TSEC Stephanie Kappes Horse4Sport Classical Dressage
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At TSEC we provide training and lessons that develop the relationship of horse and rider. Using the principles of Classical Dressage we are able to train horses and riders from the beginning stages of horsemanship through the advance levels. Our program develops all around horses and riders that enjoy each other in many different disciplines.
Our training program is designed to develop the horse and rider relationship, regardless of your interests. Classical Dressage and its principles is the art of developing horses and riders. Whether you want to ride Dressage competitively, jump, do any other competitive event on your horse, or just trail ride, Classical Dressage will enhance you and your horse's abilities and enjoyment of each other.
Jumping helps both the rider and horse improve their balance, strength and confidence. The cross country helps horse and rider learn how to move on uneven ground, cross obstacles, and cross through water. In addition it helps to break up the routine of arena riding. Although you won't have to jump if you don't want to, our program will get you comfortable enough to.
Riding horses has its risks. A lesson program that incorporates safe jumping can actually help reduce the risk to both horse and rider. As jumping will increase the balance, strength and confidence of both horse and rider. As long as you and your horse are not pushing your limits, jumping can be both safe and fun.
Yes. Your horse will become stronger and more balanced, as will you. Some fear that once a horse starts jumping then they'll jump everything, while just the opposite is true. Some horses will walk over the highest of obstacles while others will jump the smallest branch. Either horse when put into a correct jumping program will learn when it is appropriate to jump and when they should just step.
Yes. What's being termed as "natural horsemanship" of today, is the basic foundation of Classical Dressage training that has been used through the ages. (See Classical Dressage and Dressage vs. Natural Horsemanship) Developing the trust and respect of the young horse is paramount to having the horse perform for the rider later in the training. A horse that has had an improper start with humans will never perform at the same level as the horse that has been started correctly.
Reins are an important communication aid that is priceless when used correctly with the other aids. We teach riders how to correctly incorporate this communication into their training program. Reins are very important for helping the horse build their strength and balance during all stages of training. Although some horses and riders may need to go through a stage without reins, to overcome past bad habits, we teach all riders how to be effective with all communication aids.
Does your program require a certain kind of saddle?
You'll want to have a saddle that correctly fits both you and your horse and allows you to sit balanced. Either a western or english saddle will work. Only until you begin to focus on a specific sport will you have to make a decision as to the type. You can even jump in your western saddle in our training program. We will only recommend a jumping saddle once you decide you want to jump higher and more frequent. It can be hard on a horse to sit on its back when jumping and so at a certain time it is highly recommended to ride in a two point position over jumps.
What other equipment will I need?
The only things you need to bring are boots with a 1" heal or greater, comfortable long pants with room for stretching, and some sort of muck boots in rainy weather. We can provide any other gear you may need.
If you have your own equipment, here are some items you may want to bring for your own horse: bridle, saddle, blankets, brushes. If you own your own riding helmet please bring it. Also if you are going to jump our cross country course a safety vest may be required.