Starting Dressage

CharliH

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1 March 2010
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I've been riding for 13 years this year, and I have had time out of work due to injuries and health problems. Now i'm getting back into it, i'm wanting to start something new so i'm going to be training in dressage.

I was just wondering how long it usually takes to train to a competing level usually? I know nothing about dressage so i'm really excited about having something to sink my teeth into!
 
Well, intro (walk and trot) are in theory quite simple. So if you can steer, stop, trot and ride a few circles (which I am sure after 13 years you can!!) you are ready now!!

The idea is you start at intro and as you progress and train further you work your way up the levels. You may find you work much quicker than you thought...

Goodluck.x
 
do you have a horse of your own?

it does depend on the horse & rider combination

how quickly the horse learns/how good the riders signals are

i started my horse myself and due to starting his schooling late it took us almost 18months to be able to keep inside the arena without running off to be able to do a prelim test

hes been placed in every prelim we have done so far

its important not to rush it & take your time

my instructor went from prelim to PSG on her stallion in 6 years - she started him herself and had a lesson every few months with her trainer (Carl hester)

her stallion now is with CH and training in piaffe passage & pirouttes etc

x
 
Assuming you are not going out to win at your first competition you should be able to start competing now as long as your horse can walk and trot (for Intro tests) and canter (for Preliminary tests).

Probably best to start at an unaffiliated show to see how things go.
 
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