Friday, January 22, 2010

Ahhhh

The outdoor arena footing was good yesterday and today, so I rode Izzy in it. We have had two amazing days in a row, and I've probably jinxed it by talking about it now. Whoops.

Anyways. I've been working on keeping my reins shorter and doing the trot/halt/trot transitions that Katie recommended for us. I start by doing halt/walk transitions, but I make sure that we're walking forward, not just toodling along. It's going really, really well. Because I'm using my seat more,I'm sitting deeper in the saddle, which makes us both more secure and balanced. Then, when we start trotting, it's so completely natural that everything just flows. Outside distractions are blocked out. We had one transition from a forward trot to a square halt to a forward trot. It was gorgeous.

Say with me: ahhhhhhh. These are the days.

Canter/halt/canter transitions are stewing in the back of my mind, but we probably need a lot more practice cantering before we do too much with that.

I rode Cassie again yesterday, and she was wonderful all over again. As the weather improves, I'm going to have to look more into the reining thing. It's not like we'd ever compete, but it sure sounds fun.

5 comments:

  1. I love those days when the universe aligns, the heavens open, and your horse is perfect. It's like a drug, an extremely addicting drug that keeps me coming back for more! *LOL*

    Sounds like you had one of those days today. I'm so happy for you! You and Izzy are doing so great together...keep up the good work!

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  2. Good stuff - nice when things go well!

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  3. Fantastic.

    Canter/walk transitions do not come until second level. For now, canter/trot/canter is good, keeping the trot foward in between. Once Izzy gets more balanced the canter/halt, etc. will come easily. She needs to build up some strength in the hind end by doing lots of easier transitions for now.

    Lovely to hear how well your seat is getting deeper. That too will help her balance, and, of course, make your aids much more effective.

    Great to be able to ride outdoors!!

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  4. I love thoses exercises. I find it really gets Sam concentrating and getting him onto his hindquarters. Well Done!

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  5. Isn't it the best feeling when all the planets align and you have a fantastic ride? It makes all the frustrating stuff slip away like a bad dream.

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