Dressage for Beginners

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#riderposition #dressagerider #horses
Dressage is ALL about the basics, whether you are just starting out in Dressage or you have been riding Dressage for a while, keep these simple tips in mind and your riding will improve!!
Dressage is French word that means “training.” Dressage is both the training of the horse and the rider. It’s really a sport of perfection and detail.
When I have a new student, the first thing that I start with is their position. “Only a rider in the correct position can give the correct aids.”
1. Alignment - in Dressage we must keep a straight line from ear-shoulder-hip- heel. This alignment is essential to keep your balance and to absorb the motion of the horse.
Common mistakes - riders either end up in a chair seat, or they lean too far forward with the lower leg too far back!
Check in with your alignment as you go through your ride! Your alignment will get off when you ride a transition, or your horse spooks!!
2. Reins and contact
It is very important that you hold the reins correctly to establish steady contact with the horses’ mouth.
Keep the reins from slipping by pushing down between your thumb and forefinger
Maintain a bend in your elbows and supple your horse by moving your fingers and wrist (think scrambled eggs!)
Always keep a straight line between your elbow and the horses’ mouth.
3. The Aids -
Once you’re in the correct position, the aids are what we use to actually communicate with the horse!
The Legs - the legs are the driving aids! You always want to start with the driving aids!
The seat - the main function of the seat is to absorb the motion of the horse!
The reins - these are the restraining aids. The reins are what you use to gather the energy of the horse and to slow them down!
Often, us Dressage Riders Tend to over- complicate everything! Remember to always check in with your position and at the end of the day, the leg means go, the rein means stop and “only a rider in the correct position can make the correct aids!”
Like I said before dressage is about training it’s really all about basics so even advanced riders are always working on their position and the effective use of the aids. It never ends.

[@cirkle862]

Today is my first dressage lesson. I’m 59 yrs old and I’ve been on horse back since I was 3 yrs old. I’m excited and a little scared because the woman who is instructing me is tough! Haha but I can’t wait and I’m hoping listening to you in the interim helps me do well. Thanks!

[@beepbeep5181]

Hope it went well! ❤️

[@rencyelkomy5973]

Good for you! It's never too late to get back on the saddle again. Happy riding!

[@terrybacot3858]

It's so exciting to learn new things with our horses yes even at 55, 65, 75..

[@Marlfox419]

@@rencyelkomy5973😊kkziz@ let’s caio🎉

[@grandmasgopnik9642]

Good luck and I hope you have fun! It’s never too late to get back to what you love ❤

[@lindav3747]

“You need to be in the correct position to give your horse the correct aid”. TRUTH -and I always have to work on this !!

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

😀 You and me both. The work never stops. Happy riding!

[@seltzersoda]

@@AmeliaNewcombDressage happy riding? ayo

[@leslieweiser5455]

“My ear is in front of my shoulder” it’s this kinda of descriptive instruction that makes your channel a winner for me 🌟🌟 love you!

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

Thank you!!! Glad it's helping you!

[@lbennett5924]

As someone who does dog sports, horses have always caught my attention. This really shows me just some of the "bells and whistles" to how a horse responds to body language!

[@Turboy65]

The best way to describe a balanced seat that when you are in it, if you were to make the horse disappear and you were to be lowered to the ground without moving, you would be standing. As when you stand, your center of gravity is balanced over your feet. You allow your legs to compress, for the body of the horse to take your weight, but your balance is still over your feet. You're still basically standing. OK, crouching a bit. But it's that balance over the feet that is fundamental. And every lesson builds on good balance. So the sooner you get the balance right, the sooner your progress can begin.

[@martineengel824]

I am so grateful for your videos. I am getting back in the saddle after 35 years (woot woot!!) and need these refreshers! So glad I found your channel!

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

Glad it’s helpful!!

[@stephaniehernandez6339]

ME TOO!!

[@nicolageorginaboyle5091]

Oh my god... I have done the same... You are such an inspiration and I love your accent ... I haven't ridden for over 20 years... My kids are now old enough so I have gone out and bought a horse... I love your first lesson but am unsure how to watch more...

[@daisymaecharms1649]

I love to watch your videos! This was so helpful for me. I had an accident and haven't ridden in several years and am getting back to riding. My trainer is reminding me about position as I tend to slouch or slump in my back or lean forward. Watching you ride while explaining the position, the aids, how to move and the rhythm is so helpful. I've been told this is training and now seeing it visually is great! I'm going to my riding lesson today and going to visualize your video and then work on applying it while riding. Maybe pretend I'm you and that will give me confidence. Thank you!

[@aimee2825]

Nice video. Even after 3 months of lessons in Dressage, you described quite a bit that I have not yet been instructed in (at least, if I have been, I missed it). Right now I feel the most I have been struggling with is staying balanced in the seat. I've been told I constantly lean to the right, though I can't feel this at all. I recently started reading Kyra Kurlands "Dressage with Kyra", and will be reading "The Circle of Trust" by Walter Zettl. I've also signed up for your course! I am so excited to really learn and understand these concepts. Thank you!

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

Hi Aimee, first, glad to have you in the course and the community. Sorry for the delay in this message, I got behind in my comments! It can be hard to get all the theory in just a 45 min riding lesson- especially when you're focusing on what the horse is doing! So glad to hear that you're getting value from the videos :)

[@AmigoAndPar]

Thanks for all the videos! My mare has been sitting in a pasture for two months and Im loving the basic stuff that can help get her back into shape. I get so impatient, but watching videos on the basics helps me remember that that's the important stuff anyway 😅

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

Great to hear! Enjoy getting her back in shape!

[@christined5332]

Thank you so much for this excellent video Amelia!! I’m very visual and I always remember what you say when I’m riding again after 10 years. ❤

[@JEBlake-hd6fz]

This is really helpful. I’m a western rider and had my first English dressage lesson today. It was so much fun. But I feel like a beginner again! I have so much to learn. I like how you explain things.

[@farriermaiden3781]

I’ve been riding Western for almost 10 years now, and I’ve decided to completely turn the tables on myself and learn something new. I just start taking adult dressage lessons at a local barn. My whole world‘s been turned upside down! I’m having to completely retrain myself. It kind of feels like it’s harder to retrain yourself, then if you had no experience before. This video helped a lot because I can actually see the form myself, whereas in my lessons I’m just being told how to do the form. Thanks for the great video!

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

Hey Farrier Maiden, Glad to have you here, thanks for visiting my channel. It definetly can be hard to retrain yourself and your body in a new way of going. But I'm so glad to hear that this video helped you :)

[@taunipircher7161]

I am doing the same! It's super different for sure!

[@judysorensen465]

Excellent video. My horse has had 10 month of restart training . My OTTB and I have only ridden on the lunge line with my trainer and in a dressage saddle. I ride western on my quarter horse/pony. This video has given me the confidence to cut the cord and to work on the walk/ trot exercise you nicely demonstrated! Thank you so much.

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

That is awesome! Hope it went well! Give us an update if you feel comfortable sharing.

[@laurajunio4911]

I too am very grateful for your videos. I am 60 years old and I used to ride Western and bareback, but it has been a while. I am dealing with lots of physical issues and I want to use my Gypsy Vanner to help me to build my strength. I have always wondered how the signals between horse and rider worked. I do not have my horse yet, but when I get it I plan on starting bareback to get my balance back. I have always worked on sitting straight in the saddle and moving with my horse's movement. I have never ridden English, but I have been studying the techniques for quite some time. You teach in a way that is very understandable to me. Thank you for your big heart with love for horses and kindness to others.

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

Aww thank you! Happy Riding!

[@lyndaburch9381]

Thank you Amelia. This helps solidify what I am working on. My instructor is great, but has left out so many details…maybe on purpose. After 3 years of working with my big, strong, Lusitano, we are finally working on the details that I wish I had understood months ago! Using my seat and legs correctly…really understanding how, why and when to use these aids! I watch your videos to help me understand the whys, of instruction. You are so clear and concise when explaining the exercises…thank you for your help!!!

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

Thanks Lynda, so glad you're feeling the benefit of the videos. Best of luck with your Lusitano! Keep watching and happy riding!

[@Gushara]

Thank you again! I have had my horse for about 1 1/2 years. He is a very sweet tempered Arab who I am working to teach dressage to, he was western trained. I have done tons of ground work with him, getting him to some simple liberty moves. What I have developed is a wonderful relationship with this boy! I just moved him to a new barn and he is stellar in his manners and behavior as I familiarize him with the new setting. It is a western barn so these folks are going to get a kick out of a dressage rider on an Arab :)! I moved there because it is a better place to trail ride from though I am going to continue lessons at the old barn. I sense the importance of the discipline and connection on the trail. I prefer to ride dressage even on the trail as I feel safer. I have to say I learned ground work from Joseph when I first got my horse......lol! You are refining how I will further teach my horse in our work together....again thank you so much for this timely lesson!

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

Thanks so much for watching and subscribing!

[@MaggieGinger65]

So helpful! Thank you. One thing I struggle with is being too stiff. Going to focus more on following the motion of the horse while keeping proper alignment. You do such a good job breaking it all down for us!

[@gailbruner1484]

I have the same problem! Thank you for sharing.

[@RheagenLBuck]

I’ve never done dressage, but I want to. It’s been a dream of mine for a long time. I plan to train in the spring.

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

Welcome! Check out my website for some great free content! www.amelianewcombdressage.com/free-resources/

[@debradumler3442]

Great Video. I just started lessons on my Quarter horse and we are having quite a time but we are learning together. He really is trying, the transition to the walk is difficult for us as he still wants to trot instead of walking. I do look down all the time at the front left shoulder and have a problem with my stirrups, just raised them up one notch. I tend to get off balance and start to lose one of them when leaning over at the trot. Lots of work to do, but we are working on it. Thank you for all your videos.

[@arthemizpizanis2942]

Thank you for your video!It is helping my daughter for Special Olympics! Gratitude!

[@dmb106969]

Thank toy so much Amelia! I appreciate your explanation of using our aids effectively and correctly. It's helping me get back in my English seat and refreshing me of my lessons as a child.

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

So glad it helped you Deborah!

[@BelleandBuddy29]

Thank you for this… breaking it down helps me so much. As a jumper rider, the dressage position is SO foreign to me. I’m always tilting forward. I thought my core was pretty strong, but it wasn’t “dressage strong” Whew. Thanks for helping me get stronger.

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

Thanks Belle! So glad to help! I'm giving a free Dressage Training Scale Webinar on Sunday 12th! I'd love you to join! You can sign up at the link below. Hopefully see you there! www.ameliasdressageacademy.com/trainingscalewebinar/

[@emilyvarnon6447]

I love this channel. So helpful.

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

Thanks Emily that's so great to hear! Also, I'm giving a free webinar on the Dressage Training Scale on Sunday 12th Sept at 12pm Pacific Time. You can sign up at the link below! I would love to see you there! www.ameliasdressageacademy.com/trainingscalewebinar

[@misurikmockova6702]

Love your videos! I can't afford best trainer and fancy horse and ride everyday.. Etc.... But your videos just give me so much and push me to another level so fast! Thank you

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

That's so awesome to hear! Thank you and keep up the great work. 😀

[@heatherlockhart667]

That was so helpful I haven't ridden Massage for quite a few years but it sure helps me envision what I needed to work on Thank you.

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

You're so welcome!

[@peaspeculiars9667]

You are so knowledgeable - Thank you so much for sharing your talent. I'm about to get back in the saddle in about an hour after 10 years of non riding, today following an accident, - the horse spooked at a plastic rain cover over the top of a baby pushchair, he fitted through the tree's, but my knee caps did not unfortunately - and this video has certainly helped to give me the confidence to try and ride again - Thank You x

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

Thank you for sharing. It can be hard to get 'back in the saddle' again, but I'm so glad to hear that you're going for it!

[@PatrickPrejusa]

thank you for this video. great work.

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

Glad you liked it! Please subscribe if you enjoyed it

[@taylorducherer8785]

love your videos so much. I became a member of your facebook group and i love the supportive community both here and there so much.

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

Yay!! That is awesome!

[@kikiza123]

Your horse is so lovely and attentive. It's a constant struggle for me to remember to relax into the position as I have a habit of tensing and leaning forward. This video had a lot of helpful tips!

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

I'm so glad it helped you! I love hearing feedback.

[@rencyelkomy5973]

Wishing to take dressage lessons again. Thank you for the video.

[@AuroraGrabowski]

This helped me so much with my extensive walk. Although it's not dressage extended it is still extensive

[@jenniferbell4571]

Thanks for this! Your demo was exactly what I needed to see!

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

Glad to hear it!

[@860semsem]

This was sooooo from the heart kinda lesson I am a beginner horse rider, I have nothing to do with dressage but yeah you were better than my trainer 😂 thanks All the love from Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦❤️

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

Glad it was helpful! You got this!

[@chewycat12]

Referring to the legs as driving aids and the reins as restraining aids makes SO much make sense to me.

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

I think it helps! Glad it did for you too!

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

What's your biggest rider position flaw?? Check out our FREE mini course on Dressage Rider Position www.ameliasdressageacademy.com/riderpositionminicourse/

[@ameliebellefille4616]

I’m a former jumper/éventer. I just lean forward and push too lush on my stirrups and heels therefore I don’t “seat”. I just go on a two point when I’m losing balance or when I grab my reins. I also look down and stare at my horses head which is super annoying cause it’s such a horrible habit! Im getting better BUT there is a LOT of work…. Getting there. It’s a whole new world!

[@morliron]

Thank you Amelia , you make all the chips fall in place for me. always thought that that the alignment is between the butt and not the hip bone, now all is much easier, love your videos

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

Thank you!

[@maryzs7992]

Thank you for this, it helps alot for me I think where I have faulted is the leaning forward or falling behind. This is super helpful, I will definitely be using these tips to focus on my girl rides English funny enough as she is my first horse due to her back the one saddle that fits her well is a dressage. I have been intrigued about dressage since I was really young. Not in this for anything other than her and I enjoying time. I will definitely be following along with more of your videos. Thanks again. :)

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

Thanks Mary, so glad you're enjoying both your horse and the videos. Happy riding.

[@user-qe5ez6mp3c]

First time I watched this video-seems like all easy.Second time half year after - not all easy. Today 3rd time -and only now I really understand how all these aspects is important in ridding and dressage-and it not easy at all -that need time and much work to learn correctly any transition, alignment,support to movement and balance .Ridding differs so much when you learned to do all these aspects correctly

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

So true!

[@holliekent3610]

Thank you for the basic information, many times the information is more advanced and it is great to hear the basic foundation. You asked as a beginner what I might struggle with….I struggle with rising with the correct lead. Help!

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

Hey Hollie, glad you enjoyed the video. "Dressage for All" is my mantra and I try to make a wide range of videos for all levels of riders. I have a video on posting on the correct diagonal (kzbin.info/www/bejne/hZSsZWugf9qNaKs), and getting the correct canter lead (kzbin.info/www/bejne/d6mpe2iGZtOLm7c). Hope that helps!

[@judyboyle9232]

Alignment is the key, it's so basic . Yes!

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

That's it! Ear, shoulder, hip, heel all the way!! ⬇️

[@jennaweir7216]

I have been looking into learning simple dressage and this was really helpful

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

Glad it was helpful!

[@merrinwright2957]

Thank you for this video! So helpful.. I'm just returning to the dressage saddle after 4.5 months off due to front end lameness. I come from many years in hunters so I'm having a hard time rotating my pelvis under me. Assuming that is the problem as my shoulders are ever so slightly in front of my hips. I think I need to lower my stirrups a little too.

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

HI Merrin, Thanks fo much for watching! Hip flexibility can be an issue for some riders but exercises out of the saddle can help! Here's a video that might help! kzbin.info/www/bejne/eJyzmHt7rt2Cl5o Also, I'm giving a free webinar on the Dressage Training Scale on Sunday 12th Sept at 12pm Pacific Time. You can sign up at the link below! I would love to see you there! www.ameliasdressageacademy.com/trainingscalewebinar

[@jackiecollins263]

great video, but the walk footfalls begins with the hind - it'll make it easier to see in your video if people are trying to count it :)

[@gwenteggi23]

Good job 👍🐴

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

Thanks 😁

[@pencilsniper]

This was very cool to watch because I've been a long time fan of horses since I was younger than 5. Beautiful animals. ❤

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

So glad you enjoyed! Thanks for being here!

[@pencilsniper]

@@AmeliaNewcombDressage You're welcome! And keep it up!

[@reginaangele1083]

Hi Amelia. I'm watching your videos and your tips are really very helpful English is not my mothertongue but you do use words which can be understood very easily..thanks for your really good help.

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

Thanks Regina! Glad you're finding the benefit of them! Keep up the good work! 😀

[@donmugambi5442]

Awesome, learnt something new.

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

I’m so happy to hear that

[@suzannesenser607]

Thank-you, Amelia. I love how soft and smooth your transitions are. The horse never once jersey his head or pulled threins out of your hands. Oh, how I long for a ride like that!

[@suzannesenser607]

Jerked, not jersey, stupid auto correct

[@suzannesenser607]

Jerked, not Jersey. Stupid auto correct.

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

You're welcome! (haha I got your autocorrect first go 😊 ). Keep watching and happy riding. You'll be surprised how quickly old bad habits will lessen if you stay consistent with your riding.

[@dubbie001]

Really helpful thankyou

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

Glad it helped

[@thomashall5850]

Awesome video. I definitely look down causing me to loose position. I also ride a very Mariah mare that can put me on constant guard.

[@inkwellian]

sfsf

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

Thanks Thomas! Looking up makes such a massive difference to position!

[@wildacresranch]

I learned so much from this video! Thank you. Keep them coming

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

Thanks so much for watching and subscribing! I've lots more content to share!!

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

Also, if you’d like me to send more dressage tips into your email inbox every Wednesday, you can sign up to my mailing list www.ameliasdressageacademy.com/subscribe/ (If you’re already familiar with all this and have received this before, apology for the unnecessary message, I’m being super thorough today!) I’m also on FB and IG facebook.com/amelianewcombdressage & instagram.com/amelianewcombdressage/ Also, and this is super helpful too, join Amelia’s Dressage Club on Facebook, it’s a really active and engaged community of riders and no question goes unanswered! facebook.com/groups/ameliasdressageclub/ And finally, there’s my website (for when all the social media goes down again 🤣) www.amelianewcombdressage.com/ Ok that’s the lot I promise. Have an awesome day! 🐴

[@maggiepie8810]

Sometimes that I know that you're fully aware of but that's worth mentioning is the importance of saddle fit when it comes to rider position. If the saddle doesn't quite fit, it's very difficult for the rider to sit correctly. Especially as the horse pushes you out of balance the way we'd try to reblanace a poorly fitted backpack.

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

Yes, saddle fit is so important!

[@albertw251]

I just got back into the saddle. Took my first few riding lessons with an instructor. Waiting for new instructor who specializes in Dressage to get settled in.... In the meantime watching your videos. A bit about me... Rode trails while i was in college and then was going to get into dressage but a mountain bike accident stopped that... Recovery for several months, a relocation, and life got in the way. Go forward 20 years...Got back in the saddle a few months ago. I am now in my 40s. I was told never too old to get into Dressage. Watching your videos and instruction. Wish i was down in Southern California I would 100% sign up with you. I future goal is to one day compete in an amateur level and see where it goes from there.... 🙂 Curious.... What breed of horse is recommended for dressage or does it not really matter?

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

Thanks for sharing your story Albert! Glad to have you here. Any horse can do Dressage, but warmbloods are generally a little more naturally talented towards it.

[@tracydutton7577]

I am enjoying this very easy 2 understand

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

I'm so glad! I'm hosting a free webinar this weekend. I'd love for you to come: amelianewcombdressage.com/free-training-scale-webinar/

[@TheEquiClubYouTube]

Great Video!🎉✨

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

Thank you!!

[@stephanieparker1250]

Such a good boy 🥰

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

Thank you!

[@Ribcage841]

Watching this on a horse while my instructor's away 🥰

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

haha love it!

[@betsygerman5732]

Cool

[@markward6820]

All your videos offer superb instruction. I wonder if you produce one dealing with maintaining a steady connection. During every dressage test my horse and I go in and then out -- and then in and out again -- of a really good connection . I wish I could keep a good connection continuously through a test.

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

Yes! This is a challenge for many riders. Check out my new program. www.amelianewcombdressage.com/30-days-to-round/

[@terriedwards4820]

Yes I have that bad habits 😃

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

😀 Being aware is the first step! And there's no habit that can't be corrected with consistent effort! Happy riding.

[@begocastro8762]

Me viene muy bien repasar las bases porque estoy en nivel 3 de España y sigo perdiendo equilibrio por aprender mal y querer avanzar rapido😢 me encantan tus vídeos ❤

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

You got this! Happy to hear you are enjoying the videos!

[@nicolageorginaboyle5091]

How do I watch more... I have learnt so much from you, you have a remarkable way of explaining things... Thank you so much...

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

So nice of you to say! My website has all the free videos and articles here: amelianewcombdressage.com/dressage-tips/ and then I also have a bunch of free mini courses here: amelianewcombdressage.com/free-resources/ Enjoy!!

[@thevocabularychannel6883]

Amazing 😂

[@maggy1338]

Greetings from Kentucky, Amelia. Would you tell me exactly what you use for your audio equipment and how you wear it. It works very well!

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

I use a sinnhauser wireless microphone. It's pricy but it works really well!

[@marciareeves5752]

Hello. I happened upon your video after looking up dressage. I saw a Lusitano where I work and was fascinated by its look and gaze. Pretty silvery gray horse with a depth of intelligence, calm and kindness I do not often see. Probably the first Lusitano I have seen. The owners told me about it and it had won bronze in some event in Florida. I just picked up a depth of something on its gaze or demeanor I don't always see. Was I imagining that? Or was I just bewitched by its beauty and being different looking? I took a western class in college. I like horses. Your instruction was easy to follow. I mentioned this to a guy who owns horses and buys, trains and resells them.::: barrel racing. He said the money is in his performance horses . He says they pay the bills. I was just curious. Keep up the good work.

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

Hi Marcia, they are definetly a different looking/built horse. Perhaps that's what you saw. They're great horses!

[@TAWSNM]

I find I tend to start out really conscious of my position and nicely in alignment, but as I get focused on whatever my mare is doing I tend to move toward a "chair seat" position. It's so embarrassing when my instructor suggests that I might want to draw my outside leg back again.

[@jackiegoetschi2220]

Love your lessons. I am still having difficulty with the transition walk to trot. I can't get my horse to go forward into trot. Also still having difficulty wyh the halt. She starts to halt, but then keeps moving

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

Hi Jackie, Here's a short video that might help you! kzbin.info/www/bejne/jKnQd3h7jMaDjtU Thank you so much for watching! Have a search round the youtube channel as I've got a video for almost any problem and I upload a new one every Wednesday! Also, if you want to further your dressage education, I'm having a sale until Saturday on my masterclass on the Dressage Training Scale if you'd like to sign up the link is here! Would love to see you on the course and it will help your journey so much ! www.ameliasdressageacademy.com/trainingscalemasterclass/?fbclid=IwAR0VbN0HaZqzSqu5nvCJfeITvoiovRkYxqtPFOrtUKrli3Y1YvRI0R_8_rQ

[@debdunster5471]

I tend to look down as well ..assuming it's from weak neck strength?

[@lynnm.kleingardner8640]

Please explain how you use the right rein to turn left. I see an open left rein , when turning right...but you use the right rein also?

[@do3aalghamdi228]

Now I understand exactly why I can’t be stable and balanced on the saddle, it’s the position I will try doing this.

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

Thanks so much for watching! If you’d like me to send more dressage tips into your email inbox every Wednesday, you can sign up to my mailing list www.ameliasdressageacademy.com/subscribe/ I’m also on FB and IG facebook.com/amelianewcombdressage & instagram.com/amelianewcombdressage/ Also, and this is super helpful too, join Amelia’s Dressage Club on Facebook, it’s a really active and engaged community of riders and no question goes unanswered! facebook.com/groups/ameliasdressageclub/

[@MsSilfur]

I probably have reached farther than "beginner", as I do canter, get the horse on the bit and also do leg yield in trot. But I struggle some more with my left side than right. Like pushing the horse into the corners in canter. I struggle using my left leg more than right 😅 but other times it works perfectly fine. I think the reason might be the "line" in my seat, and I do know I sometimes lean inwards in the turns. I believe that might be the reason why the horse seems to fall out when I want to push it in 😅 It is a little bit difficult to remember everything at once 😂 and it also seems it sometimes depends on the horse's mood as well. She's got some worse and some better days, just like me 😅 some days I am really selfaware and sit right, adjust as soon as I'm off etc, sometimes I don't quite understand why the horse cuts corners and then I'm like "but did I lean inwards? Yes I did, there we have it" 😂 but left canter is still on average worse for me. But leg yield worse fine 😅

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

Sounds like you are doing great! Keep up the great work and thank you for being here!

[@melodyko4533]

My problem is unstable foot in stirrups and can’t stop swinging forward and back during trot🤯

[@Reiselassy]

I have the same issue! So frustrating!!

[@AmigoAndPar]

More seat, maybe? I think the leg can swing when it's the base of your position, instead of, like Amelia said, having your seat bones driving into the saddle. I feel like some no stirrup work may help secure your seat, but should ideally be done on a lunge line so you can just concentrate on your seat, and not have to worry so much about controlling your horse. 😅 I'd love to hear what other people do to help secure the lower leg 🤗

[@ameliebellefille4616]

I got high grip stirrups. Problem solved LoL

[@bmajor1957]

If your lower leg is swinging, you may be pinching with the knee. Turn your knee out a bit and see what happens

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

HI Melody! This video might help your leg position! kzbin.info/www/bejne/l5imi2d4eLGJZqs Also, if you want to further your dressage education, I'm having a sale until Saturday on my masterclass on the Dressage Training Scale if you'd like to sign up the link is here! Would love to see you on the course and it will help your journey so much ! www.ameliasdressageacademy.com/trainingscalemasterclass/?fbclid=IwAR0VbN0HaZqzSqu5nvCJfeITvoiovRkYxqtPFOrtUKrli3Y1YvRI0R_8_rQ

[@diannejohnson1754]

Hi Amelia! In the beginner dressage l really appreciated is seat and legs controlling the speed of the horse. I have a horse that speeds up the longer we work in the arena in all the walk, trot, canter motions. I’m afraid if I give any leg at all he will interpret that as giteup and go. Would you talk more on the fast horse?

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

Take a look at these videos for some help with this: kzbin.info/www/bejne/opbEfY2cet6hocU kzbin.info/www/bejne/bJDaYWVnrdNgaLM

[@puremag1c142]

ahahahha i also look down loooool 6:26

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

It's a bad habit I have to work hard on!

[@SolanosPearl]

What do you mean by pull your tummy in? I’m having trouble sticking to the seat when transitioning from canter to trot as well as maintaining the trot once I’ve had the downward transition

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

HI Devon, Thanks for watching, if you watch my recent posts about which muscles to use while riding it might explain it better!> Also, if you’d like me to send more dressage tips into your email inbox every Wednesday, you can sign up to my mailing list www.ameliasdressageacademy.com/subscribe/ (If you’re already familiar with all this and have received this before, apology for the unnecessary message, I’m being super thorough today!) I’m also on FB and IG facebook.com/amelianewcombdressage & instagram.com/amelianewcombdressage/ Also, and this is super helpful too, join Amelia’s Dressage Club on Facebook, it’s a really active and engaged community of riders and no question goes unanswered! facebook.com/groups/ameliasdressageclub/ And finally, there’s my website (for when all the social media goes down again 🤣) www.amelianewcombdressage.com/ Ok that’s the lot I promise. Have an awesome day! 🐴

[@WbsllcLizWeberCMC]

Thanks for being so clear and sequential! I’m pushing 60 and have “ridden” since I was a kiddo. However I’ve just started lessons and dressage. Let’s just say, I am unlearning and learning so much! I love your level of patient detail.

[@diannafinewood2639]

Any tips for picking up the correct diagonal without having to look down at the outside front shoulder? I STILL can't feel when I'm on the correct diagonal when posting (I have to look down to check myself). Thank you!!! And, thank you SO SO much for making dressage FUN and able to understand! God bless :o)

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

Thank you so much for following along! We are so glad to have you in our community. Posting and diagonals can come with time and feel - check out this video for some more help: amelianewcombdressage.com/dressage-training/how-and-why-to-post-the-trot/

[@diannafinewood2639]

@@AmeliaNewcombDressage thank you so much for that! I'll keep practicing ...I'll get that "feel" one of these days (without having to glance down to check myself LOL) Thanks again!!! I appreciate you so much :)

[@6lue6ell78]

I would love to learn dressage for the horsemanship and not to compete!

[@msingh7985]

Amelia If you ever have to come to India 🇮🇳 Or even thinking about India tour then please let me ✅

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

Thanks very much for watching! I'll let you know if I come there!

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

Also, I’m giving a free webinar on Show Season at the start of may you can sign up here www.ameliasdressageacademy.com/show-season/ Also, if you want a free mini course to get your position in the strongest shape to execute your dressage aids, take my free rider position mini course here www.ameliasdressageacademy.com/riderpositionminicourse/? Do you love my content? I’d love if you left me a review on google! g.page/r/CYIGmCINXFOQEAo/review I’m also on FB and IG facebook.com/amelianewcombdressage & instagram.com/amelianewcombdressage/ Also, and this is super helpful too, join Amelia’s Dressage Club on Facebook, it’s a really active and engaged community of riders and no question goes unanswered! facebook.com/groups/ameliasdressageclub/ And finally, there’s my website! www.amelianewcombdressage.com/ And you can also sign up here for weekly dressage tips sent to your inbox www.ameliasdressageacademy.com/subscribe/ Ok that’s the lot I promise. Have an awesome day! 🐴

[@msingh7985]

@@AmeliaNewcombDressage here we have English horses like Friesian, warmblood & thoroughbred but we are working on our local breed to complete in dressage that is why i offer you that if you are thinking to try your luck on different breed then indian local breed is the best option

[@msingh7985]

@@AmeliaNewcombDressage your content is awesome and let me know if you conduct any twitter space. Here twitter space is very much popular.

[@chelseybuman3821]

🤚I also have a nasty habit of looking down. Someone once told me it's bc "I'm self taught?" I guess i can understand that, I never had anyone to really correct me or my horse and when I started riding smart phones weren't a thing. So I constantly looked down to check my leads, my horses head positioning, my leg positioning, hands, ect. It's so hard to break. If you have tips let me know!

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

Hi Chelsey! It's so hard NOT to look down, I still do it 😬. Have a look at this video I made on riding with your eyes closed to develop feel. Scary at the start, but you can really ramp up your "riding by feel" as well as develop more trust with your horse! kzbin.info/www/bejne/emGvkHWFg5d5adU

[@amandaa898]

What’s the difference between driving with your seat and moving your seat with the horse? I feel like to pick up more speed in the walk I have to rock with him.

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

One you’re influencing the movement, the other you’re being passive with the movement :)

[@meganpahl2160]

I have a horse who's left shoulder is a bit smaller than the right. I would like to teach her dressage as a way to build that up. However, can you offer some advise on teaching her the correct leg positions for these transitions?

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

Hey there! Dressage is great to help with your horse's symmetry and straightness. I'm not exactly sure what you mean by your second question, but I have an arrangement of free courses and resources on my website I could recommend you check out: amelianewcombdressage.com/free-resources/

[@meganpahl2160]

Yes and thank you❤I am curious as to what exercise to focus on that will specifically build the muscles in the triceps, deltoids, and even that inferior portion of the trapezoid muscle. Ide like to get both shoulders equal in size so I can work dressage with her. You know how beautiful Arabians are, she could really do well

[@carollinnan4268]

my 6 yo ottb raises his head when i ask him to go forward from walk to trot. is there an exercise to keep him going forward but keep his head in position...? just keep working on transitions??

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

Hey Carol! Thanks for watching. You're on the right path, transitions are so fundamental! But also, here's a video for troubleshooting some common problems in the transition work. Hope this helps and happy riding. kzbin.info/www/bejne/h4ayh3auhMt_hZo

[@carollinnan4268]

@@AmeliaNewcombDressage thanks so much!

[@ina7084]

So I've gotten back into horse riding after almost a decade off! I'm having a difficult time rationalising some of my trainers instructions.. I have told them to treat me like a beginner because that's what I basically am.. Have read up on the basics of horse riding from an official source! Yet am constantly reprimanded for not having my legs far in front of me and my heels as far as they can go.. And for my hands being too low.. I was under the impression that having a straight line from my elbow to the horse's mouth was the proper thing to do.. Anyways when I asked my instructor what the purpose was with holding my arms up so high they told me that I have no idea how much I don't know about horse riding and that it's to collect the horse. That there exists a collection with the head down and head up. Now this person is competing and winning competitions so I am at a loss who to believe. We are made to hold our hands so high our lower and upper arm basically make a 90° angle or less! To pick the horses head up via force. I ride an angel mare that gives to pressure easily, but my lesson buddies get away with sores on their hands even when wearing gloves because they ride a less responsive horse alongside me. So I decided to watch tonnes of videos regarding collection, dressage, proper rider body carriage etc. I need advice! Do you think riding like this is justified in your professional opinion?

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

Hi there! This video might help you: amelianewcombdressage.com/dressage-training/3-steps-to-round/

[@ina7084]

@@AmeliaNewcombDressage Beautifully explained! I'll have to be changing trainers.. Now I see many more things that are counterproductive in their instructions and the trainers results don't lie. Also wow useful videos for free!! I wish I had come across your site years ago!

[@il1veontheM00N]

What breed is that horse as I’m looking for one x 😄

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

He's a Dutch Warmblood!

[@barbarapudiak2824]

Your feet seem to be moving a lot. Is that correct???? I always thought I should keep my feet as still as possible.

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

Thanks for watching Barbara, and don’t forget to subscribe to get notified of my new weekly content! So my joints and ankles are absorbing the movement of the horse. If you try and stay still, you will end up bouncing, the key to stillness is in allowing movement be absorbed in your joints!. This video might help explain! Thanks for watching and let me know if you've any more questions kzbin.info/www/bejne/ppaldIWPhqaJfK8 ///// I'm not sure if you know this but, I've been lucky enough to qualify BOTH of my horses (Harvey and Kensington) to compete in the Dressage Festival of Champions in Chicago, if you are willing and able, even the tiniest donation to my GoFundMe would make a massive difference. You can read more and, (but only if you'd like to and have the capacity!) donate below! gofund.me/2989323b Also, you can sign up to get my weekly dressage tips sent to your email here! www.ameliasdressageacademy.com/subscribe/ Finally, if you love my content, I’d LOVE it if you left me a review on google! g.page/r/CYIGmCINXFOQEAo/review Thanks so much for being on my page! I appreciate it so much! 😀

[@Chandyairos]

Amelia can u help me!! I want to learn dressage!! My horse and I don't know how to do dressage...I have been trying to teach my horse dressage but I need tips, exercises, or lessons....MY HORSE IS A WESTERN HORSE.

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

Hi Jade, For sure I can help! My mantra is "dressage for all" and I have a wide range of videos and content that are available as a free resource as well as paid courses. Be sure to subscribe to this channel and follow me on facebook. I host a weekly LIVE on thursday nights which is a great place to ask questions.

[@anjaduvenhage8143]

I'm struggling with my feet and my hands

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

Have you seen my Rider Position Challenge? It's guaranteed to improve your riding amelianewcombdressage.com/rider-position-2023/

[@briannam2873]

I always look down

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

It is my bad habit also! Try to find a focal point above the letter or spot you're heading toward!

[@johanna3916]

As a beginner I find it hard to keep a steady connection during transitions.

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

Hi Johanna, thanks for watching, that will improve as your strength and stability increase, but this video might help if you're finding your hands moving a lot! Happy riding!. kzbin.info/www/bejne/fJqzd2arYrGghZY

[@johanna3916]

@@AmeliaNewcombDressage Thank you! Will watch the video you linked :)

[@Lover_of_hhs]

I'm a showjumper

[@imzadi83fanvids7]

I have a bad habit of looking down at the horse's head. I don't know if it's because I'm just so excited to be riding, nervous because I can no longer see the horses facial expression, or if it's it's because I'm concentrating on using the aids and my brain thinks I should be looking in the direction of my hands. Any one else struggle with it? Any tips?

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

I've got a great video coming up that addresses just this! Hold on tight.

[@imzadi83fanvids7]

@@AmeliaNewcombDressage Awesome, thanks!

[@LegendarySkypenis]

South Park brought me here.

[@pinkorganichorse]

Great job! One important correction. You stop the horse with your seat, not just reins.

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

You're right!

[@AmyKristine]

The second wife of comedian Jerry Lewis was a champion

[@simplysahm6245]

I dont think "How to hold your reins" and any mention of dressage should be in the same video :P

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

Well, most dressage riders have reins! So it helps to know the best way to hold them :)

[@scottlathrop66]

Seems gay to me.

[@davidmacdonald625]

I never realised the cruelty of dressage 😢

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

Treating my horses with kindness and care is always my priority!

[@wendyb9923]

what is top line? up in the withers? please do a video about what the phrases used in the horse world means. Cancel Comment @cirkle862 @cirkle862 1 year ago

[@AmeliaNewcombDressage]

I have a video on that! Check it out here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/ioPYhIp5ptN_bqc