Having watched many tests at local & national level its not just designing a test with the required movements but showing your horses individual strengths and personality whist involving and capturing the imagination of the audience and judge.

The service offered by Freestyle Dressage is perfect for any Dressage to Music wannabe whatever your level. The Freestyle Dressage teams objective is to make the design and production stage easy because ultimately they want the performance to be about you and your horse, about your tastes and relationship. The team take the stress of production away; they edit the music, advise on choreography and as registered instructors they were also able to help improve my horses way of going.

The day was great fun from start to finish with no pressure on either the horse or rider; Alison immediately put us at ease. The day starts with the team getting to know you and your horse; your strengths and weaknesses, your personalities and ultimately what you want to achieve from the day and your routine.

The test we designed was suitable for unaffiliated and Riding Club Novice competitions. Alison assessed Vinnie’s way of going and paces whilst we rode a selection of Novice movements around the school. Whilst we took a well earned breather Alison designed our Novice test incorporating the required movements.

Alison discussed the test with me giving me reasons why each movement had been chosen. There were 3 key elements which Alison made clear were important to the Judge and getting a good mark. Firstly, they look at the choreography - can they see what movements I am doing where, riding accurately is key! Secondly, the harmony between horse and rider - do I make it look easy, I shouldnt be rushed or tense, I should make it look as if both Vinnie and I have plenty of time to complete each movement. Finally, the music - does it provide a great fit with the breed and personality of horse and rider!!

The test made use of some less common movements to create interest as well as making great use of the arena and was very easy on the eye. We rode through the test a few times working on the individual movements. Once we were all happy the test was videoed so the music could be overlaid back at the office.

Alison was very efficient, professional, friendly, knowledge and above all passionate about designing a memorable test. The day contained useful tips throughout particularly from the judges prospective. Unlike a conventional test the judge hasnt seen your floorplan so its crucial that the test flows and each movement has a clear start and finish so you can be marked for each element. A messy/ unorganised test can make it difficult for the judge to award those all important marks!

Two weeks later the final music and routine was ready to see - We watched it through from start to finish 3 times in utter silence – Alison & John had done a fantastic job - we all loved it! The music reflected his paces and personality perfectly.

Once you are happy with the test and music the team provide you with a complete pack including your floorplan, CDs, Video, BD paperwork and more. It really is everything you need to compete!

The real test was entering my very first dressage to music competition - under strict instructions not to over practice in case Vinnie anticipated all our movements we went to a local unaffiliated competition to test out our routine. Much to our surprise we won our Novice class with an impressive 71%! Thank you Alison & John!

Our Verdict - Competing to music made a refreshing break from normal dressage and we would recommend the experience to any rider whether you are a dressage diva or simply a weekend hobby rider who wants to have some fun with your horse. Working with the Freestyle team takes the stress out of designing your routine allowing you to enjoy the fun part - the performance!

Alison discusses the movements required for a Novice Test

Alison starts to design a suitable floorplan based upon Vinnies strengths & weaknesses

Alison works through the floorplan & her ideas with Hayley giving useful tips to pick up marks

Alison accesses Vinnie’s Paces

Riding Novice movements

Riding through her Floorplan