Classical Dressage vs Modern?

[Vindicated]

I have little understanding in regards to the differences between the two, although I do have a few books on classical dressage which often dismiss modern dressage. From what I have gathered the differences are about how force full and trainer is with a horse. Training a horse in the classical manner will take allot longer than the modern methods, so therefore it yield quick results

I also understand that a horse that has been classically trained will never be able to succeed at the top because it hasn't been forcefully trained to do 'flashy movements' to impress the 'ignorant spectators who want circus like shows'. In other words, the modern dressage horse does not represent truly natural movements like a classically trained horse, but will always succeed in competition for pure entertainment reasons.

As I have already said, these are not my own interpretations of classical and modern dressage.

Thanks

 

[shadowboy]

I teach classical having spent 6 months over a summer in 2006 with a classical trainer in Wales. I find they can morph together but I find classical is more about forward movements and enhancing natural abilities. The more modern methods are derived from classical movements but the focus has been lost a bit IMO for too much structure and pressure. The way I have described it is modern dressage is a bit like taking the front of the horse and riding the quarters forward into the bridle untill you get the convex bridge shape- when does that become too much- and you often loose swing and lightness. When I love about the classical aspect is the lightness in a horse, and the fluidity of the natutal paces, where you really feel the back swing in a trot. I have however been trained by Chris Dannan and she trains/competes BD but uses lovely classical methods- combining them effectively

 

[tallyho!]

From my experience starting dressage about 6 years ago, I have changed from "modern" to "classic". It was very harsh. I had an English teacher with German dressage background. Very much about the shape of the horse, my shape ON the horse. I remember spurs, draw reins, rearing horses. Anyway, I didn't learn much. I mostly cried. Then four years ago I found classical. Yes, you're right much slower. It was about me but talk was more about rhythm, pace, movement, suppleness. I had to stretch and do exercise, my horse didn't rear anymore. Things made sense, I was happy to CANTER!!! I hated canter before, it was like riding sideways.

Anyway, lots of politics I know that for sure but maybe now in a world of connectivity and seeimng transparency (facebook, forums etc) the two may one day merge again into a true form of dressage!