What is dressage riding? Basics, classes & training at a glance

Dressage is one of the oldest and most elegant disciplines in equestrian sport. It is based on the fine communication between rider and horse and serves to gymnasticize, maintain the health and performance of the horse. What is the aim of dressage? The aim is to achieve harmonious and effortless cooperation through precise dressage lessons and to keep the horse healthy.

Dressage riding follows a clear training scale that gradually prepares horse and rider for higher dressage classes. Beginners start with simple riding lessons, while experienced dressage riders compete in demanding tests such as Grand Prix, World Championships or the Olympic Games. Particularly important tournaments such as the CHIO Aachen demonstrate the high art of dressage, where precision, expressiveness and elegance are required.

The history of dressage riding: from war riding to sport

Horses have accompanied mankind for thousands of years - as a means of transportation, work animals and companions in war. Horsemanship played a particularly important role in the military: well-trained horses often meant victory or defeat in war. Many high school lessons, such as the capriole or levade, were originally developed for combat.

Xenophon: The first riding instructor in history

The first systematic treatise on horse riding was written by the Greek equestrian guide Xenophon (around 426 BC). In his work "Peri Hippikes" (On the Art of Riding), he described the selection, care and training of horses - and already emphasized gentle handling of the horse. His philosophy: non-violent dressage is more effective than brute force. These principles are still the basis for modern dressage training today.

But Xenophon was not the first: Simon of Athens (ca. 600 BC), to whom Xenophon refers, recognized the importance of natural horse behaviour. He called for training based on the reward principle - a concept that can be found in today's positive reinforcement in horse training.

Dressage through the ages: from military to equestrian sport

After Xenophon, the art of riding fell into oblivion for centuries. It was not until the 18th century that it was revived, in particular by François Robichon de la Guérinière, the court equerry to the French king. His work "Ecole de Cavalerie" (1733) is still one of the most important foundations of dressage riding today.

The fact that the military and wars were closely linked to the training of horses can be seen right up to modern times:

• By the end of the Second World War, 2.8 million horses had served in the German Wehrmacht alone.
• Many good riding masters and thus valuable knowledge were lost in the chaos of war.
• In 1912, the Army Service Regulations (H.Dv.12) were published - a military set of rules for horse training that was updated until 1937.

The emergence of modern dressage riding

It was not until the end of the 19th century that dressage developed as a sporting discipline. Initially, tournaments were only reserved for officers and took place in military circles.
But over time, the sport gained in importance:
✅ Dressage has been an Olympic sport since 1912
✅ International tournaments such as the CHIO Aachen were established
✅ After the world wars, riding was separated from the military & became a popular sport

Today, dressage riding encompasses various classes & lessons that are ridden at competitions worldwide - from E-level dressage for beginners to Grand Prix at international level.

The dressage training scale: Principles & Goals

The training scale is the central guideline for the systematic training of dressage horses. Its aim is to gradually prepare the horse for higher demands and to develop tact, suppleness, suppleness, impulsion, straightness and collection.

Today's training scale has its roots in the German Army Service Regulation H.Dv.12 (1937), which served as the basis for modern riding training. In 1940, Siegfried von Haugk published a first precursor form in "Die Ausbildung der Rekruten im Reiten". After the Second World War, von Haugk defined the training objectives in his work "Das Reiter-ABC" (1948) in accordance with today's six levels of the training scale.

The six points of the training scale at a glance

1. ‍Cadence: regularity of all steps, kicks and jumps‍
2. Looseness: relaxed tensing and relaxing of the muscles, with inner serenity‍
3. Contact: Steady, softly springy connection between the rider's hand and the horse's mouth‍
4. Momentum: Transfer of the energetic impulse from the hindquarters via the swinging back to the overall forward movement‍
5. Straightening: Even gymnastics of both halves of the body to compensate for the natural skew‍
6. Collection: Light-footed balancing on a small footprint with energetic hind legs in a self-carried stance

Criticism of the traditional training scale - is it still up to date?

The dressage training scale has been the guideline for horse training for decades. However, more and more trainers, riders and horse experts are questioning whether its rigid order still makes sense.

Dynamic instead of rigid structure?

The classic training scale assumes that the six points are built up one after the other. However, critics argue that horse training is not linear, but that individual elements overlap and influence each other.

Frequently mentioned points of criticism:

Training scale vs. training principles - a new approach?

Some modern riding instructors rely less on a fixed sequence and prefer flexible training principles that are individually adapted to each horse.

Nevertheless, the training scale remains an important guide. It offers structure and a systematic approach - crucial for horse-friendly training that is geared towards the natural development of a riding horse.

Dressage classes from E to S explained

What classes are there in dressage? How are the dressage classes structured, divided and how are they judged? There is a structured class system in dressage that gradually introduces horses and riders to higher levels. The aim is not to move up to the highest classes as quickly as possible, but to consolidate the basics and grow harmoniously into the next higher class.

The tests are divided into levels of difficulty, which are further differentiated in the star categories (e.g. A*, A**). The more stars a test has, the more demanding the required lessons are.

Example:

• In the A* dressage test, the lesson "Extending kicks" is required.
• In A** dressage it is already the "middle trot".

The levels of difficulty increase continuously from E (beginner class) to S (advanced class). While a maximum of two stars are awarded in classes A to M, the system in advanced dressage ranges from S to S***(1 to 4 stars)**.

E dressage (beginner class) - basics for rider and horse

The E class is the lowest test level in dressage and is aimed at beginners and young horses.

Requirements:

• Correct execution of the basic gaits walk, trot and canter
• Simple hoof beat figures such as circles, voltes and rail figures
• Initial suppleness and rhythm

The evaluation is based on the rideability of the horse and the rider's seat.

You can find instructional videos, tasks and exercises for basic dressage training in our Academy: "Basic training".
‍Youcan learn everything about basic work, keeping your horse healthy while riding, aids, contact and much more.

A-dressage (beginner class) - introduction to collection exercises

➡️ Video tipClass A - Requirements and what judges look for!
Find out which new exercises such as medium trot, medium canter and quarter line are required at novice level, how to optimize your choice of pace and what judges look for in seat and aids - perfectly prepared for your next test!

The A class builds on the basics of E dressage and introduces the first more demanding lessons.

New requirements:

• A*
  • Extending kicks and jumps
  • Reduce and enlarge rectangle
  • 10-meter vole
  • Paint over
• A**
  • Medium trot & medium canter
  • Reversing
  • Transitions between walk and canter
  • Let the reins chew out of your hand

Rider and horse must show greater permeability and better aids.

Class A - Everything you need to know | Dressage exercises by ClipMyHorse.TV Academy | A-Dressage

You can find more class A videos in our Academy: "Dressage class A". Whether it's the first steps of leg yielding or walk/canter transitions, you'll find everything you need to know about novice dressage.

L-dressage (light class) - First collection & more precision

➡️ Video tip: Dressage class L - Mastering new lessons! Learn how to ride short about-turns, outside canter and simple canter changes and what judges pay particular attention to - the next step towards collection!

The L class requires more precision, obedience and collection. The horse must stand correctly on the aids and be able to stand and bend correctly. Outside canter, serpentines and elements such as traversals and collected canter are also required. In addition, some dressage tests in this class can already be ridden on a curb bit.

New requirements:

• L*
  • 8-meter vole
  • Outside gallop
  • Short turns
• L**
  • Traversal
  • Shoulder rein

In this class, more attention is paid to correct contact, bending and straightness. Some tests are already ridden on curb bit.
L-dressage tests can be organized very differently. Most take place in 20x40m arenas, but some can also be ridden in 20x60m arenas.

Tasks and exercises for elementary class dressage can be found in our Academy: "Dressage class L". If you would like to know how to ride a traversal, shoulder-in or turn out of a corner, take a look at our Dressage Academy and improve your dressage exercises.

‍‍M dressage(medium level) - carrying power and flying changes

➡️ Video tip: Medium dressage class - Mastering flying changes & traversals! Find out what new lessons such as flying changes, zigzag traversals and walk pirouettes are waiting for you and what judges pay particular attention to - the next step towards higher collection!

The M class requires the horse to be much more collected.

New requirements:

• M*
  • Strong trot & canter
  • Shoulder rein, renvers & half traverses
  • Single flying canter changes
• M**
  • Step pirouettes
  • Canter traversals
  • Traversal shift

The tests will be held for 20x40 or 20x60 squares, on snaffle and curb bit.

Tasks and exercises for medium dressage can be found in our Academy: "Dressage class M".

S dressage (advanced level) - highest level in national dressage sport

➡️ Video tipClass S dressage - Masterful precision and top performance!
Judge Nicole Nockemann explains why advanced (S) level dressage places the highest demands on horse and rider. Learn all about lessons such as canter pirouettes, flying canter changes and the development up to Grand Prix level - an exciting look into the world of advanced dressage!

The S class is the highest competition class at national level and places maximum demands on precision, permeability and strength. In addition to the previous lessons from the M class, demanding lessons such as piaffe, passage, single and double changes as well as complete pirouettes in canter are required.

New requirements:

• S*- Introduction to lessons such as canter pirouettes, series changes and first piaffe approaches.
• S** - piaffe, passage, flying changes (two, one), complete canter pirouettes.

The tests in this class can be ridden both as a compulsory program and as a freestyle.

International dressage classes - The road to Grand Prix

In addition to the national dressage classes, there are international test levels that are ridden at international competitions such as the Olympic Games, World and European Championships.

• Prix St. Georges (S)* - First international level with lateral movements and series changes.
• Intermediaire I & II (S)** - Higher requirements, including piaffe and passage.
• Grand Prix (S*)** - Highest level with all demanding dressage exercises.
• Grand Prix Special (S**)** - Olympic level with maximum precision.

These tests represent the highest level of performance in international dressage sport.

Tasks and exercises for advanced dressage can be found in our Academy: "Dressage class S". For example, we explain how to train impulsion, contact and expression in advanced level dressage. But we also cover everything from series changes and canter traversals to collection and piourette training.

International designations of the respective classes in comparison

While the dressage system in Germany is structured in accordance with the Performance Test Regulations (LPO), there are different designations and classifications in other countries. In Great Britain (British Dressage) and the USA (United States Dressage Federation - USDF), the dressage classes are structured similarly, but the terminology and some requirements differ.

The following table compares the German dressage classes (E-S) with the corresponding test levels in Great Britain and the USA. This helps riders who compete internationally or are interested in the differences in the dressage systems of other countries.

What is judged in dressage tests?

➡️ Video tip: Understanding dressage judging - How the judging procedure works! Learn about the differences between the LPO judging procedures § 402 A, B and C, how judges evaluate from different perspectives and what this means for your test - for more transparency in dressage sport!

Dressage riding is divided into different levels of difficulty to allow horses and riders to develop in a structured way. The division into classes helps to ensure the level of performance, training progress and fairness in the tests.

The dressage classes range from the first novice classes for young riders and horses to the highest international classes, in which piaffe, passage and pirouettes are required.

Why are there different dressage tests?

• Horses and riders go through a step-by-step training process based on the training scale.
• A division into easy-to-understand levels ensures that horse and rider are supported according to performance and age.
• The clear structure of the classes enables objective evaluation by the judges.

How are dressage tests structured?

• Each test has fixed requirements for the horse's seat, aids and quality of movement.
• The levels of difficulty are based on the increasingly complex training scale - from the first rhythm and suppleness test to the highest level of collection and permeability.
• National and international dressage classes differ - while national classes are based on German guidelines, international classes such as the Grand Prix are part of the worldwide dressage sport.

This division ensures that dressage tests offer fair and performance-oriented conditions for both young up-and-coming riders and internationally successful competition riders.

Evaluation criteria in dressage tests - how horse & rider are graded

In dressage tests, judges assess the harmony between rider and horse, the correct execution of the movements and the horse's suppleness and gymnastic ability. The assessment is based on the principles of the training scale, which ensures that the horse is presented according to the requirements of its respective class.

How are grades awarded?

The evaluation is carried out according to a fixedgrading system and is based on the principles of the training scale. What is the highest score in dressage and how is it made up? Here is an overview of the most important aspects of dressage scores:

• The assessment is based on a grading system from 0 to 10, with 10 being the highest grade for a perfect lesson.
• The overall grade is made up of several individual grades for different criteria.
• In higher classes, the level of difficulty of the lessons is also taken into account.

Dressage horse test - Assessment of movement & training

In a dressage horse test, the focus is on the quality of the young horse's natural movements and training. The aim of these tests is to determine the extent to which the horse meets the requirements of the respective class and shows potential for higher tests.

Important evaluation criteria in tests for young dressage horses:

• Pace: uniformity of movement in walk, trot and canter.
• Looseness: Relaxed, free movements without resistance.
• Drive: Energy transfer from the hindquarters with elastic, ground-covering movements.
• Contact: Soft, constant connection between the rider's hand and the horse's mouth.
• Permeability: obedience and responsiveness to the rider's aids.
• Balance: The horse's ability to carry itself in a natural position.
• Prospects as a dressage horse: Overall impression with regard to rideability and talent for higher tasks.

The horses are assessed holistically in these criteria, whereby a harmonious overall picture between movement quality, suppleness and correctness of the lessons is decisive.

Dressage riding test - The rider's influence is the focus

➡️ Video tip: How to master your dressage test! Find out what judges pay particular attention to and how you can score points with precise aids, correct seat and exact lines - for a strong performance in the arena!

In a dressage test, the rider and his influence on the horse are assessed. The focus here is not on the quality of the horse's movement, but on the harmony and effectiveness of the rider's aids.

Important evaluation criteria in dressage tests:

• Seat & balance: A balanced posture that does not disturb the horse.
• Looseness & body tension: suppleness in movement, without stiffness or excessive tension.
• Giving aids: Fine, precise signals that the horse understands without resistance.
• Effect & influence on the horse: Clear, harmonious communication between rider and horse.
• Correct execution of the lessons: Precisely ridden hoof beats and transitions.

The overall score in a dressage test is made up of these criteria. Harmony between rider and horse is particularly important, as this is a sign of correct training and fine aids.

These two types of examination have different focuses, but a harmonious overall picture is essential for a high rating in both.

The best dressage riders & their successes

Dressage is one of the most demanding disciplines in equestrian sport, and a number of riders have made a significant impact on the sport through their successes and influence. Germany has been one of the leading nations in dressage for decades and has produced numerous Olympic, world and European champions.

But who are the best dressage riders of all time? Which riders dominate international dressage today? In this section, we take a look at the greatest dressage riders in history and the current stars of the scene.

The greatest dressage legends of all time

(These riders have shaped the sport of dressage & made history).

Current top dressage riders

(These riders dominate international dressage today).

Jessica von Bredow-Werndl (Germany) - Olympic Champion & European Champion

• Double Olympic champion 2021 (individual & team)
• Multiple European champion & World Cup winner
• Successful with her horse Dalera BB

📖 Reading tip: Jessica von Bredow-Werndl - Harmony in dressage!
‍Discoverhow the Olympic champion and World Cup winner achieves her successes with sensitivity, trust and perfection. A look behind the scenes of her unique art of riding - read now!

Catherine Dufour (Denmark) - Scandinavia's most successful dressage rider

• Multiple European champion & World Cup winner
• Demonstrates a modern, harmonious riding style
• Successful with horses like Bohemian & Cassidy

Dorothee Schneider (Germany) - Olympic Champion & European Team Champion

• Gold at the 2016 & 2021 Olympics as a team
• European Champion & German Champion
• Successful with horses like Showtime FRH & Faustus

📖 Reading tip: Dorothee Schneider - perfection and feeling in dressage!
‍Diveinto the career of the Olympic champion and experienced trainer, who impresses with harmony and precision. Find out what her philosophy is all about and how she leads horses to the top of the world - read now!

Helen Langehanenberg (Germany) - World Cup & Olympic Champion

• Team silver at the 2012 Olympics
• World Cup winner & multiple success on the international stage
• Known for her horse Damon Hill

Sönke Rothenberger (Germany) - Olympic Champion with Team Germany

• Gold at the 2016 Olympics with Cosmo
• European Champion 2017 & World Cup finalist

Steffen Peters (USA) - America's most successful dressage rider

• Olympic champion with the 2021 US team
• Multiple World Cup winner & Nations Cup winner
• Successful with horses like Ravel & Suppenkasper

Frederic Wandres (Germany) - top talent from the German team

• Nations Cup rider for Germany & World Cup finalist
• Sets standards with Bluetooth OLD and Hot Hit OLD
• Considered one of the great hopes for the upcoming World and European Championships
• Team Gold at the Olympic Games in Paris 2024

📖 Reading tip: Frederic Wandres - From school horses to Olympic dreams!
Frederic Wandres has fought his way to the top of the world dressage sport through hard work and smart decisions. Find out more about his unusual career, his greatest successes and the special connection to his horses - read more!

Well-known young riders & hopes for the future

Up-and-coming young dressage riders - who are the stars of tomorrow? While established riders such as Isabell Werth, Charlotte Dujardin and Jessica von Bredow-Werndl dominate the dressage world, more and more young talents who are already proving themselves at international level are coming up through the ranks. These up-and-coming riders are putting in impressive performances in U25 classes, young riders and their first international Grand Prix competitions.

Charlotte Fry (Great Britain) - World Champion & Olympic star

• World champion 2022 with Glamourdale
• Olympic medal winner 2020 - successful participation in the Games in Paris
• Training with Dutch dressage legend Anne van Olst
• Successful at Grand Prix level with Glamourdale & Everdale
• Considered one of the leading female riders of the next decades

Raphael Netz (Germany) - The shooting star in the U25 Grand Prix

• U25 European Champion 2021 & 2022
• Versatile young rider, successful up to Grand Prix level
• Was a rider in the stable of Jessica von Bredow-Werndl & Benjamin Werndl
• Winner of several U25 Grand Prix competitions at international level
• Considered one of the greatest German hopes for future championships

📖 Reading tip: Raphael Netz - talent, down-to-earth attitude and success!
At just 25 years old, he has already celebrated several U25 European Championship titles and impressive international placings. Find out more about his career, his greatest successes and the horses that accompany him - read now!

Felipe Amaral (Brazil) - South America's dressage hope

• Young talent that is getting stronger and stronger at international tournaments
• Participation in the Pan American Games & Nations Cups
• Potential candidate for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles

Marlene Sieverding (Germany) - up-and-coming talent with strong performances

• Successful in the U25 Grand Prix & Young Rider Tour
• Highly talented & repeatedly placed at the top at international tournaments

Juan Matute Guimón (Spain) - The future of Spanish dressage

• Impressed with Galactico & Quantico in the international Grand Prix
• Carries on the family tradition of his father Juan Matute Sr.
• Despite health setbacks, he fights his way back to the top of the world

Moritz Treffinger (Germany) - From the Young Riders to the Grand Prix

• U25 European Champion & World Cup Winner of the Young Riders
• Multiple German champion in junior competitions
• Successful in international Grand Prix sport with Fiderdance & Franciscana
• Promotion to the highest tournament level is expected

📖 Reading tip: Moritz Treffinger - Not a classic rise, but an extraordinary path!
With passion, horse sense and a strong network, Moritz Treffinger is making his way into top-class sport. Find out more about his unique career, his first successes with No Limit and his future in dressage - read now!

Charlotte Fry, Raphael Netz, Juan Matute Guimon & many other young talents are currently regarded as promising dressage riders with potential for future championships such as the 2026 World Championships and the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.

The coming years will show which talents can establish themselves at the highest level and who will make the leap to the absolute top of the world.

The future of dressage riding - fairness & development

Dressage riding faces a major challenge: the balance between sport, competition and ethical responsibility. While the fascination for the discipline remains undiminished and the harmonious cooperation between horse and rider is admired, it is essential that the sport continues to develop - with a clear focus on the welfare of the horses.

Discussions about ethical principles, horse-friendly training and fairness in competition have increased in recent years. Rule changes and new approaches to training are the first steps in the right direction. But what are the most important developments?

Sustainability & animal welfare in dressage sport

A key issue in modern dressage is animal welfare and horse-friendly training. The sport of dressage must ensure that horses are not only seen as competitive athletes, but above all as partners of the rider and treated accordingly.

Challenges & discussions in dressage:

• Fairness & respect for the horse → Training should be based on harmony & communication in partnership.
• Stricter rules against practices contrary to animal welfare → Debates on curling, excessive leaning and restraint methods.
• More horse-friendly training methods → Scientifically sound exercise theory is becoming increasingly popular.
• Health & longevity of horses → Avoidance of excessive demands through adapted competition systems.

💡 F uture trend: More and more riders and trainers are focusing on positive reinforcement, biomechanically sound training methods and customized training concepts.

Criticism of classical dressage training - Necessary changes

In recent years, there have been repeated negative headlines about the sport of dressage. Pictures and videos of overtaxed, tortured or mechanically ridden horses have led to heated debates.

Why is there criticism of classical dressage?

• Misuse of aids & equipment (e.g. sharp bits, tight nosebands)
• Unnatural & forced movements (e.g. leaning too much, rollkur debate)
• Lack of fairness in the assessment (overly subjective assessment by judges)

How can sport become fairer?

• Stricter controls at shows by neutral vets & officials.
• Better education for riders & trainers to promote horse-friendly methods.
• New judging criteria that negatively evaluate excessive tension & unnatural movements.

📌 Conclusion: The sport of dressage can only continue to develop if fairness and respect for the horse are paramount.

New rule changes & developments

In order to make dressage sport fairer and more horse-friendly, the FEI (Fédération Equestre Internationale) and national equestrian federations have introduced numerous rule changes in recent years.

Important adjustments & innovations

📌 Stricter controls on rollkur & hyperflexion:
The FEI expressly prohibits rollkur (sustained forced hyperflexion of the neck). However, the technique of Long, Deep and Round (LDR) is still permitted if performed without the application of force. Steward controls are intended to ensure that aggressive riding styles are sanctioned, but implementation remains a controversial issue.

📌 Standardized noseband checks from 2025:
The FEI will introduce an official measuring instrument to check the tightness of nosebands. This is to ensure that the pressure on the horse's mouth is reduced. The exact minimum values will be defined in the discipline-specific FEI protocols.

📌 Focus on natural movements:
Judges should pay more attention to prioritizing suppleness and permeability. Exaggerated or tense movements caused by excessive tension should be assessed more critically.

📌 Discussions about more objective judging:
There are ongoing debates about how to further develop the scoring systems to penalize excessive tension and unnatural movement patterns more severely. The introduction of modern technical aids for more objective assessment is under discussion, but has not yet been officially decided.

Technology & digitalization in dressage training

Digitalization is revolutionizing the sport of dressage - from online training and coaching platforms to smart technologies for analysing horses and riders. Modern training methods make it possible to learn more effectively, recognize mistakes more quickly and make training even more horse-friendly.

The most important technological developments:

• ‍Online training& coaching platforms - learning with the best!
  ‍TheClipMyHorse.TV Academy offers exclusive instructional videos, expert tips and online courses from the world's leading dressage riders and trainers. Whether it's the basics of dressage, specific lessons or competition preparation - the Academy provides you with practical knowledge from professionals that you can apply directly to your own training.

• Wearables & sensors for dressage analysis
  ‍Smarttechnologies such as movement sensors & rider trackers help to measure rhythm, response and suppleness. This data enables more precise training control and ensures that the horse remains healthy in the long term.
• AI-supported video analysis for more precise corrections
  ‍Innovativesoftware uses artificial intelligence (AI) to analyze seat, aids and movement quality. Riders receive detailed feedback and can work on targeted improvements - whether in professional or recreational sport.
• Virtual dressage competitions - tournament feeling from anywhere
  ‍Thanks todigital tournament platforms, riders can upload their rides, have them assessed by judges and take part in online competitions worldwide. This opens up new opportunities for training & qualifications, without long journeys or tournament costs.

💡 Future outlook: The combination of traditional training & modern technologies enables riders to train their horses more efficiently & healthily. Platforms like the ClipMyHorse.TV Academy help to make knowledge accessible at the highest level and offer riders of all training levels the opportunity to improve their dressage riding - anytime & anywhere!

➡ Would you like to take your dressage training to the next level? Then take a look at the ClipMyHorse.TV Academy and learn from the best in the business!

Where is the sport of dressage heading?

• The future of dressage will be characterized by animal welfare, fairness and sustainable training methods.
• New technologies & digitalization will make sport more accessible & measurable.
• Stricter rules and ethical standards ensure that dressage riding is appropriate for horses.

Key message: The sport of dressage is constantly evolving - with more responsibility for the horse, fairer assessment methods and new technological possibilities.

The fascination of dressage riding - aesthetics, harmony and precision

Dressage riding combines centuries-old tradition with modern sportiness. What once began as a discipline of war riding has developed into one of the most elegant and demanding riding styles. Today, the focus is no longer purely on controlling the horse, but on gymnastics, maintaining health and harmonious cooperation between rider and horse.

The training scale forms the foundation of classical dressage. It ensures a step-by-step development from initial suppleness to the highest level of collection. However, the rigid order of the scale is increasingly being questioned. More and more trainers are focusing on flexible, horse-specific training approaches that take greater account of the horse's natural movements and mental requirements.

Another central element of dressage is the different performance classes, which systematically introduce horses and riders to higher demands. From beginner level (E) to advanced level (S), each level requires precise aids, suppleness and harmony. International competitions such as the Grand Prix or the Olympic Games represent the highest level of this sport.

However, dressage riding not only challenges the horse, but also the rider. It trains agility, coordination, fine motor skills and sensitivity - essential skills for connecting with the horse's movements and refining the aids. Without this body awareness, precise, sensitive riding would not be possible. Dressage riding is therefore a demanding physical training for rider and horse alike.

However, the sport of dressage is also facing challenges. Fairness, animal welfare and transparency are becoming increasingly important. Stricter rules, improved judge training and modern technologies should ensure that horses are not ridden mechanically, but trained with respect and understanding. Digital teaching platforms such as the ClipMyHorse.TV Academy help to make knowledge accessible at the highest level and optimize training.

The future of dressage riding lies in the balance between tradition and progress. Only if harmony, respect and horse-friendly training methods are given top priority can the fascination for this art of riding continue.

Dressage riding: The most important questions and answers

Is dressage riding good for horses?

‍Yes, if it is carried out in a manner appropriate to the horse and according to classical training principles. Dressage riding serves to gymnasticize, maintain health and strengthen the muscles. Correct training improves the horse's balance, mobility and carrying capacity. It is crucial that the training is individually adapted and carried out without constraint.

What is dressage riding simply explained?

‍Dressageriding is a riding style in which horse and rider work together harmoniously with precise aids. The aim is to steer the horse with subtle, barely visible signals so that it moves in a relaxed, balanced and permeable manner.

What is important in dressage riding?

‍Correct aids, fine communication between rider and horse and adherence to the training scale are essential. Harmonious dressage can only be achieved when rhythm, suppleness, contact, impulsion, straightness and collection are in harmony.

What is the world record in dressage?

‍Thecurrent world record for the highest Grand Prix Freestyle score is 94.3% and was set by Charlotte Dujardin with Valegro. The highest score in the Grand Prix Special is 88.63% and was also achieved by Dujardin and Valegro.

What do you do in dressage?

‍Dressageriding comprises a series of lessons and exercises aimed at developing the horse's gymnastics and refining its movements. Depending on the horse's level of training, these include basic gaits, transitions, lateral movements, flying changes, piaffe, passage and pirouettes.

Is dressage riding difficult?

‍Yes, because it requires a lot of body awareness, discipline and precise aids. It is also demanding for the horse, as it has to collect itself more, balance itself and respond to fine aids as the training progresses. However, with the right instruction and patience, any rider can learn the basics of dressage riding.