Schooling the Horse: The Importance of Lengthening the Neck By Manolo Mendez, Professor of Classical Dressage
In the paddock or in the wild, we can see horses playing or challenging each other with a naturally collected outline and a flexed poll. But a horse will hold this posture for moments only before returning to his most natural and comfortable stance - head and neck lowered and most of his weight on the forehand. And when he does collect, he will also instinctively lift his back and use muscles, ligaments, tendons and bones all over his body to properly support this posture. In training for dressage, one of the most damaging things we can do to a horse - especially a young horse - is demand an "outline". A beautiful outline is something that will, if the training is correct, develop naturally over a period of years. To insist on it before the horse is ready can and does lead to premature breakdown in body, mind - and spirit. ____________________________________ Judy http://icehorses.net http://clickryder.com
