Your horse needs to be relaxed and soft when you ask him to stretch, which can be tricky during a dressage test if you are full of nerves. Whether you compete in dressage or not, practising movements like stretching on a 20m circle in working trot will help you achieve a horse who is more rideable, responsive to the aids and generally a more enjoyable ride.This is what the judge wants to seeThe judge wants to see your horses neck stretching out and down, with his head lowering considerably, but still vertical or just in front, explains dressage judge and trainer Alex Gingell. His hocks should swing freely, and there should be a feeling of softness and looseness.If theres no lowering or stretching of the neck then its insufficient, so a four is likely the highest mark youll get. Remember most horses like a good stretch, so theres no reason if its ridden correctly not to receive an eight or nine.How to perfect the movementPractise stretching at home. Its a great calming and loosening exercise as it encourages your horse to soften and swing through his back. Its also a great end to your schooling session as a reward and part of your cool down.As you begin the movement, slowly allow the reins to slip through your hands as your leg encourages your horse to search for the contact.Try riding a little higher and sitting a little softer to really encourage him to relax and soften.Sit upright, staying in balance and in time with the movement of your horse.The arch in his neck should straighten out as he lowers his head. Otherwise, hes likely to be behind the vertical, which inhibits the looseness and flow of the movement.This is what the judge doesnt want to seeDoing any of the following will cost you vital marks:Not showing any or enough stretchLosing the contactYour horse hollowing and resistingVarying tempo and inconsistent outlineRiding an odd circle shapeLosing impulsion and engagement in the trotLosing rhythm and balance in the trotRemember, practice makes perfect! Work on this home regularly in order to improve it. It doesnt always have to be done in an arena either. Try when youre hacking or riding in a field, for example, providing it is safe to do so.Main image Lucy Merrell/Kelsey Media LtdRelated contentNot just a cart horse: how heavy breeds can earn top marks in the dressage arena tooWhat are the Scales of Training for horses in dressage and flatwork?8 common mistakes judges often see in a dressage testDressage arena letters and sizes explained The post How to ask a horse to stretch correctly while trotting on a 20m circle appeared first on Your Horse.