Took Jack out today. We are still working on the first element of the (dressage) training tree as identified by Kurd Albrecht Von Ziegner in "The Elements of Dressage" - relaxation. Von Ziegner's training tree differs slightly from the tradition German Training Scale in that it places relaxation before regularity. I tend to agree with his theory that in order for a horse to be regular, he must first be relaxed.

"A good horse and a good rider are only so in mutual trust." (H.M.E.)

Relaxation - the fundamental basis of the form, relaxation is the absence of tension in the horse's body and mind.

Although we are way ahead of the game with Jack since he is so laid back for a young (3 yr OTTB gelding) horse.

Here's Jack doing "self-carriage free jumping" (haha, you go, Jack!) - he loves people and is following us over the cavaletti and ground poles. We're working on getting him to realize he has feet that he needs to pick up!! Very obliging horse.

Good picture showing Jack leaning on the forehand, poorly developed topline, and trailing hindquarters. Such a nice (young, under developed) horse.

I figure we got at least two years to go before we get down to some serious work!!

Someone once said, watching horse training is like watching paint dry. How very true!