The route

The course route must be displayed from the first day of the competition and must clearly mention
› the "Start and Finish" gates
› lthe distance
› the maximum time limit
› the obstacles (name and number)
› the method for tackling the obstac les (ridden or led)
› the gait (walk, trot, canter, or free-style)
› the penalty zones

The obstacles

Numbered from 1 to 16, they are placed between red flags (on the right) and white flags (on the left).
Horse and rider must both go between the flags which form an integral part of the obstacle in addition to its other features. (height, width, length, etc.)

The penalty zones

Certain obstacles may include penalty zones (3 to 5 m) before and after.
They aim to define and set the limits within which penalties will be incurred for a refusal or a fall.
Entering and exiting these zones (before and after the obstacle in question) can be in any direction in line with the course route.
The zones are marked as deemed appropriate (flags, plaster, sand, etc.) by the organisers.

Gaits

Generally speaking breaking stride or changing of gait or pace involves passing up or down from one gait to another or the stopping of a movement that is being performed.
This irregularity of gait is only penalised at the obstacle itself, in other words as soon as the horse's forefeet have crossed the line between two entry flags up until the two hind feet cross the line between the two exit flags.
In the instance of breaking of gait whilst an obstacle is being tackled involving several options (canter, trot, walk) in addition to the incurred penalty mark (for effectiveness), the lowest gait is taken into consideration for the style mark.