There are four events in Olympic figure skating: ladies and men's singles, pairs and ice dancing.
The singles comprises of two disciplines.
The short programme must include eight required elements in any sequence to music selected by the skater.
The free skate gives the competitor the opportunity to express their individual style and highlight their strengths. There are a few restrictions on jumps and spins.
In pairs skating, skaters compete side-by-side in unison and perform several combined elements such as lifts. It also includes a short programme with eight required elements and a longer free skate with a few restrictions.
The ice dancing consists of two compulsory dances, an original dance and a free dance.
Ice dancing is very different from pairs skating. Couples face more restrictions on what they can perform and must master prescribed movements.
