Tip/Quote of the Day!
When you come down the center line in your Dressage test, briefly think about something that you know will make you smile. You and your horse will both relax, which will make for a happier performance. The judge will see the difference!
Tip/Quote of the Day!
How do you prepare for transitions? Try thinking "active hind legs” into the connection of the outside rein, one to several times as needed, in rhythm with the horse's stride.
Tip/Quote of the Day!
Be brave! Get out of the ring, and ride out in the open as often as you can. Your horse will be happier, and a stronger, more well rounded athlete.
Tip/Quote of the Day!
"Learn from each and every horse you ride. Every horse has something to teach you, and sometimes you don't realise what that lesson is until years later!" ~ Carl Hester
Tip/Quote of the Day!
Every well ridden corner is a full body suppling and hind leg engaging exercise, and should be recognized as such.
Tip/Quote of the Day!
When a rider hangs on to the inside rein (with anything more than a light connection), it very often creates stiffness, resistance, head tilting, and the loss of control of the horse's outside shoulder.
Tip/Quote of the Day!
Note to anyone who is in a hurry with their horse’s training: Using quick fixes and skipping basics will only slow you down in the long run. It will take you FAR longer to get to the same good end result, then someone who is truly committed to taking
Tip/Quote of the Day!
It is a common mistake for novice riders to give the rein when the horse does the wrong thing, such as snatching at the rein or pulling on the rider. If you give when the horse does this, you are rewarding that behavior, and it will surely continue!
Tip/Quote of the Day!
When mistakes happen in the show ring, try to put them behind you immediately in your mind. Ride the next Dressage movement with confidence in front of the judge. If jumping, think positively forward and ride the next fence on course with enthusiasm.
Tip/Quote of the Day!
"Incorrect training is as if you buttoned a sweater wrong. In order to fix it you must unbutton it and start over again." ~ Reiner Klimke This is SO important! You can not just add another layer over top and expect it to be right. And this is true
Tip/Quote of the Day!
Think of letting your hips move towards the back of the saddle as your horse begins to jump. This will allow your horse's jumping motion to smoothly and naturally close your hip angle over the fence.
Tip/Quote of the Day!
"If you keep your hands still, you’ll start using your legs." ~ Ulla Salzgeber
