How to Read and Use These Examples
SkatingStorage combines source-attributed results with original explanation so the data can be checked, interpreted, and used in the correct rules context.
What a Key Point Actually Identifies
A Pattern Dance key point identifies specific steps and criteria that the technical panel evaluates inside a named dance or Pattern Dance Element. The table can specify feet, edges, turns, placement, and timing for one or both partners. It is narrower than the whole pattern: receiving credit for a key point does not erase a mistake elsewhere, and missing one key point does not describe every quality of the performance. The exact current table, not a generic checklist, determines what must be shown.
Key Points, Levels, and GOE Are Separate Layers
Key-point credit contributes to the technical identification of the Pattern Dance Element under the applicable level table. GOE is a later judging assessment of how the element was executed. A visually confident section can therefore lose technical credit for a required edge, turn, foot placement, or timing detail, while a technically credited section can still receive modest GOE. Keeping these layers separate makes protocol study more useful: first identify the call and key-point result, then examine the judges' marks and the video.
How to Study One Key Point
Start with the current chart and key-point table. Write down the named steps for each partner, the required foot and edge, the turn or movement, and the musical count. In the video, begin several steps early so the entry edge is visible. Watch one partner at a time, then watch both together for timing and hold. Replay at normal speed after slow study so the pattern's flow is not lost. Use the protocol to see what the panel credited; do not try to reverse-engineer an official call from camera footage alone.
Why Season and Category Matter
Pattern Dance assignments and key-point tables can change with the season and category. A full Golden Waltz chart, the 2026/27 Senior Golden Waltz section, and a Solo Pattern Dance requirement are related resources but not interchangeable instructions. The active communication defines which section is used, where it starts and ends, the tempo, holds, tracking, and the current key points. Archive clips remain valuable examples, but their historical calls should not be assumed to use today's table without checking the source date.
Limits of Video-Based Review
Broadcast video can hide the blade, flatten the apparent edge, or place one partner behind the other. Music may also be out of sync in an uploaded replay. Those limitations are why SkatingStorage treats timestamps as study references and keeps official calls attributed to the protocol. Use several angles or performances when possible, and describe only what the evidence supports. For competition decisions, rely on the current official chart, communication, and qualified coaching rather than a visual impression from one clip.
Primary Rules Sources
Current planning should use the latest official documents. The archive cards retain the calls and scores published for their original events.
Pattern Dances to Study
International
Finnstep
A modern quickstep-based dance with quick timing, character steps, and recognizable sections from Rahkamo and Kokko's competitive choreography.
- Rhythm
- Quickstep 2/4
- Tempo
- 52 measures of 2 beats per minute; 104 beats per minute
- Pattern
- Optional
International
Golden Waltz
A famous advanced waltz with dense turns, sustained speed, and highly exposed partner rotation.
- Rhythm
- Viennese Waltz 3/4
- Tempo
- 62 measures of 3 beats per minute
- Pattern
- Optional
International
Midnight Blues
A deep, slow international blues with mature edge pressure, close control, and difficult character phrasing.
- Rhythm
- Blues 4/4
- Tempo
- 22 measures of 4 beats per minute; 88 beats per minute
- Pattern
- Optional
International
Ravensburger Waltz
A fast, intricate waltz that tests quick partner rotation, lightness, and precise step placement.
- Rhythm
- Waltz 3/4
- Tempo
- 66 measures of 3 beats per minute; 198 beats per minute
- Pattern
- Optional
International
Tango Romantica
A romantic international tango with complex holds, deep edges, and dramatic phrasing.
- Rhythm
- Tango 4/4
- Tempo
- 28 measures of 4 beats per minute; 112 beats per minute
- Pattern
- Optional
International
Yankee Polka
A high-energy polka requiring short precise steps, quick turns, bounce, and fearless unison.
- Rhythm
- Polka 2/4
- Tempo
- 60 measures of 2 beats per minute; 120 beats per minute
- Pattern
- Optional