Which level to show at
If you are just learning dressage and have been taking a few lessons, it is a rule of thumb to start at the beginning of the levels and to stay at each level for a year, while preparing for the next level. Start at Intro level and practice your way up. You don't want to skip a level, try to stay focused and think about what is required of you and your horse. Strength, balance, harmony and precision is what you will strive for with you and your horse on a daily basis. Gaits, impulsion, submission and riders seat & position is scored on your tests as well, this is alot to work on when you are just starting out. Every test leads to the next level and are considered the building blocks of the development of both the horse and rider.
For beginners, consider riding Intro level tests A & B. Think about competing at this level for a year and begin working on training level before the end of the year. If you are going to shows, you don't want to be riding the next level to much in the beginning of your show season, concentrate on the level you are on. The movements at the next level come a little quicker, and you and your horse need the time to build the confidence and strength you need to advance up to the next level.
Don't rush your horse to a level that either of you are not prepared for.Think about being fair to your horse, give him or her the time they need to develop balance, strength and to be mentally prepared for what is being asked of them. When you are preparing for your tests and you are practicing to memorize them, you are getting ready mentally. Remember that your horse needs to feel confident like you do. I think that this is overlooked by riders, and we just have to remind ourselves that this is a "Team effort."
These are just some of the basics to work on, and you will continue to do this on all the levels up to Grand Prix.
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