Tip/Quote of the Day!
It is important for a rider to know why we do each of the various movements and exercises, not just how to do them. Otherwise they won't actually know exactly how and when to use them to improve the horse.
Tip/Quote of the Day!
So many riders seem to ride with tight elbows, and BUSY hands. Instead strive for relaxed and mobile elbows, and quiet and still (yet supple) hands!
Tip/Quote of the Day!
Long slow distance work is an important part of the conditioning program for every horse. But it is especially important for older and young horses. Older horses need to keep limber, and young horses need to build a base level of tendon, ligament, and bone strength.
Tip/Quote of the Day!
"The rider’s goal should be improvement, not perfection." ~ Lilo Fore
Tip/Quote of the Day!
Working on transitions helps you to engage your horse's mind as well as his hind legs.
Tip/Quote of the Day!
Each time your seat touches down in the saddle in the rising trot, think of dropping your shoulders into your elbows, while keeping your chest wide open and your spine stretched tall.
Tip/Quote of the Day!
A tense, tight back is a blocked "bridge" for the energy that should be moving from the horse's hindquarters to the rider's hands. You must address the tension in the back before you will be able to achieve a good connection.
Tip/Quote of the Day!
Changing directions frequently can help to keep your horse more straight, as each time you change direction you momentarily break the pattern of leaning one way that your horse might have been falling into. And it can help to improve rider symmetry as well!
Tip/Quote of the Day!
"Be as elegant as royalty. Embracing your inner princess (or prince) is vital in becoming a dressage superstar. And that means no brash or aggressive movements when your horse isn’t listening." ~ Robert Dover
Tip/Quote of the Day!
Being a good rider, and being someone who understands the details of the concepts that make a good rider are two very different things. One can be both... but one does not guarantee the other. This is why it is not really a good idea to pick a riding instructor
Tip/Quote of the Day!
Widen your chest, and let your elbows drop.
Tip/Quote of the Day!
Everyone knows that we need our horses to be relaxed to perform well. But that starts with our own relaxation! A rider must be relaxed to give clear and precise aids to their horse, and to set the tone for the horse to be able to relax.
