Rider Wellness
Horses and riders are both athletes. Maximize your own health and fitness to take your dressage training to the next level with these articles on rider fitness, sport psychology for equestrians, injury management and more.
The Latest
Instruction
No Stirrup November: A Month-Long Commitment to Improving Your Seat WITH or WITHOUT Stirrups
Try these tips by Dave Thind to develop a more independent seat.
Lifestyle
You Can’t Build Elegance with Force
Drawing parallels between yoga and dressage has helped this Grand Prix rider and trainer elevate his balance and strength and see the training journey through his horses' eyes.
Rider Wellness
Competition Dressage: Is Your Mindset Holding You Back?
Understand how mindset, preparation and goal setting can transform your competition experience.
Lifestyle
…But Look How Far You’ve Come
A reflection on the journey from the rider I used to be to the one I dream to become.
Lifestyle
Why Barn Culture Matters
Grand prix dressage rider and trainer Kim McGrath learned early on that barn culture can make or break a person’s or horse’s ambitions.
Lifestyle
VIDEO: Robert Dover on the Power of Visualization
In this video, former Technical Advisor for the U.S. Dressage Team Robert Dover explains the four major qualities a rider needs to own and the importance of visualization.
Rider Fitness
Unmounted Fitness Exercises for Mature Dressage Riders
Rider fitness tips to improve flexibility, mobility and strength for the over-40 rider
Rider Wellness
How Perfectionism Can Hinder Progress in Dressage
Psychologist Jane Karol explains a helpful mental approach to becoming a better rider.
Lifestyle
How Dressage Riders Benefit from Developing Strong Core Muscles
USEF “S” dressage judge Debbie Rodriguez shares her thoughts on becoming a fit rider.
Instruction
Fitness Tips for Weekend-Warrior Riders
Charlotte Bredahl-Baker answers this reader question, explaining what you can do to improve your ability to follow your horse's movement, especially if you aren't able to ride regularly.