Dressage in Working Equitation
The difference with the 'average' dressage test is mainly in the parts and the way in which they are fitted in the test.
The emphasis is mainly on driving volts and side aisles. Especially the bending is very important, and the horse really has to walk on its own feet. Much rein pressure is therefore not desirable. Knowing that there is one-handed driving from the 'masters' class (both in the dressage test and in the course) you can see how important riding 'on your Sits'. The more you can ride on it, the less the reins are 'needed'.
Backward is an exercise that is already requested from the starter class.
As the level increases, the emphasis in the test shifts more and more to the exercises in step and gallop . Gallop switches and (half) pirouettes are also important elements in the upper class
The walk and the canter are extra illuminated, these are the Horse walks that are most often driven in the "field".
Agility and ability to shift is the key word and by far the most training time should be spent on this.
A lot of work has to be done on maneuverability and switching with the horse, but it is also of enormous importance that your horse is riding more and more on your Sit. Only then will you be able to drive one-handed. Your horse must therefore be able and able to perform the exercises on light aids and without putting too much pressure on him (and his mouth).
All the tests are ridden by heart, with the exception of the dressage test in the introduction class, which may be read aloud. If a test higher than the introduction class is read, this will result in penalty points.
Belangrijkste aspecten WE dressuur
- correct contact and relaxation
- impulse
- voltes and side aisles
- bending
- little rein pressure
- riding on your sit
- ability to accelerate
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