Schooling for dressage

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Ajss

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So I have just got a new horse one week ago and have decided that j would like to do unaffiliated dressage on him then possible work up to British dressage, I'm unsure what exercises I should start off with and I'm also unsure how to get him abit more off my leg as I'm always kicking asking him to go forward. Spurs are my last option but I have been kicking him and if not listened I give him a quick flip with the whip any suggestions welcome. Also think I need to build up his top line muscle?
 
Huge subject .
I can't possibly show you how to train a horse from posting as your post shows you need to be trained from first principles .
The answer to to find a good trainer to train you and show you how to train your horse .
I wish all the best and great fun with him .
 
Yup, MAAAANY lessons; dressage is a lifetime's learning and you will need much help from those that know how 'tis done. Talking years here.....
 
Agree with above you need lessons, do not get into the habit of kicking. A good trainer will give you exercises to do in between lessons. He may be testing you a little and you may find he gets more responsive when you get more tuned in.
 
For in between lessons, you may wish to invest in this:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/101-Schooling-Exercises-Horse-Rider/dp/0715319507

And, a break from schooling and adding some variety in the form of hacking and the odd jumping session (once per week) should help to get him going forward a bit more.

Of course, any reluctance to move forward should be checked physically - have a saddler out to ensure your tack is fitting appropriately, get his back checked by your vet or a trained horse chiro/osteo/physio (they cannot diagnose but they can tell you whether the horse is uncomfortable, and finally, get his teeth checked.

Have fun with your new horse. If you tell us where you are based, we might be able to recommend a good flatwork instructor.
 
Get yourself a good instructor and be sure to vary your horses work. I do dressage and my horses do a real mixture of things- they may go in the school once a week, maybe even just once a fortnight- but I school out hacking. Shoulder-in and lateral work along paths, transition work in fields etc. I also go regularly to farm rides to play over the fences- keeps them interested and gives them time to have a blast and allows me to build up their fitness.
 
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