A challenge in learning classical riding is refinement. We watch videos and read about "invisible aids" and dream of being that good "one day." We might sign up for a clinic with a classical rider, one famous for coming from somewhere amazing or studying under someone legendary, but once we get there, there's frustration. The [...]
Ever been curious about biomechanics for your riding? Join us for a weekend of learning and practice at our spring 2026 biomechanics symposium! Covering both equine and human principles, this weekend will provide a deep dive into the science of riding while also providing tools for you to integrate this knowledge into your everyday practice. [...]
Head tossing is one of the most frustrating challenges we encounter, not just in dressage but in any discipline, and unfortunately, the actual root of the issue is not even near where we see the problem. For many people, that can be frustrating at the least to try to work with. However, once you understand [...]
What is Classical Dressage? Classical dressage is the centuries-old art of training horses both for the battlefield and for the artistic expression in the royal and imperial courts. This art was developed by observing horses in nature and using their natural movements to develop the horse’s strength and flexibility holistically so [...]
Circles, circles, circles... Dressage seems to be completely obsessed with the circle. Yet that is the figure that frustrates more riders than perhaps any other. Why is the circle so important? The main thing it does is develop the bend of the horse, stretching the tight side and strengthening the weak side. The inside hind [...]
As promised, a short history of the arena letters. After the beginning of the 18th century in the games called "The Skirmish Turns," published in the book by Bruno Joseph de Morla in 1738, we find evidence of the use of letters, in this case in a bullfighting ring, to be able to coordinate exercises [...]
It's not about finding the horse of your dreams, it's about being the person of your horse's dreams. -Dressage Instructors Is it long, slender limbs and a short torso? Is it natural talent with uncanny "feel" and athleticism? Does it take starting dressage at an early age to make for a good dressage rider? While [...]
