Is it on your bucket list to try a new discipline? Perhaps, you’ve always been interested in Western Dressage. This exciting type of riding is starting to gain a lot of attention. It combines dressage movements and Western tack. Riders complete tests in various levels to receive scores. Beginner usually start with intro, basic, or level 1 tests.
Western Dressage Level 1
The Western Dressage Association of America updated their tests for 2022. There are four tests in level 1. Some of the required movements include:
- Pivots
- Free walk
- 20, 15, & 10 meter circles
- Transitions
- Lengthening gaits
- Change of lead through jog
- Loops
- Leg yields
- Halts
Stacy Westfall demonstrates the movements in this video.
If these are a bit too complex for you and your horse, there are also intro and basic level tests. The movements in those are a bit more simple.
Western dressage is a fun discipline that tests the training of your horse. It requires good communication and patience. The community is growing with more people realizing how interesting it is.
