Requirements of Introductory Dressage Tests
What is Done at the Most Basic Level of Dressage Competition
May 2, 2009
In an effort to allow people to introduce their horses to dressage competition quickly and in a low-pressure environment, the United States Dressage Federation (USDF) created two dressage tests called “Introductory Level”. These tests are known as “Intro A” and “Intro B”. They are very simple, requiring movements at only the walk and trot—no canter. The expectations for a horse and rider at this level of dressage competition are quite simple.
Where to Find the USDF Introductory Dressage Tests
The instructions for the intro dressage tests can be found on the USDF website. The instructions give the letter on the dressage court where the movement is to take place, then the movement, then what the judge is to look for when scoring that movement. The judge will give a score from 0 to 10 in the last column.
Required Movements in the USDF Introductory Dressage Tests
The Intro tests can be performed by any horse and rider who are capable of walking, trotting, steering and stopping. Horses and riders are required to enter at the trot, halt at X (the letter in the middle of the dressage court) and stand immobile for long enough for the rider to salute. They are required to make 20-metre circles at the trot, walk calmly and do a free walk—which means that the horse is allowed to reach his neck forward and down, lengthening his stride and stretching his whole topline.
The horse should be well behaved, although judges usually understand that horses showing at this level are often young and green and more likely to shy or make mistakes. It is important, however, that the horse is sound and suitable for showing—if he does not look fit to show, the judge will excuse the horse and rider and not allow them to ride their test.
What the Judge is Looking for in Intro Level Tests
At the introductory dressage level, the judge is judging the quality of the gaits and looking for balanced, smooth transitions. They want to see circles that are round and the correct size, they want the horse to move straight down the centerline, across the diagonal or on the rail, and they want to see an immobile halt at the beginning and end of the test. They also give collective marks for the freedom and regularity of the gaits, impulsion, submission, and the rider’s position, seat and use of the aids.
The USDF Introductory Level dressage tests are a great way for a horse or rider who is new to dressage competition to get a feel for what it is like without having the pressure of cantering. With simple movements and low expectations, nearly anyone can get through these tests successfully. For some advice on riding dressage tests, read Tips for Riding a Dressage Test..
