How to gain expression

How to gain EXPRESSION

If it comes to the point of reaching more expression, it should always be clear that it is a long way to the aim, which can only be reached by actual work. Many riders try to make their horses move more extravagant by building up tension. However, this is one of the biggest mistakes in dressage. Long-lasting expression is a sign of a proper education and thus cannot be enforced by any measures.At the beginning of the path is the suppleness, which means that the horse accepts the reins and responds to the equestrian aids. In order to work on expression, it is recommended to ride many transitions. Transitions help the horse to find its balance and develop strenght. Furthermore, it motivates the horses to be more attentive. In addition to transitions between two gaits, like trot to canter, it can be useful to ride transitions within a gait, like collected and extended trot or canter. Another issue would be the riding of lessons that are suitable to build up muscles. Without the correct and developed muscles a horse will never be able to its full power and fortune. the musculoskeletal system should remain supple throughout the whole movement. small obstacles serve as gymnastics and can help to support and promote the development of force. It is important to incorporate small breaks during a workout. This helps the muscles to regenerate and the horse to clear its mind.Gaining expression is all about collecting the horse. Collecting means to have the horse diligent, but not fast. Here some exercises that can help you to collect your horse ( Collection is also a long way → it leads to expression) :

Difficult transitions:

• • Trot - Stop // Stop -Trot
• • Canter - Stop // Stop -Canter
• • Walk-Canter // Canter-Walk
• backwards to Trot / Canter
• Riding a quater pirouette in walk and than canter
• Decreasing a circle to a diameter of 8 metres
• Bending and position training
• a Turn on the hindlegs while it is still diligent with the rythm of walk (called 'Kurzkehrt' in Germany)
• letting go of the reins ( trying to keep the horse in the same frame)
• try to have the hind legs among you in transitions → using a whip can help
• don't hold on too tightly with your hands. If your horse tries to block the reins ride more forward

• Shoulder-in on the circle

• Half-pass approaches

and get it back to your aids.

Remember:

Trying to ride slowly don't lead you to collection and so on no chance for reaching expression! Ride forward !