Working Equitation Training

What is Working Equitation?

A combination of skill, precision, horsemanship, and adrenaline makes Working Equitation one of the most exiting sports to be a part of, and Equus Training are proud to be able to support riders in their pursuit of excellence in the sport.

Although founded as a formal discipline in 1996, Working Equitation's origins date back through many centuries where horses have been used as working animals. Just like the sport of eventing which evolved from military training of horse and rider for battle, Working Equitation's roots are as deep, not in military, but in fieldwork.

Working Equitation is now a global sport with 25 countries represented under the International organisation and established European and World championships.

Working Equitation comprises of 4 events or phases:

Dressage Test - just as skilled, elegant, and accurate as you will find at any pure dressage competition

Ease of Handling - the obstacles ridden as a course with marks awarded for style, accuracy and technique

Speed Phase - don't worry about the style, this is obstacles against the clock and fast!

Cattle - included only at international level, a test of bravery as teams of 4 riders have to separate a cow from a herd

Working Equitation provides opportunities for horses and riders of all ages and abilities.

From Junior Lead Rein, all the way up to Advanced the sport offers not only opportunities for everyone to partake but importantly, a pathway to train, learn, develop, and rise through the levels.

The levels for Working Equitation in Great Britain are similar to those in the other 24 countries that have Working Equitation associations. There are some different level names and rule variances, but generally similar.

The sport has both Junior and Senior sections.

Seniors (riders over 16 years)

Walk & Trot - an introductory level (similar to Intro in other countries) with only walk and trot in both dressage and ease of handling. Reins held in two hands.

Novice - canter with simple changes are included at dressage and aimed at horses progressing up the levels who have three established paces. Dressage level equivalent to Elementary (BD). Similar to Preliminary in other countries. Reins held in two hands.

Intermediate (Inter) B - for horses and riders working towards more advanced movements. Flying changes in canter are optional (but score more marks). Dressage level equivalent to Medium / Advanced Medium (BD). Reins held in two hands.

Intermediate (Inter) A - the preparatory level to Advanced. Collection required and a dressage level equivalent to Advanced / Prix St. Georges (PSG) (BD). Reins held in two hands.

Advanced - represents the pinnacle of the sport. Dressage level equivalent to Advanced / Prix St. Georges (PSG) (BD). Reins held in left hand only for all phases.

Juniors (riders 16 years and under)

Junior Lead Rein - a fun level introducing the youngest riders to Working Equitation. Ease of Handling phase only with no dressage or speed phases. Designed to encourage participation.

Junior B - follows the same format as "walk & trot" above. No canter in dressage or ease of handling. Reins in two hands.

Junior A - follows the same format as "novice" above. Canter with simple changes (through walk) in dressage and allowed in ease of handling. Reins in two hands.

Junior Team (for International events) - has dressage at Medium / Advanced Medium (BD) standard requiring flying changes and collection. Riders are maximum 16 years old in the year of competition. Reins in two hands.

Young Rider Team (for International events) - has dressage at Medium / Advanced Medium (BD) standard requiring flying changes and collection. Riders are maximum 21 years old in the year of competition. Reins in one or two hands.

Our monthly online training competitions are perfect for riders of all ages and abilities to train and develop in their home environment, at their stables, yard, barn, whether riding in an area or in a paddock, to practice their skills and submit videos for judging and feedback. You can enter one of the Training Competitions here.

We offer training and coaching in Working Equitation with in-person and remote support. From one to one training and coaching to clinics, training days and group lessons. We also have a library of useful information with instructional videos, tips, diagrams and even information on how to build your own obstacles at home for practice.

Whether you are starting out in the sport, developing and starting your journey to compete, or a serious regional and national competitor, Equus Training and WorkingEquitation.Training are your perfect partner.