Dressage is an international equestrian sport showcasing fluid, classical movements performed seamlessly by horse and rider. An age old discipline, Dressage in many ways has not changed across time.
Click on each of the photos below to watch video of Dressage's best horse and rider combinations for the last few years.
Click on each of the photos below to watch video of Dressage's best horse and rider combinations for the last few years.
As you watch the above videos you may ask yourself the following questions:
- What is the most interesting part of each horse's performance?
- How does each horse's movement differ from each other?
- What are some characteristics that make a good Dressage horse?
- How does the horse's conformation contribute to its ability to perform?
Dressage trainers and riders strive to follow the Dressage Training Pyramid.
This pyramid's base is the concept of having a rhythmic and balanced horse. Gaits should be even and cadenced with the footfalls in the proper sequence for the movement desired.
Relaxation is imperative to enable the horse to maintain balance and rhythm.
Connection is vital to gain acceptance and trust from your horse so that he has the knowledge to move forward in his training.
Impulsion is the energy required to move the horse forward in a collected way, moving the horse on to the bit.
It is virtually impossible to ask the horse to move into the higher levels of training without seeking straightness.
Collection is at the top of the pyramid and is what each Dressage horse and rider combination strives for. Self-carriage, lightness on the forehand and increased engagement from the back end is the essence of Dressage.
This pyramid's base is the concept of having a rhythmic and balanced horse. Gaits should be even and cadenced with the footfalls in the proper sequence for the movement desired.
Relaxation is imperative to enable the horse to maintain balance and rhythm.
Connection is vital to gain acceptance and trust from your horse so that he has the knowledge to move forward in his training.
Impulsion is the energy required to move the horse forward in a collected way, moving the horse on to the bit.
It is virtually impossible to ask the horse to move into the higher levels of training without seeking straightness.
Collection is at the top of the pyramid and is what each Dressage horse and rider combination strives for. Self-carriage, lightness on the forehand and increased engagement from the back end is the essence of Dressage.
Below are some Dressage related links that I think you will find useful. I have included the two major Dressage organizations for you to become familiar with for showing and following competition results.
I have also included links to Dressage related websites that showcase various podcasts and articles of interest.
THE DRESSAGE RADIO SHOW http://dressageradio.horseradionetwork.com/
FEI Fédération Equestre Internationale http://www.fei.org/
USDF United States Dressage Federation http://usdf.org/
I have also included links to Dressage related websites that showcase various podcasts and articles of interest.
THE DRESSAGE RADIO SHOW http://dressageradio.horseradionetwork.com/
FEI Fédération Equestre Internationale http://www.fei.org/
USDF United States Dressage Federation http://usdf.org/