Dressage (/ ˈdrɛsɑːʒ / or / drɪˈsɑːʒ /; French: [dʁɛsaʒ], most commonly translated as "training") is a form of horse riding performed in exhibition and competition, as well as an art sometimes pursued solely for the sake of mastery.

Learn what the purpose of dressage is. Discover the different levels and how you train your horse to learn the dressage movements.

May 1, 2024 · Dressage is all about the rider working in harmony with their horse, developing suppleness, flexibility, obedience and athleticism – which ultimately help make a horse more pleasant to ride.

Our website contains over 350 training articles all aimed at helping you to improve your understanding of dressage and to develop your riding skills. Over 60 easy-to-understand presentations breaking down the theory of dressage, taking you step-by-step through the levels.

The purpose of dressage is, through proper training, to create a strong, well-balanced, well-trained, and obedient mount, able to perform with willingness and apparent ease. By using the dressage tests, one can ensure to follow the correct steps in their training.

Dressage, as defined by the International Equestrian Federation, is “the highest expression of horse training.” For the purpose of training, a form of dressage is used by all riders, regardless of their chosen discipline. Competitive dressage is a prevalent equestrian sport.

Learn more about the equestrian discipline of Dressage, as well as competition specific information and resources.

Feb 8, 2023 · To do basic dressage successfully, work on sitting tall in the saddle with your heels back for good posture. Then, practice the walk, trot, and canter, which are the three main gaits in dressage. Once you feel comfortable with each speed, work on transitioning smoothly between them, like going from walk to canter.

Dressage Today is the training and educational resource for dressage riders at every level. Videos and instructional articles offer tips.

Mar 7, 2025 · dressage, systematic and progressive training of riding horses to execute precisely any of a wide range of maneuvers, from the simplest riding gaits to the most intricate and difficult airs and figures of haute école (“high school”).