How to be a Good Student of Dressage

Becoming a good student of dressage goes beyond attending lessons—it’s about dedication, effective learning strategies, and a proactive mindset. Whether you’re just starting or advancing through the levels, here are some key tips to help you maximize your progress.

 

Choosing the Right Trainer

  1. Observe Their Riding and Teaching:
  2. Look for trainers whose riding style and the progression of their horses align with your goals.
  3. If they no longer ride, assess their students’ development and riding quality.
  4. Evaluate Their Teaching Style:
  5. A great instructor provides a balance of clear commands (“put your leg on”) and explanations (“why your horse needs to be rounder”).
  6. Look for someone who pushes you just enough to improve while staying positive and encouraging about your potential.

 

Basic Etiquette for Lessons

  1. Be Punctual: Arrive early and have your horse ready to start on time. This reinforces good habits for both lessons and competitions.
  2. Listen Actively: Focus on your trainer’s instructions, and if needed, ask concise, relevant questions.
  3. Take Responsibility: Make corrections proactively during your ride, even if they’re not immediately prompted by your instructor.

 

Expand Your Learning

  1. Try Different Learning Methods:
  2. Have your trainer ride your horse, or watch them ride to observe how they address specific challenges.
  3. Incorporate books, videos, and online resources to broaden your understanding.
  4. Watch other lessons or skilled riders to develop a mental picture of what you’re aiming for.
  5. Take Notes and Use Videos:
  6. Record your lessons to review key moments.
  7. Write down takeaways after each session to help you internalize what you learned and review them before your next ride.

 

Conclusion

Being a good student of dressage means showing up prepared, engaging fully in your lessons, and taking ownership of your progress. By combining discipline, curiosity, and a proactive approach, you’ll set yourself—and your horse—on the path to success.

Happy riding!

Amelia

ABOUT YOUR INSTRUCTOR

Hey there.
I'm Amelia Newcomb

At Amelia Newcomb Dressage, I work to develop a trusting and confident relationship between horse and rider. I draw on theories from both natural horsemanship and classical dressage, creating a holistic training approach that adapts to the unique needs of each horse and rider.
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