- much more than conventional dressage training
The Scales of Training
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Assuming that the horse is physically and mentally ready to learn and technical training can proceed, the rider needs to know what to explain to the horse and the logical sequence in which to introduce it.
In essence, the Scales of Training provide a valuable framework. They describe what should be established at various stages to avoid limiting the horse's potential with incorrect or inappropriate work. The concept originated in Germany, but is becoming more familiar in the UK since recent Preliminary level tests discarded the traditional collective marks of Paces, Impulsion and Submission, instead, awarding collective marks according to the first three Scales of Training -
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This is both helpful and logical as the remaining three Scales of Training -
Thus a mark for Impulsion (not to be confused with lively activity) at Preliminary level could be confusing and lead to inappropriate priorities in training.
Collection is also a word that is often used at far too early a stage in training, when attempts to achieve it may lead only to resistance and tension in the horse, not to mention the reins!
- Impulsion
- Straightness
- Collection
Thus a mark for Impulsion (not to be confused with lively activity) at Preliminary level could be confusing and lead to inappropriate priorities in training.
Collection is also a word that is often used at far too early a stage in training, when attempts to achieve it may lead only to resistance and tension in the horse, not to mention the reins!
Rule of thumb
- then we have established a solid foundation on which to build further training.
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In practice, Rhythm and Suppleness are the basic building blocks, which in the early stages of education or rehabilitation, always require focus. Contact, as described above, will be offered by the horse when the rider has earned it!
