Practical Horseman

Tips from USDF Trainers Conference

“Dressage is the systematic development of the natural abilities of the horse,” stated Henk van Bergen during the first ride of the Adequan®/U.S. Dressage Federation FEI-Level Trainers Conference. After a two-year absence due to the pandemic, more than 300 enthusiastic individuals descended upon Mary Anne McPhail’s High Meadow Farm in Loxahatchee, Florida, in January to gain wisdom and perspective from van Bergen, David Hunt, Linda Zang and Lilo Fore. They were not disappointed.

The rider and horse combinations were all upper level as the intended purpose of the two-day conference was designed to educate FEI-level trainers and instructors in the classical system of dressage. Throughout the two days, the experts offered numerous training exercises and tips that, while advanced for those in attendance, will offer insights for other levels.

TIP

The rider needs to teach the horse where he wants him to go and then show the horse how he

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