Figure skating (come) a long way since its beginning. Back in the 18th century in the UK, the sport was popular among the people in the highest social class. (gradual), more skating enthusiasts from Germany, the United States and Canada (follow) suit. In the 1860s, Jackson Haines, US ballet dancer and skater, used more artistic moves to make the sport less formal, earning him the title of "the father of modern figure skating".
Skaters wearing eye-catching trousers, tights or skirts perform (vary) movements. Skaters can compete individuals, pairs or groups. Skaters need to complete two components; short program and free skate.
Figure skating requires the athletes to focus on both technical and performance (aspect) of skating. "A really good skater needs to be able to look effortless when they perform their elements. Without (strong), courage and years of practice, it's really hard (achieve) that goal and make an emotional connection with audience. " Olympic gold medalist and US retired skater Scott Hamilton told CNN. "And that's I liked about it. "
