If you’ve ever wondered how Charlotte Dujardin gets the best out of all the horses she rides, well wonder no more.
Here she reveals her five golden rules to help you get the best out of training your horse.
1. Let your horse move
Don’t restrict your horse with your position, in particular your hands.
He needs to be able to feel he can move forwards freely to aid relaxation and impulsion.
2. Build a partnership
Dressage should be harmonious and look as though you’re doing nothing.
You’ll only achieve this with correct training, where your horse is in front of your leg and carries himself.
3. Be disciplined
It’s all about repetition, correction and being strong with yourself. As a rider you need discipline – you can’t let bad habits happen.
If you make bad transitions at home just because you’re lazy or not really thinking about it, you’re going to make bad transitions in a test situation as well.
4. Is your horse listening?
Whatever movement you’re riding, your horse should stay listening to you and not take over.
Always have in your mind that you must be in control of each and every step he takes.
5. Don’t over-do it
It’s important not to overdo your horse, especially if he’s young.
The aim is to have a happy, healthy and sound horse, so keep your schooling sessions short and vary his work so he’s not always in the school.
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