WHAT IS DRESSAGE?

ELLENWOOD EQUESTRIAN CENTER

 

 Dressage or "Training" involves nine progressive levels incorporating multiple tests within each level. Each movement of the test is evaluated by a judge and scored according to the "objective standard" or the directive each movement seeks to develop. As the horse and rider progress through the levels and tests they achieve greater coordination, balance and flexibility thus moving closer to the goal of complete cooperation, trust and ability.

 
We offer both group and private lessons. Group lessons range from 4 - 6 students, sometimes smaller and occasionally bigger, and private lessons are one on one. Their are benefits to both types of lessons, but traditionally beginners do just as well if not better learning in a group setting. Riding is a very focused sport with the student learning new things at each lesson while trying to build on existing skills. Group learning fosters a sense of camaraderie and sportsmanship as students can watch others working on the same tasks and learn from each other. Our lesson horses are very used to working in both small and large groups and typically are happy to follow one another, giving the student the opportunity to focus on their position and control while the horse goes cooperatively around the arena.
 
 As the students skill level grows the instructor may advise them to consider private lessons to begin working in a more rigorous program, learning the basics of dressage and perhaps preparing for showing. The industry standard for riding lessons is usually one a week, but as students begin to show interest in competing it is recommended that they take twice a week to receive the training they need to succeed.

 

LESSONS

All students learn to groom and tack their own horses as part of the lesson. They also either brush or bathe their horse after the lesson as the weather permits.
As each student progresses the lessons start to focus on the required skills needed to compete in Dressage.

Ellenwood Equestrian Center hosts two shows a year and we travel to schooling shows throughout the show season. Students with the required knowledge and skills are encouraged to participate.

Student participation at shows is at the discretion of their trainer. Dressage is a rigorous disciplined sport and a students abilities are key to a safe and enjoyable experience.

Riding begins with each student learning proper balance, position and use of aids, or how the body is used as a means of asking the horse to move.

Students progress according to their abilities and begin trotting or cantering only when they have achieved the skills necessary to keep themselves properly balanced and the horse reasonably comfortable.

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