Kristie Lutz • Dressage

11/18/2024

In the Collective Marks section of all of our national dressage tests, there are two score boxes for the rider. The first of these is for “position and seat.” What the judge assesses to determine this score are elements of equitation that are the foundation for effective communication with the horse. A correct, balanced, and independent seat is necessary for successful training and competition.
The test sheets list five directive ideas that the judge considers in formulating the collective mark for rider position and seat:
* Alignment
* Posture
* Stability
* Weight placement
* Following the mechanics of the gaits.

In this first part in this new series from USDF Connection magazine, Jayne Ayers looks at how judges evaluate the rider in the dressage tests, beginning her focus with the first directive: “alignment”.

Filled with helpful diagrams, you won’t want to miss this rider biomechanics article: https://yourdressage.org/2024/10/18/rider-biomechanics/

11/16/2024

Ambition is important in dressage, but it should never overshadow connection.

Don’t let your goals get in the way of your relationship with your horse.

Remember, there will always be another test, another competition.

Every ride is a chance to deepen your bond, to understand one another better, and to find happiness in simply being together.

*Written by M Dressage*

11/16/2024

To feel correct contact …

"Imagine a fishing line. When the horse is behind the hand or “empty,” the contact feels like the fishing line is just hanging on the water [image on left], but once you get the horse pushing into the bit, the contact you feel is like a draw on your back, elbows, forearm and hand—just like a fish taking the line [image on right]." —Mica Mabragaña

🎨 Illustration by Sandy Rabinowitz

This image first appeared in the Fall 2020 issue of Practical Horseman magazine.

11/15/2024

11/12/2024

Congratulations, Abigail and AppleJax!

Year end awards standings from National Dressage Pony Cup are final. Fourth place for 2024 at Intro Level with an average final score of 67.438%

We are proud of you! What a wonderful way to end out your career together. 🤍

11/11/2024

It’s been a busy year!

Clocking out for the week!

I’ll return all texts, emails and scheduling requests next week.

Thanks for understanding!

11/10/2024

11/10/2024

✨🎄HOLIDAY GIFT CARDS 🎄✨ Available for Training, Coaching, Virtual Lessons or In-Person Lessons - Contact me for details

11/10/2024

1000% ❤️

11/09/2024

What a wonderful weekend!

The 2024 USDF Dressage Finals had nothing short of high caliber, quality competitors and horses. The show was well organized, ran on time and without a hitch all weekend.

It’s truly an honor to be invited, congratulations to everyone who attended!!

It has been an incredible honor to coach these two throughout their journey over the last year.

I am so proud of the hard work and dedication these two have put in. So many changes and improvements have been made since January and I cannot wait to see what 2025 brings for them.

For 2024, Syd and Lena finish 18th in the nation at Third Level (Jr/Yr), in addition to obtaining their two scores at Fourth Level needed for his Silver Medal and secured the top Trekehner breed spot at Third Level for Jr/Yr and second in the Open Division!

It’s been a busy year and they have stepped up to the plate time and time again. Now a well earned break before gearing up for the 2025 season!

Congratulations, Sydney Gordon and a huge thank you to the support team behind him! Jamie Lee Gordon, Scott Gordon - this would not be possible without you!!

11/08/2024

Another beautiful day with an improved test from yesterday. Looking forward to championships tomorrow!

11/07/2024

Day one of 2024 USDF Dressage Finals was a success! A great warm up test, 62.125% and a pretty white ribbon. Excited for the next two days!

11/06/2024

•Horses know•

From the second you step into the stall, they know what kind of day you’ve had.

They can sense your stress.
They can sense your exhaustion.
They can feel your sense of urgency.
They can sense your tension.

But, they can also sense your relaxation.
They can sense your enthusiasm.
They can sense your presence.
They can sense your joy.
They can sense things about you that you might not even be aware of yourself.

A horse’s intuition is a gift.
It is a gift that holds you accountable.
It challenges you to show up as the best version of yourself.

When you give your horse your best self, you help them give their best to you. 🤍

11/04/2024

11/04/2024

You're an exemplary model of dedication and enthusiasm, Jeannie. Your unrelenting positivity has a profound impact, inspiring us all to strive for excellence. We adore you! 💙