12/09/2021
Always good notes from Charles.
Use of Aids in Collection - an excerpt from Training Strategies for Dressage Riders by Charles de Kunffy
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WHAT WE WANT & HOW IT MANIFESTS ITSELF
Relaxation
• Longitudinal bending (on the bit)
• Acceptance of driving aids (stepping under rather than speeding up, or lengthening rather than hurrying).
Balance
• Lateral bending (with continuous spinal flexion and without speeding up or slowing down).
• Transitions from gait to gait (without impurities or uneven footfalls).
Rhythm
• Lengthening and shortening strides (the base of the horse) without losing flexion (relaxation and stretching of muscles while skeletal balance changes).
Impulsion
• Controlled energy, manifested in slower but more suspended action; more fluent, continuous, and round action; supple use of joints owning to elastic musculature.
Engagement
• Cadence: effortless flight (suspension); minimum energy produces maximum suspension because the haunches carry maximum weight, liberating the forehand.
Photo: Patrick King
