A common problem when riding circles or schooling in an unfenced field or paddock is ‘falling out.’ Although this fault is more commonly experienced with younger novice horses (because they lack balance), it can occur with any horse at any age and is often caused by the rider not using their aids correctly.  So, in this podcast episode, we will cover what falling out is, the problems caused by falling out, the reasons why your horse falls out, and how you can stop it from happening.  ------------- If you would rather read the article on our blog, click here - https://howtodressage ..read more

Through correct and systematic training, you and your horse should naturally progress up through the dressage levels.  Like most riders, you’re probably keen to advance, but it’s important that you don’t rush your partnership and enter a competition at a level beyond your current capabilities.  So, how do you gauge when it’s time to move your horse up to the next level in competition? In this podcast episode, we’re going to look at the problems of progressing too quickly and too slowly, give you five steps to deciding if you and your horse are ready for the next level, and finish wit ..read more

The term 'on the bit' is often wrongly simplified to a horse that has its head tucked in with a rounded neck, i.e., as long as the horse does not have its nose poking out and isn't looking at the stars, then it's 'on the bit.' This is incorrect. 'On the bit' is about much more than your horse's head position. So, in this podcast episode, we will clarify what 'on the bit' is, why you want your horse 'on the bit,' and how to put your horse 'on the bit.' ------------- If you would rather read the article on our blog, click here - https://howtodressage.com/dressage-theory/ride-horse-on-the-bit ..read more

Circles are one of the first bending movements that a young horse will learn. They’re also one of the first movements you will ride on a horse that is not fully warmed up. Every dressage test throughout the levels asks you to perform circles of various sizes. And out of all of the dressage movements, a circle is a figure that you will ride more than any other. And yet, the humble circle is one of the most difficult movements for horse and rider to get right. So, in this podcast episode, we will look at the benefits of circles, what makes a good circle, how to ride a good circle, and some of ..read more

"Balance" is a term that is frequently used by riders, trainers, and dressage judges. It applies to all riders and all horses at all levels, and it's essential not only for your dressage competition success but also for your horse's physical well-being. So, in this podcast episode, we look at what balance is, the reasons why balance is necessary, what causes a loss of balance, how to test your horse's balance, and what exercises you can ride to help improve your horse's balance. (Please note: This is an updated and expanded version of our previous 'How to Improve Your Horse's Balance' and '3 ..read more

How many times have you had the remark, “Could have more bend,” on your dressage test sheet?  A lack of supple bend is a common fault that judges will mark down because bending is crucial to your horse’s progression in the dressage scales of training.  Without the ability to bend your horse correctly, you will not be able to ride accurate circles, turns, or corners, or position your horse for lateral movements.  So, in this podcast episode, we’re going to look at why you need to bend your horse, what defines a correct bend, the impact of poll flexion on your horse’s ability t ..read more

Shoulder-in is a lateral movement that requires you to bring your horse's shoulders to the inside while bending him uniformly through his body.  Since it is the first movement that requires riders to displace their horses' shoulders, it's often ridden incorrectly by those first attempting it. So, in this podcast episode, we will look at exactly what shoulder-in is, the purpose of this movement, the aids you need to apply, and how to ride shoulder-in correctly.  (Please note: This is an updated and expanded version of our previous 'How to Ride Shoulder-in' episode) ------------- I ..read more

Dressage is a skillful sport, and no matter how good you get, you will always want to get better. Even the top dressage riders in the world have regular sessions with their trainer(s) because there is always room for improvement.  With that in mind, it’s vital that you carefully consider the dressage trainer that you will work with over the long term because they will significantly impact your progress and success.  So, in this podcast episode, we will look at the role of a dressage trainer, what level of trainer you should have, how often you need to have lessons, and five steps y ..read more

Out of all your horse’s paces, the trot is the easiest to improve.  Through correct training, you can transform a somewhat ordinary trot into something spectacular.   So, in this podcast episode, we will look at the qualities that make up an expressive trot, what incorrect expression is, and how to create correct expression in your horse’s trot in three steps.  (Please note: This is an updated and expanded version of our previous 'How to Create More Expression in the Trot' episode) ------------- If you would rather read the article on our blog, click here - https://howtodre ..read more

Swinging legs are a frustrating problem. Not only are they unsightly, but swinging legs also have a detrimental impact on the effectiveness of your leg aids, your seat aids, and your overall balance in the saddle. If you want to continue to move up the dressage levels, it's paramount that you have a stable lower leg in which you can give clear and accurate aids.  So, in this podcast episode, we will explore why swinging legs are a problem, the reasons why your legs may be swinging, and how to correct this issue. (Please note: This is an updated and expanded version of our previous 'How ..read more