In this article I shall be explaining in detail all the methods I have used to teach a horse to bend. Before I begin I wish to remind my readers that to try to follow these methods exactly step by step, or using any meth ...
The thought of that upcoming show may make you nervous, so try to remain calm and remember - this is supposed to be fun! Here are some tips on preparing both you and your horse in the weeks leading up to a dressage competition. ...
It’s normal to feel nervous about riding in your first dressage show, so here are two ways to get you and your horse used to the environment before actually competing. Take the mystery out of dressage competitions by first going to one on foot. If you join a dressage association, ...
Once you’ve decided on a competition and the level of dressage test you want to ride, you need to send in your entry. A late, incomplete or hard-to-read form risks being rejected, so it’s worth taking the time to do this properly. ...
If you present a neat and correct overall appearance, you'll put the judge in a good mood when you ride into the dressage show arena. It's not that difficult to do if you follow some basic rules. The clothing requirements for a schooling show are more relaxed than for a licensed ...
In my previous article I mentioned the USDF (United States Dressage Federation) website http://www.usdf.org as one source of information about local shows. But in order to enter these competitions you need to become a member of your local GMO – Group Member Organization. While be ...
Licensed shows are run by the United States Dressage Federation (USEF) and are very formal affairs, with classes from Training through Fourth Level, plus the very highest ones of Prix St. Georges through Grand Prix. You need to be a member of the USEF or United States Dressage Fe ...
If you are proficient at walk and trot but not canter, you can compete at the Introductory Level. There are two tests to choose from and both require a 20 meter circle in trot. Work on relaxing your horse by asking him to move forwards and down into a light rein contact. Ensure h ...
Over the next few weeks I’ll be talking about dressage. Among the topics will be: how to ride dressage, finding the right level for you and your horse to compete at, the best type of show to enter and how to prepare for it, plus tips for a successful dressage show experience. ...
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