Flatwork / Dressage Beginner 20 min

Intro Test A Walk-Trot Pattern

Focus: Accuracy, Transitions, Precision

Equipment: Letter markers

This simulates a basic Intro Level dressage test pattern. Enter at A at the working trot.
Halt at X. Salute (nod). Proceed at the working trot.
Track right at C. Ride the long side, then across the diagonal H-X-F.
At F, continue tracking left. Ride a 20-meter circle at A.
Continue on the track. Free walk across the next diagonal, then pick up trot before the corner.
Ride the remaining pattern, finishing with a halt at X. Salute.
Practice the complete pattern 2-3 times, focusing on accuracy and smooth transitions.

Not halting at X precisely — stopping too early or too late on the center line.
The diagonal line drifting instead of being straight from letter to letter.
Forgetting the pattern mid-test and losing your place.
Not preparing transitions early enough, causing them to happen at the wrong spot.

Practice individual movements from the test in isolation before stringing them together.
Have someone call the test for you while you ride.
Ride the test at the walk first to memorize the pattern without worrying about trot balance.

Tip: Memorize the test by drawing it on paper, then walking it on foot in the arena. Ride it only after you can walk it perfectly.