How to Ride the USDF Intro A Dressage Test

The Introductory A dressage test is the easiest of the tests, designed for horses and riders new to the sport a no-pressure way to compete in their first show or two. All of the movements are performed at either the walk or the trot, no canter, and the transitions are easy. Here are the instructions for how to ride the test.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A horse that safely walks, trots, turns and stops under saddle
• Dressage or hunt seat tack and clothes

1. Enter the dressage court at letter A at the working trot. When you approach X, transition to a walk and then halt at X. Lower one hand and nod your head in salute, then proceed in a medium walk.

2. When you reach C, track right and continue until you reach M, then pick up the trot. Continue until you reach B, then make a 20-metre circle to the right before continuing down the long side of the arena.

3. Continue trotting until you pass B, then transition to the walk before F. Continue walking around the arena until you reach K.

4. At K, allow your horse to stretch his head, neck and topline into a free walk, across the diagonal through X and then to M. Before M, pick up your reins and transition back to a medium walk. You will now be tracking left around the arena.

5. When you reach C, pick up the trot. Continue trotting until you reach E, where you will make a 20-metre circle to the left before continuing down the long side.

6. When you reach A, turn up the center line. Transition to the walk right before X, then halt at X and salute.

7. Leave the arena on a loose rein.

Tips & Warnings

• It is a courtesy to ride to the judge’s box before your test begins and tell the scribe your bridle number and which test you are riding. After your test, you should ride forward far enough to thank the judge briefly before exiting.
• Do not enter the dressage court until the judge rings the bell. You then have 45 seconds to enter and begin your test.
• Take your time and think through each movement before performing it so you are ready.
• During all trot work, you must post the trot.