So lately I’ve been working way to help better track students’ progress and make sure that each rider doesn’t end up with holes or gaps in their education. As we grow, it gets harder to keep everyone straight. In doing this, I realized how difficult it was to create levels for riders since everyone has different standards for each level. That led me down a rabbit hole of research which results in this article.

This is a collection of different riding level/club/training system I could find in a single spot, along with links to the discipline’s resources and rule book. Now it’s much easier to draw comparisons and find similarities and between them to come to conclusions on the consensus of how a rider’s skills should progress.

Jump To: Dressage Levels * Eventing Levels * Show Jumping Levels * 4-H Levels * Pony Club Levels * HorseSense Level * Horse Training Scale Levels * Rider Medal Levels

Dressage Levels

• Resources & Rule Book: USEF, USDF, FEI, Student Level Checklist

Introductory (Intro)

• Halt
• Walk
• Trot

Preliminary (Prelim)

• Halt
• Walk
• Trot
• Canter
• 20 meter circle

Novice

• Halt
• Walk
• Trot
• Canter
• 20 meter circle
• 15 meter circle
• Serpentines
• Rein back
• Lengthened trot

Elementary

• Halt
• Walk
• Trot
• Canter
• 20 meter circle
• 15 meter circle
• Serpentines
• Rein back
• Lengthened trot
• Leg yields
• Simple changes
• Counter canter
• Stretch in canter

Medium

• Halt
• Walk
• Trot
• Canter
• 20 meter circle
• 15 meter circle
• Serpentines
• Rein back
• Lengthened trot
• Leg yields
• Simple changes
• Counter canter
• Stretch in canter
• Shoulder in at a trot
• Travers at a trot
• Half pass at a trot
• Half walk pirouettes
• Collected walk
• Collected trot
• Collected canter
• Extended walk
• Extended trot
• Extended canter
• Canter entry to halt at X

Advanced Medium

• Halt
• Walk
• Trot
• Canter
• 20 meter circle
• 15 meter circle
• Serpentines
• Rein back
• Lengthened trot
• Leg yields
• Simple changes
• Counter canter
• Stretch in canter
• Shoulder in at a trot
• Travers at a trot
• Half pass at a trot
• Half walk pirouettes
• Collected walk
• Collected trot
• Collected canter
• Extended walk
• Extended trot
• Extended canter
• Canter entry to halt at X
• Single flying change
• 8 meter trot circle/volte
• 8 meter canter circle/volte

Advanced

• Halt
• Walk
• Trot
• Canter
• 20 meter circle
• 15 meter circle
• Serpentines
• Rein back
• Lengthened trot
• Leg yields
• Simple changes
• Counter canter
• Stretch in canter
• Shoulder in at a trot
• Travers at a trot
• Half pass at a trot
• Half walk pirouettes
• Collected walk
• Collected trot
• Collected canter
• Extended walk
• Extended trot
• Extended canter
• Canter entry to halt at X
• Single flying change
• 8 meter trot circle/volte
• 8 meter canter circle/volte
• Canter half circle with quarters in
• 4 and 5 time tempi changes

Prix St Georges

• Halt
• Walk
• Trot
• Canter
• 20 meter circle
• 15 meter circle
• Serpentines
• Rein back
• Lengthened trot
• Leg yields
• Simple changes
• Counter canter
• Stretch in canter
• Shoulder in at a trot
• Travers at a trot
• Half pass at a trot
• Half walk pirouettes
• Collected walk
• Collected trot
• Collected canter
• Extended walk
• Extended trot
• Extended canter
• Canter entry to halt at X
• Single flying change
• 8 meter trot circle/volte
• 8 meter canter circle/volte
• Canter half circle with quarters in
• Half canter pirouette
• 3 time tempi changes
• Single change of leg after canter half pass (from counter canter to true canter)

Intermediate I (Inter One)

• Halt
• Walk
• Trot
• Canter
• 20 meter circle
• 15 meter circle
• Serpentines
• Rein back
• Lengthened trot
• Leg yields
• Simple changes
• Counter canter
• Stretch in canter
• Shoulder in at a trot
• Travers at a trot
• Half pass at a trot
• Half walk pirouettes
• Collected walk
• Collected trot
• Collected canter
• Extended walk
• Extended trot
• Extended canter
• Canter entry to halt at X
• Single flying change
• 8 meter trot circle/volte
• 8 meter canter circle/volte
• Canter half circle with quarters in
• Full canter pirouette
• 2 time tempi changes
• Single change of leg after canter half pass (from counter canter to true canter)

Intermediate II (Inter Two)

• Halt
• Walk
• Trot
• Canter
• 20 meter circle
• 15 meter circle
• Serpentines
• Rein back
• Lengthened trot
• Leg yields
• Simple changes
• Counter canter
• Stretch in canter
• Shoulder in at a trot
• Travers at a trot
• Half pass at a trot
• Half walk pirouettes
• Collected walk
• Collected trot
• Collected canter
• Extended walk
• Extended trot
• Extended canter
• Canter entry to halt at X
• Single flying change
• 8 meter trot circle/volte
• 8 meter canter circle/volte
• Canter half circle with quarters in
• Full canter pirouette
• 1 time tempi changes
• Flying changes after half pass
• Piaffe
• Passage

Grand Prix

• Internationally competitive

Eventing Levels

• Resources & Rule Books: USEA, FEI

Beginner Novice

Dressage

• Walk
• Trot
• Canter
• 20 meter circle
• Comparable to a USDF training level test

Cross Country

• Up banks
• Natural ditches
• Water crossings
• Brush jumps
• Jumps up to 2’7” with brush fences up to 3’3”
• 14 to 18 jumping obstacles
• Ride speed between 300 and 350 meters-per-minute (mpm)
• Jumps will have a yellow background with a black number

Stadium Jumping

• Jump heights are 2’7”
• Comparable to a .90 meter jumper course

Novice

Dressage

• Slightly more difficult than beginner novice with similar movements
• Comparable to a USDF training level test

Cross Country

• Up banks
• Down banks
• Natural ditches
• Water crossings
• Brush jumps
• Jumps near or out of the water
• 16-20 jumping obstacles
• Ride speed between 350-400 meters-per-minute (mpm)
• Jumps up to 2’11 with brush fences up to 3’7”
• Jumps will have a white background with black numbers

Stadium Jumping

• A couple more jumps
• Faster meters-per-minute
• Jump heights are 2’11”
• Comparable to a .90 meter jumper course

Training

Dressage

• Work from the previous levels
• Trot lengthenings
• Canter lengthenings
• 15 meter circles
• Comparable to USDF first level test

Cross Country

• Speed is between 420 and 470 meters-per-minute (mpm)
• Up to 24 obstacles
• Jumps in the water
• Normandy banks
• Coffins
• Small Weldon’s walls
• Jumps up to 3’3” with brush fences up to 3’11”
• Jumps will have a black background with white numbers

Stadium Jumping

• Liverpool
• Triple combination
• Speed of 325 meters-per-minute (mpm)
• Jump heights up to 3’3”
• Comparable to a 1 meter show jumping course

Modified

Training level but jump height up to 3’5″

Preliminary

Dressage

• Simple changes through the trot
• Quarter line serpentines
• 10 meter circles,
• Rein back
• Comparable to USDF first level test with some second-level movements

Cross Country

• Up to 30 obstacles
• Speed of 520 meters-per-minute (mpm)
• Technical and difficult jumps
• Jump heights up to 3’7” with brush fences up to 4’3”
• Jumps will have a green background and white numbers

Stadium Jumping

• Triple combination
• Lines on half strides
• Lines designed to force rider to ride more forward
• Comparable to a 1.10 meter jumper course

Intermediate

Dressage

• Shoulder-in
• Travers (haunches-in)
• Lengthened gaits
• Collected gaits
• Comparable to the USDF second level test

Cross Country

• Up to 34 obstacles
• Speed of 550 meters-per-minute (mpm)
• Jump heights up to 3’9” with brush fences up to 4’5”
• Jumps will have a red background with white numbers

Stadium Jumping

• Jumps heights up to 3’11”
• Speed of 350 meters-per-minute (mpm)
• Comparable to a 1.20 meter jumper course

Advanced

Dressage

• Half-pass
• Flying changes
• Canter serpentines
• Turns on the haunch
• Comparable to USDF third level test

Cross Country

• Jump heights up to 3’11” with brush fences up to 4’7”
• Speed of 570 meters-per-minute (mpm)
• Jumps will have a blue background with white numbers

Stadium Jumping

• Jump heights up to 4’1”
• Speed of 375 meters-per-minute (mpm)
• Comparable to 1.25 meter jumper classes

4-H Riding Levels

• Resources & Rule Books: National Curriculum, VA Extension, Horsemanship Book

Level 1

• Emphasizes basic, correct, and safe principles of handling and riding a horse. Level 1 skills are the foundation for all levels and emphasize basic skills at the walk and trot.

Handling

• 1-1 Approach and catch horse safely (tied and loose)
• 1-2 Properly halter horse
• 1-3 Lead, turn, and back horse safely and correctly
• 1-4 Lead a horse into and out of a stall
• 1-5 Practice safety rules when turning a horse loose
• 1-6 Safely tie horse (correct level, length, location, knot, etc.)
• 1-7 Demonstrate simple grooming of the horse
• 1-8 Pick up feet and clean properly
• 1-9 Bridle horse—check fit and make basic adjustments
• 1-10 Saddle horse—check fit and make basic adjustments
• 1-11 Demonstrate safety around the horse while handling

Riding

• 1-12 Mount and dismount properly (may use mounting block)
• 1-13 Describe and discuss safely riding in a group
• 1-14 Use proper basic seat, leg, and body position with balance
• 1-15 Proper use of reins; hand position and action
• At a walk with control and proper position
  • 1-16 start and stop (gradual and balanced)
  • 1-17 check and release (demonstrating control of horse)
  • 1-18 turn while walking and walk in both directions
  • 1-19 ride a circle both directions and do a figure 8
• At a jog or trot with control and proper position
  • 1-20 start and stop (gradual and balanced)
  • 1-21 check and release (demonstrating control of horse)
  • 1-22 turn while jogging or trotting both directions
  • 1-23 ride a circle both directions and do a figure 8
• 1-24 Drop and regain stirrups while at a halt
• 1-25 Emergency stop
• 1-26 Emergency dismount
• 1-27 Equipment, clothing, helmet (fit, condition, suitability, etc.)
• 1-28 Overall attitude and confidence

Level 2

• Emphasizes building a solid foundation of horsemanship skills. Level 2 introduces the lope or canter and proper aids.

Handling

• 2-1 Proficient in Level 1 skills
• 2-2 Fitting, grooming, and clipping—mane/tail/body/legs/feet
• 2-3 Bathing a horse
• 2-4 Ground-handling skills: walk, trot, stop, turn on hindquarters, back, and set up
• 2-5 Demonstrate proper fit, adjustment, and safety of equipment
• 2-6 Properly adjust stirrups
• 2-7 Safety in handling skills—at all times

Riding

• 2-8 Mount and dismount properly (may use mounting block)
• Demonstrate correct body position and upward and downward transitions using proper aids and maintaining an even pace
  • 2-9 walk to a jog/trot
  • 2-10 increase the jog/trot
  • 2-11 halt
• At a canter or lope
  • 2-12 start and stop (gradual and balanced)
  • 2-13 check and release (demonstrating control of horse)
  • 2-14 turn while cantering and ride in both directions
  • 2-15 ride a circle both directions and do a figure 8 (simple lead change)
• 2-16 Drop and regain stirrups while at a walk and jog or trot
• 2-17 Back 4–5 steps in a straight line
• 2-18 Show a gradual and balanced halt from all gaits
• 2-19 Leg yield at a walk—both directions
• 2-20 Sidepass a minimum of 10 feet—both directions
• 2-21 Show a simple lead change on straightaway—at least 3
• 2-22 Walk and trot over 3–4 logs
• 2-23 Open and close gate while mounted or dismounted
• 2-24 Equipment, clothing, helmet (fit, condition, suitability, etc.)
• 2-25 Overall attitude and confidence

Level 3

• Uses foundation skills to teach intermediate horsemanship skills. Level 3 requires the rider to be balanced while using aids and maintaining an even pace. Level 4 completes an advanced level of horsemanship skills.

Handling

• 3-1 Proficient in Levels 1 and 2 skills
• 3-2 Fitting and turnout of the horse—high quality and appropriate for breed and type
• Ground handling skills:
  • 3-3 360-degree turn on the hindquarters
  • 3-4 turn on the forehand—both directions
• 3-5 Display confidence, safety, and knowledge around the horse 3-6 Safely lunge a horse at a walk, trot, and canter in both directions
• 3-7 Practice safety in handling skills—at all times

Riding

• 3-8 Mount and dismount properly (may use mounting block) Using proper aids (hands, legs, seat, and voice), ride with a secure form keeping the horse’s head and neck quiet.
• Demonstrate upward and downward transitions
  • 3-9 from a walk—jog or trot and then halt
  • 3-10 from a walk—lope or canter and then halt
• Demonstrate use of reins at a walk and jog or trot
  • 3-11 on a loose rein
  • 3-12 using a light rein
  • 3-13 riding with contact
• 3-14 Drop and regain stirrups at a canter
• 3-15 Back 8–10 steps in a straight line
• 3-16 Demonstrate a balanced halt from all gaits
• 3-17 Leg yield at a trot/jog—both directions
• 3-18 180-degree turn on the forehand—both directions
• 3-19 180-degree turn on the hindquarter—both directions
• 3-20 Counter canter—complete circles—both directions
• 3-21 Equipment, clothing, helmet (fit, condition, suitability, etc.)
• 3-22 Overall attitude and confidence

Level 4

• Requires a balanced horse and rider exhibiting calmness, rhythm, suppleness, and coordination.

Handling

• 4-1 Proficiency in Levels 1, 2, and 3 skills
• 4-2 Discuss and describe trailer safety—loading, unloading, hauling safety, etc.
• 4-3 Demonstrate a 1/4 pull turn on the hindquarter

Riding

• 4-4 Mount and dismount properly (may use mounting block) Skills are to be ridden with proper head position, bending and suppleness, calmness, lightness, rhythm, and coordination using leg yielding and weight aids.
• Demonstrate lengthening and shortening of gaits:
  • 4-5 walk—slow/ordinary/extended
  • 4-6 jog or trot—slow/ordinary/extended
  • 4-7 lope or canter—slow/ordinary/extended
• 4-8 Back a circle
• 4-9 360-degree turn on the hindquarter—both directions
• 4-10 360-degree turn on the forehand—both directions
• 4-11 Jog or trot—depart from a halt
• 4-12 Lope or canter—depart from a halt
• 4-13 Leg yield at a canter/lope—both directions
• 4-14 Demonstrate shoulder-in at walk and trot/jog—both directions
• Perform flying lead changes:
  • 4-15 diagonally across the arena
  • 4-16 in a figure 8
  • 4-17 on a straightaway (at least 3 in a row)
• 4-18 Equipment, clothing, helmet (fit, condition, suitability, etc.)
• 4-19 Overall attitude and confidence

Show Jumping Levels

• Resources & Rule Books: USEF, FEI

Level 0

• 2′6″ to 2′9″ in height
• 2′9″ to 3′0″ in spread
• Triple bars and liver pools to 3′9″

Level 1

• 2′9″ to 3′0″ in height 3′0″
• 3′6″ in spread
• Triple bars and liver pools to 4′0″

Level 2

• 3′0″ to 3′3″ in height
• 3′3″ to 3′9″ in spread
• Triple bars liver pools to 4′3″

Level 3

• Fences 3′3″ to 3′6″ in height
• 3′6″ to 4′0″ in spread
• Triple bars liver pools to 4′6″

Level 4

• 3′6″ to 3′9″ in height
• 3′9″ to 4′3″ in spread
• triple bars to 4′9″
• water to 8′

Level 5

• 3′9″ to 4′0″ in height
• 4′0″ to 4′6″ in spread
• Triple bars to 5′0″
• Water to 9′

Level 6

• 4′0″ to 4′3″ in height
• 4′3″ to 4′9″ in spread
• Triple bars to 5′3″’
• Water to 10′

Level 7

• 4′3″ to 4′6″ in height
• 4′6″ to 5′0″ in spread
• Triple bars to 5′6″
• Water to 12′

Level 8

• 4′6″ to 4′9″ in height
• 4′9″ to 5′3″ in spread
• Triple bars to 5′9″
• Water to 12′6″

Level 9

• 4′9″ to 5′0″ in height
• 5′0″ to 5′6″ in spread
• Triple bars to 6′0″
• Water to 13′

Horse Training Scale

Rhythm

• Maintaining a steady, rhythmic pace

Suppleness

• Stretching through the neck, back and down into the bit

Contact

• Accepting contact of the bit, development of self carriage

Impulse

• The amount of push off or propulsion from the ground, not to be confused with speed

Straightness

• Carriage of the legs, body, neck and head evenly over both sides of the spine

Collection

• Dropping of the hind end and raising of the front end as the horse shifts its impulse to the hind quarters

Pony Club Levels

• Resources & Rulebook: US, UK

D-1

• Overview
  • • Candidates should ride in an enclosed area without lead line, demonstrating basic balanced position at the halt and walk, and control at the walk and trot.
    • The candidate is a beginning -level horse manager, willing to learn the simple routine necessary for safe handling of quiet, well trained horses. His or her knowledge will vary widely depending on age, education level, and experience.
  • Horse Management
    • Presentation turnout and tack
      • Rider is to be in safe and neat attire, in accordance with the Standards of Proficiency (SOP). 
      • Groom mount and pick out hooves with assistance if needed. 
      • Tack up with assistance if necessary.
      • Name 6 saddle parts and 4 bridle parts
    • Riding on the Flat
      • Mount and dismount, with assistance if necessary.
      • Pick up and hold reins correctly at the halt.
      • Pick up stirrups at halt.
      • Shorten and lengthen reins correctly at the halt.
      • Demonstrate basic correct position at the halt and walk
      • Ride at the walk and trot, with control, keeping mount on rail
      • Demonstrate simple change of direction at the walk and trot
      • Perform gradual transitions from walk to trot and walk to halt
      • Rider should demonstrate basic balanced position at the walk.
    • Riding over fences
      • Walk over a single pole on the ground in jumping position
      • Discuss the reason for different positions when riding on the flat and over fences
      • Rider should ride over poles demonstrating basic balanced position
    • Leading/Longeing
      • Approach mount safely and put on halter
      • Demonstrate walk-halt-walk transitions and turning in the correct direction
    • Foot and Shoeing
      • Give 1 reason to pick out a mount’s hoof.
      • Tell whether your mount wears shoes or not.
    • Breeds, Parts and Colors
      • Locate and name 10 parts of the mount.
      • Name color and breed of own mount
    • Health and Maintenance Record Book
      • Bring a completed USPC stall card for own mount and explain why it is important
    • Stable Management
      • Give 2 reasons for cleaning tack

D-2

• Overview
  • • Candidates should ride in an enclosed area without lead line, demonstrating control while maintaining a safe basic balanced position at the walk and trot, and should begin to develop the canter and jumping position. No need to canter over fences.
    • The candidates should be able to demonstrate simple skills, with assistance if necessary, and should understand the basic reasons for the everyday routine of caring for his her her own mount.
  • Horse Management
    • PRESENTATION/TURNOUT AND TACK
      • Rider in safe and neat attire
      • Mount clean and well brushed with hooves picked out and showing farrier care.
      • Eyes, nose, lips, and dock wiped off.
      • Tack to be safe and clean (properly adjusted with assistance if necessary), with attention to stitching, girth, and stirrups.
      • No obvious jockeys or heavy dust.
      • Groom and tack up with assistance if necessary.
      • Name and locate 10 saddle parts and 5 bridle parts.
      • Name 2 different bits.
    • LEADING/LONGEING
      • Lead mount correctly in tack.
      • Demonstrate walk-trot-halt transitions, and turning in the correct direction.
    • BANDAGING
      • Give 2 reasons why you would bandage a mount’s leg(s).
      •  With assistance from Examiner, apply 1 protective boot and 1 bell boot to mount’s leg.
    • FOOT AND SHOEING
      • Give reasons for daily hoof care.
      • Give 2 reasons why a farrier regularly checks your mount
    • BREEDS, PONY PARTS, COLORS
      • Name and locate any 15 parts of the mount.
      • Name and describe 6 colors of mounts.
      • Name and describe 5 markings a mount might have.
      • Name 5 equine breeds.
    • HEALTH AND MAINTENANCE RECORD BOOK
      • Provide a hard copy of mount’s Health and Maintenance Record Book that contains the following:
        • Horse information and photo.
        • Contact information for vet and farrier.
        • Feeding information.
    • STABLE MANAGEMENT
      • Demonstrate tying a quick release knot with assistance if necessary.
      • Name 5 grooming tools and describe how to use them.
      • List 3 examples of unsafe horse equipment
      • Name 3 common stable vices and give 1 possible cause for each vice named
    • TRAVEL SAFETY
      • Name 2 pieces of equipment used on your mount for its safety in a trailer.
    • NUTRITION
      • Give 3 basic rules for feeding and explain feeding schedule for own mount.
    • CONDITIONING
      • Describe 2 signs that show when a mount is properly cooled out.
      • Describe condition of own mount (e.g., thin, fit, or overweight).
      • What does TPR stand for?
    • LAND CONSERVATION
      • Talk with grandparents, parents, instructors, and/or older friends/neighbors about where they rode when they were young, and if those places are available to ride on today. 
      • Discuss this information with your Examiner.
    • HEALTH CARE AND VETERINARY KNOWLEDGE
      • Give 2 reasons to have your mount routinely checked by a veterinarian.
    • TEACHING
      • Give 1 reason for checking girth and stirrup bars before mounting.
    • RIDER SAFETY
      • Name 3 items that should be included in a human first aid kit.
      • Name 3 pieces of information that are required on the Medical Armband or Medical Bracelet.
      • Describe what you should do for yourself when you fall off a horse.
    • EQUINE SPORTS
      • Name 3 disciplines listed on the USPC website
  • Eventing
    • RIDING ON THE FLAT
      • Correctly mount and dismount independently (using mounting block if necessary).
      • Shorten and lengthen reins at halt and walk.
      • Perform balancing and suppling exercises for rider at walk and halt and discuss 1 or 2 reasons for doing this.
      • Ride at the walk, performing simple turns, and large circles
      • Ride without stirrups at the walk.
      • Ride at the trot on correct diagonal, performing simple turns and large circles.
      • Ride at the canter in both directions in an enclosed area and be aware of leads.
      • Discuss how to pass others safely while riding in an enclosed area
      • Discuss performance of turns, circles, diagonals, and leads.
      • Rider demonstrates control while maintaining a safe balanced position at walk and trot.
    • RIDING OVER FENCES
      • Maintain jumping position at the trot on the flat and over individual ground poles.
      • In an enclosed area, ride a simple stadium course of 4 to 5 obstacles of cross rails and verticals (no spreads).
      • The majority of fences set at, but not exceeding, 18”.
      • Rider demonstrates control while developing a safe basic balanced position over fences. (No need to canter over fences)
      • Discuss ways to improve ride.
    • RIDING IN THE OPEN
      • Ride safely and considerately, on a suitable mount, on public or private property, in a group, at the walk and trot.
      • Ride with control, up and down small hills, as conditions allow, at the walk and trot.
      • Ride over a minimum of 3 simple and natural obstacles.
      • The majority of fences set at, but not exceeding, 18” in height or 18” in width.
      • No ditches, banks or water.
      • All fences must be jumped at the trot.
      • Speed should not exceed 240 meters per minute (mpm), appropriate for the size of mount.
  • Dressage
    • RIDING ON THE FLAT—WARM UP
      • Mount and dismount independently (using mounting block if necessary).
      • Shorten and lengthen reins at halt and walk.
      • Perform balancing and suppling exercises for rider at halt and walk and discuss 2 reasons for doing this.
    • MOVEMENTS
      • Demonstrate free walk and medium walk on light contact.
      • Ride at the walk and working trot on correct diagonal, performing simple turns and 20-meter circles at the rising or sitting trot to show awareness of bend.
      • Ride at the canter in both directions in an enclosed area and correcting any wrong leads.
      • Ride without stirrups at the walk.
      • Discuss performance to include if mount was looking in the directions of the turns (bend) and whether or not mount was on correct leads.
      • Discuss how to pass others safely while riding in an enclosed area.
    • RIDING OVER GROUND POLES/CAVALETTI
      • Maintain a balanced position at the walk and/or trot over 3-4 ground poles or cavaletti in rising trot or half-seat.
      • Discuss ways to improve ride and balance.
    • DRESSAGE TEST
      • Perform USDF Intro Test C from memory.
      • Discuss performance to include whether mount picked up correct leads, was mount looking in the direction of the turns (bend), and if circles were round and the correct size.
    • RIDING IN THE OPEN
      • Ride with confidence and control, up and down hills (if available), on public or private property (open field or open space), and in a group at the walk.
      • Discuss 2-3 ways to show “good manners” or courtesy while riding on someone else’s property. (e.g., regarding gates, planted rows in fields, etc.)
    • Hunt Seat
      • RIDING ON THE FLAT
        • Mount and dismount independently (using mounting block if necessary).
        • Shorten ad lengthen reins at walk.
        • Perform balancing and suppling exercises for rider at halt and walk and discuss 2 reasons for exercises.
        • Ride at the walk, performing simple turns and large circles
        • Ride at the trot on correct diagonal, performing simple turns, large circles, and an awareness of correct bend.
        • Ride without stirrups at the sitting trot.
        • Ride at the canter in both directions in an enclosed area and be aware of leads.
        • Discuss performance to include rider’s position and demonstration of correct diagonals and leads.
        • Discuss how to pass others safely while riding in an enclosed area.
      • RIDING OVER FENCES
        • Maintain 2-point (jumping) position at the trot on the flat and over 3 trot poles (cavaletti).
        • In an enclosed area, ride a simple jumping course of 6-8 obstacles of cross rails and verticals to include 1 change of direction with the majority of fences set at, but not exceeding 18”.
        • Discuss ways to improve ride.
      • RIDING IN THE OPEN
        • Ride safely and considerately at the walk outside the ring.
  • Western
    • RIDING ON THE FLAT
      • Mount and dismount independently (using mounting block if necessary)  Shorten and lengthen reins at halt and walk
      • Perform balancing and suppling exercises for rider at halt and walk and discuss one or two reasons for doing this.
      • Ride at the walk, performing simple turns and large circles.
      • Ride without stirrups at the walk.
      • Ride at the jog performing simple turns and large circles with proper bend. 
      • Ride at the lope in both directions in an enclosed area and be aware of leads.
      • Rider should demonstrate control while maintaining a safe balanced position at the walk and jog.
      • Discuss performance with Examiner.
      • Candidate should be aware of mount’s leads.
      • Demonstrate emergency dismount at the walk. (Adult members-in lieu of performing emergency dismount, discuss conditions in which an emergency dismount is to be performed.) 
      • Discuss how to pass others safely while riding in an enclosed area.
    • RIDING OVER OBSTACLES
      • Maintain a balanced position at the jog, on the rail, and over poles.
      • In an enclosed area, complete a simple obstacle course to include poles (walk and jog over), halt, walk, jog, backing turns, and navigation around cones or upright poles.
      • Rider should demonstrate control while developing a safe basic balanced position through the obstacle course.
      • Discuss with Examiner ways to improve ride.
    • RIDING IN THE OPEN
      • Ride safely and considerately on public or private property, in a group, at the walk and jog.
      • Ride with control, up and down hills at the walk and jog, if available. 
      • Discuss two or three things to do to show “good manners” or courtesy while riding on someone else’s property (e.g. regarding gates, planted rows in fields, etc.)
      • Navigate several natural obstacles, to include logs (no more than 12”), trees, and small divots (lowered sections of ground), where available.

D-3

• Overview
  • • Candidate should ride in a basic balanced position with control at the walk, trot, and canter. Candidates should maintain a secure base of support while developing balance and a steady position over fences.
    • The candidates should be able to demonstrate simple skills without assistances, and then discuss care of the mount using common horse terms.
  • Horse Management
    • PRESENTATION/TURNOUT AND TACK
      • Rider in safe and neat attire
      • Mount to be well brushed (no sweat), clean (no dirt), with feet picked out, showing farrier care
      • Mane and tail brushed and eyes, nose, lips, and dock wiped off.
      • Tack to be safe, especially stitching on stirrups/girth and clean.
      • No jockeys or dust, stress points clean, stirrup pads (if used) clean, and bit clean.
      • All tack must be properly adjusted.
      • Groom and tack up independently.
      • Describe proper adjustment of snaffle bridle with cavesson noseband.
      • Describe proper adjustment of the bit your mount is wearing
    • LEADING/LONGEING
      • Lead safely from both sides at the walk.
      • Demonstrate correctly jogging a mount in a bridle and turning in the correct direction. (Whip must be carried and, if necessary, used to move mount forward.)
    • BANDAGING
      • Describe the critical areas protected by shipping bandages or boots, and give reasons for their use
      •  Describe the area a stable (aka standing) bandage covers and what materials are used.
      • With assistance if needed, apply 1 polo wrap to a front leg.
    • FOOT AND SHOEING
      • Name 3 parts of the hoof.  Describe 3 obvious signs of a foot needing shoeing or trimming.
    • BREEDS, PONY PARTS, CONFORMATION
      • Locate and name 20 parts of the mount.
      • Name 5 ways a mount could be identified.
      • Name 10 equine breeds.
      • Know 1 common conformation fault for each of the following: head, neck, shoulder, back, and pasterns.
      • Describe the eyes’ location and how this affects the mount’s vision.
    • HEALTH AND MAINTENANCE RECORD BOOK
      • Provide a hard copy of mount’s Health and Maintenance Record Book that contains records for at least 3 months prior to the test.
      • In addition to the information from the previous level, records must contain:
        • Contact information for equine dental professional.
        • Dated list of routine care (vaccinations, deworming, shoeing, dentistry)
    • STABLE MANAGEMENT
      • Demonstrate and discuss the steps involved in cleaning a stall and discuss the reasons for cleaning a stall. (For testing purposes, a soiled horse trailer may be used.)
      • Explain the purpose of ‘banking a stall’.
      • Demonstrate and discuss the proper methods of hanging a water bucket and hay net/hay bag.
      • Discuss how to fit a halter.
    • TRAVEL SAFETY
      • Name rules for riding safely on public roads in your state.
      • Describe the procedure for a mounted group crossing a public roadway.
      • Describe the proper steps to load and unload a mount.
    • NUTRITION
      • Give 5-7 basic rules of feeding.
      • Describe how feeds are measured and weighed.
      • Discuss the amount of roughage and the amount of concentrates per ration for own mount.
    • CONDITIONING
      • Describe care of mount after strenuous work, to include cooling out, checking legs, watering, and feeding.
      • Describe 2 signs that a mount might not be fit enough for the work asked.  Describe the normal range of vital signs (TPR) of a mount at rest.
    • LAND CONSERVATION
      • Name 5 important rules when riding across privately or publicly owned land.
      • Write thank you notes to 2 landowners who support your club/center to tell them why you appreciate being able to use their land. If you ride on public land, write a thank you note to the manager or contact person.
    • HEALTH CARE AND VETERINARY KNOWLEDGE
      • Name 3 symptoms of a sick or injured mount that would cause you to seek help.
      • Name 2 diseases your horse can be vaccinated against.
    • TEACHING
      • Describe how you assisted at 1 unmounted Pony Club activity.
    • RIDER SAFETY
      • Name 2 items that are required to ride in a Pony Club mounted lesson. 
      • Give 2 examples of when a riding helmet needs replacing.
      • List some common injuries that may happen when a rider falls off a horse.
    • EQUINE SPORTS
      • Name 5 disciplines listed on the USPC website
  • Eventing
    • RIDING ON THE FLAT
      • Demonstrate correct mounting, using mounting block if necessary. 
      • Adjust stirrups and girth with feet in the stirrups while mounted at the halt.
    • WARM UP
      • Perform balancing and supplying exercises for rider at walk and trot.
      • Demonstrate mount’s warm-up routine for everyday work
      • Ride mount at walk, rising trot with correct diagonals, sitting trot, and correct canter leads
    • MOVEMENTS
      • Demonstrate 20 meter circles showing correct bend in both directions at all gaits
      • Ride without stirrups at the sitting trot
      • Discuss and demonstrate arena etiquette for riders at different gaits and traveling in different directions.
      • Demonstrate a halt.
      • Discuss aids for and demonstrate a simple step back of 1-2 steps.
      • Discuss performance including rider’s basic balanced position, whether or not circles were round, and if natural aids correctly influenced the mount.
    • RIDING OVER FENCES
      • Ride over small gymnastic grid of trot poles followed by a cross rail, then a vertical set at, but not exceeding, 2’3”. Grid to be set at appropriate distances for mount’s stride.
      • Ride a simple stadium course at the canter consisting of 5 –7 obstacles, including a simple oxer in an enclosed area. The majority of fences set at, but not exceeding, 2’3”.
      • Discuss reasons for adjusting stirrups for different types of work.
      • Discuss performance and reasons for any disobediences.
    • RIDING IN THE OPEN
      • Discuss ways to control mount in the open.
      • Ride safely with a group on a suitable mount, at the walk and trot, over varied terrain, through shallow water and small ditches as occur in natural terrain, as local conditions allow.
      • Ride over 4-5 simple cross-country obstacles ranging from 2’ – 2’3”. The majority of fences set at, but not exceeding, 2’3”.
      • Speed should not exceed 300 mpm, as appropriate for the size of the mount.
      • Discuss performance and pace.
      • Rider demonstrates development of a secure base of support, steady position, and balance over cross-country fences.
  • Dressage
    • RIDING ON THE FLAT
      • Demonstrate correct mounting (using mounting block if necessary).
      • Adjust stirrups and girth with feet in the stirrups while mounted at the halt.
    • WARM UP
      • Demonstrate and discuss mount’s warm-up routine for everyday work.
      • Perform and discuss balancing and suppling exercises for rider at medium walk and working trot.
      • Shorten and lengthen reins at the trot.
    • MOVEMENTS
      • Demonstrate 20-meter circle, trot to halt transitions on centerline, show application of bending aids in both directions at walk and working trot, sitting and rising with correct diagonals, and show working canter with correct leads.
      • Demonstrate increase and decrease of speed in the trot.
      • Discuss aids for and demonstrate a halt followed by a simple step back of 1-2 steps.
      • Ride without stirrups at the working trot sitting.
      • Discuss performance to include rider’s basic balanced position, aids for bending, mount’s ease of bending comparing left to right, size, roundness of circles, and use of aids.
      • Candidate shows a basic balanced position while maintaining a secure base of support and developing balance, rhythm, and relaxation with their mount.
    • RIDING OVER GROUND POLES/CAVALETTI
      • Discuss differences in position and stirrup length for riding on the flat, riding over fences, and riding in the open.
      • Ride over 3-4 ground poles at the trot, maintaining a balanced position in rising trot and half-seat.
      • Ride over 3-4 ground poles at the trot followed by an elevated trot pole or raised cavaletti up to 6′.
      • Discuss performance, reasons for any disobediences, and ways to improve ride and balance.
    • DRESSAGE TEST
      • Discuss your goals for the test ride.
      • Perform USEF Training Level Test 1 from memory.
      • Discuss the purpose of USEF Training Level (printed at the top of the USEF test sheet), name the 5 collective marks (printed at the bottom of the test sheet), and discuss your performance relative to these.
    • RIDING IN THE OPEN
      • Ride safely with confidence and control to show consideration for public or private property (open field or open space) at the walk and/or trot (Rider’s option to ride alone or in a group.)
      • Discuss performance and ways to control a mount in the open.
  • Hunt Seat
    • RIDING ON THE FLAT
      • Demonstrate correct mounting (using mounting block if necessary).
      • Adjust stirrups and girth with feet in the stirrups while mounted at the halt.
      • Discuss reasons for adjusting stirrups for different types of work.
      • Perform balancing and suppling exercises for rider at walk and trot.
      • Demonstrate mount’s warm-up routine for everyday work under examiner supervision.
      • Ride at the walk, sitting and rising trot on correct diagonal, and canter on the correct leads, demonstrating circles with correct bend in both directions.
      • Ride a figure eight at trot, demonstrating change of diagonals.
      • Demonstrate an increase and decrease of speed at walk and trot.
      • Demonstrate a halt followed by a simple step back.
      • Ride without stirrups at the rising trot.
      • Discuss performance to include: the effectiveness of rider’s position, correct use of natural aids, and roundness of circles.
    • RIDING OVER FENCES
      • Ride over small gymnastic grid of trot poles followed by a cross rail, then a vertical set at, but not exceeding, 2’3” and set at appropriate distances for mount’s stride. (Adjust for individual mounts).
      • Ride a jumping course of 8 obstacles to include 2 changes of direction, 2 ramped oxers (stationery ground lines), with a majority of fences set at, but not exceeding, 2’3”.
      • Discuss performance to include reasons for any problems or disobediences.
    • RIDING IN THE OPEN
      • Ride safely with a group at the walk and trot outside of the ring.
      • Discuss performance including ways to control mount outside the ring.
  • Western
    • RIDING ON THE FLAT
      • Demonstrate correct mounting (using mounting block if necessary).
    • WARM UP
      • Perform balancing and suppling exercises for rider at walk and jog under direction of Examiner.
      • Ride without stirrups at the sitting jog.
      • Demonstrate a simple step back.  Discuss at least three reasons for doing balancing/ suppling exercises
    • MOVEMENTS
      • Ride mount demonstrating large circles showing correct positioning of mount in both directions at walk, jog, and at the lope with correct leads.
      • Demonstrate increase and decrease of speed either alone or with others as appropriate.
      • Demonstrate emergency dismount at the jog in an enclosed arena. (Adult members-in lieu of performing emergency dismount, discuss conditions in which an emergency dismount is to be performed.)
      • Rider should show a basic balanced position through the movements, and discuss performance with Examiner including rider’s basic balance position, and whether or not circles were round and natural aids were used correctly.
    • RIDING OVER OBSTACLES
      • Complete a simple obstacle course of five to seven obstacles, to include poles (walk and job over), halt, walk, jog, backing, turns, side-passing, a single-hand maneuver and navigation around cones or upright poles.
      • Discuss performance and reasons for any disobedience.
      • Rider should show a base of support while developing balance and a steady position through the obstacle course and any disobediences.
    • RIDING IN THE OPEN
      • Rider safely with a group, at the walk and jog, over varied terrain, through shallow water and small ditches as occur in natural terrain, if available.
      • Rider should show a secure base of support while developing balance and a steady position while in the open.

C-1

• Overview
  • • Candidates should ride with confidence and control on the flat and over fences, demonstrating a basic balanced position and the use of natural aids. The candidate should begin riding mount freely forward in balance and rhythm while developing a light contact. • The candidates should show a developing awareness of cause and effect in the care of own mount. He/she should be familiar with the local common horse terms. Assistance is recommended in the demonstration of bandaging.
  • Horse Management
    • PRESENTATION/TURNOUT AND TACK 
      • Present in appropriate “Competitive” attire for either Eventing, Dressage, or Show Jumping discipline (found in the discipline rulebook).
      • Mount to be well-groomed, reflecting regular care with a healthy coat; no sweat or dirt.
      • Mane and tail brushed with little, if any, dandruff.
      • External areas around sheath/udder clean.
      • Feet picked out and reflecting regular farrier care.
      • Eyes, nose, lips, dock clean.
      • Tack to be safe, clean and properly adjusted, reflecting regular care/conditioning with metal polished.
      • No jockeys or dust and all stress points clean.
      • Identify tack on own mount and discuss fit.
      • Describe 3 different snaffle bits.
      • Describe how to adjust a curb chain.
    • LEADING/LONGEING
      • Discuss 3 reasons for longeing.
      • Discuss necessary longeing equipment.
      • Describe parallel longeing and explain why it might be used. 
      • Demonstrate parallel leading.
    • BANDAGING
      • Name 2 possible effects of poor bandaging techniques.
      • Under direct supervision and, if needed, with assistance from Examiner, apply 2 stable (aka standing) bandages (front and rear diagonal pair).
    • FOOT AND SHOEING
      • Discuss causes of thrush and prevention.
      • Identify 6 farrier tools and their uses.
      • Identify 3 types of shoes.
      • Discuss 3 examples of bad shoeing.
    • CONFORMATION AND UNSOUNDNESS
      • Identify and discuss 3 bad points of basic leg conformation.
      • Name, describe outward appearance, and locate on a mount 5 common unsoundesses.
    • HEALTH AND MAINTENANCE RECORD BOOK
      • Provide a hard copy of mount’s Health and Maintenance Record Book that contains records for at least 6 months prior to the test.
      • In addition to the information from the previous level, records must contain:
        • Weekly riding/conditioning schedule and changes to this schedule (seasonal or other).
        • Activities (beyond daily routine, e.g., lessons, clinics, competitions, etc.)
        • Extra veterinary visits (beyond routine care).
        • Expenses (income may be added, but not required).
    • STABLE MANAGEMENT
      • Discuss 1 drainage and 1 absorbent bedding.
      • Correctly put on and adjust a blanket/sheet on a mount.
      • Describe and give reasons for 3 types of clipping.
      • Name 2 internal and 2 external parasites.
      • Discuss general barn safety procedures.
    • TRAVEL SAFETY
      • Name basic equipment needed for mount’s safety and comfort during trailer travel.
      • Name 2 documents you should carry if traveling long distances or out of state.
      • Discuss 5 items from the truck/trailer safety checklist that you should check before you travel.
    • NUTRITION
      • Discuss how much water an average horse drinks in a day and 2 reasons why water is important for horses.
      • Describe 2 characteristics of bad hay.
      • Explain why access to good quality roughage is essential.
      • Discuss amount and type of feed for own mount.
    • CONDITIONING
      • Discuss the meaning of conditioning and the reasons for conditioning a mount.
      • Define the conditioning principles: long slow distance work, interval training, inversion, and recovery rate.
      • Describe factors to consider before a horse can begin a conditioning program.
      • Discuss how you would condition your horse after one month of time off.  Give the acceptable ranges of TPR for a mount at work.
    • LAND CONSERVATION
      • Name 2 different locations near you where the land is used for 3 different activities, including horseback riding.
    • HEALTH CARE AND VETERINARY KNOWLEDGE
      • Describe how to treat minor wounds.
      • Discuss regular parasite control for own mount, reason why to de-worm a new mount in a barn, and use of a fecal egg test.
      • Name 3 things you can do to prevent your horse from contracting a communicable disease (i.e., while riding at other facilities or keeping mount at show grounds).
      • Explain the reason for having a Coggins test done.
      • Discuss causes, signs, and preventative measures for the following: colic, laminitis, and heaves.
    • TEACHING
      • Bring a letter from DC/CA verifying the member assisted twice at an unmounted Pony Club activity.
      • Demonstrate a safety and tack inspection for a D member.  During the inspection, review why items are being checked and any safety issues found.
    • RIDER SAFETY
      • List 3 ways to determine if a riding helmet fits properly.
      • List 3 circumstances where a helmet is required to participate in USPC activities.
      • Describe 3 signs of heat illness.
    • EQUINE SPORTS
      • Name 7 disciplines listed on the USPC website
  • Eventing
    • RIDING ON THE FLAT – WARM UP
      • Demonstrate mount’s warm-up routine for everyday work.  Discuss candidate’s warm-up and mount’s warm-up in relation to rhythm and relaxation/suppleness, using terms and understanding of the Training Scale.
      • Discuss candidate’s position and its influence on horse’s balance, rhythm, and suppleness.
    • RIDING ON THE FLAT – MOVEMENTS
      • Perform figure eights with simple transitions at each gait and demonstrating correct bend
      • Demonstrate long rein, loose rein and light contact at walk.
      • Demonstrate a step back of 1-2 steps.
      • Discuss aids for and demonstrate a turn on the forehand.
      • Ride without stirrups at the sitting trot and rising trot.
      • Ride USEF Beginner Novice Test A.
      • Discuss dressage test performance, including the rider’s application of the Riding Expectations.
      • Rider shows firm basic balanced position while using natural aids and in control.
      • The rider begins riding mount freely forward while developing a light contact.
    • RIDING ON THE FLAT – RIDING IN THE OPEN
      • Ride safely with control in a group, on a suitable mount, at the walk, trot and canter over varied terrain.
      • Discuss and demonstrate riding safely over varied terrain, incorporating as many of the following elements as local conditions allow: hills, flat open areas, and shallow streams as available.
      • Discuss performance with Examiner.
      • Rider shows firm basic balanced position while riding with control.
    • RIDING OVER FENCES – WARM UP
      • Demonstrate mount’s warm-up routine for jumping.
      • Discuss candidate’s warm-up and mount’s warm-up in relation to rhythm and relaxation/suppleness, using terms and understanding of the Training Scale.
      • Ride without stirrups at the sitting trot.
      • Discuss candidate’s position and its influence on horse’s balance, rhythm, and suppleness.
    • RIDING OVER FENCES – MOVEMENTS
      • Ride over small gymnastic grid of trot poles to 3 fences, finishing with an ascending oxer set at, but not exceeding, 2’9”. Grid and trot poles to be set at appropriate distances for mount’s stride.
      • Ride over a course of 6-8 obstacles in an enclosed area that includes a two-stride combination set at an appropriate distance for mount’s stride. The majority of fences should be set at, but not exceeding, 2’9”.
      • Discuss performance , including balance and rhythm, and ways ride could be improved
    • RIDING OVER FENCES – RIDING IN THE OPEN
      • Ride safely with control in a group, on a suitable mount, at the walk, trot, and canter over varied terrain.
      • Discuss and demonstrate riding safely over varied terrain, incorporating as many of the following elements as local conditions allow: hills, small/shallow ditches, low banks, flat open areas and shallow streams.
      • Ride over 5-7 cross-country obstacles at appropriate speed (240-350 mpm), connecting fences as a course
      • The majority of fences set at, 2’6” – 2’9” but not exceeding,
      • Rider demonstrates a secure base of support and control over course.
      • Discuss performance, pace, and reasons for any disobediences.. 
  • Dressage
    • RIDING ON THE FLAT – WARM UP
      • Demonstrate and discuss warm-up routine to prepare mount and rider for a dressage test, using the following terms: rhythm, relaxation, bending, connection, and accuracy.
      • Discuss importance of mount stretching forward and downward.
    • MOVEMENTS
      • Demonstrate 20 meter circles at trot and canter.
      • Demonstrate a 3-loop serpentine with correct changes of bend.
      • Demonstrate a loop with correct changes of bend (see diagram on last page of standard).
      • Demonstrate work on centerlines with halts.
      • Discuss aids for and demonstrate a turn on the forehand.
      • Discuss aids for and demonstrate allowing the horse to stretch forward and downward on a 20 meter circle at the rising trot.
      • Demonstrate development of a lengthening at the trot.
      • Discuss aids for and demonstrate a simple step back of 2-3 steps.
      • Ride without stirrups at the sitting and rising trot, maintaining position.
      • Demonstrate and discuss passing another horse and rider head-on in an arena.
      • Discuss arena etiquette and safety in a group (passing, problems that may arise, and how best to safely pass unfamiliar horses). 
      • Discuss performance to include: rider’s basic balanced position, use of aids, and whether horse developed free forward movement, balance, rhythm, and connection.
      • Candidate shows confidence and control with a basic balanced position and the development of the correct aids
      • The candidate rides forward, with steady connection, and with rhythm in a balance appropriate to training level.
    • RIDING OVER GROUND POLES/CAVALETTI
      • Discuss appropriate distances for cavaletti at walk, trot, and canter.
      • Ride at the walk and trot over 3-5 ground poles or cavaletti, maintaining a balanced position, steady rhythm, and tempo.
      • Canter over a single ground pole.
      • Discuss performance to include the impact of cavaletti on energy and relaxation of the mount.
    • DRESSAGE TEST
      • Bring a hand-drawn diagram of the current USEF Training Level Test 3 to show the layout of the arena, letters, geometry, and placement of figures.
      • Discuss your goals for the test ride and preparation for movements and figures
      • Perform USEF Training Level Test 3.
      • Discuss test performance relative to the purpose of the test.
      • Discuss mount’s free forward movement, balance, rhythm, and quality of bend through the corners and figures.
      • Discuss whether the rider showed progress toward establishing a steady connection from the leg and seat to the reins.
    • RIDING IN THE OPEN
      • Ride with confidence and control over varied terrain at the walk and working trot (Rider’s option to ride alone or in a group.)
      • Discuss performance to include difference in mount’s behavior in the open vs. the arena, and benefits of riding in the open.
      • Discuss ways to control a mount in the open.
  • Hunt Seat
    • RIDING ON THE FLAT
      • Demonstrate and discuss warm-up routine for everyday flat work for both rider and mount.
      • Work mount at walk, trot, and canter with smooth transitions, incorporating straight lines and circles, with correct bend and simple transitions at each gait.
      • Include a canter figure 8 with a simple change of lead through the trot.
      • Discuss and demonstrate indirect rein, direct rein, and leading rein (opening rein).
      • Develop a hand gallop from a canter and return to canter smoothly.
      • Discuss aids for and demonstrate a rein back (2-3 simple steps back).
      • Demonstrate half-turn on forehand from the halt.
      • Ride without stirrups at the walk, sitting and rising trot, and canter.
      • Discuss performance to include: rider’s position and light contact, and mount’s forward movement in a consistent rhythm. 
    • RIDING OVER FENCES
      • Ride over small gymnastic grid of 3 fences finishing with an ascending oxer set at, but not exceeding, 2’9” and set at appropriate distances for mount’s stride (adjust for individual mounts).
      • Discuss appropriate distances for grid and course.
      • Discuss your plan for riding the below course.
      • Ride a jumping course of 8 –10 obstacles to include 1 halt, 1 trot fence, related distances, verticals, ramped oxer and a combination (2 strides) with a majority of fences set at, but not exceeding, 2’9”, with appropriate distances for individual mounts. Course will contain 2 changes of direction.
      • Discuss performance to include: consistency of pace, rhythm, tempo, relaxation, balance, and how ride could be improved.
    • RIDING IN THE OPEN
      • Ride safely with control in a group at the walk and trot outside of the ring.
      • Discuss performance including reasons for any problems encountered.
  • Western
    • RIDING ON THE FLAT – WARM UP
      • Demonstrate suppling exercises for rider without stirrups at walk.
      • Demonstrate mount’s warm-up routine for everyday work.
      • Discuss candidate’s warm-up for both rider and mount with Examiner.
    • MOVEMENTS
      • Work mount at walk, jog and lope, with smooth transitions, demonstrating correct bend, performing straight lines on centerline, and quarter lines.
      • Ride large and small circles and figure eights with simple transitions at each gait.
      • Demonstrate long, loose and light contact at walk.
      • Back 2-3 steps
      • Discuss aids for and then demonstrate a simple turn-around (spin) in each direction.
      • Discuss performance with examiner on the following; the rider’s basic western balanced position, whether or not mount was moving freely forward in balance and rhythm, and whether rider established a light contact (appropriate to bit) and use of natural aids.
    • RIDING OBSTACLES AND PATTERNS
      • Ride through obstacles and patterns as per Riding Expectations.
      • Ride over small gymnastic grid of poles set at appropriate length for mount.
      • Demonstrate proper hand position for mount over poles.
      • Complete an obstacle course of six to ten obstacles, to include poles (walk and jog over), halt, walk, jog, lope, back with a change of direction, turn, side-passing, a single-hand maneuver (such as a gate or pick-up), and navigation around cones or upright poles.
      • Complete a simple pattern
      • Discuss performance with Examiner, including steadiness of pace and ways ride could be improved.
    • RIDING IN THE OPEN
      • Ride safely with control in a group, on a suitable mount, at the walk, jog and lope.
      • Discuss and demonstrate riding safely over varied terrain, incorporating as many of the following elements as local conditions allow: hills, small/shallow ditches, flat open areas and shallow streams as available.
      • Discuss performance with Examiner giving reasons for any disobedience. 

C-2

• Overview
  • • Candidates should ride with confidence and control on the flat and over fences, demonstrating a secure balanced position and progress toward and independent seat and coordinated use of aids. The Candidate should begin to initiate free forward movement, establishing balance and rhythm while developing a light contact.
    • The Candidates should show a solid awareness of cause and effect in horse management skills. Assistance/ supervision is allowed in the demonstration of bandaging, longeing and loading mount.
  • Horse Management
    • PRESENTATION/TURNOUT AND TACK
      • Present in appropriate “Competitive” attire for either Eventing, Dressage, or Show Jumping discipline (found in the discipline rulebook).
      • Mount to be thoroughly groomed, reflecting regular care with a healthy coat; no sweat or dirt.
      • Mane and tail brushed with little, if any, dandruff.
      • Sheath or udder showing regular attention.
      • Feet picked out and reflecting regular farrier care.
      • Eyes, nose, lips, dock clean.
      • All tack to be safe, clean, and properly adjusted, reflecting regular care/conditioning with metal polished.
      • No jockeys or dust, and all stress points clean.
      • Explain reasons for equipment used on own mount.
      • Demonstrate proper adjustment and reason for fit of tack used on mount. 
      • Describe and explain the action of 2 types of snaffle bits and 2 types of curb bits. 
    • LEADING/LONGEING
      • Discuss equipment and safety precautions for longeing.
      • Discuss the type and length of the longe line used.
      • In an enclosed area, longe own mount at walk and trot in both directions on a 20 meter circle, with assistance if necessary.
      • While longeing, demonstrate the correct use of equipment, body position, posture, and voice.
    • BANDAGING
      • Under supervision of Examiner, apply 1 shipping and 1 stable bandage (front and rear diagonal pair), and give reasons for each bandage’s use.
    • FOOT AND SHOEING
      • Discuss the 5 steps in shoeing.
      • Identify 5 types of shoes
      •  If shod, discuss features of own mount’s shoes.
    • CONFORMATION AND UNSOUNDNESS
      • Discuss how conformation of own mount is related to its breed.
      • Discuss angles of shoulder and hip of own mount.
      • Name 5 basic conformation qualities that you want in a mount for your own use and how they affect basic movement and soundness.
      • Name, describe outward appearance, and locate the following unsoundnesses: splint, bowed tendon, ringbone, sidebone, navicular, thoroughpin, curb, bone and bog spavin.
    • HEALTH AND MAINTENANCE RECORD BOOK
      • Provide a hard copy of mount’s Health and Maintenance Record Book that contains records for at least 9 months prior to the test.
      • In addition to the information from the previous level, records must contain more detailed information regarding your mount’s specific care to include:
        • 1 page or less description of your mount’s history (if known) and daily routine.
        • Tack and equipment used.
        • Any blanketing or special care requirements.
    • STABLE MANAGEMENT
      • Discuss 3 concerns for pasture safety and fencing.
      • Discuss emergency information that should be posted in all barns.
      • Name 3 toxic plants in your area and describe appearance.
      • Describe 4 ways to control internal and/or external parasites in pastures and stalls.
    • TRAVEL SAFETY
      • Demonstrate how to load and unload, with assistance, an experienced, cooperative mount.
      • Name which equine health certificates and/or documents are required to travel in your state.
    • NUTRITION
      • Describe own mount’s ration when developing fitness, maintaining fitness, taking day off, sick, and roughed out.
      • List the 6 classes of nutrients.
      • Look at a feed label and identify the percentage of protein and fat.
      • From the ingredients list, identify 1 source of carbohydrates, 1 vitamin, and 1 mineral. (Candidate should bring own label or copy.)
    • CONDITIONING
      • Discuss the 1 week riding/conditioning schedule contained in your record book.
      • Candidate should show and be able to discuss details of activities, specific exercises, schedule changes (season or weather), feed, fitness, and TPR/recovery rates.
      • Define the conditioning principles:
        • progressive loading
        • Peaking
        • Rest
        • Tapering
        • Overloading
        • aerobic and anaerobic conditioning
      • Measure and record pulse, temperature, and respiration of own mount at rest.
    • LAND CONSERVATION
      • Discuss what public land is available to ride on in your county.
      • Describe 2 things you can do to be a good steward for public land used for recreation (equestrian activities, hiking, biking, etc.)
    • HEALTH CARE AND VETERINARY KNOWLEDGE
      • Discuss immunizations and health requirements appropriate for your area (may refer to record book).
      • List 3 prevalent internal parasites in your area
      • Discuss routine parasite prevention for your mount.
      • Discuss causes, signs, and preventative measures for the following:
        • Tetanus
        • Rabies
        • Encephalomyelitis
        • West Nile virus
        • Scratches
      • Explain the need for the regular care of teeth.
      • Identify/describe parts of a horse’s mouth
        • Bars
        • Lips
        • Incisors
        • Molars
        • wolf teeth
        • Canines
      • TEACHING
        • Bring a letter from DC/CA stating, under supervision, the member is assisting in simple unmounted instructional activities for D-level members.
        • A minimum of 4 hours teaching prior to the test is recommended. 
        • Assist a D-1 or D-2 member to prepare for turnout in regard to safety.
        • Describe the following unsafe equipment and how it might be fixed
          • loose throat latch
          • saddle pad not attached
          • bit too low/too high
          • worn out stitching
          • cracked leather
      • RIDER SAFETY
        • List 5 signs of a concussion
        • Explain 2 ways to cool off a rider during a hot day
        • Explain the importance of the heat index. 
  • Eventing
    • RIDING ON THE FLAT – WARM UP
      • Discuss the meaning of the Riding Expectations.
      • Discuss candidate’s warm-up for rider and mount, using terms from and showing an understanding of the Training Scale.
      • Demonstrate warm-up for dressage.
      • Discuss differences in warm-up for 3 different activities of candidate’s choice.
    • RIDING ON THE FLAT – MOVEMENTS
      • Work mount at walk, trot, and canter, changing directions at least twice in each gait, using coordinated aids, maintaining even rhythm, balance, energy, and smooth transitions.
      • Demonstrate 15 and 20-meter circles, figure eights, serpentines and work on the center or quarter lines to develop suppleness and straightness.
      • Halt squarely on centerline and stand quietly for 5 seconds.
      • Demonstrate a free walk on a long rein, returning to a walk on contact.
      • Demonstrate a step back of 2-3 steps.
      • Discuss aids for and then demonstrate leg yield at walk.
      • Ride mount without stirrups at all gaits 
      • Ride the current USEF Novice Test A.
      • Discuss performance, including the rider’s position, and whether mount was moving forward in balance and rhythm.
    • RIDING ON THE FLAT – RIDING IN THE OPEN
      • Ride safely with confidence and control in a group, on a suitable mount, at the walk, trot and canter over varied terrain.
      • Discuss safety measures when riding over varied footing, (e.g., water, mud, rocks, ice, bog, hard ground, sand, pavement).  Discuss performance with Examiner.
      • Rider shows firm basic balanced position while riding with control
    • RIDING OVER FENCES – WARM UP
      • Demonstrate warm-up for Jumping.
      • Discuss candidate’s warm-up for rider and mount.
      • Discuss warm-up schedule for three different activities of candidate’s choice.
      • Ride without stirrups at all gaits.
    • RIDING OVER FENCES
      • Ride over a gymnastic grid, of trot poles to 3 fences, finishing with an ascending oxer set at but not exceeding 3’.
      • Grid and trot poles to be set at appropriate distances for mount’s stride.
      • Develop a plan of how to ride a stadium course in an enclosed area. Course to consist of 7-9 jumps with one double combination. The majority of fences set at, but not exceeding, 3’.
      • Ride course according to plan.
      • Discuss performance, including the quality of canter rhythm and tempo maintained throughout the course and ways ride could be improved.
      • Rider demonstrates secure basic balanced position over fences, showing control, rhythm and proper use of aids. 
      • Rider should demonstrate secure basic balanced position over fences, showing control, rhythm and proper use of aids.
    • RIDING OVER FENCES – RIDING IN THE OPEN
      • Ride safely with confidence and control in a group, on a suitable mount, at the walk, trot, and canter over varied terrain, through shallow water, banks, hills, and small ditches as occur in natural terrain, as local conditions allow.
      • Discuss safety measures when riding over varied footing, i.e., water, mud, rocks, ice, bog, hard ground, sand, and pavement. 
      • Ride over 5-7 cross-country obstacles, at appropriate speed (350-375 mpm) connecting fences as a course.
      • The majority of fences set at, 2’6”-3’, but not exceeding, 3’.
      • Discuss performance to include adjustments to pace and balance, and ways ride could be improved.
  • Dressage
    • RIDING ON THE FLAT – WARM UP
      • Demonstrate warm up routine to prepare rider and mount to ride a dressage test.
      • Discuss warm up for both rider and mount, using the following terms: rhythm, tempo, suppleness, relaxation, bending, connection, and impulsion
    • MOVEMENTS
      • Demonstrate all figures and movements found in USEF Training Level and First Level, Test 1 Dressage Tests.
      • Demonstrate work on the center line or quarter line to develop straightness.
      • Discuss aids for and demonstrate development of leg yield in both directions at walk and trot.
      • Discuss differences in quality of leg yield left compared to right.
      • Discuss why stretching circles are important and demonstrate a 20 m stretching circle at the rising trot.
      • Increase and decrease of length of stride at trot and canter.
      • Ride mount without stirrups at all gaits, maintaining position and independence of aids.
      • Discuss mounts straightness and bending left and right, and whether a change in stride length was shown in lengthenings.
      • Discuss performance to include: rider’s position, use of aids, and whether horse developed free forward movement, balance, rhythm, and connection appropriate for First Level.
      • Candidate rides with confidence and control with a secure balanced position and progresses towards more independent aids, initiating free forward movement with balance, rhythm, thrust, and a steady connection appropriate to First Level.
    • RIDING OVER GROUND POLES/CAVALETTI
      • Discuss 2 cavaletti exercises at the walk and/or trot, to include cavaletti on a curved line.
      • Ride 1 or more cavaletti exercises, including either raised or curved cavaletti, while maintaining position, balance, and connection.
      • Discuss purpose and goal of exercises
      • Ride cavaletti exercises while maintaining position, balance, and connection.
      • Discuss performance to include the influence of the cavaletti/ground pole work on horse’s rhythm, suppleness, and connection.
    • DRESSAGE TEST
      • Bring a hand-drawn diagram of the current USEF First Level Test 1 to show the layout of the arena, letters, geometry and placement of figures.
      • Discuss your goals for the test ride and preparation for movements referencing the Training Scale.
      • Perform USEF First Level Test 1.
      • Discuss test performance to include rider’s position, mount’s free forward movement, balance, clear rhythm at all gaits while developing suppleness, elasticity and steady connection.
      • Discuss thrust appropriate to First Level.
      • Discuss ways to improve the ride and exercises that might be used. 
    • RIDING IN THE OPEN
      • Ride with confidence and control over varied terrain at the walk, and working trot, and, optional, working canter (Rider’s option to ride alone or in a group.)
      • Discuss performance, including thoughts on any disobedience.
      • Choose one exercise from examples below, or one of your own, when riding in the open that would benefit your horse and discuss its effectiveness.
      • Discuss other possible exercises that might benefit your horse. (Lengthening up hills, transitions down a hill, riding forward to energize a lazy horse, walking in a group to settle a nervous horse, serpentines around trees, etc.)
  • Hunt Seat
    • RIDING ON THE FLAT
      • Demonstrate and discuss warm-up for flat work for mount and rider, including rider exercises.
      • Work mount at walk, trot and canter, using coordinated aids, maintaining even rhythm, balance, elasticity and smooth transitions.
      • Demonstrate circles, half-circles, figure eights, and serpentines to develop suppleness and straightness.
      • Demonstrate simple change of lead down center of ring. 
      • Demonstrate canter on the counter lead.
      • Discuss aids for a flying changes.
      • Demonstrate a halt and stand quietly for five seconds. 
      • Demonstrate a rein-back of 2-3 steps.
      • Demonstrate half-turn on haunches through the walk on the rail. 
      • Ride without stirrups at all gaits.
      • Discuss performance to include: the rider’s position and contact, and mount’s forward movement in rhythm, elasticity, and balance.
    • RIDING OVER FENCES
      • Perform simple gymnastic grid exercises set at appropriate distance for mount’s stride at the trot, finishing with an ascending oxer set at 3’.
      • Discuss grid performance to include: its influence on rhythm, suppleness and impulsion.
      • Discuss appropriate distances for grid and course.
      • Discuss different releases: short crest, long crest and following (automatic).
      • Discuss your developed plan for riding the assigned equitation course.
      • Ride over jump course of 8-10 obstacles to include related distances, 1 combination (1 stride), a single, a rollback, verticals and ramped oxers with a majority of fences set at, but not exceeding, 3’.
      • Ride course according to plan.
      • Discuss performance to include: rhythm, tempo, suppleness and acceptance of the aids maintained throughout the course and ways ride could be improved.
    • RIDING IN THE OPEN
      • Ride safely with control in a group at the walk and trot outside of the ring.
      • Discuss performance including reasons for any disobedience.
  • Western
    • RIDING ON THE FLAT-WARM UP
      • Discuss the meaning of the Riding Expectations.
      • Ride consistently demonstrating riding test expectations.
      • Demonstrate warm-up for flat work including rider exercises.
      • Discuss candidate’s warm-up for rider and mount.
      • Discuss warm-up schedule for three different activities of candidate’s choice.
    • MOVEMENTS
      • Work mount at walk, jog, and lope, changing directions at least twice in each gait, using coordinated aids, maintaining even rhythm, balance, impulsion, and smooth transitions.
      • Demonstrate large and small circles, figure eights, serpentines and work on the center or quarter lines to develop suppleness and straightness.
      • Demonstrate walk to extended walk, jog to extended jog.
      • Stop squarely and stand quietly for five seconds.  Ride mount without stirrups at all gaits
      • Discuss aids for and demonstrate a rein back of 2-3 steps.
      • Discuss aids for and then demonstrate leg yield at walk.
      • Develop a hand gallop from a lope and return to lope smoothly. 
      • Perform 2-3 simple-turn around (spins) in each direction.
      • Discuss performance with Examiner including the rider’s position, and whether mount was moving forward in balance and rhythm.
    • RIDING OBSTACLES AND PATTERNS
      • Discuss reasons for adjusting stirrups and rein length for different types of work.
      • Develop a plan of how to ride an obstacle course.
      • Ride course according to plan.
      • Discuss performance with Examiner, including whether control was maintained throughout the course.
      • Rider should demonstrate secure Western basic balanced position over obstacles, showing control and use of aids.
      • Develop plan to ride a pattern
      • Discuss performance with Examiner, including whether control was maintained throughout the pattern.
    • RIDING IN THE OPEN
      • Ride in a group at the walk, jog and lope on a suitable mount. 
      • Demonstrate riding safely over varied terrain, as conditions allow.
      • Discuss safety measures when riding over varied footing, (e.g., water, mud, rocks, ice, bog, hard ground, sand, pavement).
      • Ride over five to seven obstacles.
      • Discuss performance with Examiner, including reasons for any disobedience.

C-3

• Overview
  • • The candidate should maintain a basic balanced position with a secure base of support. Rider should demonstrate the development of an independent seat and coordinated use of aids on the flat, over fences, and in the open. The candidate should initiate and maintain free forward movement with smooth transitions and a steady, light feel of the mount’s mouth. The candidate should discuss and evaluate the aids used. The candidates should show confidence and control at all gaits on the flat, over fences, and in the open. Candidates should be familiar with the training pyramid.

B (Eventing)

• BANDAGING
  • • Present a stable and tail bandage (shipping or grooming)
    • Present one of the following bandages: ice, poultice, sweat
    • Discuss materials used and dangers of chosen bandage
  • LONGEING
    • Discuss how to teach a mount to longe 
    • Discuss benefits and safety concerns of longeing the mount and the rider 
    • Discuss and demonstrate proper fit and use of equipment, to include side reins.
    • Longe own mount on a 20 m circle to develop connection through effective longeing technique and proper use of aids and equipment. Side reins must be used.
    • The candidate maintains the mount’s free forward movement, and influences the mount’s rhythm/tempo, relaxation, and suppleness
  • DRESSAGE – WARM UP
    • Demonstrate warm up and discuss reasons for exercises used, the amount of time required for the mount ridden and why 
    • Warm up may include the required movements
  • DRESSAGE – REQUIRED MOVEMENTS 
    • Discuss aids, benefits and purposes of required movements
    • Free and medium walk
    • Working and lengthened trot
    • Working and medium canter
    • Serpentine of 3 loops, sitting and/or posting trot
    • Change of rein across diagonal
    • 10 meter half circle
    • 20 meter circle at the sitting trot and/or canter
    • Canter change of lead through the walk and/or trot
    • Counter canter
    • Leg yielding at the walk and/or trot
    • Shoulder fore 
    • Reinback
    • Ride without stirrups at all gaits
  • DRESSAGE – REQUIRED TEST
    • Be prepared to ride the current USEF Preliminary Eventing Test A
    • Evaluate and discuss performance as it relates to the Riding Expectations 
    • Discuss test in accordance to Training Scale  Discuss your position and its effect during test
  • DRESSAGE – SWITCH RIDE
    • Demonstrate ability to ride different mount(s) with confidence, tact, and effective use of aids, while performing basic schooling figures
    • Evaluate performance to include ways ride could have been improved and causes of any disobediences
  • RIDING OVER FENCES GYMNASTICS
    • Know benefits of trotting poles and gymnastic grids, including distances 
    • Demonstrate warm up for jumping, including trotting poles and gymnastic grid, which will progress to 3’7”
    • Ride without stirrups over a grid set at 3’3” to show a secure base of support and independent seat
    • Evaluate warm-up and grid work
  • STADIUM
    • Ride a stadium course. The majority of fences should be set at, but not exceed, 3’7”. Course will include 10-12 jump efforts with oxers, verticals, bending lines, related distances, and a triple combination.
    • Evaluate course performance and use of aids to ride mount in balance, rhythm, tempo, and appropriate pace for the level
  • STADIUM – SWITCH RIDE
    • Demonstrate confidence and control on a different mount over a stadium course of 10 efforts, including a double combination, with the majority of the fences set at 3’3”
    • Evaluate performance on a different mount, to include ways ride could have improved and causes of any disobediences
  • RIDING IN THE OPEN
    • Ride at an appropriate pace, between 350 and 520mpm, according to obstacles and terrain
    • Ride own mount over 5-8 obstacles (may include: ditches, banks, drops, water, or combinations) with the majority at height, but not to exceed 3’7” 
    • Ride safely in a group
    • Evaluate performance, pace, and ways to improve ride, including reasons for any disobediences
    • Discuss how position effects the mount’s balance and pace in relationship to various cross country obstacles

A (Eventing)

• DRESSAGE – WARM UP
  • • Demonstrate an organized, progressive warm up to prepare mount for dressage test
    • Perform exercises that incorporate all elements of the Training Scale, producing qualities of collection appropriate to the level
    • Discuss and evaluate warm up
  • DRESSAGE – REQUIRED MOVEMENTS
    • Apply applicable schooling movements from list below to prepare for the required test
    • Free, medium and extended walk
    • Medium and collected trot
    • Medium and collected canter
    • Leg yield
    • Shoulder-in
    • 10 meter trot and canter circles
    • Travers (haunches in)
    • Simple change of lead (through walk)
    • Counter canter
    • Rein back
    • Ride without stirrups at all gaits
    • Discuss aids used and benefits of required movements
  • DRESSAGE – REQUIRED TEST
    • Ride the current USEF Intermediate Eventing Dressage Test A
    • Evaluate performance to include: quality of transitions and accuracy of figures, correctness of rhythm, tempo, relaxation, connection, straightness, and collection
    • Discuss your position and effectiveness of your aids
  • TRAINING ON THE FLAT
    • Ride different mount(s) appropriately to the A standard, demonstrating understanding of the Training Scale
    • As a trainer, evaluate performance, commenting on techniques used, including strong and weak points of ride
    • Discuss characteristics not apparent until the candidate rode mount. 
    • Discuss training techniques and useful exercises to create a progressive training plan relative to the Training Scale that would benefit mount(s)
  • RIDING OVER FENCES GYMNASTICS
    • Device to measure height and distances of grid/course
    • Plan and set up a gymnastic line progressing to 3’9”, to be used as an appropriate training aid
    • Discuss distances and exercises set
    • Ride effectively over gymnastic grid progressing to 3’9”, adjusting distances as needed
    • Ride through gymnastic grid at 3’6” without stirrups
    • Evaluate performance to include: effective use of aids, and how gymnastic work benefited your horse’s training
  • STADIUM
    • Ride a stadium course with majority of fences set at, but not to exceed 3’9”. Course will include 10-12 jump efforts
    • Evaluate course performance and use of aids to ride horse in balance, rhythm, tempo, and pace
    • Discuss exercises that could be used to improve mount’s performance
  • TRAINING OVER FENCES
    • Demonstrate ability to ride unfamiliar mount(s) which may include difficult mount(s)
    • Discuss and or demonstrate effectiveness of trotting poles, gymnastic exercises, shape of fences, and the effect or varying distances on the horse’s development
    • Discuss characteristics not apparent until the candidate rode mount. 
    • Discuss training techniques and useful exercises to create a progressive training plan relative to the Training Scale that would benefit mount(s)
  • RIDING IN THE OPEN
    • Demonstrate an effective galloping positon while riding at an appropriate pace, not to exceed 520 mpm, to show the ability to adapt the pace and balance over varied terrain and obstacles not to exceed 3’7”. Obstacles may include ditches, banks, drops, water, or combinations.
    • Evaluate performance, pace, and balance, to include training solutions for any disobediences
    • Discuss methods used to introduce horse to various types of obstacles, such as: ditches, banks, drops, water, corners, narrow faced fences, brush fences, or combinations
• Terminology Definitions
  • Basic Balanced Position
    • This is the universal basis of specialized riding. It is the foundation used to develop balance for any rider pursuing any equestrian discipline and is the foundation for the development of an independent seat and coordinated use of the aids. On the flat, this is a position, when viewed from the side, which permits a vertical line to be drawn from the top of the rider’s head, through the ear, point of shoulder, hip joint, and ankle. As stirrups are shortened for work over fences, the upper body inclines forward with a flat back to bring the shoulder towards the knees while the ankle remains flexed downward and under the hip. In jumping position a line may also be drawn from the rider’s knee to the riders toe.
  • Base of Support
    • When riding on the flat a rider’s base of support is the seat and inner thigh (the weight-bearing surfaces) supplemented by the inner calf and the foot when posting. Galloping and over fences, the base of support is predominantly the inner calf supplemented by the sinking down into the heels with relaxed joints offering a grounding effect for the rider and the horse. The width of this base is dependent on the length of stirrup. Long stirrups have a very narrow base of support, concentrating weight in a small area requiring an independent seat and excellent balance and tactful aids. Only more experienced, well balanced riders should ride with long stirrups. A shorter stirrup offers a wider base of support, improving stability of the upper body and is more appropriate for jumping and novice riders.
  • Independent Seat
    • Progress towards and development of an independent seat can be demonstrated when the rider has developed sufficient core strength capable of maintaining a balanced position and his/ her joints are relaxed and flexible allowing the rider’s body to flow with the movement of the horse. This position remains unchanged when applying separate actions of the aids. Tension and bracing in any joint of the rider’s body prohibits development of an independent seat.
  • Coordinated Use of the Aids
    • Use of seat, legs, and hands independently and/or in coordination with each other and coordinated with the movements of the horse. An independent seat is the basis of coordinated use of the aids.
  • Free Forward Movement
    • The horse’s strides are free; the horse is relaxed in his back and balanced. His movement is unencumbered by resistance caused by rider’s lack of independence or uncoordinated aids. The horse moves forward purposefully and will likely track up.
  • Demonstrate Aids
    • Aids are correctly applied but may not yet be sufficiently coordinated or strong enough to produce the desired response in the horse. Demonstrating use of the aids requires an appropriate response from the horse.

HorseSense Levels

• Resources & Rulebook: Website, Student Level Checklist

Rainbow

• Unmounted
  • • I take regular lessons – at least once a month – with a knowledgeable instructor.
    • I always wear boots and an ASTM-SEI approved helmet when I am working around horses. I can put on my helmet myself and show you how it fits correctly.
    • I can tell you how to dress safely for riding.
    • I can show you how to correctly approach a pony, and how to move around a pony safely – including walking around behind.
    • I can tell you why you have to groom a pony and pick out his feet before every ride.
    • I can help my instructor or an older, more experienced rider prepare for a ride. I help with the grooming, cleaning hooves, and putting on the saddle and bridle. When I am a little bit bigger, I will be able to tack up a pony without any help.
    • I can show you the basic parts of a saddle and bridle, such as the bit, reins, stirrups and girth.
    • I can lead a pony safely, both with a halter and lead rope and with the bridle reins.
    • I can help to do a safety check on my tack and pony before I ride. I can pull down the stirrups, put the reins over my pony’s head, and help check the girth.
    • I can tell you why it is important to cool out my pony after hard work, and help take care of him after a ride.
    • I can name at least ten parts of the pony, and at least three grooming tools.
    • I can feed a treat to a quiet pony safely. I know why it can be dangerous to feed a pony too many treats, and always ask permission.
    • I have filled out the “My Pony” worksheet with the name, color, markings, height, and breed of the pony I usually ride. It is okay if my instructor or another experienced horseperson helps me to find this information and write it down.
    • I have helped an experienced horseperson clean out a stall. I know why it is important to clean out a pony’s stall and water buckets every day.
  • Mounted
    • I can mount and dismount correctly and safely. Even if I have to use the mounting block, or have my instructor give me a leg up, I know it is important to get on and off a pony carefully.
    • I can demonstrate a basic balanced position while my pony is walking and standing still. I know that a bad position is dangerous for me and uncomfortable for my pony, so I always work hard to keep my eyes up, heels down, and “building blocks” in place!
    • I can pick up the reins and hold them correctly, at a suitable length.
    • I can perform basic stretches and warm-up exercises at the walk, on the leadline. (This means someone is holding onto my pony to help me steer him.)
    • I can go Around the World.
    • I can demonstrate how I use my aids (my seat, legs, hands and voice) to ask my pony to walk, halt, and turn.
    • I can walk once all the way around the arena without a leadline.
    • I can ride in a balanced two-point position at the halt and the walk.
    • I can walk my pony over ground poles, showing a good jumping position, keeping my eyes up and riding straight over the middle of each pole.
    • I can ride the trot on the leadline. I can ride both a sitting trot and a posting trot, holding on to the saddle if necessary. I can keep up a steady rhythm at the posting trot, so it is comfortable for both me and my pony.

Red

• Unmounted
  • • Know and discuss safety rules in barn, pasture and arena.
    • Describe safe riding attire; demonstrate how to correctly fit a helmet.
    • Catch horse in stall and pasture, with safe technique.
    • Demonstrate safe leading from near side, both in barn and through doorways/gates.
    • Tie horse safely, using an effective quick-release knot.
    • Brush, pick hooves, saddle and bridle, with assistance only if necessary, demonstrating awareness of basic horse safety.
    • Know names and functions of basic grooming tools.
    • Demonstrate picking out hooves safely, with knowledge of reasons for basic hoof care.
    • Know parts of the horse, to include: withers, poll, croup, hock, fetlock, etc.
    • Know parts and functions of saddle and bridle.
    • Know how to store tack correctly, and give at least two reasons for cleaning tack and equipment.
    • Know basic rules for feeding.
    • Be able to identify good and bad hay, grain, and water.
    • Demonstrate mucking and re-bedding a stall, cleaning stall thoroughly and efficiently.
  • Mounted
    • Mount and dismount independently (with mounting block if needed).
    • Perform warm-up stretches independently.
    • Perform an emergency dismount at the halt and walk.
    • Halt by disengaging horse’s hindquarters (“one-rein stop”), once on each rein.
    • Demonstrate a pulley rein and a safety seat.
    • Shorten and lengthen reins correctly.
    • Perform walk-halt transitions, maintaining balanced position.
    • Demonstrate the following maneuvers at walk:
      • Change of direction across diagonal
      • Half-circle reverse
      • Half-turn
      • Large circle
    • Drop stirrups and pick up again, without looking down, at the halt.
    • Ride in 2-point position at the walk.
    • Ride simple ground pole course (3-5 fences) at walk, demonstrating jumping position and good approaches.

Yellow

• Unmounted
  • • Jog horse in hand, with safe technique, as though jogging for soundness.
    • Blanket and remove blanket from horse safely.
    • Correctly apply splint boots, bell boots, and shipping boots. Know what each is used for and which vital areas are protected.
    • Clean and condition a saddle, bridle, and girth, knowing reasons for each step.
    • Reassemble saddle and bridle without assistance.
    • Care for a horse after a workout, to include:
      • Cooling out
      • Thorough grooming and post-ride inspection
      • Appropriate feeding and watering
    • Know normal TPR range for a horse, and discuss how to take TPR.
    • Know basic colors and markings.
    • Know basic types and breeds of the horse.
    • Know how to measure a horse for height.
    • Know reasons for basic feeding principles, to include discussion of roughage and concentrates.
    • Know signs of colic and action to take.
    • Know which injuries can be handled with minor treatment and which need veterinary attention.
  • Mounted
    • Tack and untack independently, in twenty minutes or less.
    • Adjust stirrups and girth while mounted.
    • Perform an emergency dismount at the trot.
    • Demonstrate use of disengagement and pulley rein by halting horse from trot.
    • Ride smooth walk-trot transitions, maintaining balanced position.
    • Demonstrate knowledge and awareness of posting diagonals.
    • Demonstrate the following maneuvers at walk and trot:
      • Large circle
      • Figure-8
      • Serpentine
      • Half circle
      • half-turn
      • diagonal with change of posting diagonal
    • Ride USDF Intro Test A or B, showing knowledge of elementary dressage terms and figures.
    • Ride on the longe at walk and trot without stirrups and reins.
    • Drop stirrups and pick up again, without looking down, at the walk.
    • Ride posting and sitting trot without stirrups, once around arena.
    • Ride in 2-point position on the flat at walk and trot, developing ability to remain balanced independent of hands.
    • Ride grid of trot poles, demonstrating secure jumping position.
    • Ride a ground pole course at the trot with opening and closing circles, good approaches.

Green

• Unmounted
  • • Fit a saddle, bridle (including bit), girth and halter to a horse.
    • Identify items in equine first aid kit, giving reasons for each item’s use.
    • Take and record TPR.
    • Measure a horse for weight and height.
    • Administer a paste or gel dewormer safely.
    • Apply a stable bandage.
    • Describe ten riding disciplines (English or Western).
    • Name five breeds in each of the following categories: sporthorse, draft, gaited, pony, color breeds.
    • Discuss safe trail riding practices, including appropriate tack and equipment.
    • Discuss basic conditioning for horse and rider.
    • Know signs of a hoof needing trimming or shoeing.
    • Know basic stall and pasture management practices to keep horse safe and happy, to include:
      • Provision for water, forage
      • Shelter and living arrangements
      • Fly and manure management
      • Seasonal considerations
    • Create a simple calendar showing routine care needed for horse, to include: immunizations, shoeing or trimming, deworming, dental care and Coggins test.
  • Mounted
    • Demonstrate ability to safely catch horse in both stall and field.
    • Prepare for a lesson independently in fifteen minutes or less.
    • Discuss procedure for warm up, cool down; with consideration of weather, footing, fitness level of horse.
    • Demonstrate the following maneuvers:
      • Reinback
      • Rating speed at walk and trot
      • Large circle at canter
      • Change of direction with simple change at canter
    • Ride at the canter on the rail in both directions, demonstrating both light and full seat.
    • Demonstrate awareness of leads.
    • Ride at the trot for a minimum of five minutes without stirrups, alternating posting and sitting.
    • Drop stirrups and pick up again, without looking down, at the trot.
    • Ride in 2-point at the canter, on the flat and over a single ground pole.
    • Trot over a grid of trot poles with reins knotted and arms outstretched.
    • Ride ground pole course at the trot with smooth turns, good approaches, correct diagonals.
    • Jump a single crossrail, not to exceed 18”.
    • Ride bareback confidently at the walk and trot, balancing independently of hands.

Blue

• Unmounted
  • • Groom a horse to turnout inspection quality (no braiding necessary).
    • Perform a safety check on a younger rider under supervision.
    • Know how to adjust different types of tack, including:
      • Martingales
      • Auxiliary nosebands
      • Breastplates
      • Curb chain
      • Western cinch
    • Identify different types of bits, to include both snaffle and leverage bits.
    • Apply a polo wrap and discuss its purpose.
    • Know how the following injuries are treated: stone bruise, laceration, puncture wound, abscess, swollen tendon, injured eye.
    • Discuss life cycle and prevention of internal and external parasites.
    • Know names and functions of farrier tools used in trimming and shoeing.
    • Know basic horse movement, to include number of beats in each gait, footfall pattern, faulty movement, and methods of detecting unsoundness.
    • Discuss what conformation is and why it is important, to include basic faults of the forelegs and hind legs, back, shoulder, neck and head.
    • Name and locate five unsoundnesses.
    • Perform a pre-trip safety check on a truck or trailer.
    • Safely load and unload a quiet horse, with assistance.
    • Discuss reasons for longeing, safe longeing practices and equipment. Demonstrate how to hold and give aids with a line and whip.
  • Mounted
    • Know and demonstrate a minimum of four exercises that can be used to improve the seat.
    • Ride ring figures at the walk and trot, with correct diagonals.
    • Demonstrate knowledge of aids used for asking horse to correctly bend.
    • Ride accurate trot/canter transitions.
    • Ride a 20m circle at the walk, trot, and canter, with correct diagonals and leads.
    • Ride USDF Introductory Test C with accurate transitions and ring figures.
    • Ride at the walk, trot and canter without stirrups.
    • Ride simple gymnastic grids up to 2’, to include one small oxer.
    • Trot into a related distance and canter out.
    • Ride a ground pole course at the canter, with simple changes of lead as necessary.
    • Jump a course of 5-7 fences at 18”, at the trot, with good approaches, developing the ability to plan a course.
    • Demonstrate an effective use of disengagement and pulley rein by stopping horse from canter.
    • Ride in the open, up and down hills and over fences and natural obstacles at the walk and trot.

Orange

• Unmounted
  • • Know elementary concepts of equine behavior theory and relate them to 1) riding and training practices, and 2) stable management practices.
    • Longe a quiet horse for exercise, showing safe technique and consideration of the horse.
    • Set walk, trot, and canter poles for a selection of three different-sized horses.
    • Build a simple gymnastic grid for an average 15.2hh horse.
    • Discuss different types and reasons for clipping.
    • Evaluate a horse’s conformation, listing both good and bad points.
    • Know basic conformation traits specific to the following breeds: Arabian, Thoroughbred, Quarter Horse, Andalusian. Relate to suitability for specific disciplines.
    • Know stable vices, causes and possible remedies.
    • Discuss equine dental structure and the need for routine dental care.
    • Know specific immunizations needed for local area and at what frequency.
    • Wrap a hoof.
    • Discuss correct measurement of feed and suitable feed rations for horses in light, moderate, and hard work; including considerations such as conditioning, injury and/or illness.
    • Identify parts of the horse’s digestive system.
    • Identify different types of grains, hays, and supplements.
    • Create an eight-week conditioning schedule to prepare a horse and rider for a strenuous activity (i.e., horse trial, show jumping competition, fox hunt, etc.).
  • Mounted
    • Demonstrate self-directed, progressive warm-up for flatwork and jumping.
    • Maintain light contact on the flat, demonstrating long and loose rein when asked.
    • Demonstrate the following maneuvers:
      • Turn on the forehand
      • Sitting trot
      • Figure-8 at canter
      • Serpentine at canter
    • Demonstrate ring figures at all three gaits, with awareness of bend and balance.
    • Ride ring figures at the walk, trot and canter without stirrups.
    • Be able to drop and pick up stirrups at all gaits without looking down.
    • Ride small bounce grid, with and without reins and/or stirrups.
    • Ride simple gymnastic grids up to 2’6”, including low fences without reins.
    • Jump a course (minimum 6 fences) at 2’, at the canter, with smooth turns, good approaches and correct leads.
    • Ride in the open in a group, at walk, trot and canter, maintaining control.
    • Demonstrate a galloping position at the walk, trot, and canter.
    • Jump simple cross-country obstacles, up to 2’3” at the trot and canter.
    • Ride the hand gallop.

Purple

• Unmounted
  • • Ride on the longe line at walk, trot and canter, without stirrups/ reins, performing balancing and suppling exercises.
    • Identify diagonals and leads through feel.
    • Demonstrate the following maneuvers:
      • 20m, 15m and 10m circles at walk and trot
      • 20m, 15m and 10m half-circles at walk and trot
      • Simple change of lead on a straight line
      • Leg yield, from quarter line to rail, at walk and trot
    • Ride accurate trot/halt/trot transitions.
    • Demonstrate a walk to canter transition, returning to walk with three or fewer steps of trot.
    • Ride canter to halt in three or fewer steps.
    • Ride USEA Novice Test A or B, demonstrating accuracy, forward rhythm, steady contact, correct bend on circles and through corners.
    • Know distances for trot poles and basic gymnastic exercises.
    • Ride a variety of gymnastic exercises up to 2’9”, with and without stirrups and/or reins.
    • Jump a course (minimum of 8 fences) at 2’6”, to include spread and vertical fences, related distances, bending lines, and a combination.
    • Jump a small course (5 to 6 fences) at 2’ without stirrups.
    • Maintain a galloping position at the walk, trot and canter, for a minimum of five minutes.
    • Ride at the gallop in the open with control and a strong galloping position.
    • Jump a variety of Beginner Novice level cross-country fences, to include bank, ditch, trot or canter through water.
  • Mounted
    • Groom a horse to turnout inspection quality, to include appropriate hunt or button braids in the mane.
    • Thoroughly clean an udder and a sheath.
    • Longe a quiet horse and evaluate performance and movement.
    • Fit side reins.
    • Pull a mane.
    • Apply a shipping bandage.
    • Wrap a tail for travel.
    • Know how to select and maintain a trailer and tow vehicle.
    • Identify different types of shoes and their uses, to include traction devices such as borium and studs.
    • Identify a minimum of five toxic plants native to this area.
    • Know location, appearance and treatment of unsoundnesses: navicular, splints, strained or bowed tendon, ringbone, sidebone, curb, bone spavin, capped hock. Discuss blemishes such as windpuffs and bog spavin.
    • Describe causes, signs, and treatment of laminitis/founder, tying up, choking, ulcers, thrush, skin conditions.
    • Name five diseases of the horse and describe symptoms and preventative measures.
    • Discuss stable and pasture management, to include:
      • Turnout schedules
      • Parasite management
      • Grass management
      • Different options for fencing and bedding
      • Routine facility maintenance
      • Daily care of horses
    • Create a budget for keeping a horse for a year, to include: feed and board, routine health care, emergency care, tack and equipment, and showing and training expenses.

Teal

• Unmounted
  • • Judge an Intro or Training Level dressage test, demonstrating knowledge of basic dressage principles.
    • Design a hunter, equitation and show jumping course, demonstrating knowledge of distances and types of fences.
    • Discuss methods of starting a young horse from the ground up, including ground exercises, longeing, backing, and progressive training.
    • Discuss methods of conditioning for different activities, such as dressage, eventing, games, endurance riding, etc.
    • Evaluate conformation of a selection of horses, discussing relationship to soundness, movement, and athletic ability.
    • Know basic equine anatomy, to include: musculoskeletal, circulatory, respiratory, and reproductive systems; know what diseases or health conditions affect each system.
    • Draw a diagram showing the major bones, ligaments, and tendons in the lower leg.
    • Estimate the age of a horse using teeth as a guide; discuss number of teeth, growth, and dental care.
    • Discuss different approaches to veterinary medicine, to include:
      • Basic disease prevention practices, including management of infectious diseases
      • Uses and dangers of common equine medications and sedatives
      • Other treatment methods such as physical therapy, chiropractic, acupuncture, etc.
    • Give an intramuscular injection.
    • Wrap a knee and a hock.
    • Discuss nutrients needed for a balanced diet, with consideration for different stages of a horse’s life.
    • Using a tag from a commercially prepared feed mixture, analyze nutritional value of a feeding program (to include hay and/or pasture).
    • Discuss equine disaster planning, to include: fire and storm emergency plans, supplies, and evacuation procedures.
    • Draw a diagram of a stable and pasture setup for 1) private 2-horse farm on 5 acres; and 2) commercial boarding and training facility on 20 acres.
    • Teach a new student Red Level HorseSense skills.
  • Mounted
    • Discuss basic dressage theory, showing knowledge of the training pyramid and use of natural aids.
    • Discuss appropriate use of artificial aids and training devices.
    • Demonstrate a self-directed, progressive warm-up for flatwork and jumping, with consideration of mount’s strengths and weaknesses.
    • Ride various ring figures on the aids, at walk, trot and canter, demonstrating rhythm, relaxation, connection and bend.
    • Ride accurate, balanced transitions, including halts and transitions between the walk and canter.
    • Demonstrate the following maneuvers:
      • Turn on the haunches
      • Leg yield
      • Shoulder-in
      • Haunches-in
      • Counter canter
    • Ride a simple change of lead through the walk or a flying change of lead, appropriate to the horse.
    • Demonstrate lengthening and shortening stride.
    • Ride and evaluate an unfamiliar horse, to include work at all three gaits and through basic ring figures.
    • Demonstrate proficiency in gymnastic jumping:
      • Designing and setting up a variety of gymnastic exercises
      • Riding with confidence and balance over progressive gymnastics up to 3’6″
      • Demonstrating a secure position over fences up to 3′ with and without stirrups and/or reins
    • Jump a stadium course at 3′, demonstrating an understanding of hunter, equitation and show jumping questions and approaches to riding them.
    • Jump a course (8-10 fences) at 2’6” without stirrups.
    • Ride in a galloping position over varying terrain, demonstrating knowledge of pace in meters per minute.
    • Jump a variety of Novice level cross-country obstacles, to include:
      • Up and down banks
      • Ditches
      • Related obstacles (including water complex)
      • Jumps on a slope

Rider Medals

• Resources & Rule Books: About, Getting Started

Level 1: Horsemanship I

Medal: Bronze Star – Black Ribbon

Rider shows unmounted skills. This level focuses on safety, an introduction to horse behavior, anatomy, basic parts of the tack and basic levels of care required to get a horse ready for a lesson.

Safety

• Standing to the side
• Identify blind spots
• Properly walk behind
• Don’t stand in front
• Turn toes parallel
• Give a treat
• Helmet fit and adjust it appropriately

Grooming and Care

• Curry comb
• Hard/medium brush
• Soft brush
• Mane and tail brush
• Pick hooves

Horse Behavior

• Ears forwards
• Ears back
• Ears pinned

Parts of the Horse

• Head, ears, eyes, nose, cheek, throat, mouth
• Leg, fetlock, hoof, frog
• Withers, neck, chest, back, butt
• Mane, poll, tail, dock

Parts of the Tack

• Saddle – pommel, cantle, billets, saddle flap, girth
• Bridle – bit, crown, noseband, throat latch, chin strap, reins

Riding Gear

• Shirt
• Riding pants
• Belt
• Paddock Boots
• Tall Boots
• Half-Chaps
• Helmet

Lesson Prep

• With help is okay
• Put halter on
• Hook cross ties
• Get all tack
• Put saddle pad on
• Put saddle on
• Put girth on
• Get helmet on
• Hold a lead rope
• Lead horse to arena by lead rope
• Lead a horse to the arena by bridle
• Tighten girth
• Pull down stirrups
• Clean tack
• Put away tack
• Clean the floor

Level 2: Beginner I

Medal: Bronze Horse – Gray

Rider shows mounted skills. This level focuses on safety while riding, elementary riding skills, mounting/dismounting, starting/stopping and steering the horse. Rider is walking independently and beginning to develop balance in the saddle. Rider has started trotting on the lunge line.

Lesson Prep

• With help is okay
• Get horse ready in 20 minutes or less

Safety

• Check girth
• Check helmet
• Mount
• Dismount
• Emergency dismount

Riding

• Halt
  • Hold reins correctly
  • Around the world (youth only)
  • Balance
    • Drop and pickup stirrups
    • Touch toe
    • Touch poll
    • Touch dock
  • Posting
    • Sits down gently
    • One hand on head
    • Airplane wings
    • Both hands on head
  • Jumping position
    • Crest release
    • Touch toe
    • On hand on head
• Walk 
  • Riding Position
    • Sit up straight
    • Shoulders back
    • Heel under hip
    • Leg against saddle
    • Lower leg against horse
    • Arms at sides
  • Steering
    • Opening rein
    • Zig zag on the rail
    • Weave through ground poles
    • Circle
    • Reverse direction
  • Balance
    • Drop and pickup stirrups
    • Touch horse’s poll
    • Touch horse’s dock
    • One hand on head
    • Airplane wings
    • Both hands on head
  • Transitions
    • Walk to a halt
    • Halt at a specific spot
    • Halt over ground pole
  • Posting
    • Sits down gently
    • One hand on head
    • Airplane wings
    • Both hands on head
  • Jumping Position
    • Proper form
    • Crest release
• Trot (on the lunge line)
  • Eyes up
  • Heels down
  • Can use reins to halt

Level 2: Beginner II

Medal: Bronze Rider – Purple

Rider shows mounted skills. This level focuses on developing the rider’s trot. Rider improves steering aids, balance, jumping position, posting rhythm and is developing a stable lower leg position at the trot. Riders can consistently keep heels down at a walk and may be trotting on a lunge line.

Lesson Prep

• Help with the bridle only
• Get horse ready in 20 minutes

Safety

• Can appropriately fit their helmet
• Checks girth without prompting
• Tightens girth with help
• Pulls down stirrups
• Mounts and dismounts on the correct side

Ride

• Halt
  • Without yanking
  • Elbows at side
  • Pulls to belly button
  • Leans back slightly
• Walk
  • Riding Position
    • Squeezes both legs to go forward
    • Doesn’t pull reins asking to go forwards
    • Properly hold a crop
    • Proper crop usage
    • Shortens reins properly
    • Heels down
  • Steering
    • 20m circle
    • 20m circle posting
    • 20m circle jumping position
    • Zig zag using legs
  • Transitions
    • Halt within 5 steps
  • Jumping Position
    • One hand on head
    • Airplane wings
    • Both hands on head
    • Halt at a specific spot
    • Halt within 5 steps
    • Halt over ground pole
    • Touch toe
    • Touch poll
    • 2 laps without sitting down
  • Emergency dismount
• Trot
  • Riding Position
    • Keeps rhythm
    • Doesn’t hold saddle
  • Balance
    • Up up down
    • Down down up
    • Sit post jump
    • Sitting trot
  • Steering
    • 20m circle
    • 20m circle posting
    • 20m circle jumping position
  • Transitions
    • Walk to trot
    • Trot to walk
    • Trot at a specific spot
    • Walk within 5 steps
  • Jumping Position
    • One hand on head
    • Airplane wings
    • Both hands on head

Level 4: Beginner III 

Medal: Bronze Jumper – Gold

Rider shows mounted skills. This level focuses on improving the rider’s posting trot, understanding diagonals, steering, introducing ground poles and low jumps. Rider is no longer on a lunge line and can consistently keep heels down at a trot.

Lesson Prep

• No help necessary
• Get horse ready in 20 minutes or less

Safety

• Demonstrates proper arena etiquette
• On the Ground
  • Safely fit helmet
  • Tightens girth
  • Adjust stirrups
  • Mounts on the correct side
• Mounted
  • Adjust stirrups
  • Tightens girth
  • Dismounts on the correct side
  • Inside vs outside

Ride

• Walk
  • Steering
    • Deep corners
    • Zig zag using legs
    • 20m circle
    • 20m circle posting one hand on head
    • 20m circle jumping position one hand on head
    • Horse doesn’t stop to eat grass
  • Reins Aids
    • Direct
    • Indirect
    • Pulley
    • Rein back
  • Transitions
    • Halt within 3 steps
  • Posting
    • One stirrup
    • One stirrup one hand on head
    • One stirrup airplane wings
    • No stirrups
    • No stirrups one hand on head
    • No stirrups airplane wings
    • 4 ground poles
  • Jumping Position
    • One stirrup
    • One stirrup one hand on head
    • One stirrup airplane wings
    • No stirrups
    • No stirrups one hand on head
    • No stirrups airplane wings
    • 4 ground poles
• Trot
  • Rider position
    • Doesn’t fall forwards or backwards
    • Doesn’t balance on reins
    • Doesn’t pinch at knee
    • Heels down
  • Steering
    • 20m circle
    • Figure 8
    • Serpentine
    • Reverse direction
    • Half turn and reverse
    • Horse maintains rhythm
  • Diagonals
    • Can describe the correct one
    • Can change it
  • Transitions
    • Halt at a specific spot
    • Walk within 3 steps
    • Walk to trot within 5 steps
  • Posting
    • One hand on head
    • Airplane wings
    • Both hands on head
    • 20m circle
    • Ground pole
      • One hand on head
      • Airplane wings
      • 6-8 trot poles
    • Cavaletti
  • Sitting
    • One hand on head
    • 20m circle
  • Jumping Position
    • 2 laps around arena without sitting down
    • One hand on head
    • Airplane wings
    • Both hands on head
    • Touch toe
    • Touch poll
    • 20m circle
    • Ground pole
      • One hand on head
      • Airplane wings
      • Line of 6-8 ground poles
    • Cavaletti
      • Crest release
  • Ground Pole Course
    • 4 poles
    • Jumping position over poles
    • Good corners
    • Straightness to poles
    • Going over center of poles
    • Stable vices

Level 5: Horsemanship II

Medal: Silver Star – Green

Rider shows unmounted skills. This level focuses on intermediate level horse care, more parts of the tack and horse, cleanliness, bandages, wound care, nutrition, blanketing and farrier.

Safety

• Fit a helmet properly
• Understand when a helmet needs replacing
• Leading through doorways and gates
• Safety rules in barn, pasture and arena
• Quick release knot
• Assess tack condition and safety
• Rider injuries from a fall
• Signs of a concussion
• Rider signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke
• How to care for an overheated rider
• How weather affects the rider
• How weather affects the horse
• Heat index
• Below freezing

Grooming and Care

• Bathe a horse
• Blanket a horse
• Remove blanket on a horse
• Understand different types of blankets
• Understand when to use a blanket
• Put a horse in/out of a stall properly
• Feed a horse
• Identify grooming tools
• Understand use of grooming tools
• Identify minor wounds, cuts and swelling
• Apply polo wraps
• Apply standing wraps
• Apply splint boots
• Understand effects of poor bandaging
• Types of body clipping
• Understand why to clip a horse
• Understand which clip a horse should get
• How to tell if a horse is dehydrated

Nutrition

• Understand feeding schedules
• Hay quality
• Grain quality
• Water quality
• How much water a horse drinks a day
• How much food a horse eats a day
• How workload and body condition affects horse nutrition

Stable Management

• Clean a stall
• Bedding types
• Bedding condition
• Clean water buckets
• Clean feed buckets
• Sweep aisle
• Turn off all lights when done
• Leave gates the way you found them
• Turn a horse out to pasture
• Catch a horse from the pasture
• Name 3 stable vices
• Understand when and why to quarantine

Horse Behavior

• Biting
• Kicking
• Stomping
• Neighing
• Snorting
• How they see
• Predator vs prey
• Flight instincts
• Dominance
• Understand what an alpha horse is
• Differences between a stallion and a gelding
• Wild horses versus tame horses
• Average lifespan of a horse
• Effects of domesticating horses
• Understand what a green horse means
• Understand in season/in heat
• Tail positions – up, down, swishing
• Leg positions – standing square, leg cocked, leg resting
• Head positions – up, level, down

Saddle

• Name all parts
• Understand saddle fit
• Understand proper saddle placement
• Know the basics of bits and how they function
• Clean and condition
• Understand a girth sour horse
• Identify and fix girth not through saddle pad keeper
• Identify and fix a girth too loose
• Understand what causes a saddle or saddle pad to slide
• Understand and fix the girth of a horse puffing its chest out
• Pull a horse’s front legs

Bridle

• Name all parts
• Put together a bridle
• Clean and condition
• Bit types and uses
• Understand head shy
• Identify and fix a bit too low
• Identify and fix a bit too high
• Identify and fix a loose throat latch
• Identify and fix an incorrectly buckled noseband
• Tie up the reins of the bridle

Anatomy, Breeds, Colors & Markings

• Name 20 parts of the body
• Name 15 breeds of horse
• Leg markings
• Face markings
• Body markings
• Coat colors
• Color breeds
• Leg conformation
• How leg conformation affects gaits
• Understand areas for common unsoundness

On the Ground

• Number of beats in each gait
• Halt
• Walk
• Trot
• Move the haunch
• Move the shoulder
• Back up
• Step forwards

Veterinary

• Reasons to call a vet
• Identify the signs and symptoms of:
  • Colic
  • Choke
  • Laminitis
  • Heaves
  • Hives
  • Ulcers
  • Puncture wounds
  • Deep lacerations
  • Lameness
• Seasonal vaccinations
• Worming a horse
• Fecal egg count
• Preventing communicable diseases
• Coggins tests
• Treat minor wounds, cuts and swelling

Farrier

• Name all parts of the hoof
• Identify farrier tools
• Identify different types of horse shoes
• Steps to shoeing a horse
• Angles
• Common hoof issues
• How to identify bad shoeing
• Understand, identify, know prevention for:
  • Thrush
  • White line disease
  • Cracking
  • Abscesses
  • Ring bone

Level 6: Intermediate I

Medal: Silver Horse – Pink

Rider shows mounted skills. Riders have solid steering skills, maintain a good balance, demonstrate proper riding position and a steady lower leg at the walk and trot. Riders start cantering work, are introduced to higher level concepts and continue developing jumping skills.

Lesson Prep

• Get horse ready in 15 minutes or less

Concepts

• Understanding all 5 aids
  • Hands
  • Legs
  • Seat
  • Voice
  • Weight
• Rhythm
  • Speed
  • Tempo
  • Beats in each gait
• Responsiveness
• Suppleness
• Riding back to front
• Natural vs artificial aids
• Quality of gaits
• Traveling distances around the arena

Ride

• Halt
  • Standing square
• Walk
  • Responsiveness
    • Correction exercise
    • Identify gait quality
    • Change gait quality
  • Suppleness
    • Bending at the poll
      • On the rail
      • 20m circle
    • Shoulder fore
      • On the rail
      • 20m circle
    • Haunches out
      • On the rail
      • 20m circle
  • Steering
    • Track left
    • Track right
  • Rein Aids
    • Inside rein for bending
    • Outside rein for rating
    • Half-halt
  • Leg aids
    • At the girth
    • In front of the girth
    • Behind the girth
  • Seat aids
    • Still seat
    • Driving seat
  • Weight aids
    • Step in outside stirrup
    • Step in inside stirrup
    • Shifting weight in seat
• Trot
  • Diagonals
    • Identify when on the incorrect diagonal
    • Fix diagonal without looking
  • Reins
    • Half-halt
    • Shortening stride
  • Leg aids
    • Zig zag with legs
    • Lengthening stride
  • Sitting
    • One stirrup
    • No stirrups
    • 4 laps without stirrups
  • Posting
    • 2 laps without stirrups
    • Up up down
      • One hand on head
      • Airplane wings
      • Both hands on head
    • Down down up
      • One hand on head
      • Airplane wings
      • Both hands on head
    • Sit post jump
      • One hand on head
      • Airplane wings
      • Both hands on head
    • Ground pole
      • One hand on head
      • Airplane wings
      • Both hands on head
  • Jumping Position
    • One stirrup
    • No Stirrups
    • One hand on head
    • Airplane wings
    • Both hands on head
    • Ground pole
      • One hand on head
      • Airplane wings
      • Both hands on head
      • Touch toe
    • Cavaletti
      • 6 trot distance poles to cavaletti
      • 4 trot distance poles to cavaletti
      • 1 canter distance pole to cavaletti
      • One hand on head
      • Airplane wings
      • Both hands on head
      • Touch toe
  • Jump 1’3
    • Single jump
    • Outside line
    • Diagonal line
  • Jump 1’6
    • Single jump
    • Outside line
    • Diagonal line
  • Jump 1’9
    • Single jump
    • Outside line
    • Diagonal line
• Canter
  • Successfully ask for a canter departure
  • 1 lap without stopping
  • Over a ground pole
  • Canter out of a jump

Level 7: Intermediate II

Medal: Silver Rider – White

Rider shows mounted skills. Riders start to develop solid cantering skills, put harder jump combinations together, are jumping higher, begin connection work and are introduced to adjusting and counting strides.

• Details coming soon!

Level 8: Intermediate III

Medal: Silver Jumper – Yellow

Rider shows mounted skills. Riders are improving their ability to canter, ride a full course, working more on connection, building contact and lateral movements.

• Details coming soon!

Level 9: Horsemanship III

Medal: Gold Star – Red

Resources: Checklist, Lesson Plans, Worksheets

Rider shows unmounted skills. Buying a horse, stable and pasture management, herd dynamics, lunging, show prep, understands ownership costs, breeding and foaling

• Details coming soon!

Level 10: Advanced I

Medal: Gold Horse – Blue

Rider shows mounted skills. Flying changes, impulse, bareback, advanced grid work, canter patterns, and cantering jumps.

• Details coming soon!

Level 11: Advanced II

Medal: Gold Rider – Blue Stars

Rider shows mounted skills. Larger jumps, more complex combinations, courses, collection, oxers, cross country jumps, riding in the open, trail riding, cantering and jumping bareback.

• Details coming soon!

Level 12: Advanced III

Medal: Gold Jumper – Red, White & Blue

Rider shows mounted skills. This level focuses on riders who are intending to become riding instructors or horse trainers and want to further their overall horse education. Counter-canter, travers, renvers, half-pass, tempis, working green horses, jumping courses bareback, cross country courses, teaching riding lessons to beginner riders.

• Details coming soon!