A Lesson via Facebook?

3/21/2016

Yesterday I wrote about how much in need of a lesson I am. Chemaine Hurtado, my trainer, saw the post and made a suggestion on Facebook.

An e-lesson!

While we aren't suddenly "fixed," Chemaine's suggestion did do wonders. Izzy was a bit tired from the ride from the day before, but even so, he was still much more willing to canter when I simply scooped with my seat. It will be wonderful to have a horse who is that responsive to just a seat aid.

I guess that's why we pay the trainers the big bucks. They see the things we can't yet see. Obviously, I've been doing my job correctly if Izzy is getting to the point where he needs a quieter and more subtle canter aid. Go, me!

A lot less sweaty after this ride!

I am really looking forward to tomorrow's lesson. Izzy gets today off, but I am eager to see how Chemaine will build on her Facebook suggestion. I am certain she'll help refine my aid which should encourage Izzy to feel more confident in the canter transition.

I'll let you know how it goes!

jenj

3/21/2016 08:12:11 am

Aww, go Izzy! And yay for lessons! I love lesson sooo much... I'd take one every day if I could.

Bakersfield Dressage link

3/21/2016 05:35:41 pm

OMG me too! Right now, I can only swing it once a month as the five hours of driving really bites. :0)

Amie Cline

3/21/2016 08:27:35 am

I was having a similar issue when my daughter (16yrs. old) suggested I was asking too aggressively. Darned if she wasn't right!

3/21/2016 05:37:03 pm

I try very hard to be as subtle (yet as clear) as possible myself, but I guess there is always room for improvement. :0)

SarahO link

3/21/2016 01:23:30 pm

Interesting. I think I might be having a similar issue with Kachina.

With a horse who's green to the canter, it seems like making the aid obvious is helpful. Of course that aid must become quieter at some point, but I don't know when that point is. It seems like Izzy found a very obvious way to tell you that he was ready for a change.

Hope you have a good lesson!

3/21/2016 05:38:11 pm

Exactly - you have to be clear, but you're right. Eventually "clear" needs to become subtle. I'm really looking forward to hearing what Chemaine thinks.

Teresa link

3/21/2016 04:27:25 pm

That is great. I love the idea of virtual lessons! Carmen gets upset if I ask too strongly too.

3/21/2016 05:39:37 pm

I am lucky that she's okay with the questions via text and phone. :0)

I try not to over use the "virtual" lessons, but this tip came unasked for, so I think I am okay. :0)

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Not-So-Speedy Dressage