We Will Rock You!
I think everyone recognize this song no matter your age. It’s a well know anthem at sporting events with it distinctive melody of stomping and clapping. With it’s a mesmerizing rhythm it could be an energizing piece to play on your way to the barn, not only to get you in a pumped up mood but to set a rhythm in your head. Which brings me to the point of this little write up, rhythm. On the training pyramid this is the base of which all other development is based off of to bring your horse up through the levels of dressage. While rhythm is a simple in concept, maintaining a rhythmical footfall on your horse is a mythical feat and takes a lot of concentration, which is why it in the base of the training pyramid. I have spent countless hours making laps around the arena in a zone simply focusing my horse’s footfalls and found myself amazed that the next block on the training pyramid happened! The horse does find relaxation when the rider provides a steady rhythm in their position. It adds security not only to the horse’s balance but to their mind, you are providing leadership and as a herd animal this is something they can fall in line with. Recognizing the correct rhythm for your horse may take an educated ground person to give you feedback on how your horse is moving. The horse can’t be rushed as this won’t lead to relaxation nor can it be lazy because you won’t be able to get any impulsion. Once you have found a good rhythm for your horse you can find a song that matches this or set a metronome and ride with it in your pocket. With the song playing of the metronome playing spend a week or so simply maintaining this rhythm. As a rider I want to be able to recognize the correct rhythm for my horse so I am able to go from one movement to the next and maintain it. This becomes more difficult as you add the extended trot, passage or piaffe but if the rhythm is maintained your scores will reflect it. Your horse and the judges will appreciate it!
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