Category Archives: Training & Riding Tips

Some Thoughts on Training the Dressage horse & Jumpers too

Some Thoughts on Training the Dressage horse & Jumpers too What exercises should be easy before showing in the Dressage ring or over fences. The education gleaned from the hunter ring gave us, of a certain age, the basics from which we transitioned to Preliminary, Intermediate and the pinnacle of equestrian sport, Open Jumpers. I continually […]

CalgaryDressage.com – Moving up to Second Level

Kimberly Cox, Assignment re: application for promotion of dressage judge status (to Basic). Topic: Second Level is a significant step-up from First Level. What are the differences? The differences between competing at First and Second Level in dressage involves more than mastery of movements including: shoulder in, travers, simple change, counter canter, 10 meter circle, […]

Great Teams and Systems Build Success

I have a team and I believe that teamwork is fundamental to success in any sport. We have a team and our team has a system, a program for developing skill sets for horse and rider. We practice correct aids and communication with our horses. Without a basic system of understanding between horse and human, […]

CalgaryDressage.com…The Positive Equestrian’s Pledge

The focus of attending the recent Petro-Canada Sport Leadership Conference held in Calgary November 7th through 9th was the power of maintaining a positive team focus. Dressage is an individdual sport, but the barn you train at fosters a team. The  group of experts you work wlith to better yourself and your horse is a […]

CalgaryDressage.com…Roderick August 11, 2013

Roderick West Calgary Dressage Third Level Test 3 64% Ride more forward into a steady hand. Why does it take so long to get there? I have a compulsive need to fix things as they happen. My coach, Deanna Cullen, has steadfastly resolved to not allow my disfunctionality to “fiddle” with the reins. Roderick, my […]

CalgaryDressage.com…..Tools for success in the Dressage Court

The Digital Horse visual aid for learning dresage tests. I ‘ve found it is better to learn all my dressage tests by memory.  It goes beyond memory, I learn them “by heart”.  In this way I use my anticipation and sequencing skills to help prepare for the next movement. If there is soft music in the […]

CalgaryDressage.com…Dressage Code of Conduct

Dressage Code: Understand the results you achieve in training are only a step in the process. Let your horse be the primary source of instant feedback for your purpose and progress. Focus on joy, celebration and an inner sense of calm purposeful determination. Know that each result achieved correctly will occur perfectly on purpose. Prepare to […]

CalgaryDressage.com….Barn Affirmations

Here are personal affirmations I use as I go to train at the barn: I accept myself and my horse for who we are today. I have a warm regard for others at the barn. I am ready, present physically, emotionaly, mentally and spiritually. I will assist others whenever I can, without taking away from their self detrmination.I believe […]