by Stacie Moyle

Created on: August 03, 2011

Once a rider has learned the basic schooling for their level, the trainer may encourage them to enter a show and ride a dressage test. The dressage test is a compulsory pattern of figures and transitions that are supposed to occur at specific marked points around the dressage arena. For most riders then, the biggest factor in preparing for a test is memorizing it! Think about whether you are a visual, auditory or kinesthetic learner. In other words, do you remember things you see most easily? How about something someone tells you? Or are you someone who has to physically perform a task before it really sticks with you? Based on your answer, you will start with one of three preliminary steps for memorizing your test.

Visual Learners

Since you remember things you see, have someone else ride it and watch them. However, be sure they ride it well. One idea is to go to a show where you know you can see a practiced rider do a polished performance of the test. If possible, get a copy of a ride like that on video to watch over and over then replaying it in your mind, but substituting your horse while imagining how it will feel.  

Auditory Learners

Your trainer’s voice echoes in your ears as you ride. So, have her call your test to you when you practice at home. In fact, have your trainer record her voice complete with her additional instructions and reminders for things like going deep in the corners, lifting your chin, keeping that left leg on your horse, or whatever it is that you need to be coached on the most. Make an audio copy to play on your MP3 player. Ride along with your headphones while practicing. Just remember you can’t have an audio device in the show arena!

Kinesthetic Learners

That’s you, the type of person who can drive somewhere once and always remembers the way back. Well, now is the time to get off your horse, and go through the test on foot complete with appropriate actions for the walk, trot, canter, and any lateral movements you might have to do. Don’t worry about looking silly! Imagine the confidence you will have when you ride into the ring on your horse for the real test knowing you’ve been there and done that already.

For Every Learner

Regardless of your learning style everyone will do well at remembering their test by combining a couple of the methods above with a few other tricks and tips.

1.      Write out your test complete with all the little nuances you want to remember about

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