What dressage judges’ comments really mean (and how to use them at home)

Judges aren’t there to coach you, but their short comments can offer valuable clues for your training at home.

Most riders have stood at the side of the arena, test sheet in hand, trying to work out what the dressage judge’s comments actually mean. Sometimes it’s the handwriting that’s the challenge. More often, it’s the comment itself.

Turning a five-word remark into something useful to work on at home isn’t always straightforward, especially if you’re new to the sport. A note such as “needs...