Sometimes riders just want a little bit of help before a competition, to fine tune their test riding, but the best way to guarantee success is to commit yourself to regular training. I prefer to teach on a one to one basis, and most of my pupils come at least once or twice a month.
The learning process is best achieved with a combination of watching, listening and doing. Sometimes I ride my pupil's horses, or they watch me ride mine. Occasionally they may ride one of mine to achieve a certain feel for a new movement. It is most important that we have regular feedback periods, to discuss how something feels, or to confirm understanding of a concept.
I am keen that my pupils follow the correct classical principles, that they know and understand the Scales of Training and they feel confident of asking when they are not sure of anything. There is no such thing as a stupid question and knowledge is only available to those with an enquiring mind.
My training philosophy is based on the need to attain a correct position, to maintain balance and poise and to be effective through correct use of the aids. Once the rider is balanced, only then can they seek to influence the horse and improve his balance through correct positioning, to straighten and strengthen him. Finally the rider must have the discipline to continuously work to improve both.
I encourage my pupils to keep me informed of their successes and failures, to discuss good and bad performances, or even talk about how today's schooling session went. It is only by a regular and constructive dialogue that we can help each other. I can help them to be better riders and trainers of their own horses, but equally their feedback and comments help me to be a better trainer.
Dressage is not a mystery, nor is it something that only young, slim, tall people do on expensive horses (although I am sure that does make it easier!). No, dressage is simply training and it is based on a logical, systematic foundation. Once you can grasp the fundamentals, it becomes easier to understand the system. Mastering the techniques, and developing the athleticism and gymnastic ability of the horse, however, takes time, effort and patience.
Training takes place daily here at Fairview Farm, I also teach clinics elsewhere. To find out if there is one near you, check the diary pages. If you would like to set up your own clinic, contact me for details on how to do this and please feel free to download the document below.
DISCIPLINE
DEDICATION
DETERMINATION