Step sequences were an after thought, spins positions not held and often ugly ( especially sit spins) lack of connecting steps. 6.0 didn't value these
And now we have step sequences that are slow and minute-long, spins that only showcase flexibility and do not display musicality, even uglier spin positions, transitions and connecting steps that have no relation to the music or program.
At least back then, more programs had freedom and creativity. Elements were used to enhance the program. I sorely miss Yukina Ota's plain layback spin that lasted forever, Fumie Suguri's ending scratch spin, Michelle Kwan's holding her jump landings and putting her heart on her sleeves during the Aranjuez and Tosca step sequences etc. Right now, these are limited because of all the things that must be done for points. There is no "free"dom in "free" skates anymore.
I love IJS as a system because it gives clarity and transparency to judging, but the rules do not encourage much room for creativity or variety. It's mostly jump, jump, spins, steps, (half way), jump, jump, jump, jump, jump, cho seq, spin to finish.
We have been blessed with the Buttles, Lambiels and Takahashis in IJS as well who were capable of making the best out of limiting rules but those remain exceptions IMO. The rise of the Russian ladies and the Eteri skaters prove the point.
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