Monday, December 14, 2015

Stretching over the back and into the rein connection at the canter #3 ...





"Would you like to improve your horses canter?  Now you can watch what happens as Trudy asks Ani to keep her back up as she willingly begins to stretch into the rein connection for the first time in the canter"



This was a break through session.  Finally, (it seems to take forever to get a horse to be soft in the canter...)  Trudy is able to keep Ani connected at the canter with her back up and stretching into the rein connection. Keeping a horse connected in the canter is a challenge with many riders and now you can see e the beginning stages of a horse using its back as it stays connected at the canter.



Is your horse able to stretch in the canter like this?  Try this technique and let us know how it works for you.

Sunday, December 13, 2015

Stretching over the back at the trot. Keeping the connection




"If you are riding in contact or connection you will want to watch this series to see how you can teach your horse how to stretch over it's back... at the trot"


Many riders are not sure what is meant by "getting a horse to stretch into the connection of the rein." It is one of those confusing terms that don't make sense until you see it done with a horse that is lifting it's back as the rider feels them taking an active connection with the rein connection. This is when the reins feel "alive" and is the result of the horse coming through from behind. Now you can watch what Trudy is doing with Ani in this break through series. It is the beginning of a new level of connection for both of them.

What did you learn from watching this video? Are you ready to try this on your horse? 

Saturday, December 12, 2015

Stretching over the back and into the connection of the reins. #1 S4 D...




"A stretching we will go... a stretching we will go...  What is meant by "getting your horse to stretch over their back"  and how can you do it while they stay connected with an active rein?"


Have you always wondered what a stretch is supposed to be?  Now you can watch as Trudy asks Ani to stay connected as she stretches over her back and into the "alive" rein connection.  This is the goal of many riders, especially those who ride dressage, and can take years to achieve as both the rider and the horse have to "let go" while they do it.  Ani, like many horses, had a few issues and was not able to do this stretch, at this level, until these past few weeks.  Trudy also found that she had to "let go" in her riding position to do this.  It was a break through for both of them.  This is part #1 of 3 (walk, trot and canter)

Are your reins "alive" when you are riding your horse?  Can you see how you can use that feeling to keep your horses back up and more connected with you?

Tuesday, December 1, 2015

"It's really not a headset. It's a mind set. The mystery of how to get your horses head in the right place"





"It's really not a headset. It's a mind set. The mystery of how to get your horses head in the right place"

Why do we position our horses heads a certain way (or at least try to...) We do this so we can support our horse so that it can stay more "connected" as we balance it between our leg aids and the rein connection"

How a horse understands this process still amazes me. Now that Ani is further along in her training Trudy has found that she likes the feeling of Ani staying more connected with her. On this day Trudy asked me to isolate what she is doing with Ani so that she can keep her more connected with her back up and a "rainbow" in her neck. 

Can you see how Trudy is keeping Ani more connected by working on the Steps to Connection? Have you tried this on your horse? We love hearing your feedback so please let us know how this works for you.


Saturday, November 28, 2015

Bending from behind. WOW. New movement! Pirouettes/shoulder/half pass ...





"Woot Woot!  Breakthrough session for Susan and Beau! Check out how we are getting the "bend" behind the saddle and how it changes the way Beau is moving. This is part #2 where we move up into the trot"
What happened?  This is when Beau started using his hind quarters and taking longer steps, even in the in the lateral movements. As those who have been following the progress of Susan and Beau know...  Beau has been a complicated horse who came to us with a lot of serious issues.  With Susan's love for him and dedication to the training process he has continued to improve.  Since they are competing in 2nd level dressage they are doing more "lateral work" like the shoulder in, half pass and turn on the haunches (walk pirouette) These lateral exercises have not been easy for Beau to understand and his tendency, before this day, was to lock up at times and take short steps.  First we had to teach him how to be more supple in the front (bending from the front of the saddle and staying soft to the rein connection) than this day, we were finally able to add the bending from behind the saddle which changed his movement. The good news is that we have filmed their training process for the past 4 years so you can see everything Susan has done to get Beau to this level.  You can find them on this Youtube channel in the playlist area.
Are you enjoying watching the training progress of our featured riders?  As you know, we do not edit any of the videos and are showing you actual training sessions where I am coaching as I am trying to film.  It is your feedback that inspires both the riders and myself to continue sharing this information with you.

Wednesday, November 25, 2015

A new walk! Feeling when a horse is tracking up though all of the walks....





"What if.. like many riders you keep hearing that your horse needs to be more connected and balanced and connected at the walk. To do this, all we have to do (technically) is to keep our horse tracking up at all of the walk gaits.  What does that mean?  How do you know when "it" finally happens?  Now you can watch what happens as Susan takes Darrien to a new level at the walk by focusing on how he is staying connected in his neck as he is tracking up"



This was a breakthrough session for Susan and Darrien.  It has taken us two years to reach this level as Darrien (Susan's new FEI horse) had to work through a lot of physical and mental issues before he was ready.  In this session he changed his walk!  It was very exciting to see as for the first time Darrien is staying connected and in balance (round/on the aids/in front of the legs, on the bit, packaged and so on) as he tracks up at each of the walks (collected, lengthening/extension and medium). Now you can see the process we have used and the results.



Can you see how Darrien's walk changed?  Are you ready to try this Horse and Rider Awareness technique on your horse?  Stay tuned as there are two more videos from this session and you will be able to see that even Darrien's trot has now changed!



Saturday, November 21, 2015

Keeping the horses focus, when it does not want to... Training level. S4...




“What if.... in the middle of a training session, your horse decides it no longer wants to stay focused on what you are doing. What can you do to bring them back into connection?"


In this session we are trotting and Ani decides she would rather look at something outside the ring (this is not her barn..) This happens to so many riders. Something happens in the training process where the horse gets distracted and we need to get it back into connecting with us. On this day, Trudy's response was to start locking up in her hands and holding the reins too tight for too long. She told me that her arms were hurting which told me what was happening. To help Trudy get back in control I asked her to focus on something different. I asked her to focus on connecting Ani on one side for two strides, than the other. It worked! This is a great video as you can see that sometimes we simply need to try something different to get to where we wanted to go.

The "Two steps" on one side than the other is a technique I use to help riders become aware when they get "locked up" on the reins or holding their aids to long. When something stressful happens, like a horse not wanting to pay attention, it helps to keep a rider focused on asking their horse to connect on one side than the other. Once the rider can do this for two steps that can move up to 3 and so on. 

Friday, November 20, 2015

Improve your leg yield/half pass longer steps sideways at the trot. Secrets if The Trainers"





"Would you like to know how you can teach your horse to take longer steps sideways in the leg yields or lateral work? You are not alone.  This is one of the biggest challenges for riders and their horses as they both need to learn a new way to balance while staying connected" 


This was the final video of this series with Susan and Beau. What a transformation!  Our goal was to ask Beau to stay connected while taking longer steps in a different balance where he is shifting his weight back more to his haunches. As you can see, they have gone to a new level.  To do this, we focused on the "bend from behind the saddle".  What we also found interesting was the importance of Susan keeping her inside leg and weight softer and her position anchored on the outside  (as too much weight or riders leg aids will shift the horses rib cage and back out instead of under the rider on the inside for circles and lateral work)  We are very happy with the changes and are happy to share them with you so that you can also see the possibilities with your horse or students. To see more about how we started this process check out this weeks posts or go to our Youtube channel and look in the Playlist area under "bending from behind"

Have you tried this yet?  Stay tuned as I will be sharing the same process with Susan and Darrien next.  You will see that even a schoolmaster can learn new ways of doing things.  :) 

Wednesday, November 18, 2015

Can you keep your horse tracking up at all the walks? Feeling when a horse is tracking up and connected through the top line






"What if.. like many riders you keep hearing that your horse needs to be more balanced and connected at the walk.  This is what happens when your horse is tracking up. What does that mean?  How do you know when "it" finally happens?  Now you can watch what happens as Susan takes Darrien to a new level at the walk by focusing on how he is staying connected in his neck"



This was a breakthrough session for Susan and Darrien.  It has taken us two years to reach this level as Darrien (Susan's new FEI horse) had to work through a lot of physical and mental issues before he was ready.  In this session he changed his walk!  It was very exciting to see as for the first time Darrien is staying connected and in balance (round/on the aids/in front of the legs, on the bit, packaged and so on) now you can see the process we have used and the results.



Can you see how Darrien's walk changed?  Are you ready to try this Horse and Rider Awareness technique on your horse?  Stay tuned as there are two more videos from this session and you will be able to see that even Darrien's trot has now changed!

Sunday, November 15, 2015

Canter. Bending from behind.Retraining a Schoolmaster. S4 Dressage video






"Improving the canter with the "bend from behind" This begins with how you are using your riding position. It's time to focus on more ways to stay connected and in balance at the canter"

It has taken us almost 2 years for Susan to get Darrien to relax and respond to what we are doing. He came to us with a lot of issues and we are slowly unraveling them and rebuilding his knowledge. Finally, Darrien has lost a lot of his "anxiety" about the training process. He is breathing and more relaxed. As a result we can now focus even more on his balance and if he is really "bending" from the front and the back. As part of this process you will see that towards the end of this video that he starts going sideways as he tried to understand what Susan wants. The good news is that this gave us an opportunity to go even "deeper" in the following videos to fill in those missing holes in his training.

Have you noticed that your horse also has learning curves as you go through the training process? How has watching Susan and Darrien's process made a difference for what you are doing? 

Saturday, November 14, 2015

The bend from behind the saddle. How you can feel it! Trot. S4 Riding i...






"How do you know if your horse has the right bend from behind the saddle?  What does that mean and why is it important for what you are doing with your horse?  Watch what happens as this horse and rider focus on it"



If you are like many riders you enjoy doing different things with your horse. In this session (4 videos) you will see a big change in Beau's movement.  He went to a new level of balance and connection!  All we did was take the time to focus on if he was really bending from behind the saddle in the curves and lateral work.  It sounds easier than it might be.  Now you can watch the process we are using and apply it to what you are doing with your horse.



Can you see the changes starting with Susan and Beau again?  3 more videos in this series.  You will see big changes. So glad I was able to film this for you.


Friday, November 13, 2015

Improve your rising trot. Exercises to improve your balance and lower leg




"Now you can improve your riding position in 30 days!  It's time to go back to the basics and focus on your riding position at the Trot"

Trudy had only been able to ride maybe 10 times in the past 3 months when I filmed this. Like most riders, she is probably not as steady with her riding position as she would like to be. We start re connecting her riding position by focusing on her lower leg position. In the process we work on issues that are common with most riders. To do this I have added the neck strap so that Trudy keeps her hands where they need to be to balance her seat over her lower legs.  Next, we start doing different exercises that will help her to focus on what she needs to feel.  At first, she is not able to sit two rise one in the posting but little by little...  gets back into a more secure seat. 

To improve your riding position all you need to do is try these exercises for 30 days.  5 minutes a day.  You will be amazed at the difference in your riding position. 

Let me know how these exercises work for you.  Please tell us what you experience (whining is allowed...) and how different your riding position and lower leg feel after you try them.


Friday, October 16, 2015

"How can I balance the canter? S4 Dressage trainer Tryon NC




"You have probably seen these comments on your dressage test canters. Horse not connected, horse on forehand, haunches in... and so on. Would you like to improve your horse's canter? Watch this video to see what Trudy is doing with Ani. Which tip makes the biggest difference for what you are doing with your horse?


Now you can watch what I do with Trudy as we focus on improving Ani's canter. In this session we focus on keeping Ani connected (on the aids/on the bit/round/in front of the aids/packaged) at the canter" This is level of connection in the canter is still new to Ani and so it is the perfect video for anyone who wants to improve their horses canter. Check out the wonderful changes in Ani's canter than go out and try these techniques on your horse.

Are you ready to try this on your horse? We love to hear your feedback!

Thursday, October 15, 2015

Riding Position. Stop riding with your heels! How to use your lower leg...




"Some riders have been taught or have gotten into the habit of using their heels to get a horse to move forward or sideways.  If you are using spurs, you might also have gotten into the habit of using your spurs instead of your lower leg.  What can you do to fix this common riding challenge?"


The facts are, when a  rider uses their heels, they often are riding on their toes, their heels come up and their entire leg rolls off the saddle from the thigh down as the rider uses the back of their leg instead of the inside.  When this happens, it is impossible for the riders to keep a secure, anchored lower leg position.

Watch as I show Trudy Adams how to focus on changing a habit that most riders have.   She has been using her using her heels for years.  It will be easy for you to see how this affects her lower leg position

What do you see changing as Trudy gets a more secure feeling with her lower legs?

Monday, October 5, 2015

Going back to the basics. Can you keep a light rein in the trot canter t...





"Have you noticed that your hand "bumps" your horse in the mouth when you are working on the canter? What about the canter transitions?"

In this session Trudy focuses on keeping an even feel and connection with the reins at the canter.. Many riders start tightening their reins at the canter, especially in the transition up and down from it. Now you can watch as Trudy discovers how to use her legs and seat to keep Melody on her aids and soft on the reins.

Have you ever thought about how you are using your reins for the canter? What did you learn from this video?


Saturday, October 3, 2015

Riding Position. Stop riding with your heels! How to use your lower leg...




"Stop using your heels to ride!  Would you like to know which part of your leg you should be using to communicate to your horse or how to teach it to your riders? Now you can discover new ways to fix this common riding challenge in yourself or your riders with these proven techniques"


Some riders have been taught or have gotten into the habit of using their heels to get a horse to move forward or sideways.  If you are using spurs, you might also have gotten into the habit of using your spurs instead of your lower leg.  What can you do to fix this common riding challenge?"

The facts are, when a  rider uses their heels, they often are riding on their toes, their heels come up and their entire leg rolls off the saddle from the thigh down as the rider uses the back of their leg instead of the inside.  When this happens, it is impossible for the riders to keep a secure, anchored lower leg position.

Watch as I show Trudy Adams how to focus on changing a habit that most riders have.   She has been using her using her heels for years.  It will be easy for you to see how this affects her lower leg position

Thursday, October 1, 2015

Going back to the basics Rein contact at the trot. Engagement. Diamond ...




"Going back to the basics. Is your horse in balance? It's time to practice with the Diamond pattern. Can you keep your horse connected from your leg to the rein at the trot?"

The Diamond Pattern is a great way to teach your horse (and yourself...) what a horse feels like as they are "sitting down" more or "engaging" IT was from last year when we first started asking Beau to stay in a different balance. To do this, Susan focused on keeping an even feel on both reins as she asked Beau to step up more from behind with her seat and legs. As a result you will see that Beau began to use his haunches differently.
Are you ready to try the Diamond pattern with your horse?

Wednesday, September 30, 2015

Canter. What are you doing with your hands? Where should they be?




"What if... you really have a feeling that it is time to ride your horse in more of a connection at the canter. You know, the kind where you feel that your horse is staying soft to the reins and is "balanced" somewhat between your leg and rein aids. Now you can learn the Secret of the Trainers. It's all about your riding position!"


Trudy has brought Ani a long way in her training. This is their warm up canter and on this day Trudy asked me to isolate what she is doing to keep Ani connected. Before this week Trudy had been working on this but now she is feeling serious about asking Ani to stay softer to the rein connection at the canter. Its a big step and now you can watch how important Trudy's riding position and length of rein is to that process.

What did you learn from watching this Horse and Rider Awareness video? Are you ready to ask your horse to stay more connected at the canter yet? Please share your feedback as we love to hear what is happening in your training process and how these videos are making a difference for you.

Tuesday, September 29, 2015

The timing of the rider's aids at the walk. The steps. #1








"The timing of the riders aids at the walk. Is your horse hearing what you want them to do?"


In this session I ask Trudy to really become aware of when Melody is listening to her aids. These are the steps that she is using. 1) First Trudy needs to be aware of when Melody's hind foot is off the ground. 2) Melody needs to soften her her jaw. 3) Melody will flex her neck (so the muscle falls to the outside) 4) Trudy aids her inside calve muscle to see if Melody is responding to her leg by shifting her weight to the outside. 5) Next, we add the outside rein and leg to soften Melody's poll. Sounds easy right? Watch to see how what we are doing makes a difference in how Melody is responding to Trudy's aids. What was must interesting is that by asking Trudy to say words as she is riding that it is easier for her to time when she is using her aids. 

Can you see how the timing of the aids depends on where the horses hind foot is? (on the side you are using the aids on...) Try this on your horse (or student) and let us know how timing your aids makes a difference for what you are doing with your horse at the walk. 

Saturday, September 26, 2015

Improve your riding position at the rising trot in 30 days!





Now you can improve your riding position in 30 days! It's time to go back to the basics and focus on your riding position at the Trot"

Last year was a long winter and at the time of this filming Trudy has only been able to ride maybe 10 times in the past 3 months. Like most riders, she was probably not as steady with her riding position as she would like to be. We start re connecting her riding position by focusing on her lower leg position. In the process we work on issues that are common with most riders. To do this I have added the neck strap so that Trudy keeps her hands where they need to be to balance her seat over her lower legs. Next, we start doing different exercises that will help her to focus on what she needs to feel. At first, she is not able to sit two rise one in the posting but little by little... gets back into a more secure seat. To improve your riding position all you need to do is try these exercises for 30 days. 5 minutes a day. You will be amazed at the difference in your riding position.


Let me know how these exercises work for you. Please tell us what you experience (whining is allowed...) and how different your riding position and lower leg feel after you try them.

Friday, September 25, 2015

A NEW Trot! Bend behind for shoulder in, half pass trot. Retraining a Schoolmaster





"A NEW trot for Darrien!  What an exciting time this has been. Finally...  Darrien is allowing Susan to ride him in a different balance and connection at the trots.  Check out how what they are doing now"

Sometimes we wonder if our horses will ever move up to the next level.  It does take time that is for sure.  The good news is that you have been able to watch the training progress of our featured riders and their horses and can see the possibilities of what can happen with horses with issues and non professional riders. In this session we continue our focus on the "bend from behind the saddle" and have added the feeling of what Darriens trot could feel like by asking him to trot over the ground poles.  What is most exciting for us is that now Darrien is breathing most of the time (instead of holding his breath) and is using his back much better.  In fact now he is starting to swing more from his shoulders and hips which has created a new movement in his trot.

Can you see how "lofty" Darrien's trot is becoming as he gets more comfortable using his back?  This is a new movement for him that has never been shown before even in his past.  Who would have thought an older horse could learn a new way of moving like this?


Wednesday, September 23, 2015

Canter. Bending from behind.Retraining a Schoolmaster. S4 Dressage video




"Improving the canter with the "bend from behind" This begins with how you are using your riding position. It's time to focus on more ways to stay connected and in balance at the canter"


It has taken us almost 2 years for Susan to get Darrien to relax and respond to what we are doing. He came to us with a lot of issues and we are slowly unraveling them and rebuilding his knowledge. Finally, Darrien has lost a lot of his "anxiety" about the training process. He is breathing and more relaxed. As a result we can now focus even more on his balance and if he is really "bending" from the front and the back. As part of this process you will see that towards the end of this video that he starts going sideways as he tried to understand what Susan wants. The good news is that this gave us an opportunity to go even "deeper" in the following videos to fill in those missing holes in his training.

Have you noticed that your horse also has learning curves as you go through the training process? How has watching Susan and Beau's process made a difference for what you are doing? 

Sunday, September 20, 2015

A new walk! Feeling when a horse is connected through the top line FEI...





"What if.. like many riders you keep hearing that your horse needs to be more connected and balanced and connected at the walk.  What does that mean?  How do you know when "it" finally happens?  Now you can watch what happens as Susan takes Darrien to a new level at the walk by focusing on how he is staying connected in his neck"


This was a breakthrough session for Susan and Darrien.  It has taken us two years to reach this level as Darrien (Susan's new FEI horse) had to work through a lot of physical and mental issues before he was ready.  In this session he changed his walk!  It was very exciting to see as for the first time Darrien is staying connected and in balance (round/on the aids/in front of the legs, on the bit, packaged and so on) now you can see the process we have used and the results.

Can you see how Darrien's walk changed?  Are you ready to try this Horse and Rider Awareness technique on your horse?  Stay tuned as there are two more videos from this session and you will be able to see that even Darrien's trot has now changed!  

Saturday, September 19, 2015

Stepping more sideways and bending from behind in lateral work. Trot. S4...





"Would you like to know how you can teach your horse to take longer steps sideways in the leg yields or lateral work? You are not alone.  This is one of the biggest challenges for riders and their horses as they both need to learn a new way to balance while staying connected" 


This is the final video of this series with Susan and Beau. What a transformation!  Our goal was to ask Beau to stay connected while taking longer steps in a different balance where he is shifting his weight back more to his haunches. As you can see, they have gone to a new level.  To do this, we focused on the "bend from behind the saddle".  What we also found interesting was the importance of Susan keeping her inside leg and weight softer and her position anchored on the outside  (as too much weight or riders leg aids will shift the horses rib cage and back out instead of under the rider on the inside for circles and lateral work)  We are very happy with the changes and are happy to share them with you so that you can also see the possibilities with your horse or students. To see more about how we started this process check out this weeks posts or go to our Youtube channel and look in the Playlist area under "bending from behind"

Have you tried this yet?  Stay tuned as I will be sharing the same process with Susan and Darrien next.  You will see that even a schoolmaster can learn new ways of doing things.  :) 

Friday, September 18, 2015

Bending from behind. WOW. New movement! Pirouettes/shoulder/half pass ...




"Woot Woot! Breakthrough for Susan and Beau! Check out how we are getting the "bend" behind the saddle and how it changes the way Beau is moving. This is part #2 where we move up into the trot"


What happened? Beau is now moving different at he walk and trot! Especially in the lateral movements. His strides are longer and his balance more consistent. As those who have been following the progress of Susan and Beau know... Beau has been a complicated horse who came to us with a lot of serious issues. With Susan's love for him and dedication to the training process he has continued to improve. Since they are competing in 2nd level dressage they are doing more "lateral work" like the shoulder in, half pass and turn on the haunches (walk pirouette) These lateral exercises have not been easy for Beau to understand and his tendency, before this day, was to lock up at times and take short steps. First we had to teach him how to be more supple in the front (bending from the front of the saddle and staying soft to the rein connection) than this day, we were finally able to add the bending from behind the saddle which changed his movement. The good news is that we have filmed their training process for the past 4 years so you can see everything Susan has done to get Beau to this level. You can find them on this Youtube channel in the playlist area.

Are you enjoying watching the training progress of our featured riders? As you know, we do not edit any of the videos and are showing you actual training sessions where I am coaching as I am trying to film. It is your feedback that inspires both the riders and myself to continue sharing this information with you. 

Thursday, September 17, 2015

Bending from behind. Pirouettes/half pass to WOW a new walk #1 S4 Dressa...





"Would you like to improve your turns on the haunches, walk pirouettes, shoulder in's or half pass?  If so, this might be exactly what you need to watch.  This is a break through session where Susan shows Beau how to "sit down" more from behind as he also keeps the right bend from in front and behind.  Now you can watch the process we are using (a part of our bending from behind series)  and at the end, see Beau's new walk that happened as a result"


Have you always want to know what is meant by  asking a horse to "sit down more" or have more "engagement from behind"  Now you can watch as Susan asks Beau to balance in new ways so that he can take longer steps and stay balanced over his hindquarters in the lateral movements.  When we "cool down" at the end, Beau offers us a new walk!  It is so exciting to watch the progress they are making.  Stay tuned as I will share the final video of Susan and Beau focusing on the "bend behind the saddle" tomorrow.

Can you see what happens as Susan balances Beau for the lateral movements?  Is your horse bending behind the saddle yet?  (not for green horses) 

Wednesday, September 16, 2015

The bend from behind the saddle. How you can feel it! Trot. S4 Riding i...




"Finally... the mysteries of the correct bend in your horse revealed!  Now, you can see and understand what is meant by having the right "bend" from behind the saddle"  


If you are like many riders you enjoy doing different things with your horse. In this session (4 videos) you will see a big change in Beau's movement. He went to a new level of balance and connection! All we did was take the time to focus on if he was really bending from behind the saddle in the curves and lateral work. It sounds easier than it might be. Now you can watch the process we are using and apply it to what you are doing with your horse.

Is your horse "bending" behind the saddle?  Can you feel it picking up your inside leg/seatbone when you practice your lateral movements? Are you ready to try this on your horse?  Let us know how it works for you and stay tuned as there are 7 videos in this series (2 horses) that you can watch to see the amazing changes that are happening with Susan's horses. 

Monday, September 14, 2015

Canter. Adding the feeling of leg yields, shoulder ins for connection S4...









dressage, dressage training, equestrian, equitation, Horse and Rider Awareness, horse showing, horse training, horsemanship, horses, Randi Thompson, riding instruction, Tryon NC dressage


Those who know Melody's history have seen that teaching some horses to relax in the training process can take some time.  Especially when that horse is hot and nervous.  It has taken Trudy 4 years to get her to where she is now.  It is a big change and we filmed the process so you can see what might be happening with your horses training progress.  In this session we added curves and circles as a way to keep Melody more relaxed and connected in the canter.

Are you ready to try this with your horse?  Let us know how it works for you! 

Sunday, September 13, 2015

Connecting in the warm up trot. A new level of training. S4 horses





"Are you ready to ask your horse to connect more with you in the warm up trot?  It's a big step for anyone and now you can see what Trudy is doing with Ani to bring her to a new level of connection even in the warm up"


Who would have thought we would ever have been able to do this with Melody?  This was such a break through for Trudy to able to keep Melody relaxed even in the warm up!  She sure does not look like a hot nervous horse.  As you will see we do a lot of changes in our warm ups with different exercises.  Our goal is simple  To keep Melody connected between Trudy's legs and reins from back to front and from side to side.  

Are you ready to warm up your horse differently?  What did you  learn from watching what Trudy is doing with Melody now?

Saturday, September 12, 2015

Hot nervous horse. Asking for connection in the Warm up walk. S4 Horse...




"What are you doing in your warm up? Would you like to see how we connect a hot, nervous horse in the warm up walk? As you will see, our goal is simple.  It's all about the connection and finding it as soon as possible"


The warm up is such an important part of your training process.  Of course, first you do want to warm your horses body up.  Than it's time to "warm up" their brains and how they are reacting to your aids.  In this video Trudy has taken Melody to a new level of connection as soon as she could.  Now, Trudy is asking Melody to soften her jaw to the rein influence and to step up into that connection from behind (as a result of Trudy asking her to step up) You will also see how we add leg yields and curves to help a horse understand how to stay on the outside rein and leg.

What do you do when you warm up your horse?  Do you have a plan? Have you ever tried connecting with them sooner to see how they might respond?  

Friday, September 11, 2015

Cantering in connection. The magic of curves and circles. S4 equestrian




"Now you can improve your horses canter with curves and circles"


Are you ready to ask your horse to stay in a better balance and to be more connected in the canter?  If this is you than you will love this Horse and Rider Awareness technique.  Trudy has asked Ani to stay connected at the canter, instead of letting her do a green horse canter, for less than 12 sessions at the time of this filming. Now you can watch what happens as they Trudy ads more turns and circles.  

Are you ready to see how balanced your horse is at the canter?  Try this exercise and let us know how it works for you. 

Wednesday, September 9, 2015

Riders Position. Where should I position my shoulders? S4 Riding instr...




"It's all about your riding position.  Where should your upper body be. What if there was a simple technique you could use today to create a more effective riding position?"


On this day Trudy asked me to focus on what she is doing with her shoulders so that her riding position can be more effective.  In this session we add a simple technique that helped Trudy keep her weight where it belongs in the saddle by becoming more aware of what she is doing with her shoulders at all of the gaits. 

This week, practice this Horse and Rider Awareness technique and tell us how positioning what you are doing with your upper body makes a difference in your riding and training.  We love to hear your feedback! 

Sunday, September 6, 2015

1st level 3. Susan and Beau Sept 6 TIEC 68.5%




Show results. Congratulations Susan and her "boys" who competed this weekend at the Tryon International Equestrian Center Dressage. Now on to the Regionals!"

We had another adventure as Susan and her horses continue their winning ways at the Tryon International Equestrian Center, our last show before the Regional Dressage Championships. As always, we enjoyed spending time with old friends and meeting new ones. This video is of Susan and Beau riding under "S" judge Linda Zang. Linda is known as being a "tough judge" and so we expected to not do so well when Beau stopped twice during the test. (who knows why....) Imagine our surprise to be awarded a score of 68% + by her! Susan also competed her FEI horse, Darrien and scored a 64% with judge Maryal Barnet "S" Judge. Out next show with be the Regional Championships in Conyers (Atlanta) where Susan will be competing Beau (Mission Point) in the 1st level 3 and 2nd level 3 Championship classes.. She will also be showing Darrien in the Prix St George and Intermediate 1 Championship Classes. Susan has done an amazing job this year with both of the "boys" and continues to inspire people everywhere with her journey with them.

Friday, September 4, 2015

Warming up with the Steps to Connection. S4 Riding instruction

What if... you could finally understand what is meant by warming a horse up in connection?  Is this even possible?  Watch what Trudy does with Ani in this warm up at the walk"


Try this as you are riding your horse this week.  When you warm up, test your skills and how your horse is listening to your aids by asking them to connect with you as soon as you start riding.  This may be new to you or your horse (as it is with Ani) but as you can see,  Trudy was able to do it this day.  We continue with this series in the walk and canter work so you can see how this might work for your horse or students.  

This was a big change for Ani as in the past Trudy would spend most of the warm up on a long or loose rein.  Now they are moving up a level and playing with the concept of connecting sooner.  Have you tried this yet?

Thursday, September 3, 2015

Adjusting your horses balance and connection with Cavaletti #2 S4 Ridin...




"Wow! Breakthrough session. It has been a while since we have used Cavalletti (ground poles) with Susan's horses. Watch the amazing changes that happen with Beau in this session!"


It is always good to keep changing what we are doing with the training process.  This makes everything more interesting for both the horse and the rider.  On this day, when I asked Susan what she wanted to focus on she said "adjustablity"  As soon as she said that I knew what we needed to do.  Cavalletti and ground poles. If you decide this is for you (just say yes)  you are going to feel like you cannot ride at first.  You will probably not be able to keep the rein connection at all as you will discover your hands have not been as steady as you thought.  You might also find that it is very hard to keep your horse "under your seat" and connected.  That is what makes this technique so amazing as it will help you to fill in some of the "missing links" of what you are doing in your riding.  Now you can watch the amazing changes that happen as Susan rides Beau through the poles.  Their balance and connection go to a new level!  Yippee! Of course, Susan makes this look easier than it is.  

Have you used ground poles or cavalletti in your training program yet?  Can you see the changes that happened with Susan and Beau?

Welcome to Randi Thompson Live. Randi has been in the horse industry for 40 years and has been teaching riding instructors, clinicians, trainers and riders easy, safe and fun techniques to connect them with their students Her Horse and Rider Awareness® techniques have been tested on 1000's of students and horses of all styles of riding and breeds of horse world. Randi has been featured as the keynote speaker at the largest equestrian trade shows in the US as well as speaking for events outside the horse world.

Wednesday, September 2, 2015

Adjusting your horses balance and connection with ground poles and Cavaletti #1




"Would like your horse to be more "adjustable?" Watch what happens when Susan challenges Beau to stay connected while going over cavaletti . They move to a new level!"


When I asked Susan what she wanted to work on she said "adjustability" That is a term that horse people use to explain when a horse is "on the aids/on the bit/in front of the aids, round, packaged. Now you can watch Susan and Beau focus on ways to keep adjustable as they add cavaletti. Stay tuned for Part #2. I will share it tomorrow. At first I was not going to share this 2 part film series because of the filming. The camera is looking all over at times... However, after reviewing them I can see that that there is so much great information. By the end of Part #2 Susan and Beau move to a new level and I was able to film that process for you to see.

Is your horse "adjustable?" Have you tried adding cavaletti i to your training program? Tell us how they work for you.

Monday, August 31, 2015

The Steps to Connection on a hot, nervous horse, or in fact... ANY horse





"Is your horse connected?  What does that really mean? Would you like to know the Steps to Connection that can make a difference in what you are doing with your horse at the walk and trot?  Watch this video!"


Sometimes, all you really need to understand what you are doing in your horse's training process is to have the steps broken down so you have a better understanding of what you need to do.  In this video Trudy is riding Melody and focusing on keeping her connected and relaxed.  I am learning new ways to share what I am doing on video with you..and the riders, and am exploring new ways to describe what you are seeing at the same time the rider is taking a lesson.  

After watching this Horse and Rider Awareness video do you have a clearer idea about how you can use the Steps to Connection with your horse?  We love to hear your feedback.

Saturday, August 29, 2015

The Rainbow (in your horses neck) at the trot. You will love this technique!




"The Rainbow...  An easy way for you to know if your horse is connecting the way you want it do.  Check out this easy to use technique to see if your horse has a "Rainbow" at the trot today!"


For most of us, keeping our horses balanced and in connection is important. We like the way it feels when our horses connect with us at that level.  An easy way to be able to "see" (yes, sometimes we do look down) is by keeping a "Rainbow" in your horses neck.  Of course, it is much more than that... However, this is an easy technique that will let you know when your horse is really on the aids/in front of the legs/on the bit, round, packaged, the beginning of self carriage.

The next time you ride, check to see if you have a "Rainbow" in your horses neck.  Let us know how it works for you!  

Thursday, August 27, 2015

"Connecting your horse at the canter. The Rainbow/outside rein and leg"




"Would you like to improve your horse's canter?  Watch this video to see what Trudy is doing with Ani.  Which tip makes the biggest difference for what you are doing with your horse?


Now you can watch what I do with Trudy as we focus on improving  Ani's canter. In this session we focus on keeping Ani connected (on the aids/on the bit/round/in front of the aids/packaged) at the canter" This is level of connection in the canter is still new to Ani and so it is the perfect video for anyone who wants to improve their horses canter. Check out the wonderful changes in Ani's canter than go out and try these techniques on your horse.

Are you ready to try this on your horse? We love to hear your feedback!

Wednesday, August 26, 2015

Leg yield to keep a horse connected on the outside rein and leg. Trot





"Have you always wanted to know how to ask your horse to stay connected on the outside rein and leg? Watch what happens as Trudy uses leg yields to keep Ani more connected and balanced"


This is an exciting time for Trudy as she is now taking Ani to the next level in her training.  It is time for Ani to stay on the bit/on the adds/in front of the legs/round/coming through/packaged... To do this she is using the leg yield so that Ani stays connected on the outside rein and leg. This is a term horse trainers use when a horse is being balanced between the riders legs and reins.  The good news is that we have been filming the process just for you!  Now you can see what might happen with your horse (or a client/students) when you are ready to ask for more connection on the outside rein and leg.

Are you ready to try this on your horse?  You will love how using the leg yield will show both you and your horse what it really can mean to be "on the outside rein and leg"

Monday, August 24, 2015









The "Movers and Shakers of the Horse World" rounds out its 2015 season on Tuesday, August 25th at 8:00pm EST, 5:00pm PST with Glenn the Geek, founder of the Horse Radio Network (HRN) (www.horseradionetwork.com). Since the early days in 2008, HRN has grown from its first 12 listeners to over 130,000 and has produced over 4,200 episodes. That’s ultimately why the Horse Radio Network has been named one of the top five podcasting networks on the internet! Their shows are just plain fun and people love them!
Hosting many of HRN’s shows such as the Stable Scoop Radio Show, Horses in the Morning and the Driving Radio Show, Glenn has been an extremely influential force in the horse industry for years, and continues to make a difference everyday. That's why he's been named a Mover and Shaker of the Horse World!
You're invited to join us as we get to know Glenn and listen to the exciting stories of his career in the horse world! To register for this free, live teleconference, visit:http://bit.ly/1I3cJ7q
Following the event, all registrants will receive a link to the replay as well as all previous episodes, allowing for convenient, ongoing listening.
Movers & Shakers of the Horse World co-host, Carol Aldridge states, “With only six exclusive guests each year, our 2015 season included some of the equine industry’s most notable professionals, such as: Liv Gude of Professional Equine Grooms, Debi Metcalfe of Stolen Horse International, Inc. aka NetPosse.com , Wayne Williams ofSpeaking of Horses TV, Fran Jurga of Hoofcare.comHoofcare & Lameness Christy Landwehr of the Certified Horsemanship Association and of course Glenn the Geek of the Horse Radio Network. And looking forward, we already have several superstars lined up for 2016, and some extra surprises as well!”.
To stay informed of upcoming events, join the Movers and Shakers of the Horse World social media networks on Facebook at:https://www.facebook.com/moversandshakersofthehorseworld and on Google+ at:https://plus.google.com/b/113655547714916466822 or subscribe to the news updates at: www.howtomarketyourhorsebusiness.
  Sign up now for the Movers and Shakers of the Horse World

Are you asking your horse for a headset... or a mindset?





"It's really not a headset.  It's a mind set. The mystery of how to get your horses head in the right place"


Why do we position our horses heads a certain way (or at least try to...) We do this so we can support our horse so that it can stay more "connected" as we balance it between our leg aids and the rein connection"

 How a horse understands this process still amazes me.  Now that Ani is further along in her training Trudy has found that she likes the feeling of Ani staying more connected with her.  On this day Trudy asked me to isolate what she is doing with Ani so that she can keep her more connected with her back up and a "rainbow" in her neck. 

Can you see how Trudy is keeping Ani more connected by working on the Steps to Connection?  Have you tried this on your horse?  We love hearing your feedback so please let us know how this works for you.

Sunday, August 23, 2015

Softening the jaw to get the right head position. What does that mean? S...




"What if... you want your horse to keep its head in a certain position.  This is common for those who are competing or riding dressage.  Do you feel like your horse is still locking up or leaning on the reins when you pick up the reins connection?  You are not alone.  This is a mystery that takes some riders years to understand.  Now you can watch what I do with Trudy so she can isolate how Ani is responding to what she is doing with the reins. 


On this day Trudy asked if we could focus on that "rainbow" that happens in a horses neck when they are soft to the bit (rein connection) and on the aids/in front of the aids/round and so on.  Trudy has been watching horses at the dressage shows and now that Ani is more comfortable with that level of connection is ready to ask her to stay balanced between her reins and legs even more.
In this video we are at the halt and you can see how I break everything down for Trudy.  (We have done this in the past, but now Trudy has a different idea about what this really can do)

How does your horse respond to the rein connection?  Are you ready to try this technique on your horse?  Let us know how it works for you.

Friday, August 21, 2015

Canter. What are you doing with your hands? S4 Riding Instructor




"What if... you really have a feeling that it is time to ride your horse in more of a connection at the canter. You know, the kind where you feel that your horse is staying soft to the reins and is "balanced" somewhat between your leg and rein aids. Now you can learn the Secret of the Trainers. It's all about your riding position!"

Trudy has brought Ani a long way in her training. This is their warm up canter and on this day Trudy asked me to isolate what she is doing to keep Ani connected. Before this week Trudy had been working on this but now she is feeling serious about asking Ani to stay softer to the rein connection at the canter. Its a big step and now you can watch how important Trudy's riding position and length of rein is to that process.
What did you learn from watching this Horse and Rider Awareness video? Are you ready to ask your horse to stay more connected at the canter yet? Please share your feedback as we love to hear what is happening in your training process and how these videos are making a difference for you.

Wednesday, August 19, 2015

Secrets of the trainers. Riding position for circles and curves. Walk tr...

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"What if... you finally had a system you can use to make sure that your riding position is in the right place on circles or curves?  Now you do!  Check out this video and watch what I do with Trudy"


It's no secret.  You have heard this so many times.  It is your riding position and how you use your aids that is how you are able to connect and influence your horse. Yet, how to do this is a mystery.  Or is it?  What if all you need to do is watch someone else (we are volunteering Trudy here) go through a process that can also work for you?

Try this Horse and Rider Awareness process and let us know how it works for you.  We love your feedback and look forward to hearing your results. 

Monday, August 17, 2015

Secrets of the trainers. Where should your hands be for the canter? S4...




"Would you like to know an easy way to make sure that your hands are in the right place? As an added bonus you will also be able to keep your reins the right length.. even in the canter!"


Have you ever wondered why the pro riders seem to have a more consistent riding position especially with the length of their reins? It's because they have learned to keep their hands in the same place! This sounds so easy, but is not as easy as it sounds. To keep your hands in that magic spot you will be shortening and lengthening your reins a lot. You will also need to keep adjusting your seat position. Now you can watch what happens as Trudy practices her hand position on Ani. 

The next time you canter your horse. Check to see what happens to your rein length. You might be surprised to see how often your hands are moving around instead of staying where they should be. As always, we love getting your feedback so please share your results with us.

Friday, August 14, 2015

Halt back walk transitions and more. Retraining an anxious schoolmaster ...





"Has anyone told you that you will never be able to re train your horse or that you can't teach an old horse new tricks?  Watch what happens as we retrain this schoolmaster (a hot nervous horse)  to stay relaxed and connected in his walk work"


This video shows when Darrien began to finally start relaxing and waiting for Susan's aids.  This was not easy for him as he has the tendency to be nervous/anxious when ever Susan asks him to do... just about anything.  His reaction in the past has been to disconnect by dancing around and pulling Susan out of the saddle with the reins.  Now you can see that he is slowly starting to understand that the training process is not so bad. Here we are simply doing the walk exercises.  Susan's goal seems so easy (she makes it look that way) as all she has to do is keep Darrien connected (on the aids/on the bit/round/in front of her legs/packaged) and relaxed.  During this session we discovered that Darrien really does not understand how to stay on the outside rein and leg at the walk (which meant he was not really staying their at any gait) and it was a great opportunity to focus on that feeling.

Those of you who have been watching the progress of Susan and Darrien have seen a lot of changes and know what a break through this is.  It really has been like starting a green horse over in so many ways.  Have you ever retrained a horse?

Wednesday, August 12, 2015

Canter. Can you get your horse "on the bit" in the warm up?





"Does your horse "lock up" to your aids (or ignore you) in the canter when you ask it to take up contact?  What can you do when your horse says it does not want to connect with you, even in the warm up canter?"


Susan continues to improve Darriens response to the aids. In this video we are warming him up at the canter. How does your horse respond to your connection in the canter warm up?  Has it reached the point where it is somewhat willing to connect with you or are you still trying to find that place?  The good news for you is that all riders who train their own horses will go through this phase.  That is why we are sharing the training progress of the Horse and Rider Awareness riders and their horses with you.  So you can see what really happens. 

It has taken us over a year to get him to relax and listen to what she is asking him to do.  In this video we focus on what length of rein we need to keep him "on the bit" and as relaxed as possible in the warm up.  This may seem like a simple concept for some riders, but for others, getting their horses to this point in their training is a huge achievement.  Darrien has just started accepting a "willing" contact on the reins these past few months. This was from the past training that he came with. Now he is finally starting to responding by softening to Susan's aids while staying connected from her legs into the rein connection. Last year at this time Darrien was still in his double bridle which is common for an FEI dressage horse and in fact, the only way he was safe at that time.  This year, as you can see, we have him in a snaffle.  In fact, Susan is competing him in Prix St George and Intermediate 1 in it.

Tuesday, August 11, 2015

Behind the Vertical. Retraining a schoolmaster




"Have you heard that your horse is "behind the vertical? What does that mean? What can you do to correct this common training challenge?"


A horse that is behind the vertical (with its head position) could be doing it for many reasons. It may think that is what it should be, or it might have been taught to do this by someone who thought that it was the right "look". Other times, this position is a result of the incorrect use of draw reins or side reins. Either way, when it happens the horse is not usually connecting to the rein influence. They are going "behind the bit" and setting their head and neck instead of staying soft to the riders rein connection. It becomes an artificial position and a habit that takes a long time to correct. As a result of this position the horse often does not have its back up and is not stepping up from behind. Those who have been watching the training progress of Susan with Darrien have seen a lot of positive changes since they became a team last year. At that time Darrien was still in a double bridle and was not comfortable with the rein connection at all. His lower neck muscle was twice the size of the top of the neck. Now you can see that Susan is riding him in a snaffle and Darrien is now "rounding up" more. His neck has a rainbow, his back is up and he is getting more comfortable with stepping up into the rein connection.

Does your horse have a tendency to go "behind the vertical?" If so, you are not alone. What did you learn from watching what Susan is doing with Darrien?

Monday, August 10, 2015

The Floating Trot. What if you could teach your horse how to do it? S4...

"The magic of creating a "floating trot" with your horse"  Have you always admired those horses who seem to float across the ring?  Some of them seem to be so natural at it... until you add the rider.  Now you can see what Susan is doing with Beau to keep his trot "floaty" in their warm up work"


Not every horse can do the "floating trot".  Some never will and others, like Susan's horses, are learning how to do it.  Basically it happens when the horse is "on the aids" (in front of the leg, self carriage, round, packaged on the bit) It might take a few years to get there, but for those who love training their horses to this level is is a great accomplishment. When a horse is "floating" their back is up and they are stepping up more from behind with their back feet.  As a result their balance shifts and their backs come up and their shoulders rise.  This is when the horse is moving with even strides from both the back feet and the front. Now you can watch what I do with Susan and Beau.  As you will see, we are adding this "floating" to everything that they are now doing in the trot work. This might be the 2nd session where we have really focused on this balance and activity (from behind)

Do you have a better understanding of the "Floating trot" after watching this video?  Are you ready to try it on your horse?  We love your feedback so please let us know what you think and how this works with your horse. 

Sunday, August 9, 2015

Keeping a horse's back up at the trot. On the aids. S4 Horse training





"Sometimes... we all wonder if we will ever get to the next level of connection and balance with our horses.  This is normal.  Now that Darrien is now finally relaxing more (and breathing) we are focusing even more on keeping him balanced and connected.  His trot needs more work right now that his other gaits and now you can watch what Susan is doing with him during this part of the training process"


It's true.  it has taken us almost two years to get Darrien to where he is now.  A year ago he was still rooting on the reins (pulling Susan out of the saddle) rearing and running.  As you can imagine... he did have some serious behavioral/training issues.  You have also seen the process that Susan has been using to retrain him (Darrien is 18 years old)  This year, we have switched back to a snaffle bit. Darrien is an FEI dressage horse and they normally wear a double bridle.  Little by little he is getting more responsive and at times, even seems to be enjoying himself.  :)

Are you in the process of re training or simply training your horse to be more "on the aids?"  Did you imagine it would take as long as it does?  More importantly...  how do you feel when your horse started to understand what you wanted?  Did you feel your horse trying to connect with you? 

Wednesday, August 5, 2015

Adding the leap to canter/counter canter. S4 dressage training














"Would you like to improve your canter and counter canter?  Watch what Susan is doing with Beau in this video!"


The counter canter and canter can be difficult gaits to teach to a horse or rider.  First the horse has to be at a point where they can actually balance the horse and hopefully... keep it relaxed.  Next, the rider has to have the right riding position and know how to position the horse for the movements.  In this warm up session Susan focuses on keep Beau connected while making sure he has the right "bend" in front of the saddle.  She also adds a little "magic" as she asks Beau to start adding more leap to his canter.

What did you learn from watching this video?  Are you ready to try this on your horse?

Sunday, August 2, 2015

2nd Level test 3. 66. 98% Susan Faulkner and Mission Point TIEC Aug 1 ...

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"Would you like to see the movements and scores of a  2nd level dressage test?"


This is Susan's horse Beau's (Mission Point) competing in the 2nd level test 3 dressage test this weekend. I added the movements, the scores and the comments from the judge for each movement so you can see exactly what the judge is looking for in dressage"
Those who have been following this team know what a difficult horse Beau was. It has taken us 5 years to get him to this point. This shows that almost any horse can be retrained and brought back to another level. 

Friday, July 31, 2015

Improve your horses Halts and backing.




"How to improve your halts and backing. Those who compete, especially in dressage, know how important backing and halting can be. Now you can see what Susan is doing with Beau to improve what they are doing"


In the training process horses will learn something new, and seem to forget it. In this session we are focused on improving what Susan is doing with Beaus halts and backing. Our goal is to teach Beau how to back without using the reins. His tendency has always been to back a little crooked and either throw his nose up or down into the ground. Now that they are competing in 2nd level we need to get picker about how Susan and Beau are connecting for these movements.

How is your horse backing? Did this video give you any new ideas on how you can improve what you are doing with your horse?

Wednesday, July 29, 2015

Hot nervous horse. Learning how to canter relaxed S4 Horse Training




"Sometimes....as rider/trainers we feel like our horses will never "get" what we want them to do. Melody is a what we all a "complicated horse. She has lots of serious issues that we have been working through. Finally, after several years, she is staying somewhat relaxed at the canter"


Many people find that they have horses with "issues" in their past training or in what they are trying to teach them to do. This is common and part of our training journey. Those who have been watching Melody's process know what a challenge she has been. In this video we are focusing on her canter work. It is so much better now than in past years but still has a ways to go. In the past Melody could not canter on the correct lead at all. She had serious issues and was in fact a little on the dangerous side. Now she can hold the canter much longer and has lost most of her anxiety about the riding process.

How has watching what Trudy has been doing with Melody made a difference with what you are doing with your horse/horses? Re training a horse with issues does take time, but as you have seen, is possible. You can see more videos of Melody's progress in the last 4 years by checking out the Playlist area of this Youtube channel. 

Tuesday, July 28, 2015

AA 2nd Level (Dover) 65.5% Susan and Mission Point under "S" jud...




"Dressage Show results. Winner of the Robert Dover Medal! (2nd level)"


 This is Susan and Beau competing in the Robert Dover 2nd level Medal class. They won the class with a score of 65.5% It was an awesome performance! We came to this show as there are 2 "S" (FEI) judges including Sarah Geikie, who will be judging at the USDF Regionals. For the comments on the scores of riding position and effectiveness of aids Sarah made our day by adding these words.  "Very correct riding!" 

Thursday, July 23, 2015

Are you connecting your horse in the warm up? Would you like to watch how we warm up at the walk and trot?




"The warm up is all about connecting a horse and rider. Would you like to see what a typical warm up at the walk and trot look like for us?  


As you will see, we take our warm up time pretty seriously, well... maybe not so seriously but we do make a lot of changes to keep that special time more interesting for both the horse and the rider. You might notice that we do not stay on the outside of the ring, or continue doing the same circles over and over again.  During this warm up session at the walk/trot we focus on activity of the hind feet, the connection of the reins, Trudy's riding position and much more.  To do this we are using circles, serpentine's, straight lines and changes of gait.

Does this warm up give you any new ideas that you can use for your horse?  Try them and tell us how it works for you. 

Monday, July 20, 2015

Beginnings of the walk pirouette/turn on haunches S4 Dressage training



"Have you always wanted to know how... to ride a turn on the haunches or walk pirouette? Now you can watch as Trudy asks Melody to stay connected with her and stepping from behind as they focus on the beginnings of these movements.

The walk pirouettes and turns on haunches can be used to teach a horse how to stay balanced from side to side and also teach them how to listen more to both the riders rein connection and leg aids at the same time. 

Are you ready to try this exercise? At first you might feel a little clumsy as your notice that your horse may not understand what you are asking. This is normal and a good thing! From that point you will develop more of a connection. 

Sunday, July 19, 2015

Riding position test. Are you keeping your inside seatbone over your inside leg?




"Your challenge for this week. Do you find your legs are swinging all over when you are riding? Or that your seat does not seem to be where it needs to stay? You are not alone. This is often a result of not keeping your seat bone over your lower leg. What does that mean? Watch this video to see?


This is one of those techniques that will make a huge change in your riding position and as a result... your horses balance and connection with you. We have practiced this before and today was the perfect day to go back to this wonderful basic for securing an effective riding position. 

Are you ready to try this on your horse? You will be surprised to find that you are probably not over your inside leg on circles and other movements. We love your feedback. Let us know what you experience when you try this.