Dressage for All: Your Complete Guide to Competing in 2025

Dressage rose to national prominence after Team GB’s stunning team gold medal in the London 2012 Olympics, highlighted by Charlotte Dujardin’s remarkable individual Freestyle to Music performance. But is dressage a pursuit only for elite riders, or can it be thoroughly enjoyed by equestrians of all levels? This comprehensive 2025 guide equips both newcomers and enthusiasts with essential knowledge to confidently participate in dressage within the UK.

What is Dressage?

Dressage is often described as “horses that dance” or ballet on horseback. It is considered a highly skilled classical art that demands years of dedicated training, with roots dating back centuries to European classical riding schools. The sport's fundamental goal is to develop a horse’s suppleness, obedience, and balance through precise, harmonious movements.

Importantly, dressage is accessible at many levels, from entry Intro tests with no canter to the Grand Prix seen internationally. The ability to participate and enjoy dressage grows with your horsemanship and training journey.

Key Elements of Dressage

Dressage promotes the following core traits in the horse:

• Suppleness
• Forward movement
• Straightness
• Balance
• Flexibility
• Obedience
• Regularity

Dressage tests consist of a sequence of predetermined movements marked by letters placed around the arena, performed consistently by every competitor. Riders are judged on each movement, awarded marks, and ranked by overall percentage score.

Levels and Tests

Tests range from Introductory levels (Intro and Prelim) through Novice, Elementary, Medium, Advanced and up to International Grand Prix levels, each suitable for different stages of training and experience. Test sheets are colour-coded by level—blue for Prelim, green for Novice, and so forth—and updated annually by British Dressage to keep the sport dynamic and challenging.

Preparing For Your Dressage Competition

Step 1: Learn Your Test

Thoroughly memorise the movements and layout of your chosen test, which is crucial for precision during your performance. Practice transitioning smoothly through movements and knowing where each letter is placed in the arena.

Step 2: Check the Rules and Equipment

Familiarise yourself with the latest British Dressage 2025 rules and the Approved Tack and Equipment Guide. Using permitted tack and adhering to dress codes ensures compliance and promotes horse welfare. For example, double bridles become compulsory from Advanced level, while certain nosebands and bits have specific regulations.

Step 3: Develop a Warm-Up Routine

Work with your instructor to devise a warm-up strategy for both horse and rider, including stretches, trot and canter activations, focusing on strengthening weaknesses such as wobbles on the centre line or halts. This prepares you physically and mentally for the test.

Step 4: Visit the Venue

If possible, visit the competition arena beforehand to acclimatise your horse to the surroundings, reducing anxiety from new stimuli on the day.

Step 5: Plan Logistics

Prepare transport, tack checks, and your schedule well in advance to avoid stress. Arrive early to allow time for settling and final preparations. Having a friend or support person can be helpful for managing equipment and encouraging nerves.

What to Expect on Competition Day

The dressage arena is marked by low white boards, sized either 20 x 40 metres for short arenas or 20 x 60 metres for international competitions. Test sheets specify the arena size and movements expected.

All entries must be pre-booked; rider times will be published prior to the event. Once your time arrives, you begin warming up within the arena's perimeter. Start your test promptly when the judge signals with a bell or car horn (in outdoor grass arenas).

After your ride, the judge provides marks and detailed written comments, including "collectives" assessing the horse’s way of going and the rider’s effectiveness. Scores are given as percentages to rank competitors.

Dress Code and Tack in 2025

British Dressage maintains a traditional yet updated dress code:

• Riders may wear short jackets, tweed coats, or tailcoats depending on the level. British team jackets are reserved for official team members.
• Protective hats that meet current safety standards are mandatory.
• Gloves should be neutral coloured, with white being common.
• Snaffle bridles are allowed at lower levels; double bridles are compulsory from Advanced upward.
• Boots or bandages may be worn in warm-up but must be removed before entering the arena.
• A white square saddle cloth is standard, paired with straight cut dressage saddles designed for rider influence and security.

In addition, a new FEI-approved noseband tightness measuring device will be introduced during 2025, ensuring welfare standards are met and enforced consistently.

Insider Tips to Boost Your Confidence

If you're new to dressage, attending competitions as an observer before competing can provide valuable insight into the atmosphere and test flow. Volunteering to write for judges offers a unique perspective to understand scoring and improve your test rides.

Remember, dressage is as much about harmony and partnership with your horse as technical skill. Approaching training and competition with patience and kindness to your horse maximises satisfaction and results.