Dressage Solutions: Develop a Forward Feeling

Try this tip from Jennifer Baumert.

To develop a forward, in-front-of-the-leg feeling in your horse…

Imagine his hind leg as a spring. Half halts and downward transitions compress the spring to make your horse better balanced and more able to go forward. Remember, you can only achieve this spring-loading effect if your horse is thinking forward as he comes back. 

—Jennifer Baumert

(Illustration by Sandy Rabinowitz)

Click here to read more articles with Jennifer Baumert. 

Jennifer Baumert is a USDF gold medalist, USDF Certified Instructor and USEF long-listed Grand Prix rider who specializes in training horses and riders to the top of their ability in dressage. She takes horses in training for further dressage development, competition or sales and enjoys working with riders at all levels. 

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