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Dressage is what many people would consider the Ballet of the horse world. What appears beautiful and effortless to the audience is in fact an achievement in art and athleticism requiring years of development and dedication for both horse and rider. Dressage is performed in a 20 x 60 meter arena with a set of letters that designate where movements are to be executed; the letters also assist the rider in judging specific distances, such as the size of a circle. In addition, lower level tests may also be adjusted and performed in what is referred to as the short arena, which is 20 x 40 meters.
Dressage is trained and shown in specific levels which build on each other and which reflect the development of the skills and abilities of both the horse and rider. The tests ridden in shows are used as a measure of the correctness of the horse’s (and rider’s) schooling. There are six standard levels (Introductory Level thru Fourth Level) and four International levels (Prix St George, Intermediaire I and II, and Grand Prix). Tests are prepared and distributed by USA Equestrian, and are rewritten every few years.
Each level has a specified purpose which is stated on the test form. In addition, each movement in the test has a description of what the movement is and what elements are needed to perform it correctly. Scoring for the tests is based on both individual movements and collective marks. In addition, certain movements have coefficients that make them more important. The scoring scale is as follows:
10-Excellent, 9-Very good, 8-Good, 7-Fairly good, 6-Satisfactory, 5-Sufficient, 4-Insufficient, 3-Fairly bad, 2-Bad, 1-Very bad, 0-Not performed
The collective marks are based on:
Gaits–the freedom and regularity of the horse’s movement
Impulsion–the horse’s desire to move forward, elasticity of steps, roundness
Submission–the horse’s attention and confidence, harmony with rider, lightness of movements, and acceptance of the bit
Rider’s position and seat–correctness and effect of the aids
Following is a breakdown of the lower levels and what is expected for proper performance and proficiency at that level. A riding whip, not to exceed 48″ including the lash, and spurs are allowed and/or required at all levels, though spurs are usually not used in Introductory level work; spurs are optional through Prix St George, but mandatory for Intermediaire and above. A snaffle bridle is used in the AHSA levels (Introductory through Fourth Level), and a double bridle is used in the International levels (Prix St George through Grand Prix). The double bridle may be used optionally beginning at Fourth Level.
Introductory Level (2 tests)–All work at this level is done at the walk and trot, with no cantering. Emphasis is on beginning to develop correct bend, relaxing and submission, and the horse’s understanding of basic rider aids. Movements required are Medium walk, Free walk, and Rising trot; all work is performed in straight lines, including the long diagonals, and on 20 m circles. The horse is expected to carry himself forward, showing acceptance of the bit and the rider’s aids.
Training Level (3 tests)–As stated by the AHSA: “The purpose of the Training Level Dressage Tests is to confirm that the horse’s muscles are supple and loose, and that it moves freely forward in a clear and steady rhythm, accepting contact with the bit.” Canter work on 20 m circles is added at this level. Either sitting or rising trot may be used when trot work is required. The horse is also asked to stretch down at the trot, and make changes of bend at the trot rather than going through the walk.
First Level (4 tests)–As stated by the AHSA: The purpose of the First Level Dressage Tests is to confirm that the horse, in addition to the requirements of Training Level, has developed thrust (pushing power) and achieved a degree of balance and throughness.” Trot work on 10 m circles and 20 m serpentines is added, as well as trot lengthenings. Lengthenings are done rising, and later sitting; the remainder of trot work is done sitting. Canter work is on 15 m circles and straight lines, with lengthening also introduced at the canter. Leg yield and change of canter lead through trot are also introduced by the end of the First Level tests.
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