Track and skating direction
ISU · 2026The standard short-track oval measures 111.12 m inside an enclosed rink of at least 60 by 30 m. Skaters race counter-clockwise, keeping the inside of the track on their left. Unlike lane racing, competitors share the racing space after the start and must pass opponents safely.
The rule
The standard short-track oval measures 111.12 m inside an enclosed rink of at least 60 by 30 m. Skaters race counter-clockwise, keeping the inside of the track on their left. Unlike lane racing, competitors share the racing space after the start and must pass opponents safely.
In practice
Approved blocks mark the bends, with 7 blocks in each curve. Shifted track layouts help preserve the ice while retaining a common finish line. Protective padding surrounds the ice. The track markings and safety barriers are essential parts of the competition setup, not optional decorations.
Sources & approach ↗