I took some time out from dressage lessons this Spring to work on Maddy's foundation training. I was spending lots of money on lessons, only to struggle during the allotted time slot just to keep her straight or on the rail. I worked all summer on
Clinton Anderson exercises in the arena and they really have worked wonders on my mare. I decided she was ready and I was ready to start getting some instruction again. Last Wednesday we had our first lesson and we went to work on a big circle. I have never had my mare go "on the bit" because I have been riding on a loose rein and have been waiting for some coaching from my dressage teacher before doing so. It was awesome! She went so round and
kept her feet on the circle. It was the best feeling I have ever had on a horse to date. It could be because I know all the hard work that went into to being able to ride this simple circle...or it could be because I am so proud of her willingness to work....it could be that "Yes...it really was that awesome!" Either way...I will take it. I am really excited to go forward with her into the dressage realm. Wish me luck.
I took some time out from dressage lessons this Spring to work on Maddy's foundation training. I was spending lots of money on lessons, only to struggle during the allotted time slot just to keep her straight or on the rail. I worked all summer on Clinton Anderson exercises in the arena and they really have worked wonders on my mare. I decided she was ready and I was ready to start getting some instruction again. Last Wednesday we had our first lesson and we went to work on a big circle. I have never had my mare go "on the bit" because I have been riding on a loose rein and have been waiting for some coaching from my dressage teacher before doing so. It was awesome! She went so round and 
kept her feet on the circle. It was the best feeling I have ever had on a horse to date. It could be because I know all the hard work that went into to being able to ride this simple circle...or it could be because I am so proud of her willingness to work....it could be that "Yes...it really was that awesome!" Either way...I will take it. I am really excited to go forward with her into the dressage realm. Wish me luck.
12 comments:
I was just finishing up a post where I talk about how I'm starting to use Clinton's techniques. I'm doing the opposite of you: Finishing lessons and starting the foundation training you've been working on all summer.
I have a lot of respect for Clinton Anderson. We don't do any serious riding around here (just trails), but my 15-year-old TB mare was very pushy on the ground and under saddle when I got her. After doing some research on all the big names I decided that Anderson was the guy for me and bought his groundwork DVDs. I do a little bit with her each day, and I don't let her get away with anything day-to-day when in-hand. She is a totally different horse now!
Jules! Great..thought I saw your name written on the board last week!
Sounds nice!
I am gonna save for jumping lessons next..my mare's mind is leaning that way..she loves to focus on something and focus hard..circles make her crazy!
AHS~ AKA~ KAC
The photography is great and your narrative was compelling. I like the post a lot.
That sounds like a great first lesson. The previous groundwork really paid off for you both. Good luck in your continuing lessons and keep the good feeling!
Hi Julie: I am so excited for you. Congratulations.
Sounds like a successful lesson! Keep it up!
Thanks for the comments on my Journal.
Years ago, I took classical dressage lessons weekly.
I am still a back yard rider, but I learned a lot...especially fond of musical freestyle. I don't know Clinton Anderson. If you get a chance, go to the link
SPARTACUS JONES, on my Journal. He is doing some very interesting things, and has a great sensitivity to horses. I have a 16 foot stock trailer (moritz) and I absolutely love it. The front is set up for tack and the back is like a box stall. Horses really like the space and seem comfortable in it. My husband said he is not going to get another truck, and then I will have a problem... I don't trailer a lot anymore, but I feel secure having it for emergencies
and pleasure. Hope you can get one.
Lori
I'm so happy for you! That feeling of accomplishment is indescribable! Good luck with your next session!
What a lovely payoff for your summer of hard work. That light in the hand feeling is so heavenly.
I used CA for ground work with Gunner after his EPM and it made a world of difference when he went to the trainer.
Again, every time I check in here I am amazed at how far you have come with your pony. Keep up the great work!
That is just too cool! All your hard work has paid off.
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