Introductory Level Western Dressage

Introductory Level Western Dressage is the very beginning of the horse and rider’s development and serves as an introduction to the sport of Western Dressage. In the Introductory Level, the rider should demonstrate a proper basic position, use of the aids and understanding of the figures present in this level. The horse should accept the rider’s aid and influence with relaxation. The jog should demonstrate a swinging back and should be natural within the horse’s scope.

Introductory Level Western Dressage Requirements

The Introductory Level Western Dressage is comprised of 4 tests. All tests exhibit the working walk, working jog and free walk. The horse and rider should also demonstrate a 4 second halt in the test. These tests contain mainly straight lines, 20m circles  and 20-meter half circles in the working jog, free walk and working walk. These movements are designed to show the horses ability to perform the required movements in a willing, relaxed way. The horse and rider are judged on the following:

Gaits (freedom and regularity) – Coefficient = X1
Impulsion (desire to move forward with suppleness of the back and steady tempo) Coefficient = X1
Rider’s position, seat & hands (well-balanced elastic seat demonstrating vertical, centered alignment, with light independent contact from hand(s)) – Coefficient = X1
Rider’s correct and effective use of the aids (evidenced by the horse’s responsiveness; stead elastic connection cultivating athletic expression. Accuracy – precise placement of the figures and transitions, the effectiveness of the rider’s aids determines the accurate fulfillment of the required movements of the tests) – Coefficient = X1
Harmony (The horse accepts the aids and influence of the rider with attention, relaxation and confidence; and demonstrates a willing partnership between horse and rider resulting in a free flowing performance.) – Coefficient = X2

These elements are necessary as the horse and rider progress to more difficult levels.

Introductory Level Western Dressage Required Movements:

Working Walk
Free Walk
Working Jog – may be ridden sitting or rising – 20 meter circles & 20-meter half circle, changing of rein across the short & long diagonal
Halts – halt for 4 seconds through working walk

Introductory Level Western Dressage

Video Clips & Tests

2022  WDAA Western Dressage Introductory Level Test 1

2022 WDAA Western Dressage Introductory Level Test 2

2022 WDAA Western Dressage Introductory Level Test 3

2022 WDAA Western Dressage Introductory Level Test 4

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