Dressage, the French word for training, is a form of horse riding performed in exhibitions, competitions, and training. It focuses on the mastery of memorized movements and patterns in a calm, controlled manner by both horse and rider.
Dressage has been around for centuries, in various forms, as noted by the Greek military leader and historian Xenophon in early 300 BC. Modern dressage has evolved from the Renaissance publications in the 1500s. It is an equestrian sport at all levels, from amateur competition to the Olympics.
Dressage arena lettering is used to mark the arena, so the rider and judges know where each maneuver will be executed. The dressage letters for an arena do not follow an alphabetical pattern and must be memorized, often using popular mnemonics. To learn more about the history of the meaning behind dressage arena letters, read our blog.