A close up image of the letter B of the dressage arena while the sun sets

ASKHQ: COUNTER-CANTER

Q: What is counter-canter and why is it worth practising? Counter-canter is when a horse deliberately canters on the outside lead. For example, the horse canters on the left lead on a right-hand circle, or the right lead on a left-hand loop. In ordinary canter work, the horse’s leading leg matches the direction of travel;…

BylizzieDecember 13, 20250Comments

Horse Channel Horse Training

DRESSAGE FOR THE SHOWJUMPING HORSE

Text: Shari Michaelis While showjumping might seem like a ‘point and shoot’ discipline to some spectators, a good showjumping round requires much more from the horse than just clearing the jumps. Showjumping demands that the horse is adjustable, flexible, in balance, has straightness in his body and has a good and powerful canter. Working the horse…

BylizzieMay 1, 20210Comments

Ask HQ Horse Channel Horse Training

ASKHQ: STRAIGHT APPROACH

Q: How can I keep my horse straight over fences? Are there any exercises that help with this? A: A straight approach to a fence is very important and the training for this begins on the flat. Until your horse moves evenly into both hands and pushes fairly equally with both hind legs, you’ll struggle to…

BylizzieFebruary 23, 20210Comments

Horse Channel Horse Training

BACK TO BASICS 3

Straighten up Straightness is important for all horses – regardless of discipline – and something riders should work hard to establish , regardless of the horse’s age. Straightness promotes evenness and balance in the body, and assists a horse’s turning abilities by keeping the shoulders and hindquarters from falling in or out. …

BylizzieJune 4, 20200Comments

Horse Training Know How

Holiday exercise

While some might be heading off for an exotic beach holiday or a trip overseas, others might be enjoying the peace and quiet of home. If you’re not planning on going anywhere, you might want to fill your days with some riding. Those who work full and busy weeks might also want to take advantage…

BylizzieDecember 17, 20160Comments

Horse Channel Horse Training

The shoulder-in

Your horse will be on three tracks in the shoulder-in [dropcap]A[/dropcap]t the risk of sounding like every instructor who has ever taught you, I am going to start with a critical piece of information: If you are ever struggling to master a new movement or technique, you need to go back to basics. In dressage horses,…

BylizzieApril 13, 20160Comments

ASKHQ: COUNTER-CANTER

DRESSAGE FOR THE SHOWJUMPING HORSE

ASKHQ: STRAIGHT APPROACH

BACK TO BASICS 3

Holiday exercise

The shoulder-in

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