In this episode of the Dressage Today Podcast, sponsored by EQUESTRIAN+, Aviva and Stephany chatted with custom bit maker Beth Haist again to take a deeper dive into the topics they touched on in their first podcast with her. The owner of The Horse of Course, Inc., a full-service tack shop and fixture at many of the nation’s top dressage competitions, provides a comprehensive overview of bit metals, sizes and weight and discusses the double bridle, including its purpose and when it can be useful, as well as how different curb bits work in a horse’s mouth.

Aviva also reflects on how social media can negatively affect your riding, confidence and overall well-being. She talks about how easy it is to criticize in the name of “critiquing,” while aptly pointing out that a single photo or video clip never represents the full story because they only capture a split moment in time. She and Stephany share their thoughts on how we can all work on being kinder to our fellow dressage riders. “As equestrians, we’re always striving for improvement,” Aviva notes. “And most of us are out there trying to get better with every ride.”

Additionally in this episode, Stephany shares news of her latest win with Dante and qualifying for Regionals, and in the Ask the L segment, Aviva talks about posting versus sitting in Training and First Levels. She discusses the various reasons behind what judges are looking for and how you can best help your horse with either trot.

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About This Podcast’s Sponsor: EQUESTRIAN+

From short training tips to how-to videos and insider-access to private clinics and lessons, learn from top dressage experts with EQUESTRIAN+. Watch exclusive interviews and lectures, slow motion demonstrations and step-by-step tutorials taught by top-level pros and explore cross-discipline topics such as groundwork, rider fitness and stable management. Visit equestrianplus.com to sign up for a 7-day free trial with subscription.