NOVICE TEST – 5 Questions for the Novice Dressage Rider
A New Year often brings new ambitions, reinvigoration of our aspirations and thoughts about how we will make the most of the very precious time we spend with our horses.
Some of you will be thinking about competing, possibly for the first time or with a new horse or maybe like me, you are thinking that 2015 will bring you opportunities you have been working towards.
With this in mind I have been looking to the requirements of the Novice Dressage Test and the essence of what the judge is looking for. I have compiled a check list of 5 questions you might want to consider and which will hopefully help you to focus on what is important.
The Novice DressageTest
It is all about the horse’s way of going and obedience. The judge is looking to see if you are on the right track with your training and by asking yourself these 5 questions, but more importantly, by being honest with your answers, you will be able to assess for yourself, before you even enter the competition arena if your work at home is up to standard.
So, ask yourself …
- Are my horse’s muscles loose and supple?
- Is my horse moving freely forward in a clear and steady rhythm while accepting the bit?
- Are we able to demonstrate a nice, steady rhythm that you could set a metronome to?
- Is my horse relaxed, supple, balanced and searching for the bit?
- Are we able to form the figures correctly and bend in the corners?
If you’d prefer a red rosette over a red face, consider these questions carefully, work on these basic elements will mean the difference between 6’s and 8’s.
I have provided previous blog links within each of the questions to give you more detail and help you along the way. Of course, as always, if you are struggling with any of the above, feel free to drop me a line and I’ll do all I can to help.
Look out for my innovative new blog series detailing each and every movement in the Novice Dressage Test and how to achieve your very best results. Coming Soon!
Did you find this article useful? Why not share it with your fellow dressage enthusiasts?
Have fun!
Patricia – The Dressage Tipster
help@likecrystal.com
Looking forward to your Novice Test blog series, hoping to get out at Novice in the next couple of months!
In the stirrups just what I needed today! thank you Patricia!
Great, good job I forgot at the end of the year then. lol Patricia x
Took the plunge, did our first Novice – won with 65%! Enjoying your Novice series, so many small changes I can make to keep improving! Thanks!