From Classical Dressage to Working Equitation

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 What is French Classical Dressage?

Classical Dressage in the French style is characterized by lightness. The horse is in self-carriage and has self-impulsion. The reins have a light contact or even a slight loop. The rider sits with a deep and supple seat, legs hanging long and quiet. The whole picture is of quiet elegance. 

 Discover the Art of Groundwork and 

Long Reining! 

This skill will help you build a strong foundation for a harmonious connection with your horse. Miles put on in this practice teaches light hands and is a wonderful form of exercise for both you and your horse!

 Working Equitation is an equestrian sport that tests the versatility and skills of horse and rider combinations, drawing inspiration from traditional working riding methods of southern Europe and combining elements of dressage, obstacle navigation, and cattle work.  

 Liberty training with horses involves working with a horse without any physical restraints like halters or reins, focusing on building a strong connection and trust through body language and positive reinforcement.  

 Riding side saddle is an equestrian tradition where the rider sits sideways on the horse, with both legs on the same side, rather than astride, and is often associated with women riding in skirts for modesty and elegance.  

 In horse riding, a quadrille is a choreographed dressage routine, often performed to music, where a team of four or more riders and their horses execute intricate movements together, resembling an equestrian ballet or drill team.  

Pedestal training to Scavengar Hunts on Horseback, Long-Reining Quadrilles and classes over poles are just a few of the "Fun Classes" we have here at McCrae Farm! You never know what Jill will think up next!

 The garrocha is a long pole used in Spanish and Portuguese riding, particularly in Doma Vaquera (a style of Spanish riding used for working cattle and handling bulls), to help move and influence cattle, similar to how a lariat is used in North American ranch riding.  

 If you're interested in classical dressage theory, consider Jill's lectures focusing on the principles of classical horsemanship, by attending in-person clinics or workshops.