Flower Dressage

Broad Oak Stables - Beginner's Guide to Flower Dressage

Welcome Flower Dressage in Second Life, an activity that combines skill, strategy, and artistry. Whether you're a ponygirl enthusiast or new to the concept, this guide will help you understand the basics and get started on your dressage journey.

The Beauty of Flower Dressage

What sets Flower Dressage apart is its blend of precision, creativity, and the deep connection formed between the trainer and the pony. Up to four ponies can perform patterns simultaneously, making for a dynamic and visually stunning display.

Introduction to Flower Dressage

Flower Dressage is a discipline within Second Life where participants guide their avatars or virtual ponies through a series of patterns on a dressage field. This field consists of 10 circles, 8 lettered (A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H) and two concentric center circles. The patterns are determined by strings of these letters, connected by either an "x" or a hyphen "-", indicating the path the pony must take.

Rules and Regulations

• Starting and Ending: The routine begins and ends in the center circle. The initial movement for any lettered circle is always clockwise.

  •  Before starting, the pony shows readiness by studying the pattern, facing the starting letter, and stomping, then waiting for the starting whip crack from the trainer.

  • Upon completion, a respectful curtsey to the trainer signifies the completion of the pattern.

• Direction Changes:

  • An "x" in the pattern string signifies a direction change.

  • A hyphen "-" means maintaining the last direction used.

• Smooth Movements: All turns are to be made smoothly, with no hard corners or abrupt stops. This ensures fluidity throughout the performance.

• The Halfway Rule: If the pattern involves navigating less than halfway around a circle, the pony must first complete a full circle before continuing. This rule ensures a smooth and logical flow of the routine.

• The Center Circle: When passing through the center, the pony must navigate the center circle clockwise. This circle is only to be entered at the start or finish of the pattern, or when explicitly included in the pattern string.

• Shortest Path: Always walk the pattern using the shortest path possible, while still adhering to the dressage rules.  This rule prioritizes efficiency and planning, ensuring that the pony’s path is direct and logical, but also smooth and in compliance with the specified objectives of the pattern. 

Getting Started

• Familiarize Yourself with the Field: Understand the layout of the dressage field, including the lettered circles and the center circles.

• Study Patterns: Begin with simple patterns and gradually progress to more complex ones. Pay attention to the rules of direction changes and the halfway rule.

• Practice: Use the virtual environment to practice patterns, focusing on smooth transitions and accurate execution.

Conclusion

Flower Dressage offers a unique and rewarding experience within Ponyplay, emphasizing grace, strategy, and the bond between pony and trainer. By understanding the basics and committing to practice, you can master the art of flower dressage and participate in an engaging community of Ponyplay.  Enjoy the journey, and may your dressage endeavors be both successful and fulfilling.