What an inspiring day of good dressage and wonderful training. Christoph, as happened in our first meeting at the NEDA Symposium two years back, was nothing short of inspirational. I took individual notes on each and every horse, as well as a few great photos, but am so tired after the long day we had, you're going to have to wait a couple for me to get to.
But the basic gist of the day:
Too many of us ride with too strong of an inside rein, which restricts the horse. Inside leg to the outside rein. MUCH stretching, even and especially between collected work. Shorty was stretching between piaffe's and pirouette's. Stretching through the transitions. In short, the horse MUST reach for the bridle.
Some horses now are almost too big movers. They will make great small tour horses, but are difficult to collect. In my words, horses must be handy, as well as expressive.
Using the whip on the shoulder as opposed to the hind leg. It actually quickened Ruby greatly, even behind. I got to find my jumping bat tomorrow!
A correct position is essential.
Be brave with your hands and your legs. (IE don't be afraid to GIVE your reins AND ride forward!) I don't think there was one of us who didn't walk away thinking how we've been riding too conservatively.
And a quiet mouth is a reflection of good training.
Sorry if this is short and quick. It is truly the day in a nut shell. I'm tired, but so proud of my boys and how they responded to the exercises. Things do take time, and I think we spent it well :-)
0 comments:
Post a Comment