Karnataka Equestrian Association
Ballet on Horseback
Often described as 'ballet on horseback,' dressage tests the harmony between horse and rider through a series of predetermined movements performed with precision, rhythm, and grace. It is the foundation of all equestrian disciplines.
In dressage, horse and rider perform a series of movements — at the walk, trot, and canter — within a defined arena. Judges score each movement on a scale of 0 to 10, evaluating rhythm, suppleness, contact, impulsion, straightness, and collection. The goal is perfect harmony: the horse must appear to move freely and willingly, guided by invisible aids from the rider.
Dressage in Karnataka is governed by the Karnataka Equestrian Association (KEA), operating under the technical framework of the Equestrian Federation of India (EFI) and the international rules of the FEI.
Performed in a standard 20m × 60m arena marked with letters at defined points.
Tests range from Preliminary (walk and trot) through Medium and Advanced to Grand Prix, which includes movements like piaffe and passage.
Each movement is scored 0–10. Final scores are expressed as a percentage — the higher, the better.
Half-pass, shoulder-in, tempi changes, pirouette, piaffe (trot on the spot), and passage (elevated, cadenced trot).
Follow these steps to enter Dressage competitions in Karnataka under the KEA framework.
Join the Karnataka Equestrian Association as a Riding Member.
Register as a rider with the Equestrian Federation of India (EFI) to obtain your Rider ID.
Your horse must be registered with EFI and a valid horse passport obtained.
Enter KEA-sanctioned dressage competitions through the annual event prospectus.
Work with an EFI-certified trainer to prepare your tests for the relevant level.
Join KEA and register for upcoming Dressage events in Karnataka.