This message is from: Curtis Pierce <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> > This message is from: "Anneli Sundkvist" > Btw...I guess I've asked this before, and it might have been discussed too. > I have not been as active on the list as I want to during the past > months...BUT is there anyone else who tries to do "spanish", "baroque" or > classical dressage with their fjords?
Hi Anneli, I'm not sure how many of us here in USA are using classical dressage techniques when training our Fjords. I do know that there are several of us on the classical dressage e-mail list (you can subscribe at: http://www.classicaldressage.com/subscribe/discussion_lists.html). You will find the list very interesting. It has several classical dressage masters from here and europe writing responses to the list, so the information is very helpful. I use the classical dressage techniques with our Fjords starting when they are about 36 to 42 months old. I feel that Fjords mature slowly, so I don't ride them until they are at least 3 years old. We do ground drive around 18 to 24 months and then carriage drive the Fjords starting around 22 to 26 months. I use the classical techniques in our training program. What I like about the classical dressage technique is that it develops the parts of the horse that is needed for a particular movement. You had mentioned the shoulder-in exercise. This is a lateral exercise that works well to supple and strengthen the hindquarter, which helps the horse canter more balanced. Basically, the classical technique gives you the tools you need to progress a horse through the dressage levels. By the way, I haven't tried the fancier movements like the spanish walk, maybe one of these days I will have a Fjord that can do it. Curt Pierce Bristow VA
