A horse’s healthy posture needs to be created from the inside out and is developed by relaxation of the topline, the forward thrust (impulsion), and balance. A round frame that is created from the “outside in” by pulling backward or down with the hand is created under tension and this pulling on the reins hinders the horse’s ability to push from behind. Under tension the horse is unable to efficiently use their back movement muscles and thereby impede the efficient forward movement of the horse. If the frame of the horse is created by “front to back (backward or downward)” pulling or by artificial aids (example: draw reins or side reins) behavior and soundness issues can arise. The horse will travel with stiffness and tension which is undesirable for the horses’s health.

Classical methods form the basis of a training program that includes systematic mental and physical development of the horse’s aptitudes and gymnastic abilities. The training program is set out in a series of progressional phases that develop a horse’s well being and creates an obedient and pleasurable riding companion.

The classical training program consists of a training scale that includes three phases and seven sub phases. These phases include:

1. Preliminary familiarization and riding training – the foundation
   1. tacking up, lunging, and backing
   2. rhythm & tempo
2. Contact and acceptance of the bit
   1. development of the forward thrust (Impulsion)
   2. relaxation and looseness
   3. straightness
3. Development of the carrying capacity (Collection)
   1. impulsion
   2. collection & elevation

All of these phases together develop suppleness and throughness or “letting the aids through”. Each phase of the training includes specific exercises and movements to develop the healthy equine athlete over time.

What type of horse and rider benefit from classical riding principles and training?

Horses and riders in all disciplines from reining to jumping to pleasure activities benefit by training within the principles of classical riding. A horse that is balanced and through and is free to naturally move is a pleasure to ride. The classical exercises and movements increase the gymnastic abilities of the horse and develops the rider to be more mentally attuned to the horse and improves the rider’s connection to the horse’s movement.

The training scale sections that guide the training decisions:

Rhythm Tempo Contact Relaxation Straightness Impulsion Collection

“Letting the aids through”

A horse that is trained with classical methods will be able to do well in all disciplines and riding activities. Classical training leads step by step towards the holistic supple, balanced, straight horse. The training develops through interdependent levels that honor the mental and athletic ability of the horse. A horse that is trained slowly with care to the highest levels will be able to perform for many years.