Dressage Horse Training is not an easy task and the process should not be taken on lightly. First, the selection of the horse is paramount and Warmblood horses that originate in Sweden have proven to be the best choice over the years.
Dressage Horse Training takes several formats and is based on the Pyramid principle. At the top of the pyramid is the collection process and at the bottom rhythm and regularity. Despite its appearance training is not meant to be a rigid process. Each horse is different and as such each will develop at a different pace.
It is very important to do a good free walk in your dressage horse training; too often riders fail to realize this and focus too heavily on trot and canter work.
Preparation is the key to a good free walk at training level. You should prepare for the changeover at the start of the free walk in the same way that you would prepare for the circle in the trot.
So at the base of the pyramid we have what is called Rhythm and Regularity which consists of the horse moving in tempo with the gait evenly spaced
The next level of the pyramid is Relaxation, with the horse at an even stride he should be relaxed, his tail moving like a pendulum, in addition a relaxed chewing of the bit with even breathing.
Further up the pyramid is Contact, the rider should never be seen to direct the horse through his or her hands. The reins should be even on both sides and the horse should be allowed to move naturally.
The fourth level of the pyramid is Impulsion, this is designed to encourage the correct use of muscles and joint movement, and encourages the horse to focus on the rider.
Again moving up the pyramid we come to Straightness. Straightness allows the horse to channel its forward motion directly through its center of balance.
Now we arrive at the apex or pinnacle of the pyramid. Collection is natural for horses and is often seen during play. A composed horse is able to move more freely.
I know this all sounds very complicated, the would be dressage rider should not be deterred by the apparent complexity of Dressage Horse Training. Dressage is beautiful to watch as it demonstrates the perfect harmony between horse and rider.
Jack Pelling writes on a variety of subjects, mainly in the area of sports, including [http://www.dressagehorsetraining.org] and http://www.martialartsforkids.org
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