In the world of dressage, we often hear the term “connection” tossed around, but what does it really mean? Many riders are taught that widening their hands creates a connection with their horse. However, this method can often be misleading and counterproductive to developing genuine self-carriage and confidence in our equine partners.
The Myth of Widening the Hands
Widening the hands might seem like an easy way to establish a link between rider and horse, but it rarely produces the desired outcome of a true connection. When we pull our hands apart, we inadvertently create a passive contact that lacks the necessary engagement from the horse’s hind end. Instead of encouraging the horse to push from behind into the bridle, widening the hands often results in a false, rider-created connection.
True connection is established when the horse actively seeks the contact rather than being forced into it. A horse that seeks the hand does so by engaging its hindquarters, using its back, and lifting its front end, which ultimately leads to better balance and self-carriage.
The Role of the Hind End
To achieve this true connection, it is crucial for our horses to understand the importance of pushing from their backend. When a horse engages its hindquarters, it creates energy that travels through its body, allowing it to connect softly and willingly with the bit. This push from behind is the foundation of self-carriage. If we create contact by merely widening our hands, we risk stifling this natural movement and the horse may become heavy on the forehand, losing balance and confidence in the process.
Embracing the Imperfection
As riders, we might feel anxious about our horses looking less than perfect during this learning phase. However, understanding that this is part of the process can help us ride with more patience and clarity. The horse will not always present a “picture-perfect” frame while learning to push from behind and seek the hand. Instead, it may express itself through a less polished appearance, showing signs of exploring its balance.
The journey towards true connection requires commitment from both the rider and the horse. We must be willing to tolerate the messy stages of development, granting our horses the time and space to learn without the pressure of needing to look a certain way.
Creating a Genuine Connection
To cultivate a true connection, start by allowing your horse to develop the vital skill of pushing from behind. Focus on exercises that promote engagement of the hind end, like transitions and lateral work. Encourage your horse to work through its back and find its balance without immediately seeking to produce a specific frame.
Once your horse begins to engage regularly from the backend, you can start to focus on the connection, ensuring that it comes from the horse’s desire to reach forward to the bit rather than an external force created by the rider. Remember, the best connection happens when the horse feels secure and confident, leading them to seek your hand willingly.
In conclusion, let's shift our mindsets. Instead of widening our hands as a first response to establish a connection, let’s focus on developing strength and confidence in our horses first. With time, patience, and the right approach, we can help them learn to truly seek the hand, creating a connection that is both genuine and empowering for both parties involved. This journey may not always be pretty, but the results will undoubtedly be worth it.
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