The Western Dressage Association of America is one of the fastest growing associations in USEF. Western Dressage effortlessly blends western traditions with classical dressage principles yet is unique in horse show disciplines.
Western Dressage in WDAA is a progressive system of training based on Classical Dressage principles with many traditional western elements. To guide the training of the horse we use a training wheel that is similar to the dressage training pyramid. It outlines that the rider is the most important part of the progressive training of the horse. We strive to follow horse friendly and biomechanic principles in training.
Softness, self carriage and invisible aids are the goal, with harmonious partnership valued at every level. WDAA uses the same arena letters and dimensions as English dressage. Introductory and Basic levels can be ridden in the 20m x 40m arena. Level 1 and above must be shown in the 20m x 60m arena. There are 4 tests in each level that clearly follow progressive training methodology.
While competition isn’t the end goal for many riders, the training system develops horses that are moving freely forward, swinging through the back with moderate suspension and engagement. At all levels long active strides covering ground easily with increasing uphill balance and stretch over the topline as they progress up the levels are desired and will be given high scores from judges.
Extravagant gaits are not rewarded, thoroughness and harmony are rewarded. Accuracy and correctness of figures and lateral movements are done according to Classical Dressage requirements.
WDAA welcomes all breeds of horses and ponies, including gaited horses and mules. WDAA also offers several divisions with many tests for riders with disabilities.
Over 50 different breeds of horses and riders of all age groups competed in the 2025 World Championship show at the Lazy E Arena in Guthrie, OK. No one breed or type of horse dominated the placings.
Progression in training, increasing uphill balance and roundness in outline on soft contact become evident as horses and riders progress up the levels.
While ALL other lateral movements parallel requirements for English Dressage, many movements are unique to WDAA.
Starting in Level 1 we see 180 degree turn on the forehand and 180 degree turn on the haunches or half pivots.
Level 2 adds side passes. WDAA requires 360 degree turns on the forehand and pivots, counter lope serpentines and rein back to lope transitions.
Level 4 adds 540 degree pivots, flying changes of lead in lope and a rein back series consisting of 4 steps back, 4 steps forward, 6 steps back immediately proceeding in the next gait.
In Level Five, 720 degree pivots are added along with flying changes in series. Working walk, free walk and jog are used in Intro level, Basic level adds working lope and stretchingi at the jog. In Level 1 we have lengthening of stride in jog and lope. Level 2 asks for collected and lengthening of stride in jog and lope. Those gait requirements are required up through Level 5. There will be a new Level 6 in 2027 which will expand the training of the horse and rider.
I hope you will join us on our journey!
For additional information, equipment rules, tests and the show calendar, check out …
www.westerndressageassociation.org
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