Huntsville Dressage Resources

TESTS: Download Dressage Tests – Valid through 11/30/2018

INTRODUCTORY

This unique series of tests provides an opportunity for the horse and/or rider new to dressage to demonstrate elementary skills. The tests are designed to encourage correct performance and to prepare the horse for the transition to the USEF tests (Training though Fourth Level).

• Introductory Test A
• Introductory Test B
• Introductory Test C

TRAINING LEVEL

Objective and standards: To confirm that the horse is supple and moves freely forward in a clear and steady rhythm, accepting contact with the bit.

• 2015 Training Level Test 1
• 2015 Training Level Test 2
• 2015 Training Level Test 3

FIRST LEVEL

Objective and standards: To confirm that the horse, in addition to the requirements of Training Level, has developed the thrust to achieve improved balance and throughness and to maintain a more consistent contact with the bit.

• 2015 First Level Test 1
• 2015 First Level Test 2
• 2015 First Level Test 3

SECOND LEVEL

Objective and standards: To confirm that the horse, having achieved the thrust required in First Level, now accepts more weight on the hindquarters (collection); moves with an uphill tendency, especially in the medium paces; and is reliably on the bit. A greater degree of straightness, bending, suppleness, throughness, balance and self-carriage is required than at First Level.

• 2015 Second Level Test 1
• 2015 Second Level Test 2
• 2015 Second Level Test 3

THIRD LEVEL

Objective and standards:To confirm that the horse, having begun to develop an uphill balance at Second Level, now shows increased engagement, especially in the extended paces. Transitions between collected, medium and extended paces should be well defined and performed with engagement. The horse should be reliably on the bit and show greater straightness, bending, suppleness, throughness, balance and self-carriage than at Second Level.

• 2015 Third Level Test 1
• 2015 Third Level Test 2
• 2015 Third Level Test 3

FOURTH LEVEL

Objective and standards: To confirm that the horse has developed sufficient suppleness, impulsion and throughness to perform the Fourth Level tests which have a medium degree of difficulty. The horse must remain reliably on the bit, showing a clear uphill balance and lightness that result from improved engagement and weight-carrying by the hindquarters. The movements should be performed with greater straightness, energy and cadence than at Third Level.

• 2015 Fourth Level Test 1 (Note: Correction was made in Movement #1 on November 7, 2014)
• 2015 Fourth Level Test 2
• 2015 Fourth Level Test 3

It is the responsibility of anyone who enters a show to understand the rules. Click here to see the USDF rules

Click here to see the official Dressage Protocols