It's all about the basicsWhile we were working with the canter last month, we knew that it is one part of the never ending development of the basics. I explained some easy step by step in how I prefer to build up the basics of canter. In this blog I will talk about the basics in general. How I see them as such important building blocks for everything else. The main topic of February are transitions, and I believe that our difficulties about transitions often is caused by the lack of certain elements in the basics.
To expect the horse to understand what we want him to do, "The Basics for the Horse" list, depends on certain qualities from the rider/trainer as well. I have therefore added a short list of "Basics for the Human", which is equally important to accept, and work with.
So, let's be honest, and ask: "Where am I, in our (the horse's and mine) education, right now?" We can divide us into two types of riders: 1 Novice (passanger) 2 Influencer As a Novice, I am most concerned of how to relax and how to do things correctly in my own body. Step 1 and 2 in The Basics of the Human. From the the horse I would not expect more than relaxation and that he listens and tries to understand what I try to communicate. Step 1 in The Basics for the Horse. As an Influencer, have more or less automated, when and how, to communicate my aids. I am most concerned of the balance and movement underneath me. Step 3 and 4 in The Basics of the Human. My goal is to improve the communication, skills, strength and the suppleness of the horse. Step 2, 3 and 4 in the Basics of the Horse. Transitions![]() The word "transition" can be used for any change in shape, gait or movement of the horse. This month we will focus on the change of gaits, and how it fits into the elements of the basics. The horse needs to be relaxed enough to be able to listen to his trainer. He also needs to understand the aids that are given, or be relaxed enough to be able to learn them. ![]() The rider needs to know how to give the aid. He/she also needs to feel the tact and balance of the horse, to be able to know when to give the aid. I think that is why it is so difficult to ride a transition from a higher to a lower gait. We, as riders, have a tendency to do the downward transition by using the reins and half-holts, more than riding the transition from the hindlegs and as a change of rhythm. In that way we loose the forward thinking and the roundness of the horse.
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Jannie B JahnsenHorseclue AS is a small family business, owned by mother (Jannie'73) and daughter (Ronja'94). ArchivesCategories |