How to Compete in Dressage

By eHow Pets Editor

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Dressage is the equine event that combines the precision and athleticism of gymnastics with the grace and reserve of ballet. This event has been around for hundreds of years and became an Olympic sport in 1912.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately challenging

Step1
Choose the best horse for the competition. Although any breed is acceptable for dressage, thoroughbreds or warmbloods (any of the larger or European-descended horses) are preferable.
Step2
Understand that dressage is the French word for training. It is classical European training that requires the horse and rider to perform a series of movements and figures. Horses should be supple on both sides, respond willingly and obediently, and move freely forward with pure gaits at an even tempo.
Step3
Know that the three basic dressage exercises include figures, such as serpentines and circles; movements, which is how a horse moves laterally (sideways); and transitions, which is how the horse changes from gait to gait.
Step4
Ride in a standard-size dressage arena that is 20 by 60 meters (approximately 66 by 197 feet). The small-size dressage arena is 20 by 40 meters (66 by 132 feet).
Step5
Visualize the outer railings of the arena being marked with large letters that serve as targets for performing designated movements and figures.
Step6
Listen for the sound of the judge's bell to commence your pattern, and enter the arena.
Step7
Proceed straight down centerline and halt in the middle.
Step8
Salute the judge and proceed with your pattern.
Step9
Mark the end of the pattern by returning to centerline, halting, and saluting the judge.
Step10
Receive a score from one to five judges. The judges evaluate horse and rider by scoring each movement or figure against a standard of perfection (the perfect execution of the movement). Particularly difficult moves are given more importance; their scores are multiplied by 2.
Step11
Look for correct execution of movements and figures as well as quality of horse's gait, impulsion (energy and thrust) and submission (relaxation and obedience). Riders are scored on position, balance, harmony and effectiveness.

Tips & Warnings

  • Wear a hunt cap or top hat, dark jacket, light-colored shirt with choker or tie, light-colored breeches, tall leather boots, and dark or white leather gloves.
  • Riders at lower levels are required to use a mild snaffle bit with reins directly attached to the ring of the bit, going from horse's mouth to rider's hands. No leveraged bits are allowed at lower levels.
  • Dressage saddles have straight flaps on the sides to accommodate a rider's relatively straight leg position.
  • Dressage patterns are performed one rider at a time. Riders perform a specific pattern of movements and figures designed for specific levels of proficiency.
  • There are four levels of dressage riding plus the FEI, or International, level.
  • The FEI level has three tests: the Prix St. Georges and Intermediare I and II. The highest stage of development is Grand Prix (the level at which riders compete in the Olympics and World Championships).

Comments

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Anonymous

Anonymous said

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on 8/8/2006 I once got a comment on how tense my body was while riding. This was because I was so nervous. The judge said instead of carrying whales with your hands try to carry hummingbirds! Try to relax before you go into the ring by listening to music or reading. Good luck!

Anonymous

Anonymous said

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on 7/28/2006 When you enter the ring, try to almost hit the letter A so you go straight from A to X. Also, when saluting to the judge, make sure you smile and point your chin up.

Anonymous

Anonymous said

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on 6/30/2006 Be gentle with every movement that you do, both while in the ring and while practicing. Dressage is about passion, accuracy, and flowing into every movement that you do. If you or your horse is stiff, you won't get marked well. Try working your horse on side reigns just before you enter the ring. It works wonders!

Anonymous

Anonymous said

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on 6/30/2006 When you're doing the test, think about the movement calmly a few strides before you need to do it. Also, use half-halts to let your horse know something is going to change. Prepare yourself by being determined, like "okay, I have to canter in that corner, 3, 2, 1 NOW!!" Try not to think about anything, just the test, and don't think about what your score will be! Also if you make a mistake, forget about it until after the test. Never blame mistakes on your horse! Even if you get eliminated, let your horse know it's not a big deal.

Anonymous

Anonymous said

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on 3/20/2006 In most Dressage competitions you are not allowed to talk to your horse while in the ring. Words like "whoa" or "easy boy" cannot be said to calm your mount.

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eHow Article:  How to Compete in Dressage

eHow Pets Editor

eHow Pets Editor

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