There is a training scale in classical horse training through which all well-prepared horses are taken to unlock their full potential. The scale is often depicted in the form of a pyramid, beginning at the base with rhythm and culminating at the top with collection. In between are suppleness, contact, impulsion, and straightness, in that …
Tag: dressage
Calm, Forward, Straight
As a living, breathing human being, you are an animate creature, capable of orienting in, being motivated by and coloring your expression with a wide variety of spirits. The spirit which compels or dominates your expression in any given moment gives evidence to the true centering of your heart, regardless of what you believe mentally …
Deep and Broad
"The loftier the building, the deeper must the foundation be laid." - Thomas Kempis I heard the whistle of an interesting train of thought while listening to a podcast the other day about the life of Michael Page, an Olympic-medal winning American equestrian. The interviewer asked Page which horseman had influenced his riding career most …
Kinetic Beauty in the Equestrian Arts by Gregg Hake
Oft times the simple things in life are the most notable. Plato once said, “Beauty of style and harmony and grace and good rhythm depend on simplicity." I came across a video clip recently of the famed ecuyer Nuno de Oliveira at work on a beautiful horse that I thought would brighten your day, whether you are in the horse community or …
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The Art of Horsemanship
The semblance of proper relationship between rider and horse may be achieved through harsh demand, but it will not be sustainable as the cracks in the relationship or preparation will inevitably appear. The horse or rider will give evidence at some point of the lack of unity and of integrity, typically through the expression of tension in some form or another. In horsemanship as in all things, expediency instead of integrity brings failure.
Gregory Hake 