The Dressage Rider's Field Guide is the arena-side companion every dressage rider, student, and instructor has been looking for. Designed as a practical quick reference rather than a training manual, this book translates dressage into plain English and organizes everything you need to know into one clear, visual, easy-to-use resource.
Inside, you'll find:
- Dressage Court Diagrams — Full diagrams of both the 20x40 and 20x60 meter arenas with letter placement, centerline, quarter lines, and key reference points
- Horse & Rider Training Scales — Both scales explained side by side, with a breakdown of each element and how they work together
- The Language of Dressage — Plain-English definitions of the terms you hear in lessons, clinics, and on scoresheets — from rhythm and throughness to self-carriage and submission
- Dressage Maneuvers Explained — What each movement is, why it exists, and what judges are looking for
- Dressage Levels Explained — A level-by-level overview of the USDF/USEF & FEI systems from Introductory through Grand Prix
- Lateral Movements Simplified — Clear visual diagrams and descriptions of leg yield, shoulder-in, travers, renvers, half-pass, and more
- Arena Geometry Exercises — Diagrams and descriptions of core figures to improve accuracy and precision
- German & French Terms — The most commonly heard terms in clinics and competition, translated and explained in context
- Letter Memorization Aids — Tricks and mnemonics for both arena sizes
- Your First Dressage Show — A practical overview of show day logistics and what to expect
- Reading Your Scoresheet — How to interpret judge's comments and use your scores as a training tool
- Key Differences in Jumping & Dressage — A clear breakdown for crossover riders
- Prix Caprilli — History and exercises for this unique combined discipline
- BONUS: Confidence in the Arena — A show day mental prep guide for riders at every level
This book is for you if:
- You're new to dressage and want a clear starting point
- You're a returning rider building a stronger foundation
- You're an instructor looking for a resource to recommend or use with students
- You compete or clinic and want a quick reference that actually travels with you
The Dressage Rider's Field Guide pairs beautifully with The Dressage Foundations Collection digital resource — or stands completely on its own as your go-to dressage reference.
Keep it ringside. Reach for it often.