Dressage is a discipline that focuses on the fundamental training of the horse. Most other disciplines use the basics of dressage as a foundation. Dressage can be enjoyed by anyone, whether they wish to compete or not. When competing the horse and rider perform a predetermined test consisting of movements appropriate to the level at which they are competing. The goal in dressage is to developed supple, balanced and athletic horses and riders. All dressage work is done on the flat (no jumping). 

Eventing is an equestrian sport that combines dressage with jumping. Events are sometimes called horse trials or three phases (because it has three parts) and after the horse and rider complete a dressage test, they have two jumping rounds. Stadium is in ring with typical jumps made of standards and rails. If a horse knocks a rail down, refuses a jump, or goes over the time allowed they get penalties. Cross Country is a test of endurance. The horse and rider during this phase have to jump a course of jumps out in the open, through fields and woods, over solid, natural obstacles, such as logs and ditches. Penalties are given in cross country for time faults and for any refusals. The penalties from all three phases are combined and the lowest score wins.