These are very important points. In figure skating, the increase in difficulty is constant and also blamed for injuries (Rika for instance). There is very little way to minimize hard landings is there? Biggest skills : they are necessary almost all the time... though some will keep a 3a only for the LP or in specific competition. I recall Kaetlyn Osmond only performing her full layback positions with Bielmann at certain important competitions. And yup, this is why we have seem in some countries, a bit older skaters, because they are not easily replaced. Look at Loena, she could skate for quite a while and not be threaten in her country (though Nina is coming up stronger and stronger). But in Russia, Japan and Korea, you gotta remain relevant. Thanks for sharing these from gymnastics.I actually don't think it's the age limit in gymnastics that has led to longer careers because the age limit has been the same since 1997. The only difference is that those who turn 15 in the pre-Olympic year are no longer allowed to compete as seniors in the pre-Olympic year even though they're eligible to compete in the Olympics the next year when they turn 16. I think in many countries the pool of athletes who makes it to the elite level is relatively small, so there aren't as many up-and-comers who make a splash. I also think training methods have improved, like minimizing hard landings. Additionally, some of the more fragile gymnasts only do their biggest skills and compete all-around at worlds and the Olympics, like Rebeca Andrade. Either way, gymnasts tend to stick around longer when there is no one to replace them.
Regarding your first point, I think it's worth mentioning that before the age limit change of 1997, there were very young athletes and more turn around. These rules do take a while to be effective and have an impact in the culture of the sport. I suspect that it is really after Milano that we will see a significant difference in skating.
Finally, when I mentioned gymnastics here it wasn't about rules and longevity but more about the skill based movements (elements, tricks) that are required in gymnastics being much more similar to figure skating then let's say, tennis or track and field.
Last edited: