Training with Verena

 “Dressage” is a word that in most people in the horsey universe, will illicit one or another mental image of what dressage means. For one person it will mean competition dressage, for another, classical or baroque riding, for yet another simply a system for the physical and mental development of the horse to make a better riding proposition for other pursuits. Unfortunately for many, there is an overriding vision of forced outlines, tight curb chains and rowel spurs. 

For me, it goes very much further. In the first instance, I favour the definition “a system for the physical and mental development of the horse to make a better riding proposition”, but also to develop trust, a bond and a partnership, with lightness, ease and a minimum of physical effort. The joy is in the journey with your friend and done properly, the destination will take care of itself.

Dr Reiner Klimke once stated, “I ride to see how close I can get to the horse”. This encapsulates what I think dressage is all about.

Certainly competition dressage is one motive for dressage training, whether simply at the lower levels for the fun and camaraderie or to aim for the higher levels and Grand Prix. But dressage training need not be for such a narrow pursuit; it is useful for showies, show jumpers, eventers, or just for the sheer pleasure of training with the horse at home.

Additionally, dressage training need not be conducted like a drill, with orders barked by a regimental sergeant major screaming from the middle of an arena. I find this just introduces anxiety and tension in the rider and also the horse. I will ask for the best you can give, but I expect that you give your best from understanding what is needed, rather than the anxiety of not getting yelled at… and there is nothing like having a smile and a laugh while we’re at it! Your horse will sense the ease.

My own path of discovery led me through various Australian and European coaches. I was never happy with the regimentation and sometimes near brutality of the dressage training I was being shown, always believing there was a better, more beautiful way out there. Eventually, it was my good fortune to spend time training with Wolfgang Niggli, who subsequently sent me to train with Georg Wahl (unfortunately now both passed away). From these two men, I learned an empathetic and beautiful realization of dressage training, which I still embrace.

If you want to ride with empathy and start enjoying dressage, or if you just want to improve and enjoy a more satisfying journey with your horse, whatever the ultimate goal, give me a call and have a chat. 

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