Dressage is a form of horse riding that is performed in exhibition and competition, as well as an art sometimes pursued solely for the sake of mastery. It is an equestrian sport defined by the International Equestrian Federation, where "horse and rider are expected to perform from memory a series of predetermined movements". The word "dressage" comes from the French term meaning "training".
Dressage tests are the formalized sequence of a number of dressage movements used in competition. Although horses and riders are competing against each other, tests are completed by one horse and rider combination at a time, and horses and riders are judged against a common standard, rather than having their performance scored relative to the other competitors.
The discipline of dressage is like ballet on horseback. The horse and rider work together to perform movements that seem effortless and that flow gracefully from one to the next. This form of riding takes a high level of athleticism and good communication between horse and rider. Dressage is the foundation of most horse riding disciplines, and it is the basic training of aids. All horses can benefit from a foundation of dressage training.
Dressage is one of the three Olympic equestrian sports, along with eventing and showjumping. The purpose of dressage is to strengthen and supple the horse while maintaining a calm demeanor.
