Unless otherwise noted, all quotes on this page are the work of Lesley Stevenson. Please ensure proper attribution when sharing. Thank you!
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Remember to ask questions when you don't fully understand something - both in lessons, and on this site.... You will get much more out of the time/money spent in lessons, and in utilizing this site!
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If you struggle with good half halts and downward transitions, try using your breathing to help you. Take a deep breath in, and exhale as you stretch up your spine for the downward transition. This will show you how to be more effective with your seat aid, and will help
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A sign of a good, balanced jumping effort is that your horse lands at the same speed that he was at on the approach.
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True bending from nose to tail requires that the horse understands how to move away from lateral leg pressure, understands the connecting outside rein, and understands the aids to inside flexion.
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"Fear allows you to be brave." ~ Shanyn Fiske
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Make every transition count. With every poor transition that you let "slip by", you will be training your horse to do them poorly.
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Long slow distance work is an important part of every horse's conditioning program, but it is especially important for older and young horses. Older horses need to keep limber, and young horses need to build a base level of tendon, ligament, and bone strength.
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Make sure you don't fall into the trap of treating your horse like he is a baby, long after he is a no longer baby. This is a common problem when a rider has brought along a young horse from scratch.
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Impress the Dressage judges by showing a clear difference between riding a corner and part of a circle.
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For shows it can be helpful to write up a time schedule for the day, working backward from your ride times. For example, if your dressage ride is at 11am, you might plan to be on and warming up at 10:15, tacking up at 10am, grooming at 9:30,
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The last couple of strides before a jump belong to the horse. Don't interrupt him.
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One of the most important things to remember in this sport is that we do this for FUN! Make sure that you remind yourself of this often. If you access more of the fun in your riding, your horse will usually go better.
