A freestyle test should be a ride TO music, not a ride with pleasant background music.

Popularity and Importance
Freestyle competition has helped bring the art of dressage riding to the general public who may not otherwise have heard of dressage.

In 1996 we saw freestyles for the first time in the Olympic Games. It had a definite impact on the medal winners and has continued to do so in the subsequent Olympic and World Games competitions. The 24 best scoring riders in the Grand Prix advance to the Grand Prix Special and then the 12 best from the Special go to the Freestyle. ***Medal winners are then decided by combining the scores.
Freestyle competition can help horse shows attract a larger spectator audience thereby improving sponsorship possibilities. Of course improved sponsorship will raise the quality of the show for all involved.

Rider requirements
Riding to music is a fantastic outlet and learning tool for any rider. Performing a freestyle ride in competition requires a rider who is well trained in the classical principles of competitive dressage. Good freestyle riding requires not only good technical skills and knowledge but also an understanding of music and choreography.

Skills that can be improved upon with freestyle riding are:

• The ability to ride in a consistent rhythm (with the music)
• The ability to influence and regulate the rhythm and tempo of the gait
• The ability to develop creativity in riding movements and patterns
• Timing
• Identify and bring out your horse's strengths through your riding