Finding Connection

Before WallE I knew about the concept of contact and on a systematically trained hunter horse, I could find it, but in reality did not understand it. Since working with our trainer (Laura), I have developed an understanding and feel for contact on a horse. WallE did not really accept contact when we first started working with Laura. He would occasionally be round, but for the most part would hollow out, kick and just stop and back up. 

Through lots and lots of systematic and intentional exercises, his understanding and acceptance of contact has increased and thus my knowledge and feel has as well. 

This past week we had a great lesson on coaching WallE to maintain the contact and roundness through the transitions up to the canter and back down. This requires intentionality from me and willingness from him. 

We began the lesson at the walk (a gait which I feel we struggle in). We practiced bending to the outside and inside, leg yielding and changing direction all while maintaining the contact. I found that our walk felt so punchy and his back felt so swingy that we may score better on our next dressage test from just that! Then we did the same exercises at the trot and eventually found a circle to spiral in and out on while asking for the canter. 

Overall a great lesson and WallE was happy to cooperate and willing to stay round the entire lesson. We rode again the following day with the same results. 

It is very encouraging to find a connection in dressage while we struggle on the Xcountry course. Jump lesson is next week, so we will see how we transition from heavy dressage to the show jump!