Riding figures: A guide for beginners and advanced riders

Dressage figures are an essential part of riding. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced rider, mastering dressage figures not only improves riding technique but also enhances communication between horse and rider. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced rider, the most important thing is to enjoy riding and respect your horse. So, get on your horse and start practicing riding figures! In this article, you'll find tips and tricks for riding dressage figures, common mistakes made, and how to make your training more varied with the help of dressage arena figures.

What are riding figures?

Dressage figures are defined as specific movement patterns that a rider performs with their horse within a defined area, usually a riding arena, such as a dressage ring or indoor riding arena. Riding figures are like choreographies for horse and rider, designed to improve control, coordination, and communication between the rider and the horse. These figures can range from simple circles, serpentines, to more complex patterns like figure eights. They are a fundamental element in the training of both riders and horses. Riding dressage figures is a basic skill that every rider should master. It enhances communication between rider and horse and improves the training of both the rider and the horse.

Why are dressage figures important in riding?

Dressage figures are used to improve the horse's rideability, refine the rider's aids, and train the horse's abilities. They are an essential tool in dressage training and are also applied in other equestrian disciplines. Dressage figures also promote the horse's suppleness, throughness, and collection, allowing for more precise aid communication. They are not isolated exercises but serve as building blocks for more complex lessons and sequences, including lateral movements and changes of pace. Dressage figures are important not only for dressage but also for show jumping, eventing, and leisure riding. They help make the horse supple and attentive, promoting balance and coordination.

• Riding dressage figures is a central aspect of training both riders and horses.
• Dressage figures help in the training of the horse and improve throughness.
• Dressage figures allow for balanced training of both sides of the horse.

Other reasons why riding dressage figures is important from both the rider's and the horse's perspective:

Riding figures from the rider's perspective:

• Improved control: By riding dressage figures, the rider learns to guide the horse with precision. This is especially important in situations where quick and accurate reactions are required, such as in show jumping or dressage.
• Refined aids: Dressage figures require clear and consistent communication between rider and horse. The rider learns to apply aids in a way that the horse can easily understand.
• Technical skills: Different figures promote various skills. For example, circles and voltes improve agility, while serpentines encourage lateral movements.
• Competition preparation: In almost all equestrian disciplines, certain dressage figures are required. Mastering these basics is essential for success in competitions.
• Self-confidence: Successfully performing dressage figures gives the rider a sense of competence and self-assurance, which enhances the overall riding experience.
• Versatility: The ability to ride various dressage figures makes the rider more versatile and better prepared for different equestrian disciplines

Riding figures from the horse's perspective:

• Physical fitness: Riding dressage figures is like a workout for the horse. It promotes muscle development, flexibility, and overall fitness.
• Mental stimulation: The figures require concentration and attention from the horse, contributing to mental stimulation and balance.
• Trust: Through the clear and consistent communication required when riding dressage figures, the horse develops a stronger bond of trust with the rider.
• Balance and coordination: Figures like voltes and circles help the horse develop better balance and coordination, which is especially useful in challenging terrain situations or in show jumping.
• Preparation for further training: Mastering dressage figures lays the foundation for more advanced exercises and lessons required at higher levels of training.
• Well-being: A well-trained and mentally stimulated horse is generally a happier and healthier horse. The variety that dressage figures bring to training can help reduce boredom and stress in the horse.

Different types of dressage figures

Dressage figures are important for training your horse. There are many types that help improve your horse's agility and balance. Some of the most well-known are the volte, circle, serpentines, and figure eights. The volte is a circular movement that can be performed in various sizes. The circle is a round movement often used for warm-ups. Serpentines are an exercise for agility and balance. Figure eights are ideal for practicing changes of direction. Each of these figures has its specific benefits and can be individually adapted.

What types of dressage figures are there? Overview of dressage figures available for download as a PDF.

For example, here are some dressage figures that you can incorporate into your daily training:

• Full arena
• Half arena
• Change across the whole arena
• Change across the half arena
• Ride along the length of the arena
• Circle
• Figure eights
• Volte
• Change from the circle
• Change through the circle
• Serpentines
• Simple serpentines
• Double serpentines
• Serpentine across the arena with 3 or 4 loops

Riding a volte

What is a volte?‍

A volte is a circle ridden in the riding arena. It can have various diameters, typically 6, 8, 10, or 12 meters.

Why is the volte important?‍

The volte promotes agility, balance, and the horse's bend. It is one of the most fundamental dressage figures and serves as the foundation for more complex figures.

How do you ride a volte? Guide to riding a volte:

• Choose the center: Select a point in the arena that will serve as the center of the volte.
• Ride the circle: Ride a circle around this point, ensuring the horse is evenly bent throughout.
• Head position: The horse should slightly tilt its head toward the center of the circle to show the correct bend.

Tip: You can also change direction from the circle. To do so, ride out on the open side of the circle and continue on a new circle (similar to riding a figure eight). A direction change within a circle is also possible. For this, ride through the center of the circle (like riding a figure eight), thus changing direction on the circle.

Zirkel reiten

What is a circle?

‍A circle is a larger circle that often covers the entire riding arena or a large part of it.

Why is the circle important?‍

The circle is especially useful for sensitizing the horse to the rider's aids and training balance.

How do you ride a circle? Guide to riding a circle:

• Starting point: Begin at a point on the edge of the riding arena.
• Large circle: Ride a large circle that encompasses the entire arena or a large part of it.
• Consistency: Keep the horse evenly on the reins and ensure a constant contact and speed.

Schlangenlinien

What are serpentines?

Serpentines are a series of half circles ridden alternately in different directions. The number of loops can vary, such as a simple, double, triple, or quadruple serpentine.

Why are serpentines important?‍

They promote the horse's agility and flexibility, helping the rider improve control over the horse's movements.

How do you ride serpentines? Guide to riding serpentines:

• Start: Begin at one end of the riding arena.
• Half circles: Ride a half circle towards the center of the arena.
• Change direction: Change direction and ride another half circle towards the opposite side of the arena.
• Repetition: Repeat these patterns along the length of the arena, depending on how many loops you wish to ride.

Tip: You can also incorporate changes of pace or transitions, such as before a change of direction.

Change across the whole arena‍

The rider changes from one side of the arena to the other, usually along a diagonal line. This improves straightness and promotes the horse's attentiveness.

Guide to riding across the whole arena:

• Preparation: Before starting the figure, ensure you are riding on the first track and that your direction is clear. Your horse should be straight and attentive.
• Turning: When you reach the change point (e.g., at the letters K, M, H, or F), turn. This means directing your horse toward the diagonal of the arena, aiming for the opposite corner.
• Ride the diagonal line: Now ride a straight line from one change point to the opposite one (e.g., from K to M or from H to F). Keep your horse straight and maintain a steady pace.
• Change of direction: Once you reach the opposite change point, prepare to change direction. Gently bend and position your horse in the new direction.
• Continue on the new track: After changing direction, continue riding along the first track in the new direction.

Turn

The horse turns 180 degrees to go in the opposite direction.

Why is a turn important?

• Purpose: It promotes the rider's aids, agility, and balance of the horse.

Guide to riding a turn at the corner:

1. Preparation: Begin with a calm, steady walk or trot. Ride towards a corner of the arena. Your horse should be attentive and straight.
2. Riding the corner properly: Before initiating the turn, it is important to ride the corner well. This means you should slightly bend the horse and use the corner to naturally prepare the turn.
3. Initiating the turn: After you have ridden the corner, prepare to initiate the turn. Slightly shift your weight toward the direction you want to turn. Use your inside leg to bend the horse and your outside rein to support the turn.
4. Executing the turn: Guide the horse in a half-circle so it completes a 180-degree turn. The turn should be smooth and controlled, with the horse's hindquarters as the pivot point.
5. Completing the turn: After the horse has completed the turn, it should continue straight and calmly in the original gait. Be sure that your horse remains under control and doesn't accelerate out of the turn.
6. Correction and praise: If the turn wasn’t executed properly, gently correct and try again. Don’t forget to praise your horse after a successful execution.

Tips and Tricks for Riding Dressage Figures

Dressage figures can sometimes be tricky, but with the right tips, you'll master them.‍

1. Always stay relaxed and calm, as the horse can sense your tension.
2. Praise your horse when you successfully complete a figure. Don’t forget to also praise small steps along the way.
3. Always try to ride in a smooth, flowing motion without abrupt stops or changes in direction.
4. Practice makes perfect, so stick with it, even if it’s challenging at first. Remember that communication with your horse is key. You must be clear and concise so the horse understands exactly what you expect from it. With patience and practice, you will master the dressage figures.

Tips for Beginners

But where do you start as a beginner? No worries! Start with simple figures like Full arena, Circle, Volte, and Serpentines. These improve your horse’s agility and balance. Begin by practicing at the walk, then move on to the trot, and finally the canter. Don’t let your horse feel overwhelmed; keep your training sessions short and positive. And remember: Practice makes perfect! Stay patient and consistent, and you will notice improvements in your riding. With dressage figures, your riding training will become more varied and effective.

• Start with basic dressage figures, like the Volte or Circle.
• Practice first at the walk before transitioning to the trot or canter.
• Pay attention to correct seat and contact.
• Follow arena rules when riding in a shared space or riding arena with others.

Tip: Learn how to ride with relaxation and improve your aids with this video from our ClipMyHorse.TV Academy: Learning to Relax for Better Aids!

These are the basics you need to know about dressage figures:‍

‍Track lines

• First track: The outermost line of the riding arena.
• Second track: One horse's width (about 1.5 meters) inward.
• Third track: Another horse's width further inward.

Hand and Change of Hand

The "hand" indicates the direction in which you ride on the track (left or right).A change of hand is a dressage figure where the direction is changed.

‍Arena Points

Arena points are internationally standardized and vary depending on the size of the arena (20 x 40 meters or 20 x 60 meters).

• The arena points A and C always mark the center of the short side of the arena.
• The arena points E and B mark the center of the long side of the arena.

‍Tipps für Fortgeschrittene & Trainingsvideos

You're already good at riding dressage figures? Then let's take it a step further. Try reducing the arena size, it's a challenge, but also a great way to improve your horse's control and balance. Or try the trot to canter transition. This requires a lot of practice, but once you master it, your horse will become smoother and more responsive. And don't forget to always practice with calmness and patience. Your horse will thank you!

• Ride more complex dressage figures, such as figure eights, serpentines, changing from the circle, or combinations of different figures. These require a higher level of control and coordination.
• Try riding away from the rail: We’ll show you how to incorporate riding on the quarter line into your training.
• Practice transitions.
• Practice riding the shoulder-in. We’ll show you how to do this with the three different tracks.

Mistakes you should avoid when riding dressage figures & training videos

There are some common mistakes you should avoid when riding dressage figures.

1. Always make sure to follow the correct line. Avoid riding too close to the rail, as this will make your figure too small.
2. Be consistent with your pace. A common mistake is going too fast or too slow. Make sure to always keep your horse’s balance in check.
3. Avoid making abrupt turns. This can throw your horse off balance.
4. Practice regularly and with patience. It’s normal for not every figure to be perfect the first time. Stay focused and consistent in your practice to see continuous improvements.

Irregular shape of figures

‍Problem: The figure looks more like an egg or an ellipse.
Tip: Practice by using cones or markers as reference points. Make sure to apply your reins, leg, and weight aids evenly.
You can find a training video on correct aid usage while riding in the ClipMyHorse.TV Academy:
‍Training Video: Aids Usage

Too fast or too slow pace

A good pace is crucial for successful dressage figures.

Problem: The horse becomes faster or slower during the figure, which affects control and precision. Too fast a pace can overwhelm the horse and lead to accidents. On the other hand, too slow a pace can decrease the horse's concentration and affect the execution of the figures. It is important to find a balanced pace that is comfortable for both the rider and the horse. The ideal pace depends on the specific figure and the training level of the horse. Dressage figures are not only a good exercise for agility but also an opportunity to strengthen the bond between rider and horse. So, pay attention to your pace.
Tip: Practice pace control through transitions in and between gaits. Use your voice, leg aids, and weight aids to maintain a steady pace for the horse.
Training video: Riding with a Steady Pace.

Incorrect aids while riding‍

Problem: Unclear or contradictory aids lead to confusion for the horse.
‍Tip: Work on refining your aids, including the rein aids, weight aids, and leg aids. Have you ever considered getting tips from an experienced rider or instructor? This can help you reflect on your aids and avoid unconsciously training mistakes.
‍Training video: Optimizing Aids and Refining Transitions.

Mangelnde Biegung des Pferdes

Lack of bend in the horse‍

‍Problem: The horse remains stiff and does not bend along the line of the figure.
‍Tip: Practice bending with simpler exercises like voltes or circles. Make sure your horse is well warmed up before the exercise. Using dressage figures at the walk as a warm-up is a great loosening exercise. Start with large, curved figures. The more warmed up your horse is, the tighter turns you can ride.
Training video: Improving Bend and Throughness.

Uneven weight distribution

‍Problem: The rider leans too much inward or outward, which disrupts the horse’s balance.
Tip: Pay attention to your own seat and posture while riding. Always try to sit straight and balanced in the saddle. Weight aids exist! Practice without stirrups to get a better feel for weight distribution.
Training video: Balance and Equilibrium in the Saddle.

Inattention or Distraction

Problem: The rider is mentally not fully focused, which leads to mistakes and confusion in communication with the horse.
‍Tip: Practice mindfulness techniques to improve your concentration. Focus entirely on the task at hand. If you notice your thoughts wandering, take a short break and regroup. Have you ever tried singing a song while riding? It can help you relax.
‍Training video: Loosening Exercises and Focus.

How to improve your dressage figures

Do you want to improve your dressage figures? First, remember the basics. Pay attention to your posture and maintain a good connection with the horse. Then, practice regularly – practice makes perfect. Experiment with different figures like voltes, serpentines, or circles. Use the entire arena to train your horse evenly. Also, change the tempo regularly to promote flexibility and responsiveness. And don’t forget to take breaks to prevent overwhelming your horse and allow it to recover. With patience and perseverance, you will soon notice a visible improvement. Enjoy your training!

Fun and variety in riding dressage figures

Dressage figures are not only a must for dressage exercises, but they also bring fun and variety to your riding training. You can experiment with different figures like voltes, serpentines, or circles. These not only improve your horse's balance and agility but also enhance your communication and cooperation. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced rider, dressage figures offer a way to improve your riding. Give it a try and experience the difference that dressage figures can make in your training!
Training video: Riding Relaxed and Without Tension.

Why riding figures are also important in show jumping

Dressage figures are not only essential in dressage but also in show jumping. They help guide the horse correctly and maintain its balance, even when obstacles are in the way. Additionally, they strengthen the communication between rider and horse. With dressage figures like voltes, serpentines, and circles, you train your horse's agility and mobility. This is especially important in show jumping, where quick changes of direction are required. So, never underestimate the importance of dressage figures, even if your main focus is on show jumping.