ALM Dressage

I train in accordance with the scales of training;

1. Rhythm

2. Suppleness

3. Contact

4. Implusion

5. Straightness

6. Collection

The first aim is to develop relaxation and regularity (rhythm), this is achieved by encouraging the horse to swing and stretch through his back to build the correct top-line muscles, as he reaches forward for the bit, which in turn improves his suppleness. We will work on ensuring the horse is working in front of your leg and so is able to work correctly from the hindquarters, over a soft back and that he follows your hand with an elasticity, both of which will improve the quality of the contact and allow for the correct development of your horse. We will introduce lateral work to improve suppleness and contact and also to teach you the coordination required to control both the shoulders and the hindquarters of your horse.

As you both develop and the horse becomes more 'on your aids', we can, if you wish, ride through dressage tests working up through the levels as you are both ready. This will also highlight any areas or particular movements that need more work and show you how to ride an accurate, well planned, judge pleasing test. Training will continue with increasing impulsion, straightness, balance and “throughness” leading to improving collection.

(Archie sometimes comes to help!)

I believe in giving people the correct building blocks to be able to work with their horse (even when I am not there!), so that training is a positive and productive experience for all.

I enjoy working with a wide variety of horses and riders and believe in giving 100% commitment to the combinations I help. I particularly enjoy working with more 'normal' horses and get a real thrill from seeing the difference that correct and structured training has on their basic paces and in turn their success in the ring. However, dressage superstars also welcome!.

I have 'ears', a personal trainers microphone system. Clients wear an unobtrusive ear piece and I have a mic, this enables a constant, in depth communication, with no words lost on windy days!  I also use them for warming clients up at competitions and is invaluable in busy warm ups!.

I also offer Virtual training or video training