A Cold February Morning

It is mighty cold this morning, so time for a little blog update!

As I teach here at Timberlane and around the country, I am constantly evaluating what it is that makes an effective, harmonious rider. This contemplation has lead me to pick up a few of my old stand by books, as well as buying some new authors. My latest purchase, Kottas on Dressage, was inspired by the visiting Lipizzaner show. Arthur Kottas was the First Chief Rider at the Famous Spanish Riding School of Vienna. His book is wonderfully simple and to the point. A rider must have a well developed seat. "The rider shapes the horse." "Why a good seat is so important. The right posture gives you security and comfort; it will influence the stability of the rider/horse combination and determine any change of balance. It is a major aid; everything else is only ancillary. It is the most important tool of communication between horse and rider: any change of posture is a strong aid to the horse." He goes on to define the rider's position, discusses training the seat on the lunge, and then works through the three gaits, various movements, common faults and how to correct them. If you are interested in reading further, I have added the book to my recommended list on the website.

http://astore.amazon.com/timfardrellc-20

As winter drags on, I am planning another trip to Florida. A group of my students from the clinic in Del ray is showing at the Wellington Classic, March 11-13. If you are interested in taking a break from cold, join me! The show is a CDI and promises many big names!

The first of April, I will be heading to the Oldenburg auction in Vechta, Germany to scout out some new young talent to import. I am very excited. Anyone wanting to join in this shopping trip is also welcomed!

That brings us to May, when show season takes off! I can't wait to get back to riding outside and prepping for shows. Until then, remember, "A superficially correct but tense seat will create stiffness and anxiety in the horse. Only if the rider is free from such tension can the horse be relaxed." "The best seat is one that allows the horse, in any given exercise, to be in balance and develop impulsion (forward thrust) with minimum interference from the rider."

Happy reading and happy riding!

Laurie