Preliminary through Senior levels, require the skater to alternate between inside and outside edges while maintaining flow and carriage. Judges look for even rhythm, consistent depth on both edge types, and proper body alignment throughout. Strong edge quality distinguishes passed tests from retakes.

Three-Turns and Turn Variations

The three-turn is a fundamental turn where the blade changes from one edge to the opposite edge while rotating in the direction of travel. Forward outside three-turns and forward inside three-turns appear from Preliminary level onward. Power three-turns, introduced at Pre-Juvenile, add acceleration requirements to the basic turn mechanics.

Double three-turns appear at higher levels, requiring two consecutive three-turns on the same foot with only a brief weight change between them. This element tests a skater’s ability to maintain edge control through multiple rotations while sustaining flow across the ice.

Mohawks, Choctaws, and Footwork

Mohawks are turns that change feet while maintaining the same edge type and direction of travel. A forward inside mohawk changes to a backward inside edge on the opposite foot, continuing the same curve. These turns appear from Pre-Juvenile through Senior tests in increasingly complex combinations.

Choctaws, introduced at Novice level, are more complex turns that change edge, foot, and sometimes direction simultaneously. The choctaw requires precise timing and blade placement to execute cleanly. These turns form the foundation for advanced step sequences used in competitive programs.

Brackets, Rockers, and Counters

These three turn types all involve rotation against the direction of travel, making them more challenging than three-turns. Brackets rotate away from the circle, while rockers and counters involve more complex rotation patterns. Brackets appear at Juvenile level, with rockers and counters following at Intermediate.

Each turn type has specific entry and exit edges that must be maintained for the turn to be correct. These turns require quick upper body rotation while the lower body maintains a steady arc on the ice. Mastery of these turns indicates advanced technical development.

Spirals and Extended Positions

Spiral sequences test flexibility, balance, and extension while gliding on one foot. The free leg extends behind the body, typically held at hip height or above, while the skating leg maintains a clean edge. These elements appear from Juvenile level onward with increasing duration and position requirements.

Other extended positions include spread eagles, where both feet glide on opposite edges with the heels facing each other, and Ina Bauers, where the skater leans backward between two outside edges. These moves showcase a skater’s flexibility and edge control while creating visually striking lines.

Twizzles and Rotational Elements

Twizzles are traveling turns on one foot where the body rotates continuously while the skate travels in a straight line or curve. These elements appear at Novice through Senior levels and require exceptional balance and quick rotation. Multiple twizzles in sequence test a skater’s ability to maintain control through sustained rotation.

The twizzle differs from a stationary spin because the blade continues traveling across the ice throughout the rotation. This makes it particularly challenging for edge control, as any loss of balance sends the skater off their intended path immediately.

How Long Does It Take to Progress Through MITF Levels?

Understanding realistic timelines helps skaters and parents set appropriate expectations. Progression through MITF tests varies significantly based on practice time, coaching quality, natural aptitude, and whether the skater competes. US Figure Skating provides general guidelines, but individual experiences vary widely.

Typical Progression Timelines

According to skating community discussions, USFS estimates 3-6 months per test for full-time skaters training multiple days per week. Recreational skaters practicing once or twice weekly typically take 1 year per test on average. These timelines assume consistent practice and regular coaching.

The earliest levels (Pre-Preliminary and Preliminary) can often be completed within 3-4 months each for dedicated beginners. The middle levels (Pre-Juvenile through Intermediate) typically require 6-12 months each as skills become more complex. Advanced levels (Novice through Senior) often take 1-2 years each due to the technical demands.

Total Time to Complete All Tests

Average time to pass all MITF tests from first stepping on ice through Senior is approximately 6 years for serious competitive skaters. This assumes consistent training, good coaching, and natural skating aptitude. Some elite skaters progress faster, while recreational skaters may take 8-10 years or more.

Forum discussions reveal that many skaters plateau at Intermediate or Novice levels, spending months or even years working to pass these tests. The technical demands at these levels require physical development and practice habits that take time to establish. Persistence through these plateaus separates skaters who eventually reach Senior from those who stop testing.

Competition Qualification Requirements

MITF tests serve as prerequisites for competition levels. To compete at Preliminary level, a skater must have passed Preliminary MITF. Similarly, Juvenile competition requires Juvenile MITF, and so on through Senior. This ensures skaters have appropriate technical foundations before competing.

Some skaters test multiple levels ahead of their current competition level to open up more event options. Others focus on passing tests that correspond to their competitive goals. Working with a coach to plan test dates around competition schedules helps maximize both testing success and competitive readiness.

Training Tips for Moves in the Field Success (2026)

Based on forum insights and coaching recommendations, several strategies help skaters progress through MITF tests efficiently. Understanding common challenges and effective practice approaches can reduce frustration and speed up progression.

Focus on Quality Over Quantity

Many skaters make the mistake of practicing patterns repeatedly without focusing on specific technique points. Each MITF pattern has specific focus areas judges evaluate, such as edge quality, carriage, extension, and flow. Practicing with attention to one element at a time builds better habits than mindless repetition.

Video analysis helps identify specific technical issues. Recording practice sessions allows skaters to see their carriage, compare their edges to requirements, and track improvement over time. Many coaches recommend regular video review for skaters at Intermediate level and above.

Build Strength and Flexibility Off-Ice

Moves in the Field require physical capabilities that develop faster with targeted off-ice training. Core strength supports proper carriage through patterns. Hip flexibility enables better spiral positions. Ankle strength improves edge control and quick turns.

Skaters testing Intermediate and above should consider regular off-ice conditioning specifically supporting their MITF work. Pilates, ballet, and targeted strength training all complement on-ice practice. Physical development often determines when a skater is ready to pass higher tests.

Understand Common Failure Points

Each test level has common reasons for failure that coaches see repeatedly. At lower levels, poor posture and incomplete edges cause most failures. At Intermediate and above, turn technique and flow between elements become the primary challenges. Knowing what judges look for helps focus practice effectively.

Judges evaluate carriage throughout every pattern, not just during specific elements. A momentary breakdown in posture can lower the score even if turns are technically correct. Sustained attention to form separates passing tests from those requiring retake.

Frequently Asked Questions About Moves in the Field

Conclusion: What Are Moves in the Field in Figure Skating

Moves in the Field provide the technical foundation that makes all advanced figure skating possible. Through eight progressive test levels, skaters develop edge control, power, carriage, and the turn vocabulary needed for freestyle and competitive programs. The system preserves the technical rigor of traditional compulsory figures while offering practical patterns that translate directly to modern skating.

For parents supporting young skaters or adults beginning their own skating journey, understanding the MITF structure helps set realistic expectations and celebrate meaningful progress. Each test passed represents genuine skill development that will serve the skater throughout their skating career. Whether your goal is recreational enjoyment or competitive success, the discipline and technique built through Moves in the Field will elevate your skating to new levels.

If you are just beginning your MITF journey, start with a qualified coach who can guide you through the Pre-Preliminary and Preliminary levels with proper technique. For those facing the Intermediate or Novice plateaus that challenge so many skaters, remember that persistence and targeted practice eventually lead to success. The skills you develop through Moves in the Field will reward your efforts for years to come.