shall i just give up??

L

lilym

Guest
really stuck on a plateau with dressage, we do prelim and never seem to get out of the upper 50's lower 60's, my crap riding is holding me right back, i always get 4's and 5's coz i am just such a fat, unbalanced lump. i cannot get an outline to save my life, and i really cannot see myself improving! my mare is a cob who is slightly croup high and finds it difficult to get up off her forhand, on the bright side we can now maintain a canter all be it she gets so far on her forehand she could plough the school with her nose!
today i totally over-rode her pushing her out of her rhythum making her stick her head up........i really should be kept away from horses!!
does anyone else have days like this or is it just me?
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we all have days like that, honestly. you need an instructor who likes your horse, is patient, really knows what they're talking about, and will happily take the time to help you get the basics right so that you can progress.
i hopestly believe that almost any horse can do a decent test. i had one who had rubbish natural paces, was built on the forehand, but tried very hard... it took a lot of time and patience, but eventually she learnt to carry herself and would do a really nice, correct test. she ended up winning at Aff Elementary level, which is pretty good for a horse with no natural elevation at all, so it can be done.
most cobs have good rhythm and because they are powerful, once they learn how to carry themselves, they can get good marks.
very best of luck!
 
Dont worry, we all feel like this sometimes, i always feel i have a block on my jumping, but i keep trying! atleast you are aware what you did wrong so you can improve, do you have regular lessons?
 
We all have days like that but watch out that it is your attitude that is holding you back. Try and focus on the positives and what you do well - don't run yourself down. Start to believe in yourself and things will improve continue focusing on your negative points and you will struggle.
 
Hi

Dont feel to down read my post "bad day" it happens to us all, I just wish I had stayed in bed
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At least you knew you over rode so try and take a little pressure off.

Join me for a glass of wine
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thanks for the advice everyone!! i think it is nerves and i just over-ride and make her rush...one thing i am pleased about is that i remembered BOTH tests and have no need for a caller anymore!! yay!
 
Well, there you go... Remembering 2 tests is an achievement in itself & a damn sight more than some people ever manage!

Get yourself a good trainer & you'll be well on the way.
 
Alot of people ride alright at home but tend to over ride at competitions. I think they are just trying too hard & tension & when this happens all balance & rythmn goe out the window. I know it's easy to say but harder to do but try to relax more in your test & breathe. Things will get better. Good Luck & keep at it.
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Well done getting out there. Remember why you do it - For Fun. Getting the canter is an achievment in its self. As for shape etc not all horses are perfectly built, but an acurate test can make a big difference. My friends pony has the shortest neck ever and a real pony stride, but she rides the most accurate tests and does pretty well. She will never have big flashy paces and a wonderful outline, but a round circle and movements dead on the mark make it harder for judges to take away marks.
 
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