This week I’m tackling another reader submitted question, this one focusing on why we pulling on the reins is such an egregious sin in dressage. Spoiler Alert: It kind of is. (more…)
Aids are meant to tell the horse what to do. They are not meant to MAKE the horse do it. Let’s discuss why this seemingly subtle difference is key to effective training. (more…)
Instead of taking or giving all the blame, riders should understand that the results of their aids, good or bad, are always the rider’s responsibility (but not necessarily their “fault”). This focus on responsibility is key. Let’s discuss why. (more…)
This week I thought I’d try something a little different and tackle some reader/rider submitted training questions. This first one focuses on the ‘lazy’ (but not really) horse. (more…)
“The half halt is a beautiful, effortless way to ask your horse…” The half halt is many things, and entirely critical to good, effective riding. But it is generally invisible when done well and rarely is it “effortless.” Let’s discuss. (more…)
Or, rather, why fancy gaits in and of themselves were not the original point of dressage competition (here’s a hint: it was supposed to be about that whole training thing…) (more…)
There are three movements most riders aren’t aware of that cannot be judged on talent as their proper execution is the result of correct training alone. These are exercises that riders should pay extra attention to as they are not only a gauge of the quality of your training, but also because they can be honed so that even less talented horses can received exemplary scores on them. (more…)
Many riders think of dressage as an activity that is solely performed from the saddle. But, in truth, good dressage training often happens on the ground, and adding correct in-hand work to your training program can be a game-changer. (more…)
While those seeking international dressage careers will absolutely need freak-show levels of talent, most riders would enjoy the process — and likely realize more competitive success — working with a more average partner. (more…)
Horses need an incremental approach when returning to physical exertion after some time off. With the weather obliterating our training programs, it’s a solid time to review how to approach bringing your sound horse back into work after an unplanned break. (more…)
With Regional Championships well underway and the show season in Florida starting to ramp up, this week’s article discusses some of the things to consider when developing your plan for the upcoming competition season.
Lateral work is perhaps one of the most useful groups of exercises in the development of the horse as these exercises are fundamental to developing both suppleness and eventually collection. (more…)
So much has already been said regarding the recent video of Charlotte Dujardin, some of it has been quite thoughtful, some not so much. Although I wasn’t sure that I wanted to add to the noise, I ultimately felt that I would like to offer a potential path forward. (more…)
The United States has come to rely on European bred and trained horses in order to field our international dressage teams, and this is problematic. Let’s talk about why. (more…)