And, why do we have them?
😈 Coming Thursday, September 29, 2022:
What are they?
Figure circles are sets of three distinct circles, each measuring 6 meters in Diameter. US: 19 feet, 8.25 inches.
Why do we have them?
Figure circles are a staple in most rinks across the US and the world. They're used to teach people to skate, so in classes and with competitors alike. Learn more about the sport side of figures below. Or, watch an example:
SPORT
In figures, skaters trace figure circles painted on the surface of the floor.
Judges in figure events consider the quality of the skater's tracing of the circle, clean takeoffs, edges, and correct placement of turns. The skater's form and posture is emphasized as well.
This is different from compulsory figures on ice, who skate on blank ice and draw their own circles, leaving tracings on the ice as they skate. The official dimension of plain figure circles, measured at their diameter is 6 meters (19 feet, 8+1⁄4 inches). The official dimension of smaller loop figure circles measures 2.4 meters (7 feet, 10+1⁄2 inches). Circles are typically painted in "serpentines"—sets of three circular lobes.
The basic figures skated are typically referred to by numbers, the same as those skated by ice skaters, ranging from simple circle eights through serpentines (figures using one push for a circle and a half), paragraphs (figures using one push for two circles), and loops (smaller circles with a teardrop-shaped loop skated at the top of the circle). There is one category of simple figures (111 and 112) that are unique to roller skaters; these are serpentines that begin with a half circle skated on one foot, then change to the other foot, for the next circle, then change back to the other foot for another half circle.
Some of the more basic figures are numbered 1, 2, 1B, 5A, 5B, 7A, 7B, 111A, 111B, 112A, and 112B, in which the letter B designates starting on the left foot. These figures are often taught as beginning figures for those just starting. They include simple circle eights, circle eights with three turns, and serpentines. More difficult figures include the use of turns like counters, brackets, and rockers, and they are numbered 19, 21, 22, 26, etc.
Judges in figure events consider the quality of the skater's tracing of the circle, clean takeoffs, edges, and correct placement of turns. The skater's form and posture is emphasized as well.
Learn more figures with USA Roller Sports and see example videos of both figures and loops below:
