What happens when a skater attains a fm position and then loses it?

When a skater attains a fm position, which refers to a specific formation or move in synchronized skating, and subsequently loses it, the judges evaluate this occurrence as an error. Losing the fm position affects the technical execution and consistency of the performance, which is a critical aspect in the scoring of synchronized skating routines.

When this error is identified, it typically results in a downgrade, as it demonstrates a lack of control or stability in maintaining the position. This is significant because it impacts the overall assessment of the routine's quality and the team's ability to execute elements as required. Such deductions are systematically applied in scoring to maintain fairness and uphold the high standards expected in competitive synchronized skating. The recognition of this error ensures that the performance is critiqued accurately, reflecting the skater's technical abilities and execution standards.