Dressage and Showjumping.

The two main equestrian events in the Olympics are dressage and show jumping, each division has its own purpose, style and ranking system. 

Dressage

Dressage is considered “the art of horse riding”. From It is known for its calm and slow movements, resembling a dance. The main focus is balance, communication, precision and understanding between the rider and the horse. From an outside perspective it looks effortless, however it involves changes of pace, turns, transitions and shapes, all indicated to the horse by the riders. The goal is to present a connection and an understanding between the pair performing to achieve an effortless look. 

Dressage, to an extent is the foundation to other disciplines, since it’s based on how much understanding there is between the rider and the horse. 

Show jumping

Show jumping requires speed and is considered more “risky”. The horse and the rider jump over obstacles through a set course. Depending on the high there is either a timer or the win is calculated upon “faults” – things gone out of control throughout the course, for example a pole down. 

Jumping, is based upon trust, every obstacles for the riders ability to correctly guide the horse, and for how willing the horse is to listen, trust and react. Show jumping requires calm decision making and ability to withstand stressful conditions. 

Despite looking completely different, both dressage and show jumping are about partnership and teamwork. They both highlight the main focus of equestrian sport – ability to communicate, understand and trust. 

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