Section 3: Playing Area
3.1 Ice Rink Dimensions
Competitions are held on regulation ice rinks conforming to ISU specifications:
- Ice surface: 56–60 m × 26–30 m (184–197 ft × 85–98 ft).
- Preferred Olympic/ISU Championship size: 60 m × 30 m (197 ft × 98 ft).
- Corner radius: 7–8.5 m (23–28 ft), producing rounded corners.
- Board height: Approximately 1.17–1.22 m (3.8–4.0 ft) above the ice surface. Boards must be padded at the top edge.
3.2 Ice Conditions
- Ice temperature: Maintained at -3°C to -5°C (23°F to 27°F). Slightly harder ice is preferred for figure skating to provide better grip for edge work and jump landings.
- Ice thickness: Approximately 3–5 cm (1.2–2 in) of quality ice over the refrigerated slab.
- Resurfacing: The ice is resurfaced with a Zamboni (ice resurfacer) between warm-up groups and between the Short Program/Rhythm Dance and Free Skating/Free Dance segments. The ISU may order additional resurfacings if ice quality deteriorates during competition.
3.3 Venue Requirements
- The rink must have adequate lighting (minimum 1400 lux for televised events) distributed evenly across the ice surface.
- A dedicated Kiss and Cry area adjacent to the ice where skaters and coaches await scores.
- Separate warm-up area or practice rink recommended for ISU Championships and Olympic events.
- The Technical Panel and Judges sit on opposite sides of the rink for independent assessment.