Horse and rider perform a series of movements, known as figures in a completely flat arena, measuring 60 x 20 m. The horse has to show three paces - walk, trot and canter - as well as smooth transitions within and between these paces.
   Five judges assess each of the figures awarding a mark from 1 to 10. Once totalled, these scores produce a percentage and the rider or team with the highest result is the winner.

   The rider-horse team must tackle a course of 6 to 14 obstacles, in a specific time, committing the least possible faults.
   If a competitor makes certain faults such as knocking down an obstacle, refusing, exceeding the time allowed etc. he incurs penalties. The winner of the competition is the competitor who incurs the least number of penalties, completes the course in the fastest time or gains the highest number of points, depending on the type of the competition.