Spurs in dressage

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gemmaw

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I'm going to start competing my youngster soon in dressage, just wondering if many of you use spurs to do the test??

I only have limited use in my left side so my leg aids are easily ignored!! I have very quiet leg movements and so the spurs are not a problem, its just easier than having to maul myself at times. Is this frowned upon at low level or is it something I should mention to the judges at the time maybe??

Thanks for any comments!! ;-)
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Thats ok then, he knows I cant ride as strongly with my left leg so tends to lag a bit, he soon does the job properly with the spurs on though!!! Think its mostly in his (and my) head though cause they are the bluntest spurs I've seen in my life, they're only about 1cm long!!! I tried to get it stronger but it doesnt work, its the muscles used to grip your leg in that I have lost the use in, was hoping they would come back when I started riding but it wasnt meant to be, never mind, at least I can stop panicking now!!

Thanks!!
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You would not get marked down for using spurs properly at all! If you are sure about using them etc i see no problem in trying them even when warming up and taking them off in the arena if you felt more comfortable?! or, try a schooling sesh beforehand and see how you get on
 
Good idea, he does tend to be more lazy at home than out hacking so maybe if he knows I've got them there he might buck his ideas up!

I hate the thought of going and people looking down on me for using them on a baby, maybe I'm just too self contious!!
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Just remember....a judge would rather see spurs used correctly and a horse giving an active forward response (without rushing away from them obviosly) than a novice rider using them incorrectly. Some horses need a bit 'extra' and if you are confident in using them correctly then there isnt a problem. Although george schools well normally i have used short round balled spurs at comps on particularly hot days just to get him listening and keeping his bum from wobbling about!
 
I'm not the only one who gets that then!! he wont walk up the centre line without swinging out, its always to the left too, so annoying!! never does it with the spurs on though, tbh i think he just takes the p at times!!! typical baby!!!

he always works in a fab easy outline too but cant for the life of me get any top line on him!! He's fed plenty of build up feed twice a day even though he's out but wont put any weight on!!

keep having to remind myself he's only a baby but want to run before i walk i think!
 
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