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Understanding Your Dressage Test
What’s Expected at Each Level
Each competition level has a single dressage test. At the top of each test, you’ll find the “Purpose of the Test”, which provides a brief but important explanation of what skills and abilities are expected of both horse and rider at that level. As you progress through the levels, the tests become more challenging to reflect new skills and higher expectations.
Key Movements to Focus On
In the test, you’ll see a column labeled “COEFF” (coefficient). Movements with a coefficient:
- Count double toward your score.
- Represent new skills required for the next level or are the most challenging movements at that level.
- Are often mirrored in the Ease of Handling (EOH) Trial.
Focusing on these movements can significantly impact your overall performance.
Additional Resources
- Section 5 of the Rulebook
- Dressage Tests: Required at all levels and found in Appendix A of the Rulebook.
- Choosing a Level: Refer to Objective of the Levels to understand the skills needed for each competition level.
- Movement Expectations: Movements Required in WE provides detailed guidance on how each dressage movement should be performed.
- Understanding Judge Comments: The Language of Judging and the Glossary of Key Terms help interpret feedback and improve your performance.
By reviewing these resources, you’ll know what’s expected, how to focus your training, and how to make the most of your dressage test at every level.
