The journey of a dressage rider, much like that of their equine partner, is a progression built on fundamental skills. While the dressage training scale for horses is well-established, focusing on rhythm, suppleness, contact, impulsion, straightness, and collection, the development of the rider’s abilities often receives less explicit attention. This article proposes a “Rider Training Pyramid,” a framework designed to mirror the horse’s training scale and guide the development of a rider’s expertise. This concept was explored during Lendon Gray’s Training4Teaching program, an initiative offering valuable insights into teaching riders, a crucial aspect often overlooked in dressage discussions.
The established training pyramid for horses serves as a vital reminder that mastery of basic gaits and balance is paramount, preventing riders from becoming solely focused on advanced movements. This foundational understanding ensures that the “tricks” of higher levels are achievable through a solid base of quality and rideability. Similarly, a structured approach to rider development is essential for managing expectations and keeping riders grounded in fundamentals, even as they set ambitious goals.
The Proposed Rider Training Pyramid
This pyramid offers a progressive approach to developing a rider’s skills, starting with the most fundamental aspect:
5. Softness: Following the Horse’s Movement
The initial step in rider training is cultivating the ability to move in harmony with the horse, rather than impeding its motion. Before a rider can effectively influence the horse’s way of going, they must first learn to be out of the way, allowing the horse to move freely. This involves developing a supple seat and body that can absorb and flow with the horse’s natural movement.
4. Self-Carriage: Independent Balance
Once a rider can follow the horse’s movement, the next crucial skill is self-carriage. This refers to the rider’s capacity to maintain their own balance and stability without relying on the reins or stirrups for support. Developing independent balance allows the rider to influence the horse without disrupting their own equilibrium or leaning on the horse, which is essential for creating clear and effective aids.
3. Independent Aids: Precise Communication
With self-carriage established, the rider can focus on developing independent aids. This means the ability to utilize one part of the body to communicate with the horse without unintended simultaneous actions from other body parts. For instance, a rider should be able to apply a half-halt with their seat without simultaneously gripping with their reins. Similarly, the right leg should be able to cue the horse forward without the left leg automatically engaging or, as is commonly observed, losing contact with the saddle. This refined control is a prerequisite for influencing a horse tactfully.
2. Mindfulness: Responsive Riding
Mindfulness in riding involves the rider’s awareness of the horse’s responses to their aids and the ability to react appropriately. A mindful rider asks a question, observes the horse’s answer, and then either ceases the question if the answer is correct or provides a clear correction if it is not. This intuitive feedback loop, such as using the leg to ask the horse to move forward and then immediately ceasing the aid when the horse responds, or clearly correcting a lack of response, is key to effective communication.
1. Consistency: Adaptable Expertise
The pinnacle of rider training is consistency. This is the ability to apply good riding and training skills effectively across a variety of horses, regardless of their temperament or training level. A consistent rider can tactfully guide both educated and green horses, help an unbalanced horse find its footing, and maintain the organization of an already balanced horse. This adaptability demonstrates a deep understanding of riding principles that transcends specific horse-and-rider combinations.
Cultivating Rider Expertise
Developing these rider-focused skills is as vital as training the horse. It ensures that riders can effectively communicate their intentions, manage their own bodies, and ultimately, build a harmonious partnership with their equine partners. By focusing on this Rider Training Pyramid, riders can embark on a journey of continuous improvement, grounded in fundamental principles that support both their progress and that of their horses. The journey towards advanced levels and prestigious goals is always best supported by a solid foundation of rider skill and understanding.
