So for the first time ever, I have a “strictly dressage” horse. I am an eventer by passion but this mare is 100% dressage by talent and inclination. I bought her as a 4 y/o two years ago when I was not looking for a prospect. I fell in love with her whilst shopping with a client; she was too much horse for my client so I went back and bought her for myself (the danger of cash in my pocket from selling an UL horse, LOL).
Fast forward 2 years later: mare loves to jump but does not have scope for beyond training level or maybe prelim. Good news is that she is a superb talent in movement and mind for dressage. I may sell her eventually but I really do like her and want to take her up the levels.
Due to family responsibilities, it is difficult for me to trailer out for lessons on a regular basis, and I do not have anyone who can travel to me (I live in a remote area over 30 mins from trainers).
Mare is behind where she should be for her years through no fault of her own. She had a blind wolf tooth that was finally discovered and removed last year and it prevented her from developing acceptance of the bit. So this past few months, I have worked on getting her to accept the bit, in addition to filling in other “holes” left over from focusing on the other 2 phases.
Currently, I am working much on stretching through the topline, developing strength, straightness, and connection.
So! Too much coffee, too many words!
I want to find a step by step dvd, book, or online training program that will tell me what to work on and what exercises to use next. I want something that focuses on developing the dressage horse.
I have R Klimke’s book on athletic development of the dressage horse.
I would LOVE to have something visual.
Briefly reviewed dressage training online. hmmm…
I have trained horses through 2nd level or so but always with lessons along the way and typically focusing only on what is required of the eventing level for the specific horse. But now that I can focus JUST on dressage, I want to educate myself about where to go.
I am not going to show her until she is at 1-2nd level. She was lovely at the events, quiet and focused. So I want the training scale, with details and exercises.
This is exciting for me as focusing on JUST dressage is kinda cool!
ETA: got a text from an excellent rider/friend who will come to my farm. But still want a DVD because, well, because I do.
