In the video, I’m going over my top three tips for establishing a steady contact in Dressage and General Riding.
One of the most common struggles I see dressage riders having with their horses is that they can’t maintain a steady contact. Does this sound like you? Your horse is inconsistent, you feel like your hands are all over the place, you have trouble turning and steering, and you can’t get your horse round no matter how hard you try! If this is you, then you’ll enjoy this week’s video.
Here are my top three tips for establishing a steady contact:
Forward with Rhythm for a Steady Contact
Before you even think about establishing a steady contact, it’s super important to get your horse forward and in front of your leg. If you feel safe, it’s best if you can work on this with a loose rein. Work on getting a nice active gait by counting the rhythm, focusing on your seat following the rhythm, and maintaining your alignment: ear, shoulder, hip, and heel. Your horse should maintain the forward rhythm without you having to constantly remind them to keep going with your leg.
Shortening the Reins for a Steady Contact
Once your horse is forward, you can now start shortening the reins. Check-in with your forward before you shorten the reins – remember, the correct sequence of the aids is leg, seat, and then hands. Before you do anything with your reins, you should first use your leg. Ask for a little more tempo, then begin shortening your reins gently until you have a soft feel on the corners of your horse’s mouth. As you’re riding, make sure you have a straight line elbow to mouth, and your elbows are following the motion of your horse’s gait. This will allow you to keep the steady contact.
After Contact: Riding Your Horse Round
Now that you have steady contact, let’s talk about using your reins and getting your horse round. When you’re riding, it’s important that you use direct rein aids, not indirect rein aids. Your hands shouldn’t cross the withers! To get your horse supple and on the bit:
- Put your inside leg on at the girth (remember, leg first then hand)
- Keep a steady outside rein
- Use your inside rein to supple your horse
With these three steps, you can get your horse inside leg to outside rein and on the bit! Remember, when you so use your reins, you first want to use your fingers, then your wrist, then your elbow. Don’t just pull back right away when you want your horse to come round!
I hope these tips help you with your contact!
Happy Riding!
Amelia
Updated 06/05/2026
