Judge Tip: Developing the Rhythm
BD List 1 Judge, dressage trainer and coach, Mary-Anne Horn has given us this great exercise to help develop the rhythm in trot and canter.
In the trot
1️⃣ Starting on the right rein, ride a good corner at CM (use a cone or block if necessary).
2️⃣ When you reach R start counting the strides so every time you rise count down until you reach P.
3️⃣ Repeat down the next long side. The strides should be the same. Pay attention to the tempo and really focus on the steps.
4️⃣ Change the rein and repeat aiming for the same number of strides. Practise until you have achieved this.
This exercise will help greatly as you are focussing and the horse's trot should improve.
In the canter
1️⃣ Starting at the second quarter marker gives you time to be straight. Again count the number of strides.
2️⃣ Repeat on the other rein.
3️⃣ As you progress you should be able to lengthen the strides and achieve fewer showing you are covering more ground. This will help greatly in your preparation for some medium strides in Novice tests. Also counting the strides before M and then again at the end from P to F will encourage you to pay attention to your transition after the medium.
A great one to try at home but also something to focus on in the competition warm up!