Showing: 1 - 6 of 6 RESULTS
dressage journal riding training

This April: Get the Most from your Warm-up in Horse Sport

Such a hiatus!! (I know. I’m sorry.) But fantastic news!!! You can find my latest article published in this April’s issue of Horse Sport! In this article, I’ll talk you through some of my favourite warm-up exercises that really inspire each horse I’ve tried these with to gather himself, develop better balance, and engage that …

dressage rider technique riding training

Simple Exercises to stop the Bulging Shoulder

When the horse creates habits (or find points on the circle) to throw his shoulder in or out, the underlying issue is usually a simple matter of lacking strength, balance or straightness (or a little of each). Whether it’s a subtle bulging or full-on V-like bend and stumbling sideways, he needs your support and a …

Ride with Your Seat rider technique

Put an End to the Tug-o-War (part 1)

“If your arms are tired, you’re riding wrong.” Saying or hearing that phrase can be how you make enemies at the barn, but there are better ways of controlling speed than by pulling. It may seem like the only solution at the time, but whether your horse is constantly pulling against you to drag his nose in the dirt, or you are pulling on them to slow them down, once you fall into the trap of tugging, it can be a difficult habit to break – for us. For a horse? They tend to

dressage Ride with Your Seat rider technique

Ride with Your Seat: Steering with Your Core

There are few things as entrancing as watching a Grand Prix ride where the horse and rider seem to move as one. Cues are virtually imperceptible, even to a trained eye, and yet the horse’s motions are fluid and deliberate. While the technical skills are a journey in themselves, the foundation for the communication is attainable – and should…

dressage riding training

Turn a Fast Trot into Expressive Collection

Whether you’ve got an off-the-track thoroughbred, that school horse that “isn’t recommended for beginners” or a warmblood who thinks he’s a bulldozer, it can be frustrating, difficult, and sometimes even intimidating to effectively address strong or fast gaits. While the “easy” thing is to lean back, haul on the reins and pray for a give, …