Horsemanship and connection are the deep roots of the tree. Cut the roots, and the tree cannot survive. In the same way, dressage without a strong bond with your horse and a sound foundation becomes an imitation of outward form — correct in appearance, perhaps, but empty of life and meaning.

Groundwork is the tree’s trunk: it gives structure, stability, and a place for everything else to grow from. On the ground, you and your horse build a solid foundation of communication, balance, and gymnastic exercises. Here, you meet on the same level—eye to eye—and learn to see your horse with fresh, more attentive eyes.

In most cases, we will move on to longe work, so the horse can develop better balance in all three gaits while we further refine our communication. At the same time, we remain flexible and can incorporate other forms of training—such as work in hand or liberty work—to suit the individual horse’s needs and temperament.

Once the horse is well prepared, we begin the ridden education. In the Academic Art of Riding, the seat is the primary aid; all other aids are secondary and should cease as soon as the horse responds to the seat. For both horse and rider, this is a learning journey—developing clear, subtle communication through the seat, supported by a light rein and relaxed legs.