Welcome to the Dressage Today Podcast sponsored by USRider. Stephanie and Aviva take a look back at who they talked to in 2023, and Aviva answers an “Ask the L” question about how long to halt and salute. Then Stephanie does a reading of Half Halts Simplified with Kathy Connelly, which was the most read article on Dressage Today’s website in 2022.
Kathy Connelly, a renowned dressage trainer and instructor, breaks down the concept of half-halts in dressage riding. In this article, she simplifies this often-misunderstood technique and explains its importance in improving communication between horse and rider.
She also delves into the different types of half-halts and their purposes, such as the preparatory half-halt to prepare for a transition or movement, and the balancing half-halt to improve collection and balance in more advanced movements.
Connelly addresses common mistakes riders make when attempting half-halts, such as using too much rein or not engaging the hindquarters enough. She provides helpful tips and exercises to improve the rider’s understanding and execution of this technique.
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