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Part 2 Observing Balance from the Ground For almost all horsemanship disciplines, the master will coach us on achieving a ‘feel’ with our horse in order to accomplish specific maneuvers. Legends like Nuno Oliveira and the Dorrance brothers, tried to describe for us that elusive state in which we …
The allure of the American Mustang by Brent Rollins There is something special about the American Mustang. I have been around horses all my life and have experienced many breeds including Arabians, Quarter Horses and even draft horses. My family has always had horses, so I guess you could …
How to Practice the Figures for Show Day Success by Michelle Binder-Zolezzi Once you have established a venue for western dressage in your area it is time to start practicing the figures. At a recent cowboy dressage event, Eitan Beth-Halachmy said to me, “Without figures there is no training.” …
What Dressage Offers the Western Horse by Michelle Binder-Zolezzi Last month I tried to define western dressage. Once there is a working definition, we can then ask the question, “why do it?” I asked members in different organizations why they couldn’t just buy a dressage saddle and ride …
Answering Questions about a New Discipline by Michelle Binder, Relational Riding Academy Just what is “western dressage?” This developing discipline is very exciting to many riders, trainers, breeders and exhibitors, who choose horses of all breeds as partners, and who, for various reasons, prefer to sit in stock type saddles. Good …
Four Logical, and Safe, Ways to Handle the Drama of a Wayward Horse by Raye Lochert Recently I was on a training ride with a client’s horse in my favorite park. The horse was exceptional and I felt very secure on him. He just needed time and miles. While walking up …
How to Choose an Equine Partner by Raye Lochert Picking the right horse is a practice in realism. Too often people choose a horse based on color, breed, bloodlines, or just because “they’re so darn cute.” While I have been guilty of all these things in the past there is …
How to Travel Safely with Horses by Raye Lochert Everyday untold numbers of tractor trailers motor down the road carrying materials from here to there. Before being entrusted with a rig weighing in the neighborhood of 80,000 pounds, truck drivers spend time in school learning about the working parts …
To Win on the Trail, Prepare for the Worst by Raye Lochert There is a popular board game called “The Worst-Case Scenario.” The object of the game is to successfully navigate unexpected and dangerous scenarios. In one version, the winning player will not only finish with the most gold …
Part 3: Top-to-Toe Awareness for the Rider by Jenny Rolfe The horse will mirror your mood and body language so it is essential for the rider to become self aware to communicate with the horse. The following postural techniques will show you how breathing will support the essence of …