Insight:
Often, when the relationship is good, it can be scary to start to expect more from your horse. Sometimes people are afraid that by raising their standard for the horse’s responses or how they move it will negatively affect their relationship.

I think of it differently.

I think that clarity is kindness and that healthy biomechanics feels good to the horse. It makes sense, right? No one likes to be confused, and moving around with tension or with too much weight on the forehand can create undue wear and tear and pain down the road.

It will be important for you to find the way to think about what you are asking of your horse. Get curious about how your requests can become an interesting conversation. Then you can use those interesting conversations to help your horse find a way to move that feels good to him!

Good News: It’s possible, and it’s what Dressage Naturally specializes in!

My Best Advice:
Go deep into how to communicate better with your horse by understanding how to use your body and timing. Learn about how to use your intention, pressure and release, and rewards to help your horse understand what you are asking. Think also about techniques for motivating your horse so it is fun for him (or her) to play with you.

Recommendation:
The BEST Dressage Naturally resource for you is the Video Classroom.
The Classroom has a wide range of videos that will help you improve the communication you have with your horse, and use that to help your horse move in a healthier way. Most importantly, every technique will honor and strengthen the happy, harmonious partnership you already have.