How to Ride the USDF Intro B Dressage Test

Except for Intro A, the USDF Intro B dressage test is the easiest of the tests. It is an opportunity for horses and riders that are new to the sport to compete in their first show or two without the pressure of having to canter. The test only calls for the the walk and trot, no canter, and the transitions are quite easy. The instructions for how to ride the Intro B dressage test follow.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A horse capable of walking, trotting, steering and stopping safely.
• Dressage or hunt seat tack and attire

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 working trot.

2. When you reach C, track left and continue until you reach E, then make a 20-metre circle to the left before continuing down the long side of the arena.

3. Continue trotting until you reach F, then perform a change of rein across the diagonal, through X to H. Change of rein basically means that you will be changing bend from the left to the right and changing from one outside rein to the other. You will also now be tracking right.

4. Between C and M, transition to the medium walk.

5. At M, allow your horse to stretch his head, neck and topline into a free walk, on two diagonals: first to X and then to F. Before F, pick up your reins and transition back to a medium walk at F. You should still be tracking right around the arena.

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

7. Continue trotting until you reach M, then perform a change of rein across the diagonal, through X to K. You will now be tracking left.

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

9. 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 should be posting.

Resources

• USDF