A system based on Classical principles and correct foundation work.
Your horse must be relaxed, rhythmical, impulsed, supple and engaged thru the back. If the foundation work is correct the horse will be a pleasure to ride. Learn to take the resistance out of riding for your horse is a willing partner if given a chance. There are no shortcuts and to force a horse into a frame is not going to develop lightness, harmony, balance and willingness.
The rider must also develop an understanding and feel for how they are influencing the horse. Your position and your own self carriage is reflected by the horse. The progressiveness of our system develops a rider’s skill based on feeling, the aids are an indication of what a rider wishes the horse to do, not a use of force.
An Art2Ride Clinic focuses on making sure the foundation work is correct and that the horse is not being asked to hold himself in a frame he is not capable of, creating resistance. Once the foundation work is solid the horse is ready to progress, always maintaining the basic principle of relaxation, suppleness, connection and the horse engagement over the topline. Regardless of what discipline you wish to do, this system will improve the horse physically and mentally.
Art2Ride Clinics are held internationally and throughout the US, a successful progression of horse and rider that brings a new level of understanding and harmony to your riding. Please contact us if you would like to hold your own clinic or join a scheduled clinic.
Join me as I post weekly blogs covering many topics relating to Classical Foundation Training. I have intentionally left out the word "dressage" because many people have a negative association with the prevalent "crank and spank" approach or that it is a sport for only those who are afraid to jump.
Dressage as it is meant to be is an understanding of how to best optimize a horse's movement and ability to carry a rider, surely a benefit for any horse, any discipline. It is also important in maintaining your horse's safety, soundness and sanity.