Wednesday, October 16, 2013

Bending: It sounds so simple




"When moving on a curved line - this includes all turns on one track - the horse must be a part of this line. It must be bent in its body to the extent required by the curve. The degree of the required bend depends on the size of the circle on which the horse moves, the smaller the circle, the greater the bend. This bend must extend over the entire spinal column so as not to have an adverse effect on the horse’s way of going."
(Gustav Steinbrecht, 1884)

Saturday, August 24, 2013

There are no neutral steps.

(73) Manolo Mendez Dressage:

'via Blog this'


Every step matters.

Every step is an opportunity to develop a healthier, more balanced, straighter, more even horse.

Every turn, simple or square, every revolution around the arena which contains four built in turns, is an opportunity to condition your horse, to loosen him, to teach him correct flexion, correct bend and to enhance his natural rhythm.

A chance to teach him to carry himself, to develop the ability to slow down but keep his rhythm while bending.

There are no neutral steps, we either create postures that create a foundation for wellness, or not. Not even a simple turn should be taken for granted since, when executed properly, it offers so much to our horse.

Thursday, August 1, 2013

SDA Akers Acres HDT Test Entry Form

 SDA Driving Trial @ Akers Acres

Choose payment method:  Check or  PayPal

Click to sign the SDA Waiver

Tuesday, July 9, 2013

The Echoes of Resistance


"It is natural that resistances support each other and will have many echoes." 

Alexis François L’Hotte, 1895


A good thought to ponder as you attempt to achieve lightness with your horses.

Thursday, June 20, 2013

Kiss Your Farrier

Keep this in mind:
This is what your farrier has to deal with to keep your horse sound.