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EP 25 // 7 Dressage Mistakes That Block Progress in Training and Competition — And What to Do Instead
Many dedicated dressage riders feel stuck even though they train consistently and care deeply about their horse. In this episode, we explore seven of the most common training and competition mistakes that quietly block progress. You’ll learn why chasing exercises instead of quality creates tension, how riding at too high a level too early affects balance and willingness, and why preparation and mental clarity matter more than correction. We also talk about riding at competitions with the same calm structure as at home. The focus throughout is welfare-first dressage, simple systems, and clear next steps you can use on your very next ride.
• Quality always comes before shape and exercises
• One or two clear focus points create calmer, more effective training
• Advanced movements grow from simple, well-prepared basics
• Variation in training supports strength, suppleness, and motivation
• Preparation prevents problems better than late correction
• Competitions are not the place for new solutions
• Mental plans create calm and direction under pressure
This week, focus on riding quality before exercises.
Goal: Maintain rhythm, balance, and elastic connection before asking for more.
At the start of your ride, choose one quality marker, such as rhythm or reaction to the leg.
Ride simple transitions and easy figures while monitoring that quality.
Before riding a more difficult exercise, prepare 3–5 strides in advance.
If the quality drops, step back to a simpler movement and allow a short pause.
Feel-check: Notice if the rhythm stays steady for several strides.
Feel-check: Check that the contact feels elastic rather than heavy or empty.
Feel-check: Observe whether your horse stays relaxed yet responsive.
“Clarity and patience create progress — not control.”
• Try 1–2 of these ideas on your next ride and notice what you feel.
• Questions or 1:1 coaching: [email protected]
• Join the Happy Rider, Healthy Horse community on Facebook.
• If this episode helped you, please leave a 5-star written review.
7 common dressage training and competition mistakes — and simple, welfare-first fixes to improve balance, clarity, and consistency.
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By Sarah Martine - Veterinarian, dressage rider coachMany dedicated dressage riders feel stuck even though they train consistently and care deeply about their horse. In this episode, we explore seven of the most common training and competition mistakes that quietly block progress. You’ll learn why chasing exercises instead of quality creates tension, how riding at too high a level too early affects balance and willingness, and why preparation and mental clarity matter more than correction. We also talk about riding at competitions with the same calm structure as at home. The focus throughout is welfare-first dressage, simple systems, and clear next steps you can use on your very next ride.
• Quality always comes before shape and exercises
• One or two clear focus points create calmer, more effective training
• Advanced movements grow from simple, well-prepared basics
• Variation in training supports strength, suppleness, and motivation
• Preparation prevents problems better than late correction
• Competitions are not the place for new solutions
• Mental plans create calm and direction under pressure
This week, focus on riding quality before exercises.
Goal: Maintain rhythm, balance, and elastic connection before asking for more.
At the start of your ride, choose one quality marker, such as rhythm or reaction to the leg.
Ride simple transitions and easy figures while monitoring that quality.
Before riding a more difficult exercise, prepare 3–5 strides in advance.
If the quality drops, step back to a simpler movement and allow a short pause.
Feel-check: Notice if the rhythm stays steady for several strides.
Feel-check: Check that the contact feels elastic rather than heavy or empty.
Feel-check: Observe whether your horse stays relaxed yet responsive.
“Clarity and patience create progress — not control.”
• Try 1–2 of these ideas on your next ride and notice what you feel.
• Questions or 1:1 coaching: [email protected]
• Join the Happy Rider, Healthy Horse community on Facebook.
• If this episode helped you, please leave a 5-star written review.
7 common dressage training and competition mistakes — and simple, welfare-first fixes to improve balance, clarity, and consistency.