Tips for extra marks (only walk & Trot!)

[Horse_mad07]

Well i have my second ever dressage comp coming up this weekend. Its only walk and trot but i had to qualify (anyone with over 60% did) so am pretty pleased i managed it. My horse doesnt go too well yet so i need to make up marks in other areas if i want to do well so im looking for tips to help me!

Also will plating up make a difference? Thanks

 

[Pasha]

I'm not sure if plaiting will increase your marks.... can you give us your mark and comment for what you feel are your worst movements?

We hold lots of W&T tests for Novice members of the Riding Club and generally speaking people don't ride their horses forward enough and could pick up some extra marks by being more accurate.

 

[kick_On]

sorry will not, but IMO it's rude not to plait for dressage comp no matter want level
tips on better marks
Know your test, use all the arena, ride accurate shapes, ride forward, attack centre line look directly at judge and make eye contact and SMILE this mark is really a score on your riding so aim height and look ahead and where you going as this will aid horse on direction you are going next.
Remember that the more tense you are it will pass down to your horse
last one enjoy

 

[Twiglet]

Use your corners and ride every movement as accurately as possible!

As Kick On said, BIG smile at the judge down the centre line, nice square halts, and a snappy salute.

Get a good 'working', working trot, make sure your horse is forward and responsive off your leg, there's no excuse for a sluggish trot when you have no canter to make up for it!
Similarly, don't let the walk be an amble, make it have a purpose, without being rushed.

Although I have competed unplaited, it does give a better impression to plait, and generally have you and your horse looking as smart as possible. Also, I think it tends to boost your confidence a bit if you're feeling well groomed and tidy!

Good luck and have fun, could be a whole new career!

 

[Toby_Zaphod]

Plaiting doesn't get extra marks but a plaited horse, smart rider, clean tack & well groomed horse gives both a good impression & shows respect for the judge.

Ride your test accurtately, transitions in the correct places, not early or late. When you ride a 20mtr circle ensure it is 20mtr & it is a circle. So many riders ride some really wierd shapes.

Ride your horse forward in both trot & walk, be purposeful.

The judge at this level will give constructive criticism & will also point out good points.

Last of all SMILE, it's supposed to be enjoyed.

 

[LEC]

Don't forget to ride - the worst thing I see is people just holding on for dear life and actually forgetting about riding as too busy thinking about test. My second point would be accuracy - you lose marks by not being accurate. .

 

[piaffe]

Plaiting wont make any difference to your marks Im afraid.

Best tip would be as accurate as possible, marker to marker, accurate shapes etc.

 

[jennystreek]

[ QUOTE ]
Don't forget to ride - the worst thing I see is people just holding on for dear life and actually forgetting about riding as too busy thinking about test. My second point would be accuracy - you lose marks by not being accurate. .

[/ QUOTE ]

....also dont forget to breath either - this is a big mistake i made in my last test, suddenly gasping for oxygen...as for the riding, well had no chance!!!

Put me on a xc course and im fine, yet a stressage arena.......