Part 6: Catherine demonstrates a simple exercise using a round rope and a post that anyone can set up to improve their contact. The exercise tests rotational and elbow flexibility, and the ability to move the hands without losing contact with the horse's mouth. Catherine uses this exercise to illustrate to riders the importance of never moving the bit across the horse's mouth by having them practice with a taut rein, then gradually come lighter without letting the rope slide down.
Up Next in Dressage
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Preparation - Part 1
Part 1: Catherine gives a dressage lesson to an accomplished eventing rider and his experienced gelding. She notes right away the quality of the horse, and the riders great connection. Catherine coaches the rider to drop his chin a little and allow his upper body to relax and become more elastic ...
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Preparation - Part 2
Part 2: Catherine works with the rider to improve his shoulder in. She explains that the idea in riding shoulder in is that the outside shoulder becomes much freer, and by positioning the horse the rider allows that shoulder to come forward with a lot more motion. They work on creating elevation ...
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Preparation - Part 3
Part 3: Catherine works with the rider to finesse the aides. They focus on riding the horse's skin, as at this level the horse should respond the the slightest touch. She explain using a rein aid to ask the horse to relax his poll, and how she does this after every movement to make sure her horse...
