Dressage tests can be nerve racking and every little bit helps where competition nerves are concerned. A simple check list of dressage competition tips that you can work through before each competition is a must have

If you can ride down the centre line, halt at X, proceed to C, turn left or right, ride the corner and receive 10 marks for the movement, then your horse is ready for Grand Prix dressage and you certainly don’t need our advice. Losing marks on basic dressage movements is silly when you can use our dressage tips to make sure you don’t

Use our winning dressage test tips to ensure you do well in your dressage competition and give yourself the best chance of success. To win you must be positive and believe you can. This means being focused before during and after your dressage test

The standard dressage arena is marked using large printed letters placed at pre-designated intervals around the perimeter. This helps the dressage rider or the dressage instructor, to follow the correct path during tests

Training the dressage horse requires dedication more than fancy tack or riding equipment. A decent 20×40 metre riding arena is probably the only truly essential thing you need besides yourself and your horse. Dressage associations will provide booklets about what they do and provide a few tips on starting dressage and training the dressage horse

British Dressage Tests are subject to change without notice – please ensure you confirm details of Prelim 4, with the event organiser before entering a dressage competion. The basic Prelim 4 Dressage Test (2002) is listed here as an aide memoir only

Although you are not marked for your dressage attire, it is still important to project the right image when competing. This is partly because dressage is an elegant sport and competitors attire should reflect this

Classical dressage riding is the art of riding with the horse and rider in perfect harmony. The rider working with rather than against the movements of the horse.