The starting procedure
ISU · 2026In individual paired races, the skater starting inside wears a white armband and the skater starting outside a red one. Competitors must report in the correct lane with the correct identification. On “Go to the start”, they move into position behind the starting line and become stable before the next command.
The rule
In individual paired races, the skater starting inside wears a white armband and the skater starting outside a red one. Competitors must report in the correct lane with the correct identification. On “Go to the start”, they move into position behind the starting line and become stable before the next command.
In practice
After “Ready”, competitors take their starting position and remain completely still until the shot. Neither body nor equipment may touch the starting line or the ice beyond it, and the skates must remain entirely behind the line. Starting is controlled by the starter, not by an anticipated rhythm or the opponent’s movement.
Sources & approach ↗