History & Evolution

Dressage History

Dressage, derived from the French word for "training," dates back to ancient civilisations. The Athenian historian and soldier Xenophon first documented the foundational principles of dressage around 350 BC in his seminal work, 'On Horsemanship'. This manual emphasised training methods that promoted harmony and understanding between horse and rider, principles that remain at the core of dressage today.

Evolution into an Art Form
It wasn't until the Renaissance period, particularly in the 16th and 17th centuries, that dressage evolved significantly as an art form and a component of military training. European nobility cultivated dressage to display their horses' elaborate movements and riding prowess, enhancing their social status. This era was marked by a shift towards a more artistic and public display of skill in horsemanship.

The Influence of William Cavendish

One of the pivotal figures in early dressage in Britain was William Cavendish, the Duke of Newcastle. His 1658 publication, 'A General System of Horsemanship', revolutionised horse training by advocating a sympathetic approach to handling horses, contrasting sharply with the harsher methods prevalent at the time. His work laid the groundwork for modern dressage techniques, emphasising the importance of gentle guidance and mutual respect between horse and rider.

Dressage Through the Ages
Over the centuries, dressage has evolved from military training to a competitive sport celebrated in arenas worldwide, and the 19th century marked the formalisation of dressage as a sport, leading to its inclusion in the modern Olympic Games since 1912.

Modern Dressage: A Dual Focus
Today, dressage operates on two levels: the foundational training that builds disciplined and agile horses and the competitive aspect, which tests these skills under strict criteria. This duality ensures that the sport remains a comprehensive test of training methods and athletic prowess.

Governing Bodies
Established in the early 20th century, the Federation Equestre Internationale (FEI) is now the global authority for equestrian sports, including dressage. Affiliated with national organisations like British Dressage through the British Equestrian Federation, the FEI also offers a rich repository of the sport's history, showcasing over a century of equestrian excellence in the Olympics and beyond.