Grass vs Arena

[Pink Gorilla]

Does anyone notice a difference in their horse's way of going when schooling on grass vs a arena surface? I find on a nice surface, my horse is much easier to get supple, working over his back and feels more balanced. On grass (in a grass arena, not a big open field), I find he feels more stiff, choppy and on the forehand and I struggle to get an decent shape out of him.

 

[Tiddlypom]

Not really if the going in the grass arena is good - some give and not rutted, rock hard or slippery.

I schooled and competed mostly on grass back in the day including affiliated dressage. I’d be concerned about my horse if they were more stilted on grass, and would consider getting a vet check.

 

[millitiger]

Most grass arenas in the UK will be much harder than surfaced arenas at the moment and I would expect stride length to be shorter etc.
If your grass arena is good going and have some spring and give to it, then I'd question if there was an issue with the horse.

 

[SEL]

Mine is mainly schooled on grass all year but i do find he's better on a good arena surface - not too deep. I wouldn't want him on a wax surface too often but his canter work is a lot more balanced