7 Tips to help you become a better Dressage Rider
Are you looking to improve your dressage skills and deepen your connection with your horse? Whether you're new to the discipline or aiming to refine your existing abilities, becoming a better dressage rider requires dedication, proper technique, and a structured approach to training. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through seven essential tips that will help you develop your riding position, enhance your communication with your horse, and build the confidence needed to progress in your dressage journey. From fundamental groundwork exercises to mental preparation strategies, you'll find practical advice that you can start implementing in your next training session.
Understanding the Basics of Dressage Position
A correct dressage position starts with proper alignment from your head to your toes. Your ears, shoulders, hips, and heels should form a straight vertical line when viewed from the side. Keep your head up, eyes forward, and shoulders relaxed but square.
Your seat bones should make even contact with the saddle, with your pelvis in a neutral position. Your legs should hang naturally with a slight bend in the knee, allowing your heels to sink below your toes. Maintain an elastic elbow position with your upper arms close to your body.
Common Position Mistakes to Watch For:
- Gripping with your knees instead of your thighs
- Tipping forward at the shoulders
- Collapsing through your core
- Looking down at your horse's head
To check your position, try riding without stirrups or ask a trainer to video your rides. Regular position checks in a mirror can also help you identify areas needing improvement.
Build a Strong Foundation with Ground Work
Groundwork forms the foundation of a strong partnership with your horse and directly improves your riding skills. By working with your horse from the ground, you'll develop better timing, clearer communication, and a deeper understanding of your horse's body language.
Essential Groundwork Exercises
- Leading exercises to establish respect and boundaries
- Lunging to observe movement and practice voice commands
- In-hand work to develop lateral movements
- Groundwork with poles to improve coordination
Try to incorporate 15-20 minutes of groundwork before each riding session. This helps your horse focus and allows you to assess their mood and energy level. Pay attention to your body position and energy during these exercises - the same principles of clear communication apply both on the ground and in the saddle.
Remember to stay consistent with your cues and rewards during groundwork, as this will transfer to better responses when you're riding. This foundation will prove especially valuable as you work to perfect your aids and communication under saddle.
Perfect Your Aids for Clear Communication
Clear communication with your horse depends on the effective use of your seat, leg, and hand aids. Your seat should remain stable and responsive, moving with your horse's motion while maintaining contact through your seat bones. Keep your legs relaxed but active, positioned just behind the girth.
Coordinating Your Aids
- Start with your seat aid first
- Support with leg aids second
- Use hands last for refinement
- Maintain consistent contact
Proper stirrup position helps stabilize your leg aids. Your stirrup should rest at the ball of your foot, allowing your heel to sink down naturally. Consider using safety stirrups to maintain security while focusing on aid refinement.
Practice coordinating your aids at the walk first, then progress to trot and canter as your control improves. Remember that subtle aids are often more effective than strong ones - think whispers rather than shouts.
Develop Your Feel and Timing
Developing better feel and timing starts with focusing on your horse's subtle movements beneath you. Pay attention to the rhythm of each gait, the swing of your horse's back, and how their body responds to your aids.
Exercises to Improve Your Feel
- Ride without stirrups to deepen your seat connection
- Practice transitions within gaits to sharpen responsiveness
- Work on a longe line to focus solely on your position
- Try riding with your eyes closed at walk (with supervision)
Track your progress by recording how quickly your horse responds to aids and how smoothly you can execute movements. Notice improvements in your balance and ability to stay centered during transitions.
Start with simple exercises and gradually increase complexity as your awareness improves. Remember that developing feel takes time - focus on small improvements rather than rushing for perfect execution.
Create an Effective Training Schedule
A well-structured training schedule is essential for consistent progress in dressage. Plan to ride 4-5 times per week, alternating between focused training sessions and lighter rides to prevent physical and mental fatigue for both you and your horse.
Components of a Balanced Training Plan
- 20-minute warm-up with stretching exercises
- 30-40 minutes of focused skill work
- 15-minute cool down period
- One rest day between intensive sessions
Track your progress by keeping a training journal. Note specific movements practiced, your horse's responsiveness, and areas needing improvement. Video your rides monthly to observe changes in your position and execution of movements.
Sample Weekly Schedule
- Monday: Dressage schooling with focus on transitions
- Tuesday: Light hack or groundwork
- Wednesday: Lateral work exercises
- Thursday: Rest day
- Friday: Test movements practice
- Saturday: Lesson or focused training
- Sunday: Trail ride or rest day
Remember to adjust your training intensity based on your horse's fitness level and response. Listen to your trainer's guidance and be willing to modify your schedule when needed to support steady improvement.
Stay Safe While Advancing Your Skills
Safety should always be your top priority when riding and training. Start with a properly fitted, certified riding helmet that's less than five years old. Wear appropriate footwear with a small heel to prevent your foot from sliding through the stirrup.
Essential Safety Equipment
- ASTM/SEI certified riding helmet
- Safety stirrups with quick-release mechanisms
- Body protector for jumping or young horse work
- Well-fitted boots with defined heels
- Properly maintained tack with regular safety checks
When choosing safety stirrups, look for features like quick-release systems that allow your foot to escape in case of a fall. The Ophena A model, for example, includes an innovative breakaway outer branch that can fully detach, providing crucial safety benefits in emergency situations. Check all equipment regularly for signs of wear and replace any damaged items immediately.
Accident Prevention Tips
- Always perform safety checks before mounting
- Maintain proper arena etiquette
- Work within your skill level
- Ensure good visibility and suitable footing
- Keep emergency contacts readily available
Remember that mental alertness contributes significantly to safety. Stay focused during your rides and avoid distractions like phone use while mounted.
Mental Preparation for Better Performance
Mental preparation is just as important as physical training in dressage. A focused, confident mindset helps you communicate more effectively with your horse and perform better under pressure. Start each ride with a brief meditation or deep breathing exercise to center yourself.
Building Focus and Confidence
- Visualize successful rides and movements before mounting
- Practice positive self-talk during training sessions
- Set small, achievable goals for each ride
- Celebrate progress, no matter how small
To manage competition nerves, develop a consistent pre-ride routine. This might include listening to calming music, walking the arena, or reviewing your test quietly. When anxiety creeps in, focus on your breathing and your connection with your horse.
Overcoming Riding Anxiety
- Work with a trusted instructor who understands your concerns
- Break challenging exercises into smaller steps
- Keep a training journal to track improvements
- Practice relaxation techniques while riding
Remember that mental training takes time and patience, just like physical skills. Stay committed to your mental preparation routine, and you'll notice improved focus and confidence in your riding.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dressage Improvement
Let's address some of the most common questions riders have about improving their dressage skills and making equipment choices.
How long does it take to see improvement in dressage?
Progress varies by individual, but most riders notice small improvements within 4-6 weeks of consistent training. Significant advancement typically requires 6-12 months of regular practice with proper instruction.
What equipment is worth investing in first?
Prioritize safety equipment and items that affect your horse's comfort: - A well-fitted saddle - Quality safety stirrups - An ASTM/SEI certified helmet - Properly fitted bridle and bit
How do you know when to move up a level?
You're ready to advance when: - You can consistently perform all movements at your current level - Your trainer confirms your readiness - You and your horse maintain proper form throughout tests - You regularly score above 65% in competitions
How often should I take lessons?
Regular instruction is key - aim for at least one lesson every two weeks. More frequent lessons (weekly or twice weekly) can accelerate progress, especially when learning new skills.
What if I feel stuck at my current level?
Consider: - Reviewing your training schedule - Increasing lesson frequency - Video recording your rides for analysis - Working with ground poles to improve accuracy - Focusing on position basics
