Sho Clothes: The Finest Dressage Clothes and Accessories

Walter Zettl And Linda Parelli’s Night At Sho Clothes “Shop Talk”

2012-01-23T19:40:00.000-05:00

Walter Zettl And Linda Parelli’s Night At Sho Clothes “Shop Talk” Was Memorable And A Piece Of Cake!

Wellington, FL (January 23, 2012) – World famous dressage trainer Walter Zettl joined Natural Horsemanship expert Linda Parelli at Sho Clothes recent “Shop Talk,” and the duo not only drew the largest crowd in history to Sho Clothes but many of the audience members drove from hours away to have the chance to sit and learn from some of the greatest trainers in the equestrian community. Linda’s husband, Pat Parelli, also spoke at the event and kicked off the amazing evening by introducing Walter and his wife.

While Natural Horsemanship and Classical Horsemanship may not seem like an obvious match to many, Parelli and Zettl explained that the two go together like a cake with icing. Natural Horsemanship is the foundation of a horse’s training, like the cake, and the discipline you train the horse in – whether dressage, hunter, jumper, western or pleasure – is the icing. The cake needs to be made first, before the icing can be added!

“It was a fabulous evening and I still can’t believe how many people came. It was certainly the largest crowd we have had in ‘Shop Talk’s’ history and Walter, Pat and Linda certainly didn’t disappoint the audience,” said Michele Hundt, owner of Sho Clothes. “Their analogy about the cake and the icing was great and everyone learned so much. And during the evening we also gave away great prizes, including Walter’s “Matter of Trust” DVD’s, which the audience loved. It was the icing on the cake!”

Donated and produced by Premier Equestrian, Zettl’s “Matter of Trust” DVD’s are a five-volume instructional series which includes Zettl’s lifelong work of teaching riders the art of dressage combined with communication with the horse. “We were only planning on giving away one set of Walter’s DVD’s but the audience got so excited that we gave away two sets,” Hundt said. “We also gave away a Back On Track Saddle Pad and two copies of Linda’s “Game of Contact.”

Zettl and the Parellis spoke at “Shop Talk” following a busy weekend in which they took part in the USDF Trainer’s Conference in Wellington featuring Christoph Hess. Zettl and the Parelli’s were in high demand during their Wellington visit, with Hess working with Zettl during one of Linda’s lessons and Pat and Hess working with dressage rider Caroline Roffman at her Lionshare Farm in Palm Beach Point. Pat also worked with a challenging warmblood stallion in training with Betsy Steiner.

The action-packed evening was sponsored in part by the Gold Coast Dressage Association and Hundt said it would go down in history as the dressage boutique’s most memorable “Shop Talk.” “We love supporting the dressage community and ‘Shop Talk’ has proven to be a successful way for dressage enthusiasts to gather and learn. The popularity of Walter and the Parelli’s speaks volumes because of the size of our audience. It was a great night and very educational.”

Sho Clothes specializes in the latest and most fashionable dressage apparel for show and play. The Sho Clothes Sho Room is located at 3220 Fairlane Farms Road in Wellington and boasts a wide variety of the finest dressage riding clothes, apparel, jewelry and dressage accessories available. For more information on Sho Clothes or “Shop Talk,” visit their website at www.shoclothes.com or call them at 561-319-2121.

Photo: World famous dressage trainer Walter Zettl joined Natural Horsemanship expert Linda Parelli at Sho Clothes recent “Shop Talk,” and the duo drew the largest crowd in history. From left to right: Michele Hundt, owner of Sho Clothes; Heide and Walter Zettl; Krystalann Shingler of Sho Clothes: and Pat and Linda Parelli.

How to be a Good Dressage Trainer (Even if you can’t ride like Steffen Peters)

2011-12-29T22:02:00.000-05:00

[From the January 2012 Sho Times:
Shannon Dueck is a contributing writer to the
Sho Clothes Sho News monthly newsletter]

by Shannon Dueck
(Photo of Shannon Dueck by Sue Stickle)

How to be a Good Trainer (Even if you can’t ride like Steffen Peters)

Last month I wrote about the benefits and pitfalls of full training. This month I want to write about how to keep progressing (or at least not regressing), regardless of how often you get coaching from your favorite trainer.

The first thing you must realize is that you are training your horse every time you get on - or for that matter, every time you work around him (or her). It’s really not fair to a horse to have the rules change from ride to ride, but I see that happening all the time. If you trust your trainer to do the right job, you must try to emulate the trainer every time you are working with your horse. You can say “well I don’t ride as well as Herr _____” but that really doesn’t matter as much as you think. What matters is that you try to say the same things to your horse as your trainer says, and reward the same behavior your trainer rewards.

This concept of consistency in training is crucial in keeping your horse happy and confident. If the rules change all the time the horse is confused. Some kind souls will keep trudging along like good citizens of a changing dictatorship with inconsistent training, but many other horses will shut down or act out when they are faced continually with conflicting messages from their riders. For this reason I am also against riding with every clinician that comes your way, although they may all be very good in their own way. It is not a recipe for progression if you get 10 different trainers telling you 10 different routes on how to reach Rome. You end up going in circles and dead ends and short cuts that just get you lost and on your way to Moscow instead.

To be consistent in training means that you must really understand what you are asking for, where you are going, and you must be comfortable demanding it if necessary. It means you must ride well enough to be clear in your aids and to demand a reaction (and ride the consequences) if your horse ignores your request. So while my title says you don’t have to ride like Steffen Peters, you do need to have an independent seat to be clear and consistent in your training.

In theory this sounds good, but in reality what does it mean? First of all be sure to know that your horse is ready physically and mentally for what you are asking for (eg: don’t try flying changes on a 3 year old that cannot balance the canter). Make sure you are physically and mentally ready for what you are asking for (eg: if you can’t sit the working trot then don’t try extended trot sitting). Then ensure that you ask clearly for what you want (eg: if you want your horse to go forward don’t pull back at the same time). If your horse ignores you, demand it clearly - make it happen. Lastly, after your horse tries to do what you want make sure you reward - the bigger the try the bigger the reward. And yes they do respond to voice rewards, and big pats. A sugar is always nice, but please don’t stop everything just to give your horse a sugar every time he trots, make sure the sugars are saved for trying something difficult.

Hopefully you can carry this concept of consistency with you every time you work with your horse, and every time you ride. Your horse doesn’t need to look like a Grand Prix horse every time you sit on him or her, but even on a trail ride you should insist that your horse goes, stops and goes sideways from light aids. It’s just not fair to get lazy and start bashing your legs rhythmically against your horse’s sides, and then out of the blue expect him to react to a leg aid. So try to be aware all the time of the messages you send your horse. Be clear in your aids, be consistent in your demand that your horse react to your aids, be free with your rewards, and your horse will be happy to comply. I know it works (with horses and dogs anyhow) and you can help keep the path your trainer paves while you are working on your own.

International Grand Prix trainer and competitor Shannon Dueck is a Pan Am Games Individual Silver Medalist, and has competed at both WEG and the World Cup Final. She has trained with Bert Rutten of the Netherlands, Kathy Connelly, Lars Peterson, Hubertus Schmidt, Robert Dover, and most recently, Wolfram Wittig while in Germany this past summer.

Half Halt for Dressage Riders

2011-12-29T22:00:00.000-05:00

Half Halt for Riders

by Stacey Brown, PT

[From the January 2012 Sho Times: Stacey Brown is a contributing writer to the Sho Clothes Sho News monthly newsletter]

A properly performed half halt in the trot or canter gait, gives the horse an opportunity to rebalance himself, and can be a signal that the rider will soon make another request. Properly performed half halts can be almost imperceptible and are important in both training and performance. High level performance literally depends upon them. But they are difficult to learn and timing is key.

A half halt is actually an advanced skill that is much more difficult than it sounds. The rider must simultaneously slightly shift weight to the seat bones, apply the lower leg, lift the sternum, secure her shoulder blades down and back, while giving a gentle squeeze to the reins. In the vernacular of biomechanics, this series of actions is best described as activating the core muscles, to secure the spine in a neutral position as an anchor, allowing for stabilization of the scapulae and pelvis, in preparation for precise control of the lower leg and forearm muscles. Just as it is important for the horse to meet certain criteria before a half halt can be successful, (forward energy, contact, rhythm), the rider must also meet some criteria.

Common rider faults lead to improper signals to the horse. For example, the rider who is too far forward on her pubic bone (anterior pelvic tilt) and therefore overusing her psoas, (unable to engage her core), will cause hollowing of the horses back as she takes more contact with the mouth through the reins. She will force the horse down through the spine directly behind the withers with her body weight, and the horse will not be able to use his topline oppose his abdominals in order to round himself. The result is the exact opposite of what a half halt should produce. The poll will often over flex, and the lower neck may further extend.

Similarly, the rider who sits too far back (posterior pelvic tilt) cannot lift her sternum. She has no place to go, in order to shift her weight to her seat bones, and over relies on rein contact. Her increased tension on the mouth will likely result in evasion of the bit and neck distortion as well.

Correct performance of a half halt depends entirely on the rider’s ability to activate the core and momentarily use her aids to influence the horse, without collapsing her own posture or that of the horse. To break this down, we will review the core muscles and their actions:

The multifidus is a group of deep spinal extensor muscles that connect individual vertebrae, and allow the shape of the spine to be stabilized in the desired position. The transverse abdominis is a muscle group that is deep to the rectus abdominis and the obliques, and is able to directly oppose the multifidii, (spinal extensors), by increasing inta-abdominal pressure, reducing the volume of the abdominal cavity. The two muscle groups together, give the “stack of bones” of the spine, a solid and strong support. The pelvic floor muscles are responsible for stabilizing the pelvis and initiating the process of spinal stabilization communicating with both the transverse abdominis and the multifidi, (spinal extensors). The diaphragm must be able to contract and relax, during this entire process in order to allow controlled and relaxed breathing.

Once these muscles are doing their job correctly, the rider can learn to use the outer movement muscles, such as the latissimus, the hip adductors, the scapular stabilizers, and the biceps, without disrupting the ideal rider posture.

There are many conditions that interfere with this process. The spine can have stiff or hyper-mobile segments from old injuries or years of altered posture and use. The pelvic floor can be weak from sacral and spine positional faults, and neurologic causes. The multifidii require specific re-education and retraining after any spinal injury or pathology. There are many muscle balance issues from tight hip flexors from sitting, to overstretched thoracic extensors the list goes on.

If any of these issues exist for you, a physical therapy evaluation and treatment program to specifically address use of the core and simultaneous dissociation of the extremities may make half halt a more successful tool for both you and your horse.
If you would like to schedule treatment, have questions, or suggestions for future informational columns, please contact Stacey at: info@animalrehabinstitute.com or (971) 226-0010 mobile. You will find directions to her clinic on the web site www.AnimalRehabInstitute.com.

Stacey Brown PT CERT received her degree in physical therapy from Pacific University and is a native of Portland Oregon, where she practiced human physical therapy for 30 years, and equine rehabilitation for 7 years. She has a strong background in both neurologic and orthopedic treatment, and combines her experience in a unique and effective approach. Stacey now practices in the Wellington, FL area, and specializes in the assessment and treatment of equestrian athletes. She is an athlete, rides herself, and has a life long interest in nutrition and wellness. Through movement analysis and physical evaluation, Stacey designs individual treatment programs to enhance performance, as well as treat injuries. She is skilled in muscle balancing techniques, myofascial release, soft tissue mobilization, joint mobilization, and uses a cold laser to speed healing and enhance nuero-motor retraining. She is also certified in equine rehabilitation, and uses her skills to improve the performance of horse and rider pairs.

Dressage Full Training - Why? Or Why Not?

2011-12-03T11:09:00.001-05:00

[From the December 2011 Sho Times:
Shannon Dueck is a contributing writer to the
Sho Clothes Sho News monthly newsletter]

by Shannon Dueck
(Photo of Shannon Dueck by Sue Stickle)

Full Training - Why? Or Why Not?

I run a smallish training facility down here in sunny Florida. Because it’s a small private facility, all my clients are in training with me, but some are in full training and others are in partial training. I think everyone who wants to participate seriously in the sport of dressage needs to be in some kind of training program, but what is appropriate for you and your horse? How do you make the choice?

I will assume you are with a trainer that you trust and respect. Your trainer should have experience training (not just riding) at the levels you aspire to. If you have competitive goals, make sure your trainer has or is still competing successfully, or has coached students successfully. It is very valuable to have a trainer who can ride and train your horse too.

Often times the first thing is a financial consideration. Full training is expensive you say! But in reality, most trainers offer great discounts for full training. Individual lessons are the most expensive way to get your training. My full training for a month costs the same as 10 individual sessions, and that’s a 50% savings! Of course my husband always laughs when I go shopping at a sale for something I don’t need (“but Honey I’m saving so much money”) but if full training is something you would like - or need - it often makes financial sense to bite the bullet.

Full training can be fabulous - you can steadily improve if you have someone good leading the way. It can be so helpful to have a great trainer get on to “tune up” your horse, and then you can feel the difference when you get back on. Riding is all about feel, and no matter what, trainers cannot teach feel well. Only feeling teaches feel, and that is the horse’s area of expertise (aside from destroying barns and eating a lot)!

If you are feeling lost in your progress, regardless of your level, full training can be very helpful, even for a short while. With intense training for a few months you can usually make some real breakthroughs and feel good again about the direction you are heading.

If you have a young horse, have never trained such a creature and are not an accomplished rider, you should be in full training. Young horses are very impressionable, and you can make good or bad impressions very quickly! It’s much easier to train a young horse well the first time than to try to fix incorrect or nasty behavior. It’s faster, less stressful, less dangerous and you will spend less money in the long run.

If you are in a situation health wise or your lifestyle dictates limited time in the saddle, full training can ease your stress while improving your horse at the same time. Woohoo! two benefits in one.

However, full training can sometimes inhibit your development as a rider. I think many people get too reliant on their trainers and get lost when left on their own. Every rider should have some time on their own where they have to feel what is happening underneath them, decide on how to try to improve it, and do their best to train their horse themselves. Taking this responsibility is what truly will turn you into an effective rider at every stage.

My final thought is that full training should be a part of everyone’s learning curve at some time, and sometimes it is imperative due to your situation. But very often it can be incredibly productive to be by yourself and take the time to process what you are learning in your lessons, and just ride your horse.

Enjoy your rides!

International Grand Prix trainer and competitor Shannon Dueck is a Pan Am Games Individual Silver Medalist, and has competed at both WEG and the World Cup Final. She has trained with Bert Rutten of the Netherlands, Kathy Connelly, Lars Peterson, Hubertus Schmidt, Robert Dover, and most recently, Wolfram Wittig while in Germany this past summer.

When Should You Consider Physical Therapy?

2011-12-03T11:08:00.001-05:00

When Should You Consider Physical Therapy?

by Stacey Brown, PT

[From the December 2011 Sho Times: Stacey Brown is a contributing writer to the Sho Clothes Sho News monthly newsletter]

Humans and horses are goal oriented. Because we are passionate and driven, we will “sacrifice structure for function”, and in order to do this, at times will ignore the warning signs that our bodies give us. On a temporary basis this can be good. Tuning out these signals may help us complete a crucial task, begin an exercise program after injury or long periods of inactivity or even save our lives, by allowing speed or strength that we wouldn’t ordinarily believe ourselves capable. However, if tuning out our bodies warning signals becomes a way of life, there will be a price to pay. Our body structures will begin to break down faster than we can repair them, and distortions, imbalances, and degeneration can become permanent. At a critical point, the very functions that we have been determined to carry out, become impossible. Long before that occurs, the functions become less enjoyable, less satisfying, and less effective. Injuries result, and performance suffers.

In equestrian sport, old injuries with subsequent altered movement patterns, which have never been corrected, exist in both the rider and the horse. Add to that the handedness of the rider and the lateralization of the horse, and it clearly explains why harmony of horse and rider is a challenge.

So at what point, would we do well to re-assess? As the saying goes, “The definition of insanity is doing the same things over and over, expecting a different result”. The truth is, if we are in the habit of listening to our bodies, we could do this as we go. We can re-think not only what we do but how we do it, and make the discomfort go away before it gets to the point of pain. This is the science of body mechanics, and it applies to us all. But this is not a course we learned in school, picked up from our parents, or generally consider a concept worth investigating. In this society we move too fast, live with such stress, and sit so much, that moving correctly gets a back seat to moving at all. Equestrian sport demands correct movement. It is the rider’s movement,that directs the horse and creates the level of harmony that we strive for. If riding is painful, clearly, something is not right. A careful assessment of all of the parameters is ideal. The rider’s body is the place to start of course, and then tack and equine partner may be important to assess as well. Finding a physical therapist who understands the forces involved in, and biomechanics of riding, is a good use of resources. The combination of motion analysis and skills for assessment of the entire neuro-muscular system, provide a systematic and objective approach. Once problem areas are identified, then treated, motor re-learning can proceed. Based on core activation, appropriate stabilization strategies, and controlled extremity function, movement can be re-learned in ways that are effective and pain-free. This is the nature of physical therapy.

But what if riding is not painful? Have you ever heard yourself say “I feel fine when I’m riding; it’s when I get off that I hurt.”? Overuse, or incorrect use of muscles in a seated position, can make it difficult to straighten completely when standing. If you sit too long on an airplane, or in a car or at your computer the situation is comparable. However, when riding, there are also the movements of the horse and the use of your limbs involved in tension and compression in order to communicate with the horse. It is necessary to cross train the muscles required in standing and walking, particularly if the life you lead outside of riding is sedentary.

And what if your cross training program is painful? There are times when myofascial restrictions, and incorrect movement patterns are so ingrained, that it requires outside help to correct them. If you are participating in a cross training program such as pilates, yoga, or gym work-outs, and you are experiencing pain, it is time for intervention with a qualified physical therapist. As with any other professional, there are physical therapists of every kind. If you look for a Licensed Physical Therapist who specializes in movement analysis and re-training, and one who really understands your sport, you will have more success. Often it is necessary to correct muscle imbalances, and re-train movement patterns. At times it is necessary to release scar tissue, (adhesions), and you want to make sure your practitioner is qualified to perform this work, particularly if the work is deep. A complete understanding of anatomy of muscle, vasculature, nervous system and lymphatic system is required.

A qualified physical therapist will also be able to explain in detail the anatomy and function of the core muscles, and will be able to test your ability to effectively use the core on and off the horse. You might be surprised at the difference in your riding and enjoyment of your cross training program, once the core is truly activated. Specific cross training programs designed for strengthening the core, scapular stabilizers, and hip extensors for example can be designed to fit your environment and time schedule. If you are already invested in yoga or pilates, you can return to these pursuits with renewed enthusiasm when you are pain-free and confidant in your new movement patterns.

Physical therapy is often an overlooked tool in equestrian sport performance enhancement. If you are finding it difficult to access an equestrian sport knowledgeable physical therapist in you area, and you find a therapist that you enjoy working with, you might mention this specialty, as a choice for continuing education. The Animal Rehabilitation Institute offers a course designed to assist physical therapists in treating equestrian athletes. Information regarding the course can be found on the Animal Rehabilitation web site: www.AnimalRehabInstitute.com.

If you would like to schedule treatment, have questions, or suggestions for future informational columns, please contact Stacey at: info@animalrehabinstitute.com or (971) 226-0010 mobile. You will find directions to her clinic on the web site www.AnimalRehabInstitute.com.

Stacey Brown PT CERT received her degree in physical therapy from Pacific University and is a native of Portland Oregon, where she practiced human physical therapy for 30 years, and equine rehabilitation for 7 years. She has a strong background in both neurologic and orthopedic treatment, and combines her experience in a unique and effective approach. Stacey now practices in the Wellington, FL area, and specializes in the assessment and treatment of equestrian athletes. She is an athlete, rides herself, and has a life long interest in nutrition and wellness. Through movement analysis and physical evaluation, Stacey designs individual treatment programs to enhance performance, as well as treat injuries. She is skilled in muscle balancing techniques, myofascial release, soft tissue mobilization, joint mobilization, and uses a cold laser to speed healing and enhance nuero-motor retraining. She is also certified in equine rehabilitation, and uses her skills to improve the performance of horse and rider pairs.

Stacey Brown Educates Audience On Equestrian Physical Therapy

2011-11-14T12:36:00.000-05:00

Stacey Brown Educates Audience On Equestrian Physical Therapy At Sho Clothes “Shop Talk”

Wellington, FL (November 11, 2011) – Sho Clothes, an upscale dressage boutique in Wellington, was the place to be recently when Physical Therapist and Certified Equine Rehabilitation Therapist Stacey Brown presented a seminar on Equestrian Physical Therapy. Brown’s appearance took place during “Shop Talk,” a monthly gathering at Sho Clothes that features experts in the equestrian and dressage world sharing their expertise with horse enthusiasts.

Brown, who works specifically with horses and riders to improve performance and prevent repetitive strain injuries, has developed a unique approach to therapeutic intervention and movement re-training with a focus on the equestrian athlete. Brown has been a human physical therapist for 30 years, and seven years ago turned her focus toward treating equines and their partners.

Michele Hundt, the owner of Sho Clothes, was pleased with the turnout at “Shop Talk” and thanked the Gold Coast Dressage Association for supplying the refreshments. “I also want to thank Stacey for her excellent presentation. Stacey has a thorough knowledge of the horse and rider’s anatomy and she always provides an educational seminar,” she said.

Brown uses biomechanical assessment analysis to teach riders how to compensate for injuries. She also specializes in movement analysis and re-training, core activation, sport specific exercise programs, myofascial release, neuromuscular re-education, proprioceptive re-training, strain and counter-strain and other manual therapy techniques, modalities including therapeutic ultrasound, low level laser and electrical stimulation, tack assessment for horse and ride and injury rehabilitation for horse and rider.

“Stacey has spoken at ‘Shop Talk’ before and her presentations are always well received. Last night we had a great group and they were really interested in learning about body adjustments and injury rehabilitation. Everyone asked pertinent questions and walked away with greater knowledge, which is always the goal of ‘Shop Talk’,” Hundt said.

Sho Clothes specializes in the latest and most fashionable dressage apparel for show and play. Sho Clothes is an authorized dealer for Pikeur, Cavallo, Kentucky, Kingsland, Back on Track and more. They also stock a wide selection of GPA and Charles Owen helmets. “We always have new and different items and we offer a great mobile boutique at the dressage shows, so stop by and see us there also,” Hundt said.

The Sho Clothes Sho Room is located in the Taj Mahal Building at 3220 Fairlane Farms Road, Unit 3, in Wellington. Sho room hours are Monday through Saturday from 12:30 to 4 p.m., or by appointment. Call 561-319-2121 to make an appointment or for more information or visit the Sho Clothes website at www.shoclothes.com.

Photo: Sho Clothes, an upscale dressage boutique in Wellington, was the place to be recently when Physical Therapist and Certified Equine Rehabilitation Therapist Stacey Brown presented a seminar on Equestrian Physical Therapy. (Photo courtesy of Michele Hundt)

What do we really mean by “Collection”, and how do we get IT?

2011-10-29T20:36:00.000-04:00

[From the November 2011 Sho Times:
Shannon Dueck is a contributing writer to the
Sho Clothes Sho News monthly newsletter]

by Shannon Dueck
(Photo of Shannon Dueck by Sue Stickle)

What do we really mean by “Collection”, and how do we get IT?

I remember well my first attempts to ride collection when I was a teenager. I was moving up to the Medium level of dressage with one of my event horses (Medium is what Canada used to call 3rd and 4th Level) The level required “collected trot” and “collected canter”. So what did I do? I slowed down and made my horse take little steps. It’s easier to sit, that’s for sure! But there was no power, no engine, no swing, and try as I might my flying changes would not happen. Sure, there was something resembling shoulder in and half pass, but I thought the judges just didn’t like Thoroughbreds when they gave me 5’s and 6’s.

Turns out, I was completely wrong about what collection was. I took away all the forward that my horse had, and made his (completely ordinary) gaits even more ordinary and earthbound. You know what changed my life (well, my life as a dressage rider)? Watching videos of the top Grand Prix horses and riders in the world. And marveling at how forward their work was. Could this really be collected trot? It is truly amazing how much power and expression these top horses show in their gaits.

A good collected trot should feel like your horse has enough energy to spring into extended trot at any time. If you are riding a collected movement and don’t feel like you have a good extension at your beck and call, it’s not good collection. A really good example of what I am trying to say are the passage to extended trot transitions in the Grand Prix Special test - when done well it is breathtaking, and it’s obvious that there is enough power in the passage to instantly go into an uphill extension…..

Riding forward and back in the trot and canter is the best way to develop really good collection in the gaits. I know you have all heard this in your lessons, but it truly is crucial. When your horse springs forward into a lengthening at your lightest aid, you can start to think about holding your horse more on the hindleg when asking for forward, and the result is the beginning of collection: The frame stays shorter and more uphill while the hindleg comes more underneath, and you start to transform pushing power into carrying power.

I like to teach my riders to think of riding the transition to medium for only two strides, and then sit quietly and balance the power they just added to the stride. If you ride this correctly, your horse will become bigger and more engaged in the collection instead of going all the way to medium. But if your horse ever feels like he would not go all the way to extension, the exercise loses effectiveness, and you must ride a full transition to a medium or lengthening at least once to get him back in front of the leg. This exercise will not work to develop good collection if you have to kick to convince your horse to add impulsion.

One other really important exercise to develop good collection is the shoulder-in, but that’s a whole new article to write!

The horse’s ability to collect and to maintain power has to be developed over years, it really is strength training for the athlete. Of course, some horses have more natural talent for collection than others, and if you want to ride Grand Prix it’s best to start with a horse with some natural talent! But every horse can get more expression and power in their collected work if you train them correctly, even my off the track Thoroughbred event horse eventually improved, as I began to learn what collection truly meant.
International Grand Prix trainer and competitor Shannon Dueck is a Pan Am Games Individual Silver Medalist, and has competed at both WEG and the World Cup Final. She has trained with Bert Rutten of the Netherlands, Kathy Connelly, Lars Peterson, Hubertus Schmidt, Robert Dover, and most recently, Wolfram Wittig while in Germany this past summer.

Heels Down - Should it be this hard? Dressage Riding Tip

2011-10-29T20:34:00.000-04:00

Heels Down - Should it be this hard?

by Stacey Brown, PT

[From the November 2011 Sho Times: Stacey Brown is a contributing writer to the Sho Clothes Sho News monthly newsletter]

You probably don’t remember the first time you were told to keep your heels down in the stirrups. It is an accepted fact that when the heel is down, the foot in a safer position, to prevent slipping forward and through the stirrup. We can all envision what injury might result from that. But in dressage, the heels down position, is valued for another reason. It’s true that it represents a more elegant posture, in keeping with the dignity of the sport. But what is the biomechanical significance of keeping the heels down? Why is it so difficult to achieve? What factors can be evaluated and addressed to make the rider more successful?

The most obvious factor in keeping the heels down, is calf muscle tightness or shortening. Many riders diligently stretch their gastrocnemius/soleus muscle group (the calf), only to find the heel stubbornly refuses to descend, once they are in the saddle, and particularly when the horse starts moving. Is it because the muscles tighten up again that quickly? Test that theory by getting off the horse and stretching again. Generally this is not the problem.

So what else could it be? The answer lies once again in the ability of the rider to sit in a neutral pelvic posture, using the core muscles of the trunk, to stabilize the spine efficiently, while absorbing the forces generated by the moving horse. (If you read this column regularly, you may be noticing a common theme here.)

Instead of saying “keep the heels down” more likely we should back up and evaluate whether the rider is truly sitting evenly, and deep in the saddle, with the ability to move the pelvis on the spine, without excessive activity of the large movement muscles of the leg. If the rider has the ability to activate the core muscles to stabilize the spine, and at the same time disassociate the muscles of the leg, the leg will lengthen along the horses’ barrel, and the heel will naturally move downward in relation to the toe. Sounds simple. Why is it so difficult to do?

Tension in the gastroc/soleus group is not the only force that pushes the toe down and therefore the heel up in relation to it. The peroneus longus muscle also pushes the toe down and can lift the lateral border of the foot out. The peroneus longus, also called the fibularis, is located on the outside of the lower leg and runs from the head of the fibula to the underside of the foot. It is connected by fascia to other muscles involved in “functional kinetic chains” that produce predictable movement patterns. These movement synergies develop when we are learning to move, and become ingrained so that we don’t waste time and energy thinking about moving when we need to be thinking about other things. The problem is, once we over learn them and they are relegated to the lower nervous system, in order to re-learn, we have to involve the higher nervous system, the cognitive brain. In other words, once we start a familiar movement, the body goes on automatic pilot. If we are not aware of what we need to change, and do not put direct energy into changing it, the movement will remain the same. Some of these movements are very complicated, involving many muscle/fascial connections. This is where the answer lies. This is how the position of the pelvis relates to the position of the foot.

The adductor magnus muscle, (which is often over used in riders, for balance when the core is not active or the spine segments are not moving correctly),connects the ischial tuberosity of the pelvis(sit bone) to the femur and the short head of the bicep(part of the hamstring). From there, the hamstring connects to the peroneus longus at the head of the fibula on the outside of the leg. The peroneus longus then connects to the outside of the foot, goes under the sole of the foot and under the arch. When this muscle/fascial “chain” becomes activated, as in riding a horse in the seated position, the thigh is moved inward, the pelvis drops back, and the knee flexes, while the toe is pushed downward and sometimes pulled out to the side.

If you are able to follow this sequence, which is admittedly complicated, you may be able to either recall seeing this phenomenon with other riders, or immediately identify the “feeling” yourself. Even with conscious effort, this pattern is difficult to overcome. With long term overuse of the adductor magnus, changes in the muscle and fascia along this chain occur, and shortening and fibrosity develop. It may be necessary to release restrictions mechanically, and neurologically, before new learning is effective. In some instances hip range of motion is so compromised that joint mobilization needs to occur as well.

There may be factors of saddle fit, and boot issues contributing to the problem as well. Another column.

The ability to keep the heels down in dressage is coveted because it demonstrates correct position of he spine and pelvis, good use of the core, and the ability to disassociate the legs for more accurate use of aids. It requires a deep seat, lengthened leg, and sophisticated, overlearned motor patterning. And yes it is very hard. That’s why we like it.

If you would like to schedule treatment, have questions, or suggestions for future informational columns, please contact Stacey at: info@animalrehabinstitute.com or (971) 226-0010 mobile. You will find directions to her clinic on the web site www.AnimalRehabInstitute.com.

Stacey Brown PT CERT received her degree in physical therapy from Pacific University and is a native of Portland Oregon, where she practiced human physical therapy for 30 years, and equine rehabilitation for 7 years. She has a strong background in both neurologic and orthopedic treatment, and combines her experience in a unique and effective approach. Stacey now practices in the Wellington, FL area, and specializes in the assessment and treatment of equestrian athletes. She is an athlete, rides herself, and has a life long interest in nutrition and wellness. Through movement analysis and physical evaluation, Stacey designs individual treatment programs to enhance performance, as well as treat injuries. She is skilled in muscle balancing techniques, myofascial release, soft tissue mobilization, joint mobilization, and uses a cold laser to speed healing and enhance nuero-motor retraining. She is also certified in equine rehabilitation, and uses her skills to improve the performance of horse and rider pairs.

Some Thoughts on Purchasing a Dressage Horse by Shannon Dueck

2011-10-04T11:42:00.000-04:00

[From the October 2011 Sho Times:
Shannon Dueck is a contributing writer to the
Sho Clothes Sho News monthly newsletter]

by Shannon Dueck
(Photo of Shannon Dueck by Sue Stickle)

Some Thoughts on Purchasing a Dressage Horse

I am not in the business of buying or selling horses, but I do have some good and bad experiences to draw on when I am advising people about spending their money and losing their hearts to a beautiful new dance partner. Dressage horses can be relatively cheap or horrendously expensive, but the majority of the time the amount of money spent is about the maximum that the buyer can afford, so every new horse has the same relative value to it’s new owner. Each new horse has hopes and dreams attached, and it’s a wonderful experience if these can be realized. Unfortunately sometimes horses change hands and the new partnership is far from ideal, resulting in dashed hopes and dreams and a lighter wallet.

The first thing to do is honestly assess your riding ability, your training opportunities, and your goals with the new horse. Armed with this knowledge you can figure out what type of horse you are looking at purchasing. If you are an accomplished rider with access to top training on a regular basis, and you have goals of competing internationally, the horse you will be looking for will be vastly different from the horse needed for a rider of more moderate ability, less access to trainers, and modest goals. Its always a good idea to ask your trainer or coach to help you really figure out what kind of horse will be the best match.

Figure out your budget, and include any commissions you will pay (usually your trainer will charge a 10% commission to help you in your search), travel, and veterinary costs. After you have your budget, you may have to revise the requirements of your dream horse, perhaps you can be happy with less training if you have a good training situation, or maybe you can look at a slightly older schoolmaster than you originally desired.

Let’s talk commissions first. A 10% commission paid to your trainer is standard if they assist in all aspects of purchasing your new mount. It can be money well spent, and well earned. Your trainer will be invested in making sure the match will be successful if you value their time and expertise. There may be other commissions involved in the sale of the horse from the seller’s side, but usually not from the buyer’s side. Please make sure to talk to your trainer before enlisting their help, and talk about the commission you will pay. It will save many hard feelings in the long run!

I could write 8 pages on the ideal dressage horse, but I won’t. Let’s just say that at the minimum, buy a horse that has 3 pure gaits, has a tendency to move uphill, uses it’s body like an athlete, has good conformation (and feet!) and a trainable temperament. The most important of these is trainability, unless you are a good professional and don’t really need to resell the horse. From these basic requirements, horses can get much fancier and much pricier….

Begin your search and try not to be in a hurry, it’s rare that you find your ideal partner in the first horse you look at. Be ready to walk away from horses that do not fit your basic criteria, and try hard not to fall in love until you have actually bought your new horse! It’s very hard to do, I know, but if you can look at every horse clearly you will make a better decision. That said, the horse you buy should capture your heart and dreams, otherwise it is hard to justify the time, sacrifices and expenses we put into our addiction.

Once you have found a horse that seems to be “the ONE” - it’s time to negotiate price and the veterinary check. Unless it has been clearly stated that the price is firm, most asking prices have a little wiggle room, so it never hurts to make an offer. But expect a counter-offer. Agree on a price subject to vetting and usually it is industry standard to put down a refundable deposit. This ensures for the seller that you will buy the horse if the veterinary exam is satisfactory, and is mostly to reassure the seller that you are serious about buying the horse because the seller has to take the horse off the market while awaiting veterinary assessment.

The pre-purchase veterinary assessment needs to be done by a vet without a conflict of interest - get some references from people in the area as to how thorough and experienced the prospective vet is. Maybe your vet at home knows a colleague in the area, while some buyers are only comfortable taking their own vet to do the entire exam (this can get very expensive). Some veterinarians are known to “fail” almost every horse they ever look at, while a few can be too lenient. Somewhere in the middle is a good choice! Veterinary exams can range from very cursory to very involved, and the cost is reflected in the depth of the exam. The horse’s age, training level, cost, veterinary history, and proposed use should all be taken into account when you are deciding how much detail and what diagnostic exams you want to use in the vetting.

Your own vet and your trainer can assist in translating veterinary findings into practical advice. There are very few horses that are perfect in a vetting (although the younger they are, the more perfect they should be) so it’s crucial to be able to decide what imperfections you can live with, and what management you will need to do to keep your new horse healthy and sound.

With luck your heart and your vet will agree on the same horse, and you can finish the deal - make sure to draw up a clear bill of sale and get original papers and any passports the horse may have. Get any signatures on papers (such as transfer of ownership papers for the USEF) that you will need.

If you enlist the right people to help and invest your time and research you will find your next dream horse and go onward with this magical journey - Enjoy!

International Grand Prix trainer and competitor Shannon Dueck is a Pan Am Games Individual Silver Medalist, and has competed at both WEG and the World Cup Final. She has trained with Bert Rutten of the Netherlands, Kathy Connelly, Lars Peterson, Hubertus Schmidt, Robert Dover, and most recently, Wolfram Wittig while in Germany this past summer.

Core Stability vs. Rigidity in the Rider

2011-10-04T11:40:00.004-04:00

Core Stability vs. Rigidity in the Rider

by Stacey Brown, PT

[From the October 2011 Sho Times: Stacey Brown is a contributing writer to the Sho Clothes Sho News monthly newsletter]

Once the rider learns to activate the core, what more can the rider consider when trying to improve equestrian performance? In previous columns we have identified that the muscles of the core exist to stabilize the shape of the spine, creating a stable center from which to operate the extremities. What we have not yet discussed, is the fact that the shape of the spine needs to change at times. For example the shape of the spine must change to accommodate the forces which move the surface that, (in the case of riders) we are sitting upon. This is how we keep the center of gravity (COG) over the base of support (BOS) for balance, so we don’t fall. The separation of the upper trunk (chest and shoulders) from the pelvis, necessary for righting reactions, begins with the lateral shift of spinal segments. The upper trunk moves to the right, as the lower trunk moves to the left, in order to keep the center of gravity where we need it to be, for balance. For some of these basic balance moves, the postural muscles such as the obliques, the psoas, and the quadratus lumborum are called into play.

In the case of dressage these movements are desired to be minimal, and timed precisely. This is also true of what we want from the horse. The goal is to coordinate the balance responses of the horse and rider so perfectly, that it looks effortless. Impossible to see where the rider leaves off and the horse begins. If you picture a barrel racer or polo player, you will see balance responses on the other end of the continuum. Still, the same biomechanics are involved.

So how do you get to this desired level of stability? Not with rigidity. The rigid trunk, does not prepare you for loss of balance. Always a possibility when riding a large, adrenalin driven animal. It also does not absorb shock efficiently, resulting in probability of joint injury (for horse as well as rider). A rigid trunk results from over use of superficial (movement oriented) muscle instead of the appropriate use of the core, and postural muscles.

Often the overuse of the superficial muscle is required to compensate for the asymmetry of the rider that results from a lifetime of right or left hand dominance, injuries, habitual activities, and sustained postures associated with them. In this case, the postural muscles such as the psoas, obliques etc. become shortened on one side of the body with respect to the other. The muscle make-up can actually change over time, to resemble a fibrous ligament rather than an elastic muscle. These adaptations can also cause changes in the joint structures, so that the range of motion is limited. In this way, overuse syndromes develop and performance is negatively impacted. If the superficial movement muscles are being utilized for postural stabilization, they are not in correct position to assist the functions of rein tension through the arms and hands, leg aids, or even weight shifts from seat bone to seat bone. The horse is left to interpret rider intention at best, and at worst, must use himself incorrectly in order to keep the horse /rider unit balanced.

When there is restriction in range of motion, and there is inappropriate use of muscle, balance responses as described in the beginning of this article are impaired. Rigidity is the end result. Not only does rigidity negatively impact success of performance, it is unsafe. As long as the movement of the horse is in the expected direction, rigidity may suffice in function. But if the direction changes suddenly, as in the horse the spooks or trips, the result can be disastrous.

Assessment of rider postural symmetry, correct use of core, joint ROM, muscle balance, and movement patterns, can be performed by a physical therapist familiar with equestrian sport. Through physical examination of the rider both mounted and individually, a treatment plan to correct specific postural faults, muscle imbalances, and movement pattern inefficiencies can be prescribed. Often, these issues are so long established, that it is difficult for the rider to see them objectively. The nervous system has a way of accommodating, in order to keep us functioning, and eventually the most abnormal movement and positions, begin to appear normal to us. Trying to correct individual joint positions, without getting the sitting posture corrected, is enough to frustrate the most dedicated riders, and the most highly acclaimed trainers. The assistance of a qualified physical therapist can make it easier for the rider and the trainer to accomplish goals more quickly, and identify the factors that are holding up progress.

If you would like to schedule treatment, have questions, or suggestions for future informational columns, please contact Stacey at: info@animalrehabinstitute.com or (971) 226-0010 mobile. You will find directions to her clinic on the web site www.AnimalRehabInstitute.com.

Stacey Brown PT CERT received her degree in physical therapy from Pacific University and is a native of Portland Oregon, where she practiced human physical therapy for 30 years, and equine rehabilitation for 7 years. She has a strong background in both neurologic and orthopedic treatment, and combines her experience in a unique and effective approach. Stacey now practices in the Wellington, FL area, and specializes in the assessment and treatment of equestrian athletes. She is an athlete, rides herself, and has a life long interest in nutrition and wellness. Through movement analysis and physical evaluation, Stacey designs individual treatment programs to enhance performance, as well as treat injuries. She is skilled in muscle balancing techniques, myofascial release, soft tissue mobilization, joint mobilization, and uses a cold laser to speed healing and enhance nuero-motor retraining. She is also certified in equine rehabilitation, and uses her skills to improve the performance of horse and rider pairs.

What I learned in Great Britain Part 2 - Dressage Riding and Training

2011-08-31T17:18:00.000-04:00

[From the September 2011 Sho Times:
Shannon Dueck is a contributing writer to the
Sho Clothes Sho News monthly newsletter]

by Shannon Dueck
(Photo of Shannon Dueck by Sue Stickle)

What I learned in Great Britain Part 2

Last month I gave an overview of my time in England at Carl Hester’s gorgeous yard, and this month I thought I could impart more specific tidbits about horse care that I learned over in the Old Country. Yes, they do speak the same language over there, but even the King’s English can be very different than our American version. Just check out a menu and it becomes quite clear: Bubbles and Squeak??? Bangers and Mash??? Huh?

The stable management can be different too.

First, the feed programs are usually based on haylage rather than hay, although some grass hay is available. Haylage is made by baling and compressing all the air out of still moist hay, and then wrapping it in plastic to keep the air out. It ferments, and that helps preserve the nutrients in it. Haylage has more of all the nutrients that are leached out by sunlight and drying, and as such is quite rich. Usually higher in protein and carbohydrates than our grass hay, it can make horses quite fat quite easily! Ayscha loves it, and for the first time in her life is in good body condition (she tends towards the very lean, supermodel body type). Haylage is also moist, so there is never any dust, and is very easy to store and move. Because it is compressed, a lot of haylage takes up a small space, and the plastic wrap makes it neat and tidy! So many things to love about it! I know there is a botulism vaccine available here which vets recommend when feeding haylage, so if you are interested in this talk to your vet first.

While there are pellets fed, most of the grain available are mixed feeds, what we call “sweet feeds”. The difference is that their mixes use very little or no molasses, and they often have lots of herbs in them, which gives them a very distinct smell and taste. Ayscha was not sure she liked this - apparently she has quite a sweet tooth - but I found a mix without any herbs and she gobbles that up. Most barns feed their grain mixed with chaff (chopped hay or straw - we call it Dengie) to give the horses more to eat and to slow down their consumption rates. They have to chew their grains much more when it is cut with chaff, I believe this practice reduces colics, ulcers and choking.

Supplements are similar to here, (high quality and plentiful) but I don’t think they have a company yet like SmartPak Equine which does the daily packaging and regular shipments for their customers. Hmmm - I just got an idea ☺!

The veterinary care can be different. I found that in general stable managers know a whole heck of a lot about using natural and homeopathic remedies first. There are huge lines of products developed just for horses that are natural and drug free, yet can be very effective. Luckily I did not have to deal much with veterinarians as Ayscha is very sound and healthy (yes, I am touching wood and crossing fingers as I type) but I did chat a lot with vets and horse people when I was there. Some of our very common drugs are not much used, while others that we don’t use regularly are highly regarded. The vets and surgeons are definitely highly skilled in all the latest cutting edge medicine, but I get the impression that expertise in stable management and rehabilitating horses is more common over in England and reduces the relative amount of cutting edge medicine that the vets actually have to do on horses in their care.

My theory on this is that most British horsemen and women grew up with stable management having the same importance as riding in their horsey education. Pony Club seems almost obligatory for kids, regardless of the wealth of the family. Also, most of the riders I got to know over there had some eventing in their background, and lets face it, event riders have to know a great deal about fitness and soundness as well as all other aspects of stable management. Many kids take care of their own horses, so if they grow up and decide to make horses their career they have years of education and experience already to draw on. The horse industry is large, and is spread out around a relatively small country. Working as a Stable Manager is a legitimate career over there (and can carry a lot of status if you are the Stable Manager in a yard of a celebrity like Carl) - so learning top notch stable management is seen as a great advantage, not a road to a dead end job. “Head Girls” and “Head Lads” of good yards are just as vital to success as the quality of horses and training, and this is acknowledged by all.

I left Ayscha in England when I came home. The quality of management in general in England and specifically in Carl’s yard is so high that I feel completely at ease with her being in their care. This allows me to take advantage of Carl’s great training and the European shows for longer, even while I am back home (I love England but boy was I was homesick) and getting my business back in gear. Next month I hope to get over in time to show in Saumur, and in October in Biarritz, I hear they are both great shows and I am expecting my girl to be perfect after training with Master Carl :-). I figure I’m pretty darn lucky to have this happening as we go into an Olympic year!

International Grand Prix trainer and competitor Shannon Dueck is a Pan Am Games Individual Silver Medalist, and has competed at both WEG and the World Cup Final. She has trained with Bert Rutten of the Netherlands, Kathy Connelly, Lars Peterson, Hubertus Schmidt, Robert Dover, and most recently, Wolfram Wittig while in Germany this past summer.

Head and Neck Control for the Dressage Rider

2011-08-31T17:16:00.000-04:00

Head and Neck Control

by Stacey Brown, PT

[From the September 2011 Sho Times: Stacey Brown is a contributing writer to the Sho Clothes Sho News monthly newsletter]

Optimal rider head posture in most equestrian sport, particularly in dressage, centers the ear over the shoulder when viewed from the side. This is correct alignment whether on or off the horse. From the front, the head should not tilt either left or right, and when turning, the chin should remain level so the eyes are in the same plane that the horse travels. Looking where you want your horse to go, directs his movement as much as any other aid that is used, so eye position is crucial. Vertical movement of the head on the spine should be minimal, presenting a picture of elegance and control. Excessive movement or lack of head and neck control in the equestrian is often a symptom of a larger problem. It is the tip of the iceberg that tells a tale of compensation. An indication of energy blocks elsewhere along the spine that result in too much movement where the head meets the cervical spine. The eyes of the rider cannot focus efficiently if the head is bobbing up and down with the tempo of the gait. In addition, the blocked energy is translated to the horse, as extra force and stimulation that may hinder performance. In more exaggerated cases, may contribute to soreness and injury, not only to the rider, but to the horse as well. Why is it so common, and is there anything we can do to correct it?

Control and stability of head position is determined by, you guessed it, the core. The muscles of the core exist primarily to maintain the shape of the spine in its desired neutral position, so the joint supporting structures are not harmed by large or repetitive forces at end range. The small, deep muscles of the core, whether in the cervical, thoracic, or lumbar spine, react quickly and hold in static control, so the ligaments, joint capsule, discs, and even boney structures, don’t break down. We may be more familiar with neutral position of our larger joints, as when we think about body mechanics. For instance, in jumping, the toes, ankles, knees and hips, all flex in order to use muscle to protect the joint surfaces, and surrounding structures, of these joints, as well as the spinal column above.

The spine however, is made up of many small joints. Due to habitual postures, handedness, old injuries, gravity, etc. it is the rare person who uses all of these joints efficiently, and supports them adequately with their core. The large muscles of the extremities and shoulder/pelvic girdles, exert forces on the spine that over time, alter their position and excursion of motion. The result is some spinal segments that move too much and some that don’t move at all. This muscle imbalance of both spine and extremities creates blocked energy, and result in forces that ultimately damage tissue and hinder performance.

Often times, it is ineffective use of the thoraco-lumbar core that results in mal-alignment of the head and neck resulting in poor use of the cervical core. Sometimes, the cervical core malfunction is a result of specific injury such as whiplash.

In addition, the eyes will actually change their resting position in the sockets, to seek the horizon, if the head is held habitually in an altered position. A common altered position is head forward of the body, chin up, and head tilt either right or left. Once the eyes have accommodated to this altered posture, re-training takes consistent effort and feed-back. Altered eye position then controls not only the rider movements, but may influence the movement of the horse as well.

Exercise, that focuses on use of the core, and coordinated use of the extremities, such as yoga and pilates, can be very helpful. However, many people struggle to perform these movements correctly as well. Once you have injured your back or neck, the muscles of the core don’t just bounce back to normal function. Their specialized function requires re-training. Manual therapy to release excess muscle tension in one group, and simultaneously shorten and re-train the opposite muscle group may be necessary in order to create balance. Specific core activation exercises follow, that may need to be done on a regular basis for life, unless you are successful in incorporating good posture and body mechanics in your daily activities. Generally, the eye muscles will recover their normal position in the socket once the head and neck posture are consistently corrected.

Problem solving rider faulty technique always leads us back to the core. Proper use of the core by the rider is essential for good performance, and prevention of over-use injury. It is interesting to consider the impact of the rider's success in this area, and how it may help the horse achieve the same.

If you would like to schedule treatment, have questions, or suggestions for future informational columns, please contact Stacey at: info@animalrehabinstitute.com or (971) 226-0010 mobile. You will find directions to her clinic on the web site www.AnimalRehabInstitute.com.

Stacey Brown PT CERT received her degree in physical therapy from Pacific University and is a native of Portland Oregon, where she practiced human physical therapy for 30 years, and equine rehabilitation for 7 years. She has a strong background in both neurologic and orthopedic treatment, and combines her experience in a unique and effective approach. Stacey now practices in the Wellington, FL area, and specializes in the assessment and treatment of equestrian athletes. She is an athlete, rides herself, and has a life long interest in nutrition and wellness. Through movement analysis and physical evaluation, Stacey designs individual treatment programs to enhance performance, as well as treat injuries. She is skilled in muscle balancing techniques, myofascial release, soft tissue mobilization, joint mobilization, and uses a cold laser to speed healing and enhance nuero-motor retraining. She is also certified in equine rehabilitation, and uses her skills to improve the performance of horse and rider pairs.

Dressage Training With Carl Hester - The British Perspective

2011-08-06T10:47:00.002-04:00

[From the August 2011 Sho Times:
Shannon Dueck is a contributing writer to the
Sho Clothes Sho News monthly newsletter]

by Shannon Dueck
(Photo of Shannon Dueck by Sue Stickle)

Training With Carl Hester - The British Perspective

I have been asked to expound on my experience this summer training with Carl Hester in Great Britain. If you are unfamiliar with Carl, he just got over 80% in the GP at the CDI5* in Hickstead with the lovely stallion Uthopia - and deserved it. His student Charlotte got over 77% with Valegro at the same show. These are remarkable scores that reflect the quality of training here.

With the encouragement and backing of Dressage Canada, I embarked for Jolly Olde England at the end of June with my mare Ayscha, and after a whopping 60 hours of travel time finally arrived at Carl’s gorgeous yard in Gloucestershire, quite close to the Welsh border. Robert Dover helped me get into Chez Hester at the last moment, and I now know how lucky I was to get a coveted spot here.

Along with the lovely big indoor and outdoor arenas (which both have fabulous footing), the walker and the lunge ring, there are huge stalls around a beautiful courtyard for the very pampered horses. These things can be found in most top dressage barns, but what really makes this training yard different is the many turnouts for the horses, all grass, all different sizes, from small to huge. These horses all get turned out on grass every day, they get to be horses and get dirty and run and play. Some even go out with buddies, something I have not seen in years! The horses are so happy it’s remarkable.

In a normal week, the horses get a day off, two hack days (yes, they all hack out on the English lanes in rain or shine, with the lorries, the tractors, the sheep and cows on every side) and 4 days of training. Even on the training days they hack around the big fields to warm up and cool down. We do lots of hills, which my vet will be thrilled to hear, and Ayscha’s passage and piaffe can get quite expressive when the neighbor’s cattle are near the fences!

Ayscha’s eyes are still huge every time we go along on a hack - she’s amazed at the big world out there! She has special shoes so she won’t slip on the asphalt. She’s very good, a little spooky but always brave, even past the killer lambs and gypsy caravans on the sides of the roads. Yes, there are real gypsy caravans - the (very healthy looking) gypsy horses are staked out on grass verges, and the wagons are set up to live in, and everyone gets along. The farmers and locals all slow down to a crawl to get past us on the very narrow lanes, it’s such a normal sight to see “plodders” on the roads that it seems everyone knows how to safely drive vehicles around horses.

While the hacking and turnout is quite unique, the nuts and bolts of Carl’s training system are familiar and classical. I immediately was comfortable with how he trains and rides, and it all makes perfect sense. It takes everything I have learned and ridden for so many years and makes it more fun for both the rider and the horse. First all the horses must stretch in trot and canter. It’s not a maybe, it’s a must. Then the horses get picked up and onto the bit. Powerful and forward and on the bit, not pulled back or behind the leg or vertical. Some hard work in this frame, and then an immediate reward and instant stretching for a break. There are lots of breaks, lots of rewards. Apparently I am not good enough at this yet!

Corrections are very clear and to the point, and the biggest thing I am getting (yes, I know I have taught this for years, but I am not good enough at it yet) is “in front of the leg”. If I want to ride really good Grand Prix, my horse has to go forward by herself. And if she doesn’t, I need to correct her - and when I kick her I am not allowed to pull on the bits. Oh I know this inside and out in theory, but it’s really hard to always do it right! Every correction is followed by a huge “Good Girl” and a pat.

Ayscha’s straightness is always an issue, and most of our mistakes are a result of crookedness. So we work a ton on the walls, the quarterlines, the centerlines, and then finally the diagonal lines. I think we are getting better, but we still have a ways to go. My straightness is also a work in progress, so I am going to a gym as often as I can and doing weights and a great “body combat” class.

Carl can make every critique funny, he doesn’t mince words at all so I know exactly what I do wrong or right - but it’s pretty amazing how his humor can make every criticism easy to take - I can laugh and try harder instead of get frustrated. I don’t know how he keeps his good humor ride after ride, but he does. I will come home from here with some really funny sayings and observations that I am sure will be heard by my students for years to come! (Although my British accent needs a bit of polishing).

The biggest compliment I can pay Carl and his staff is that I am leaving Ayscha there for a few months while I come back home. I will get my business and home life up and running again, and travel back to Britain a few times to train and compete before bringing Ayscha back to Florida in time for the big season here. It’s been FAB in Britain so far, and I believe that Ayscha and I are finding our mojo here! Ya Baby!

International Grand Prix trainer and competitor Shannon Dueck is a Pan Am Games Individual Silver Medalist, and has competed at both WEG and the World Cup Final. She has trained with Bert Rutten of the Netherlands, Kathy Connelly, Lars Peterson, Hubertus Schmidt, Robert Dover, and most recently, Wolfram Wittig while in Germany this past summer.

Dressage Rider Position and Breathing

2011-08-03T17:21:00.003-04:00

Rider Position and Breathing

by Stacey Brown, PT

[From the August 2011 Sho Times: Stacey Brown is a contributing writer to the Sho Clothes Sho News monthly newsletter]

Are you becoming out of breath while you ride? Most equestrian pursuits are considered moderate static sport. Not aerobic. There are performance sports, such as polo, that might be classified differently. But in most cases, we should be able to ride without getting short of breath. And as any trainers will tell you, breathing is important. Correct and regular breathing while riding at each of the gaits, and a deep breath before transitions, communicates intention to the horse, allows energy to move through the horse and rider, as well as keeps the rider relaxed and efficient. This article will approach breathing in a biomechanical way. We will relate breathing technique to posture, and make recommendations to make relaxed breathing easier.

The muscle most directly related to breathing is of course, the diaphragm. As we inhale, the diaphragm relaxes, and moves downward in the abdominal cavity, creating a vacuum in the lungs that pulls air into our lungs. When we exhale, the diaphragm contracts, moves upward under the rib cage and forces the used air out. It is a simple and effortless process that happens without our awareness most of the time. Thank goodness. So what can go wrong, and particularly what can go wrong when we are riding?

The most obvious answer is that we forget to breathe when we are learning something new. We focus so hard, that we hold our breath. Fortunately that doesn't last long, since we repeat the maneuvers until they become more automatic, and our breathing tends to return to normal as that happens.

But what about shortness of breath in experienced riders? What is it about riding that can make us short of breath and limit our endurance? Or give the wrong signal to our horse? Or make it hard to concentrate on perfecting our technique? The answer is our posture on the horse. First, let's look at optimal breathing posture, and look a little further into the anatomy of breathing.

As we said earlier, the diaphragm is the major breathing muscle. But the diaphragm, like every other muscle in our bodies, likes a proper resting length. A place to move from and return to, that is ideal for adequate circulation and nourishment and that allows for the cycle of full relaxation and full contraction. There are many other structures that make this possible. The underside of the ribcage is a major attachment of the diaphragm. This includes the xiphoid process, as well as the pericardial sac surrounding the heart and the pleura that surrounds the lungs, and many more complex connections. The central tendon of the diaphragm actually connects with the psoas muscles, and the anterior longitudinal ligament of the thoracic spine. If the ribcage is collapsed, the diaphragm does not have a frame to hold tension, and cannot perform it's movements with excursion required for a full breath. Even the secondary muscles of breathing, in the neck, are not in correct position to help, if the rib cage is collapsed. Instead, the head is in a forward position, and most likely is bobbing. If you are forming a mental picture of a rider with a rounded back, and poor use of the core, you are getting the idea. The spine is the determining factor for the shape of the ribcage, and must be supported by the core. Remember, the core consists of the pelvic floor, the diaphragm, the transverse abdominis muscle and the multifidi muscles, which form the shape of a can, and stabilize the spine in a neutral position to anchor it, and allow independent movement of the extremities.

In addition to identifying the need for proper use of the core, in order to have proper position for breathing, we also need to look at the reciprocal nature of the breathing diaphragm, with the bottom of the core, the pelvic diaphragm.

When the breathing diaphragm relaxes as we inhale, and moves downward in the abdominal cavity, there is a reciprocal relaxation of the pelvic floor muscles, in which they also move slightly downward. During exhalation, the diaphragm contracts and rises, as does the pelvic floor. Picture the breathing diaphragm and the pelvic diaphragm as two level domes, and then cups, as they contract and then relax. When performed correctly, breathing can actually help control urinary incontinence that is far more common than you might imagine, in female riders.

The muscles of the trunk, such as the psoas, the latissimus, and the rectus abdominis, can through imbalances, disrupt the proper position of these two diaphragms. In addition, the muscles of the hip and pelvis can create imbalances, as can the muscles of the neck. The myofascial system, as interconnected as it is, must be free of imbalances, and blockages, that interfere with elevation of the ribcage and neutral position of the spine, in order to have effective breathing mechanics. Common postural faults of the rider such as anterior pelvic tilt, and "driving the horse through" with over activation of the psoas, as well as posterior pelvic tilt with collapse of the ribcage, can both create an environment that inhibits the breathing apparatus from working properly. As hard as we try to comply with correct posture, there may be factors that we cannot identify on our own.

Ask your qualified physical therapist, body worker, Yoga instructor or Pilates instructor, about interventions that will assist you in achieving the posture that your trainer is asking you to adopt. Breathing exercises, incorporated into your cross training work out can be an eye opener, and may help you make the next leap in performance.

If you would like to schedule treatment, have questions, or suggestions for future informational columns, please contact Stacey at: info@animalrehabinstitute.com or (971) 226-0010 mobile. You will find directions to her clinic on the web site www.AnimalRehabInstitute.com.

Stacey Brown PT CERT received her degree in physical therapy from Pacific University and is a native of Portland Oregon, where she practiced human physical therapy for 30 years, and equine rehabilitation for 7 years. She has a strong background in both neurologic and orthopedic treatment, and combines her experience in a unique and effective approach. Stacey now practices in the Wellington, FL area, and specializes in the assessment and treatment of equestrian athletes. She is an athlete, rides herself, and has a life long interest in nutrition and wellness. Through movement analysis and physical evaluation, Stacey designs individual treatment programs to enhance performance, as well as treat injuries. She is skilled in muscle balancing techniques, myofascial release, soft tissue mobilization, joint mobilization, and uses a cold laser to speed healing and enhance nuero-motor retraining. She is also certified in equine rehabilitation, and uses her skills to improve the performance of horse and rider pairs.

The Effect of Riding Boot Fit on Low Back Pain in a Dressage Rider

2011-07-05T17:13:00.001-04:00

Case Study: The Effect of Riding Boot Fit on Low Back Pain in a Dressage Rider

by Stacey Brown, PT

[From the July 2011 Sho Times: Stacey Brown is a contributing writer to the Sho Clothes Sho News monthly newsletter]

The rider is a 48 year old female, amateur dressage rider who presented with a complaint of left low back and sacro-iliac joint (SIJ) pain, which was longstanding, and that had recently become severe enough to limit her riding time. Riding exacerbated her left “sciatica” pain (left hip to lateral calf) from 3/10 at rest, to 8/10 with certain leg aids and positions. Especially painful, were lateral movements to the right, and downward transitions from canter to trot, on the right lead more than the left. It had become so consistently painful to perform these movements that she questioned how much longer she could ride at all. Her two horses, one an upper level dressage performance Dutch Warm Blood, and the other, a rescue Thoroughbred, trained with dressage principles as a rehab method, needed regular exercise and conditioning. Not riding, was not an option for the rider. We set about identifying the cause of her recent increase in pain and dysfunction, with a thorough functional evaluation.

The rider’s history was a complicated one, but not unusual for committed horse enthusiasts. She had been riding since childhood and had competed successfully as a hunter jumper. She also enjoyed downhill skiing. In recent years, she performed the hard physical work of running an equine boarding and dressage training facility. She had a variety of physical injuries, and strain patterns as a result. Her major injuries included a left medial meniscus injury, a fractured right fibula, a fractured right “pinky finger”, and a right rotator cuff tear (subscapularis muscle ¾ insertion tear) with subsequent scar tissue adhearing to the insertion of the biceps tendon, resulting in right bicep long head tendon atrophy. She complained of chronic left elbow pain which was aggravated with repetitive motion associated with stall mucking. Twenty years ago she had her left SIJ treated with prolotherapy, twice, in an attempt to reduce her “chronic pain and hypermobility”.

She had recently started using her show boots for daily training, in order to “break them in”.

On physical examination, lumbar disk symptomology was ruled out and her neurological examination was normal. She had exaggerated spinal curvature in the cervical, thoracic and lumbar segments. She tested positive for pelvic obliquity with the left ilium in a posteriorly rotated position relative to the right, with an associated sacral rotation. This asymmetrical pelvic posture, resulted in asymmetry of the rest of her lower extremity joint orientation, left leg compared to right. The right femur was held in internal rotation with the right tibia externally rotated, and the opposite was true for the left leg. The feet and ankles were also affected, with loss of arches, and an everted, or upturned lateral aspect of the left foot, compared to a “lifted” medial aspect of the right foot. In other words, she was “crooked”. There were similar asymmetries in position and use of the upper extremity joints, due to the continuous nature of the myofascial connections with the lower extremities, through the trunk, both same side, and diagonal pairs.

This sequence of compensatory myofascial patterns and resultant joint changes, demonstrates the resiliency of the functional kinetic chain of the lower extremity. The functional kinetic chain of the lower extremity, refers to a continuous fabric of muscle and fascia, along with the boney struts that comprise the foot, ankle, lower leg, knee, thigh and pelvis. (Upper extremity kinetic chain is similar involving the joints from the hand to the shoulder girdle) It provides for the storage and transmission of energy that allows us to move. Picture the body in a deep squat with the joints of the lower extremities fully bent (flexed). This positions the kinetic chain to store energy. Now picture the body jumping from the squat position into the air, releasing all of the stored energy and resulting in a elevation of the entire body off the ground, as the joints of the lower extremities straighten (extend). Through injury and improper use, our muscles get “out of balance. The body finds a way to substitute or compensate with other muscles. Some of the muscles will be in an unusually shortened resting position, and some may be in a comparatively lengthened resting position, but they will still work. They aren’t optimally efficient in their adapted positions, so will lose energy, to the adjacent tissues, and often result in injury.

The rider is an individual with quite elastic connective tissue (joint and muscle support structures), compared to others, on the more fibrous (stiff) end of the normal tissue characteristics range. So, even though she tested “normal” for nearly all joint ROM passively, when it came time for dynamic posture and function, her asymmetries were readily apparent. In addition to the differing patterns in her lower extremities, the myofascial patterns were also asymmetrical right to left, in her trunk and upper extremities. In short, with her history of injuries, she learned new ways of moving when her pain prevented her from moving normally. A blessing and a curse, is the truism “the body will sacrifice structure for function”.

The rider’s riding was impacted by these asymmetries of movement. The efficient progression of energy throughout the myofascial system, requires that there be no blockages or restrictions which would disrupt the flow. Picture the force generated by the inner left leg at the girth, as you prepare for half pass to the right. If the foot, lower leg and thigh are in good anatomical alignment, the rider is using the core muscles properly to stabilize the trunk, the horse’s barrel and the saddle accommodate the angle of the rider’s tibia and femur, etc. there is no loss of energy. Instead, the leg aid is applied, and the horse is directed. The energy is returned back to the system, from the pressure against the barrel of the horse, is accepted, and absorbed up the kinetic chain of the human foot, lower leg and thigh.

Both parties move on, and there is no damage done.

But what happens if the energy is unable to proceed along the intended line? What if there is poor alignment of the tibia and femur? What if the barrel of the horse is narrow and the rider cannot squeeze the lower leg adequately, without also rotating at the lumbar spine, hip or knee? Or perhaps the rider has tight hip flexors and adductors on one side, and overstretched, weak hip flexors and adductors on the opposite side. What if the saddle twist is not optimal and forces the thigh into inefficient position? What if the boot is too tall and prevents the needed excursion of movement between the joints and tissues of the knee? That energy has to go somewhere, and will either be absorbed in the myofascial system, further damaging the structures of the kinetic chain, or be lost in uncontrolled movement, both of which will diminish performance and ultimately cause injury.

In this rider’s case, her show riding boot was too tall and too stiff. It stopped her lower extremity kinetic chain from compensating for her dynamic postural asymmetries. It stopped her from allowing the foot to rotate outward and evert (turn upward), which it needed to do in order to give her the strength to put pressure on the horse’s barrel. Each time she tried to put her left leg on, particularly with the knee in a flexed position, she felt lack of strength and power in the left leg, and excessive movement of the hip and lower back, creating pain and tension on the structures of the spine and pelvis. The source of her sciatica.

Going back to riding in her half chaps and paddock boots reduced her sciatica. She was able to ride both of her horses on a regular schedule, and enjoy it again. She also gained an awareness of the areas of her body that needed to be addressed in order to ride more efficiently, reduce injury, and improve performance. Understanding the improper movement strategies that she had adopted, gave her insight and direction in her pursuit of centered and correct dressage performance.

The rider received physical therapy interventions to correct her posture and improve the use of her core, in order to stabilize her spine in a more neutral posture. Myofascial release and muscle balancing manual therapy techniques, helped ease myofascial restrictions, and allow energy to be better transmitted through improved circulation in blood, lymph fluid, and generally improved cellular energy of impaired tissues. The use of low level cold laser made the process easier and less painful, by quickly reinforcing correct movement and assisting the body to speed up the healing process. She performed specific exercises to strengthen weak muscle groups, and stretch shortened, tight ones. She began making changes in her body mechanics while performing her daily activities, and delegated some of the more routine and physical tasks, in order to let injured tissues heal. She was quick to analyze her saddle fit, and began to cross train and reinforce her posture and movement strategies with yoga. The rider’s trainer was kept informed of the problems, treatment and progress toward goals, and was involved in providing feedback and coaching of new movement patterns while riding. Through hard work and strong motivation, The rider has progressed over the past year from riding first level to fourth level, and is pain free. She continues to receive physical therapy intervention and is more supple now than she has been in years.

Conclusions: Humans are asymmetrical for the most part. Most of the time, this is at least partially correctable. Whether due to hand dominance, injuries, chronic postural requirements, habit etc, addressing these imbalances, and correcting them as far as possible, will improve the riders contribution to the correct performance of dressage. It is a process, much like the sport of dressage itself. If we expect the horse to perform symmetrically, the rider should be able to as well. During this process, it is important to consider factors that may make the situation worse, by limiting the compensation strategies needed for the current level of fitness. Restrictive boots, worn down or improperly fitted saddles, etc. may cause pain and contribute to injured tissues. There are a variety of equipment adaptations available to reduce the strain that accompanies myofascial and joint restrictions, that may or may not improve with time and treatment. An example is the choice of half chaps over boots, and the use of angled stirrups. Sport specific physical therapy, dedication and hard work on the part of the rider, and good communication within the riding “team”, can help determine what can be corrected and what must be compensated. At least for the moment.
If you would like to schedule treatment, have questions, or suggestions for future informational columns, please contact Stacey at: info@animalrehabinstitute.com or (971) 226-0010 mobile. You will find directions to her clinic on the web site www.AnimalRehabInstitute.com.

Stacey Brown PT CERT received her degree in physical therapy from Pacific University and is a native of Portland Oregon, where she practiced human physical therapy for 30 years, and equine rehabilitation for 7 years. She has a strong background in both neurologic and orthopedic treatment, and combines her experience in a unique and effective approach. Stacey now practices in the Wellington, FL area, and specializes in the assessment and treatment of equestrian athletes. She is an athlete, rides herself, and has a life long interest in nutrition and wellness. Through movement analysis and physical evaluation, Stacey designs individual treatment programs to enhance performance, as well as treat injuries. She is skilled in muscle balancing techniques, myofascial release, soft tissue mobilization, joint mobilization, and uses a cold laser to speed healing and enhance nuero-motor retraining. She is also certified in equine rehabilitation, and uses her skills to improve the performance of horse and rider pairs.

The Importance of Rider Fitness for Dressage Riders

2011-07-05T17:10:00.000-04:00

[From the July 2011 Sho Times:
Shannon Dueck is a contributing writer to the
Sho Clothes Sho News monthly newsletter]

by Shannon Dueck
(Photo of Shannon Dueck by Sue Stickle)

The Importance of Rider Fitness

Great dressage riders and trainers may have different training philosophies and different strategies when it comes to their horses, but all of them have one thing in common, and that is a high degree of personal physical fitness. An effective rider has a great deal of core strength in particular, that strength which holds us in balance over the horse. I always think of the rider’s seat as going from mid thigh to up to the rib cage, and this area of the rider must be strong enough to hold the rider from coming off balance laterally and longitudinally. A strong core that really helps the rider balance also allows the correct muscles to relax to the degree necessary to sit with the horse’s movement. This in turn helps the rider control all the aids, and use them in a clear and precise way.

Ok, it’s pretty clear how important that strong core is, how are we to go about getting it? If you are a professional and ride 5 horses or more a day, I really think that is good enough to get a super strong core. I always feel that when I ride 5 horses I have had a very good workout., any less than that and I need to do more to help me stay fit enough to ride well. I do know some top riders who ride 8 horses a day and then go to the gym - while I think that is great, I figure 5 horses and some stretching and I’m good to go...

I know it’s a often a struggle for many amateurs to ride even one horse a day. Life is a balancing act, and there are often more important things in life than riding dressage. However, whenever and however it can fit in, additional fitness is required if you are interested in really improving your ability as a dressage rider. Additional physical training emphasizing strength, balance and suppleness can only help your riding.

My favorite thing to do is dance, dance, dance. Grab a partner and learn to ballroom dance. Many aspects of dance are similar to dressage - there is tempo, rhythm, balance, frame, contact and suppleness. And it’s really fun too - you don’t even realize the workout you are getting!

One of the best new sports out there for core strength, balance and fitness is paddle boarding - I read somewhere that it burns about 800 calories an hour - and most of those calories are burned maintaining balance with your core. If you live anywhere near the water I highly recommend it!

Other great sports are most of the martial arts (Thai Chi is supposed to be wonderful) and any type of yoga. Pilates is a guaranteed bet to improve your symmetry and muscle control. If you can run, use a treadmill, or elliptical machine for 30 minutes a few times a week it can make a huge difference, and it helps even more if your posture and technique is kept in mind while working out.

For those of you with very limited time, use some of your down time to work out. Watch TV and do the “Plank” (the pilates move where you hold your body straight as an arrow on your elbows and toes). Any other good abdominal exercises, especially those for your oblique abdominals are great. Have small weights near the couch, and use them for arms, shoulders, chest and legs. Lunges and squats can be easily done from in front of the TV.

I’m sure that there are many other great sports you can do that will enhance your riding, I think the most important thing is not so much the sport or what you do, but just that you do it...
International Grand Prix trainer and competitor Shannon Dueck is a Pan Am Games Individual Silver Medalist, and has competed at both WEG and the World Cup Final. She has trained with Bert Rutten of the Netherlands, Kathy Connelly, Lars Peterson, Hubertus Schmidt, Robert Dover, and most recently, Wolfram Wittig while in Germany this past summer.

Dressage Riding: What Are You Doing with Your Core?

2011-05-30T11:30:00.001-04:00

by Stacey Brown, PT

[From the June 2011 Sho Times: Stacey Brown is a contributing writer to the Sho Clothes Sho News monthly newsletter]

Using the "core" is a concept that has gotten a lot of attention, not only in the world of rehabilitation, but also in the world of performance sports. Equestrian sports, particularly Dressage, join Yoga, Pilates, Dance, Martial Arts, and Gymnastics, to name a few, that recognize how activation of the core muscles can improve performance and prevent injury. As a physical therapist, I see on a daily basis, the confusion that exists surrounding the core. I hope this brief article will clarify a few things and help those who are struggling, to master this important concept.

So really, what is the core, and why do you need it? Many people think that tightening the abdominal muscles is synonymous to using the core. It's not that easy.

The core is a group of muscles that work together to support the spine in a desired shape, and prepare to anchor the body's center of gravity, for independent use of the head, arms and legs. This prevents injury to the spinal segment's joint structures such as the ligaments, discs, and joint capsules. The bigger the forces through the extremities, the more important it is to use the core properly. For example, when riding, the core supports the spine in it's normal "S" curve, as the hips open and close, and the arms move forward and back at the shoulders. This action, allows the energy from the rider to the horse and back again, to cycle through with minimal loss (absorbed as shock to the musculoskeletal tissues of both parties). Better performance without injury.

How do you know if you are using the core? Let's look at the muscles that make up the core, and then what might make it difficult for you to use them correctly.

All muscles work within the continuous myofascial system of the body, so are never truly acting in isolation. But having said that, the core muscles consist of the pelvic floor muscles, the deep spine extensor muscles,that connect one vertebra to the next, the transverse abdominal muscle which is deep, and surrounds the entire abdominal cavity, and the diaphragm. Picture a can, with the bottom being the pelvic floor muscles, the sides being the transverse abdominal muscle, the seam up the back of the can is the spinal segmental muscles, and the lid is the diaphragm. Their action is to compress the abdominal cavity while maintaining the shape of the spine. In this way, the abdominal cavity becomes taut like a balloon, and this pressure supports the spine from the front and sides. This is important to balance the actions of the very strong back extensors muscles which seriously outnumber and are much bulkier than what we have on the front side of the spine. Without proper use of the core, we are overloading tension on the back of the spine, and in danger of forcing individual vertebrae to "buckle" forward, and increase pressure on the disc and joint structures. In dressage it is common, to have too much movement at a few spinal segments, and not enough at others due to this action. If you know of riders who have had to have spinal fusions, this movement fault may be to blame.

There are many reasons why it is difficult for some people to use the core properly. Previous injury to the back inhibits use of the core. It must be re-trained. Over-reliance on the hip flexor muscles can inhibit the core (prolonged sitting, driving). It takes conscious effort to sit properly unless your work area is set up ergonomically for you. Pregnancy and childbirth are notorious challenges to the core. These chronic strain postures result in muscle imbalance within the core, and between the hip flexors and extensors.

The good news is that the core can be re-trained. If poor use of the core has been chronic, there may be compensating tissues that need to be released, and posture corrected, for effective re-training to happen. Once the core has been activated, an individualized exercise program for cross-training of your sport, can keep you honest with the use of your core, and bump up your performance. Incorporating good use of the core into your riding may be tedious at first, but will help you accomplish the deep seat, heels down, chest up posture that is so important in equestrian sport.

If you would like to schedule treatment, have questions, or suggestions for future informational columns, please contact Stacey at: info@animalrehabinstitute.com or (971) 226-0010 mobile. You will find directions to her clinic on the web site www.AnimalRehabInstitute.com.

Stacey Brown PT CERT received her degree in physical therapy from Pacific University and is a native of Portland Oregon, where she practiced human physical therapy for 30 years, and equine rehabilitation for 7 years. She has a strong background in both neurologic and orthopedic treatment, and combines her experience in a unique and effective approach. Stacey now practices in the Wellington, FL area, and specializes in the assessment and treatment of equestrian athletes. She is an athlete, rides herself, and has a life long interest in nutrition and wellness. Through movement analysis and physical evaluation, Stacey designs individual treatment programs to enhance performance, as well as treat injuries. She is skilled in muscle balancing techniques, myofascial release, soft tissue mobilization, joint mobilization, and uses a cold laser to speed healing and enhance nuero-motor retraining. She is also certified in equine rehabilitation, and uses her skills to improve the performance of horse and rider pairs.

Dressage: Drilling the Movement or Developing the Movement?

2011-05-29T16:07:00.000-04:00

[From the June 2011 Sho Times:
Shannon Dueck is a contributing writer to the
Sho Clothes Sho News monthly newsletter]

by Shannon Dueck
(Photo of Shannon Dueck by Sue Stickle)

Are You Drilling the Movement or Developing the Movement?

What is the difference? Drilling a movement has negative connotations, because much of the time riders and trainers are repeating a poorly executed movement over and over again. I know you have all heard the saying that perfect practice makes for perfect performance. The same is true for poor practice, it does lead to poor performance. Repeating a movement badly just for the sake of doing it is just poor training, I think you would agree! Doing a leg yield over and over again that is unbalanced, running, sucking back or above the bit (a common First Level problem) or a flying change that is late behind, rushed, croup high (a common Third Level problem) time and time again is only going to put you and your horse down the path to physical problems and mental insecurity.

We want to develop a horse correctly in all the exercises right from the start, so that we can then repeat the movements well again and again, and thus use perfect practice to help ensure perfect performance. This kind of "drilling" should have a positive impact on your progression.

So how to develop a movement correctly? First, make sure you and your horse are ready for the movement. This seems like a no-brainer, but I often see horses that are nowhere near balanced or bent correctly on a 20 meter circle being pushed to perform leg yields, or horses and riders who are not yet able to collect the canter on a 10 meter circle being asked for a flying change. It's not a surprise that the new movements are not performed well.

Second, make sure your horse understands every element of a movement or exercise before trying to put it all together. That means for a trot leg yield that your horse can (1) move his haunches easily away from one leg behind the girth, (2) stay round straight and over the back in both reins, (3) stay forward while staying round in both reins and then voila (4) your horse has a chance of doing all three at the same time, which should result in a good leg yield!

Third, Repeat. The good leg yield. Not the bad one. If one element of this leg yield is missing, work on that element before trying to put it all together again. Always assess what element (or multiple elements) are missing, fix that one element (or multiple elements one at a time) and then put them all together again - in the good leg yield. Repeat. And reward. And don't repeat too much, or the pieces begin to abandon you once again - horses get tired, so do riders. Do this again the next ride - and the next, and the next (you get my drift). I think maybe 2 or three good repetitions per ride is a great thing to aspire to!

This is good "drilling" or repetition. You will reap the benefit of proper development of each movement or exercise. This will result in a horse that looks forward to his or her work, because more of his or her efforts result in a "good boy (or girl)".

I would like all of us working on this very demanding sport (and art) of dressage to have more positive moments than negative, and the way to do this is to NOT RUSH through the levels. The way to do this is to make sure that you really do understand the objectives of each level and can perform the movements well before pushing to the next level. This has nothing to do with competition, more to do with your day to day training at home. Competition is a whole 'nuther can of worms. More on that later :-)

International Grand Prix trainer and competitor Shannon Dueck is a Pan Am Games Individual Silver Medalist, and has competed at both WEG and the World Cup Final. She has trained with Bert Rutten of the Netherlands, Kathy Connelly, Lars Peterson, Hubertus Schmidt, Robert Dover, and most recently, Wolfram Wittig while in Germany this past summer.

Can I Learn How to Ride Dressage from Online Videos?

2011-05-02T10:54:00.000-04:00

[From the May 2011 Sho Times:
Shannon Dueck is a contributing writer to the
Sho Clothes Sho News monthly newsletter]

by Shannon Dueck
(Photo of Shannon Dueck by Sue Stickle)

Can I Learn How to Ride Dressage from Online Videos?

I have often been asked this question, my opinion is both “Yes” and “No”. Full disclosure here:: I do have training videos on one of the popular websites, so that must mean I think they can be useful.

Here are some of my reasons for saying “Yes”:

Theoretical knowledge of horsemanship in general and dressage training in particular is crucial to being successful as a rider and trainer (and yes, you are training your horse every time you sit in that saddle, even if you are not getting paid). You really do need to know the hows and whys of what you are trying to accomplish when you are riding. Without the theoretical background, even the most gifted rider will go round and round in circles (get it?) and never progress. And, the theory of dressage is never completely mastered, so we can all continue to improve our knowledge forever. While books are truly treasure troves of theory, good videos of great trainers who are teaching students or riding and talking while doing so can clarify much of the written word for us.

Many of us are visual learners, myself included. That means that no matter how much we read about it, discuss it, question it and spout the theory ad nauseam, we really don’t get it until we see it done a number of times. I remember as a working student spending many extra hours watching top trainers ride and train. For some reason I could see the half halt and feel it in my body when they were riding. Eventually I could reproduce that half halt myself on a horse - the “Eureka” moment. I finally knew what all the books were talking about. I sure know the moment I felt myself affect the horse’s hindlegs and put them where I wanted them. This was directly related to how many times I had watched great riders do the same thing. I completely believe that we can learn from watching good riding and training, and this learning can sometimes almost bypass the conscious brain and just go straight into our subconscious. (Warning: I also believe we can subconsciously learn bad riding from watching bad riding, so turn away from the train wrecks please!) This is reason number two for a resounding “Yes”.

Reason three is that we have a limited number of horses to ride every day. I ride and teach all day, but that doesn’t mean I am exposed to all different kinds of horses and situations. We can learn from different trainers on different horses; every one has unique challenges in their training process. If you only ride one horse a day, watching applicable video can vastly increase your understanding of how to deal with your own unique challenges.

Reason one for “No” is the same as reason three for “Yes”. It can be confusing to learn from too many trainers, and for that reason I think most students should limit their exposure somewhat to trainers who have similar training methods as your current trainer. Otherwise you can find yourself questioning more, and not progressing. This is fine if your quest is just knowledge for the sake of knowledge (not a bad quest), but it’s not so great for progressing in the actual sport of riding dressage well.

Lastly, if you want to learn how to ride, there is no substitute for riding. Lots of riding. All the theoretical learning, all the questioning, all the discussions, answers and watching will never do for you what hours in the saddle will. You must have the knowledge and understanding of what you are trying to accomplish, but in the end you must develop feel in your body and subconscious. This takes hours in the saddle, being aware of what you are doing, trying to feel your horse and then using your body more effectively to affect your horse in the right ways. In this way, your conscious knowledge turns into unconscious skill.
International Grand Prix trainer and competitor Shannon Dueck is a Pan Am Games Individual Silver Medalist, and has competed at both WEG and the World Cup Final. She has trained with Bert Rutten of the Netherlands, Kathy Connelly, Lars Peterson, Hubertus Schmidt, Robert Dover, and most recently, Wolfram Wittig while in Germany this past summer.

Physical Therapist Stacey Brown Keeps Audience Spellbound at Shop Talk

2011-05-02T10:21:00.000-04:00

Wellington, FL – Stacey Brown, a Physical Therapist and Certified Equine Rehabilitation Therapist, kept the audience spellbound at Sho Clothes recent “Shop Talk” with her presentation on physical therapy and retraining the equestrian athlete’s body. Sho Clothes, an upscale dressage boutique in Wellington, offers “Shop Talk” on a monthly basis and features “the best of the best” in the dressage world sharing their expertise.

“Stacey’s information was very pertinent as many dressage riders have injuries and are trying to recover,” said Michele Hundt, the owner of Sho Clothes. “Stacey has been treating horses and riders for the past seven years and has a very thorough knowledge of the horse and rider’s anatomy. We had a packed house for ‘Shop Talk’ and Stacey’s presentation kept everyone interested and asking questions.”

Brown, who specializes in neurological and orthopedic rehabilitation, demonstrated how she evaluates a rider’s position and then corrects the spinal position and the core usage. “Stacey also assesses the tack and the horse,” Hundt said. “She uses bio mechanical assessment analysis and then teaches the rider how to compensate for injuries.”

Brown is skilled at helping riders of all disciplines. “I have specific training in strain and counter-strain, which is a muscle balancing technique to rebalance muscle groups throughout the entire body,” Brown said. “It is painless and effective. It reboots the neuromuscular system so that muscle groups can cooperate with each other again.”

Her services also include physical therapy assessment and treatment of musculoskeletal and neurological disorders. Brown has worked as a Physical Therapist for 30 years and is a lifelong equestrian. “I have ridden since I was a small child,” she said. “I am currently taking dressage lessons.”

“Shop Talk” is co-sponsored monthly by the Gold Coast Dressage Association, and Hundt said their audience always enjoys learning. “We love to support the dressage community and ‘Shop Talk’ has proven to be a successful way for dressage enthusiasts to gather and learn,” Hundt said, adding that ‘Shop Talk’ is held the second Tuesday night of each month. “We had a great evening which included holding a raffle for a Back on Track saddle pad which was won by Roy Anne Nilson. Saddle Trail Realty also donated two $50 gift certificates and those were won by Arlene White and Ellen Alvarez.”

Sho Clothes, an upscale dressage boutique in Wellington, specializes in the latest and most fashionable dressage apparel for show and play. The Sho Clothes Sho Room, located at 3220 Fairlane Farms Road in Wellington, boasts a wide variety of the finest dressage riding clothes, apparel, jewelry and dressage accessories available. Sho Clothes also offers a mobile boutique that travels to dressage shows.

For more information on Sho Clothes or “Shop Talk,” visit their website at www.shoclothes.com or call them at 561-319-2121. For more information on Brown, call 971-226-0010 or visit the www.AnimalRehabInstitute.net website.

Photo: Physical Therapist Stacey Brown was the most recent speaker at “Shop Talk” at Sho Clothes, Wellington’s upscale dressage boutique. From left to right, Roy Anne Nilson, Mary Ellen Sencer, Stacey Brown, Doug Hundt, Arlene White, Ellen Alvarez and Sho Clothes owner Michele Hundt.

Managing Soundness in Dressage Horses

2011-04-06T13:16:00.002-04:00

[From the April 2011 Sho Times:
Shannon Dueck is a contributing writer to the
Sho Clothes Sho News monthly newsletter]

by Shannon Dueck
(Photo of Shannon Dueck by Sue Stickle)

Managing Soundness in Dressage Horses

For this article I am getting off my dressage training soapbox and getting onto a different topic - that of management to help keep our horses sound and performing well. In particular suspensory ligament injuries are rampant in the dressage, and it’s not usually because we work our horses terribly long or terribly hard. In some instances soft tissue injuries are just plain bad luck, but in many cases we can make our luck better with some good management of our dressage horses.

Here are a few of my thoughts on good management practices that will help maintain our horse’s long term soundness:

Train consistently. That means train your horses at least 5 days a week, every week. Your horse’s general fitness level should be maintained as much as possible, unfit horses are more likely to be injured than fit horses. My perfect schedule would be to train 5 days a week, longe one day a week, and give one day completely off. I try to include hacking almost every day for each horse. Then daily turn out or hand-walking is also essential, no horse should stay in a stall for 23 hours a day.
Warm up and cool down. In Florida we don’t need to warm up for long, but still a nice 10 minute walk and then posting trot before getting down to work is always a good idea. In colder climates a longer warm up should always be part of the training program. Warming down is also crucial, after a hard workout it is important to do a nice stretchy trot for a few minutes to relax muscles and get rid of lactic acid build up. A good cooling out walk is also important, as it is hard on soft tissue (muscles, tendons and ligaments) to be immobile after a hard workout.
Ride in the best footing possible. My personal preference is for a sand mixture with some kind of fiber that can aid in shock absorption and also help reduce shear. The footing should not slip away from your horse’s feet, nor jar them. Hard footing can cause foot soreness, muscle soreness and make any arthritic changes more painful. Footing that slips away from the step of your horse can cause soft tissue strains and sprains. My coach once said to me “Good footing is the cheapest veterinarian”. It is so true!!! 3(A). Maintain your good footing. This means making sure that the footing is evenly distributed in the arena and evenly packed. Usually this means daily harrowing of the arena and raking of the track. Some places with lots of traffic even do it more than once a day. Using the appropriate dragging equipment for the footing is important; the harrow that works on plain sand might be the wrong piece of equipment for a waxed fiber sand composite.
Cross train. Hack your horse on different footings, grass, pavement and arena surfaces. Be careful to walk when the footing is not even. Turn your horse out if he is used to it, but use caution - supervision is a good idea and so is good paddock footing. For those brave souls out there, jump your horses occasionally, and for sure all of us can do some cavaletti work! Move your horse a lot. Most horses stand too much and don’t move enough.
Get off the 20 meter circle. Remember that lots of dressage injuries can be attributed to the repetitive nature of the sport - so try to make it less repetitive!
Develop a great relationship with both your vet and farrier. Make sure your vet and farrier get along well too. They will help you design a program that enables your horse to be fit, strong and sound for many years of fun together.
(Or 6-A!) Shoe your horse well. Not many horses have the ideal conformation from a textbook, but with good help your horse can have well balanced and sound feet. Consider investing in x-rays once or twice a year to see how your horse’s angles are looking, and have your vet and farrier work together to get as close to ideal shoes and feet as possible. Your farrier will appreciate it!

I am sure there are many more points I could make, but this is a start. Luck is always part of dealing with horses, but with good management your luck just seems to get a little better. Happy riding!

International Grand Prix trainer and competitor Shannon Dueck is a Pan Am Games Individual Silver Medalist, and has competed at both WEG and the World Cup Final. She has trained with Bert Rutten of the Netherlands, Kathy Connelly, Lars Peterson, Hubertus Schmidt, Robert Dover, and most recently, Wolfram Wittig while in Germany this past summer.

How Important is Balance in Dressage?

2011-03-09T19:11:00.001-05:00

[From the March 2011 Sho Times:
Shannon Dueck is a contributing writer to the
Sho Clothes Sho News monthly newsletter]

by Shannon Dueck
(Photo of Shannon Dueck by Sue Stickle)

How Important is Balance in Dressage?

The answer is easy: incredibly important. It’s crucial to all aspects of good dressage for both horse and rider.

First of the all the rider must be beautifully balanced in order to positively effect the horse in all things. This means that an effective rider does not balance by holding onto the reins or by gripping with his or her legs. A rider that is balanced can use the leg, seat and rein aids in the clearest and lightest way, which gives the horse the chance to react in the quickest and most correct way. Probably the fastest and easiest way to work on your balance is to take lunge lessons on a safe horse. That’s how the Spanish Riding School trains their riders, and it’s pretty darn impressive watching those riders sit a Capriole without stirrups!

Secondly, the dressage horse should have good natural balance. It is much easier to train a horse that can already balance in all three gaits. It is harder for a horse to balance the canter, because the gait is 3 beat and goes to the front end in each stride. This is why we have the old adage “enjoy the walk and trot but buy the canter” when searching for a dressage prospect. Bigger gaits are harder to balance, so a horse with three normal and balanced gaits is often preferable to a horse with large and unbalanced gaits. Of course the dream horse has fabulous gaits and also great natural balance!

Assuming that the rider is balanced and her horse is somewhat balanced, we now have to put both together in the dressage ring. Both lateral and longitudinal balance are necessary to make the work look easy and harmonious, regardless of the level. These qualities are improved and enhanced with good training.

Lateral balance is improved with equal bending in both directions. This in turn, will allow the rider to keep the horse correctly straight with ease. It’s all about having the horse keep both shoulders up with both hind legs stepping up to the same degree, even on bending lines and when doing lateral work. Every horse and rider finds it easier to bend one direction, so the job of the rider is twofold: Work on your own ambidexterity and straightness, and also keep training your horse to bend equally easily in both directions, and thus to become straighter and more laterally balanced. Add increasing levels of difficulty with lateral work, beginning with leg yields and graduating to shoulder in, travers, renvers and half pass.

Longitudinal balance is enhanced with transitions, transitions and more transitions. Both between gaits and within gaits. These transitions will improve your half-halts tremendously, and for sure one of the major end results of a well executed half-halt should be improved balance. I often substitute the word balance when I am asking a student for more collection, it seems to help them get the horse more on the hind legs rather than take away from the impulsion.

Lastly, a horse that is correctly balanced will find it much easier to execute whatever your are asking of him, and along with ease comes mental relaxation and physical suppleness. A horse that is not balanced is not able to be properly soft to the aids. When your horse is struggling with lateral or longitudinal balance he will be braced somewhere in his body, and so it follows that it is only fair to balance your horse before insisting on a supple and soft feel. It never ceases to amaze me when I am training that the struggle for softness and harmony just ceases to be an issue when I am able to balance my horse correctly. Keep it in mind in all your riding, and all things will be easier.
International Grand Prix trainer and competitor Shannon Dueck is a Pan Am Games Individual Silver Medalist, and has competed at both WEG and the World Cup Final. She has trained with Bert Rutten of the Netherlands, Kathy Connelly, Lars Peterson, Hubertus Schmidt, Robert Dover, and most recently, Wolfram Wittig while in Germany this past summer.

All About Buying and Selling Horses

2011-02-22T16:12:00.003-05:00

February Sho Clothes “Shop Talk” Recap: All About Buying and Selling Horses

International Dressage Rider, Trainer and Coach Carole Grant was kind enough to take the Shop Talk stage on short notice when our scheduled speaker had to postpone due to a death in the family. Her presentation about Buying and Selling Horses brought many useful tips to an eager crowd. In fact the evening was so successful, many people did not want to leave!

Among the many valuable nuggets of information, Carole emphasized:

You can not ride the x-rays, but they are important for resale.
The professional will stand behind you because they want your repeat business if that horse does not work out.
Go into the stall and pick up the horse's hooves. Doing this allows you to detect if he has the shivers (shakes). It also lets you know his character in the stall.
Three strikes and the horse is out. If the horse has 2 strikes decide if you can live with those 2 strikes.
Obtain the horse's show results from the Federation National. Every country has one and you can confirm the horse's age.
Ride the horse 3 times before deciding on the purchase.
At the vetting, a good vet will present any faults. Then, the vet, trainer and client can discuss these openly.

Following are just a few highlights from Carole's incredibly long list of achievements: Double Gold Medal Winner at the 1983 Pam Am Games; 1982 World Equestrian Games; Master Coach of International Riders including the Pam Am Games & Olympics; Awarded the Prestigious Award Whitney Stone Memorial Trophy from the USET. Learn more about Carole at www.equistrideinternational.com.

Our Door Prizes Winners (photo above left to right):

$50.00 Gift Certificate from Mary Ellen Sensor, Saddle Trail Reality - Winner: Diana McNaughton
$50.00 Gift Certificate from Doug Hundt, Saddle Trail Reality - Winner: Pam Link
Back On Track Saddle Pad - Winner: Chris Carroll
Back On Track - No Bows - Winner: Sue Koldstad

“Shop Talk,” a monthly gathering of equestrians, is presented by Sho Clothes at their Wellington dressage retail location. It is held in association with the Gold Coast Dressage Association. “We thoroughly enjoy hosting ‘Shop Talk’ each month,” Hundt said. “We host incredible speakers and each Shop Talk audience enjoys the plethora of information presented.”

Sho Clothes is located at 3220 Fairlane Farms Road in Wellington, Florida. They specialize in top dressage clothing, accessories & gifts and they have become THE dressage store for riders from around the world. Sho Clothes features a wide variety of the finest dressage riding apparel, horse-related gifts, jewelry and many accessories. And the mobile boutique is fully-stocked, appearing at many of the top Florida Dressage shows. Sho Clothes is an authorized dealer for Pikeur, Cavallo, Kentucky, Kingsland, Back on Track & more. We stock the latest dressage fashions and proudly represent these top brands. For more information on Sho Clothes or “Shop Talk,” visit www.shoclothes.com or call Michele at 561-319-2121.

A special Thank You to GCDA for their refreshment contribution.

Natural Horsemanship Vs. Dressage

2011-02-11T11:46:00.002-05:00

[From the February 2011 Sho Times:
Shannon Dueck is a contributing writer to the
Sho Clothes Sho News monthly newsletter]

by Shannon Dueck
(Photo of Shannon Dueck by Sue Stickle)

Natural Horsemanship Vs. Dressage (or..... Can we do both??)

There is often discord between so called aficionados of “Natural Horsemanship” (NH from now on) and those who love to ride dressage and love these big warmbloods. I think this is an unfortunate state of affairs, and in my opinion many people in all equestrian disciplines can learn a ton from the top trainers of NH. I am talking about John Lyons, Pat Parelli, Monty Roberts and Ray Hunt, just to name a few of the really good ones.

Now, I don’t think trainers who specialize in NH can necessarily tell you about the finer points of dressage training, but boy are they good at teaching good horsemanship. To me good horsemanship is all about communicating with your horse effectively and humanely. It means we have the ability to think like a horse does, and how to read their body language in minute detail, and quickly. It means we can use our body language to communicate our desires to our horses in a way that makes sense to them.

It means we teach our horses to respect our body language. In my experience, most people are hooked by the beauty and harmony that good dressage epitomizes. That’s fabulous! But, many of these same people love horses like their pets, and their horses do not respect them enough. This lack of respect has an effect on every communication between horse and person, including when training dressage. More troubling is that horses are big powerful animals with iron shod hooves, which can be a lethal combination if the horse does not respect the human as the herd leader.

To be a good horseman, you must be able to sensitively read a horse’s instinctual reactions, and then use these to your advantage. You must be able to immediately determine if a horse is frightened or belligerent, hurting or angry, unable or unwilling. A great horseman can do this, and then instantly tailor his or her demands and rewards to get the desired reaction from the horse. Some people have a great deal of natural talent and feel for this two way communication, and the rest of us need to learn it. NH teaches these things to people who have not grown up with horses or have less innate understanding of horses.

I was lucky to have grown up with horses, and also lucky to have a mother who was a great horsewoman. She had grown up with horses in the prairies and had done everything from rodeo to cutting to saddle seat and settled on bringing dressage to the masses of the wild west. She taught me how to be the alpha member of the pair, and how to safely train horses humanely from the day they are first born.

Here's a partial list of some of the things your dressage horse should be able to do:

1. Lead at your shoulder without pulling, lagging behind, or jumping on you. Stop when you stop, without you pulling. Back up when you walk towards him. Turn when you turn. If you back up, they come towards you. Until you stop backing up. They do not run you over.
2. Follow you on to a trailer. They trust you to not endanger them, and they respect you enough to follow.
3. Lunge without trying to kick your lights out, even when fresh. Galloping off and kicking back at you is a very pointed lack of respect.
4. Turn towards you and come to you when you approach in a stall or paddock. They do not turn their tail end to you and threaten, ever. They know that you will always be welcoming when they face you, and never welcoming when they present their rump.
5. Stand well in safe cross ties - without pawing incessantly (which is very bad for their front feet and legs, by the way). Move over when you request. Stand for the farrier and veterinarian. They do not stomp on your feet on purpose! (Yes, they do know where their feet are).
6. Stand while being mounted and dismounted. These are the most vulnerable and dangerous times of your riding.

These good ground manners can be taught to all horses, but it is easier if you have a thorough understanding of how to relate to horses on their level as prey animals. Some are easy, and other horses will require a high level of expertise and intuition, and are best suited to very experienced horsemen and women.

Unexpected things happen when you are working with and riding your horses every day. If you and your horse have established a high level of respect, trust and communication on the ground, you will be safer and more successful in all your work together. Combine great horsemanship with good dressage training - and the sky’s the limit!

International Grand Prix trainer and competitor Shannon Dueck is a Pan Am Games Individual Silver Medalist, and has competed at both WEG and the World Cup Final. She has trained with Bert Rutten of the Netherlands, Kathy Connelly, Lars Peterson, Hubertus Schmidt, Robert Dover, and most recently, Wolfram Wittig while in Germany this past summer.

Use of Arms and Hands in Riding Dressage

2011-02-10T09:17:00.004-05:00

[From the January 2011 Sho Times:
Shannon Dueck is a contributing writer to the
Sho Clothes Sho News monthly newsletter]

by Shannon Dueck
(Photo of Shannon Dueck by Sue Stickle)

Practical Advice on a Common Question: “How Should I use my Arms and Hands?”

It’s that time again, and I have been searching for a subject to write about this month. I hit on one subject that seems to come up again and again in lessons I teach - how to obtain the correct feel in the rein aids. It’s very common to see students struggle with finding the correct balance of suppleness and strength in their own arms and hands, let alone in their horse's connection with the bit. So I thought maybe I could say a few words that might help out.

The first thing that should be addressed is the proper positioning of your arms and hands. Without proper positioning, it is incredibly difficult to get the right feel. I address positioning of the arms beginning with the shoulders - roll your shoulders up, back, and then let them drop as low as possible. Feel your lower shoulder blades come closer together. Your muscles need to hold your lower shoulder blades together, so your shoulders can remain relaxed, down and back. Next is your upper arms, which should drop naturally from your shoulder down. Let gravity pull your elbows heavily down to the ground. Feel a line with a 5 pound weight on the end strung around the crook in your arm, and let it pull your elbow and upper arm down. This should result in the pointy parts of your elbows hovering somewhere close to (but slightly in front of) the points of your hipbones when seated correctly. Are you with me so far? A great test of your elbow connection is to have someone on the ground put their hand behind your elbow and try to push your elbow lightly forward. Resist the forward push while not actively pushing backwards, and you have achieved the correct feel. You should be able to resist the push and at the same time be able to softly flex your wrists and fingers. Now you have your elbows connected to your core and your hands are independent.

Your forearm should angle towards where your horse’s snaffle bit rings are. The more collected your horse, the higher your hands will be; the more stretched downward your horse is, the lower your hands will be. This enables you to always keep a straight line from your elbow to the horse’s snaffle, which is really crucial if you want to establish a supple and consistent contact. One caveat though: no matter how low your horse’s head might be, never straighten your elbows out completely - joints must bend to be supple, and your supple elbow joint is a really important part of maintaining a supple connection.

Now that your contact is established through your elbow, your wrist and hand get to do the fine tuning. When neutral your wrist needs to be slightly flexed inward. From this position, it is the most flexible, in that it can both straighten and flex more. There is never a time to have your wrist flexed out - it is a rigid and inflexible position. You must hold your reins in a fist. This fist is not clenched like you are going to punch Mike Tyson, rather it should be closed like you are holding a small bird, and don’t want to crush it, nor let it struggle and fly away. Your fingers need to be moveable within this fist, with your middle, ring and pinky fingers doing most of the talking to your horse with the reins. Your thumb and forefinger stabilize the reins. Many riders try to quiet their hands by tightening the wrists and hands, but that just serves to make the contact rigid for the horse. Quiet hands come from a strong, independent seat, a well connected elbow, and a supple wrist and fingers.

When you have the correct position established (and can relax enough within that position to feel), subtle rein aids are easy to apply. With quiet, connected elbows, close your middle, ring and pinky fingers, and turn your wrist so that your knuckles curl in towards your opposite shoulder. When communicating nicely with your horse’s mouth, your whole arm should not pull back or drop forward. Yes, there are times when what I call a “Whoa darn it” half halt is needed, and this means a strong pull, but it’s not good communication and should only be part of a rare big correction to a horse.

With proper positioning, a strong yet supple elbow connection, and flexible wrists and hands, you will be able to feel more of what your horse tells you about the connection between the two of you, and you will be able to “talk” to him with a subtlety that is enviable.

International Grand Prix trainer and competitor Shannon Dueck is a Pan Am Games Individual Silver Medalist, and has competed at both WEG and the World Cup Final. She has trained with Bert Rutten of the Netherlands, Kathy Connelly, Lars Peterson, Hubertus Schmidt, Robert Dover, and most recently, Wolfram Wittig while in Germany this past summer.

How to Make Your Horse "In Front of the Leg"

2011-02-05T10:39:00.003-05:00

[Shannon Dueck is a contributing writer to the
Sho Clothes Sho News monthly newsletter]

by Shannon Dueck
(Photo of Shannon Dueck by Sue Stickle)

Practical Advice - How to Make Your Horse “In Front of the Leg”

Last month I wrote about what we mean by the term “Forward” or “In Front of the Leg.” It doesn't matter if you are walking on a long rein at the beginning of your ride or training canter pirouettes towards the end of the ride, if you are mindful of keeping your horse easily in front of the leg at all times every part of your ride will be easier. This month I am going to detail how I go about improving this quality.

First, let me emphasize that insisting that your horse is more “In Front of the Leg” is only fair if you plan on insisting on it every time you use your leg. In addition, your will only be successful if you have developed a strong, balanced and independent seat, so that you can apply clear and consistent leg aids, and become neutral with your legs at any time. No gripping with the leg to supplement your core is allowed!

Recognize that every horse has a different reaction to a leg correction, and for both safety and fairness, the rider has to assess just how much of a correction is needed. If you have a hot and reactive horse, you will probably get by with a quick bump with your leg or a baby spur, but if your horse is on the lazy side you will need a larger spur and possibly a whip to back up your leg. The desired correction should get an overreaction - but not a wild explosion please. I want your horse to get easier, not get you off!

Make yourself drape your leg around the horse and resist the temptation to use your leg every stride. Ask with a little leg for a prompt forward transition within the gait or up to trot or canter. You need a quick forward reaction with his hind leg(s). If your horse responds immediately and well, drape your leg and enjoy the reaction. If instead you get a sluggish response, you must correct this immediately. Take your leg off the horse's side, and give him a quick bump with your leg. If you get a great correction response, that's enough. Drape your leg again and enjoy the reaction. A “Good Boy” along with a draped leg is the reward for an immediate prompt response to your leg aid.

A lazy or distracted horse will need more of a correction. If you bump him with your leg and get little response, your correction must quickly get more definite. A quick spur is necessary, or a quick tap with the whip. If you have had to kick, spur, or use your whip, it is absolutely not adequate if the your horse gets a little better. He must immediately jump forward and hurry too much, enough so that you can take your leg off, after which you need to bring him back to a quieter tempo. Remember, this is a correction, not an aid. You need the correction to be strong enough that you can use a lighter leg aid after and have him react immediately and correctly.

After every correction, quickly return to neutral, and test your leg aid. Do this by asking for the prompt forward transition again with a light leg aid. If your correction was adequate, your horse will respond immediately and well. You must in turn immediately reward with a “Good Boy” and a draped leg. If your horse fails the test and is still sluggish, immediately correct again, return to neutral, and test your leg aid again. When your horse passes the “light leg” test you are ready to go on in your ride.

Horses are simple creatures, and can really only understand one correction at a time. For this reason it is very important that when insisting that your horse jumps forward and gets hot off your leg, you must not pull on his mouth. This will only serve to confuse your horse (Do you mean Go or Stop)? Keep your hands a little forward until your horse is convinced that he must be hot and reactive to your leg and you can drape your leg, and only then bring your horse back with your rein aids. During a correction to your leg, please don't worry if your horse is momentarily above the bit. Trust that after an effective correction you will be able to use a light leg into your rein aid and keep your horse nicely on the bit.

And that’s really all there is to it. Simple. OK, not so easy to put into practice, but if you have developed an independent seat, you can do this. It takes mental focus and consistency. Every time your horse gets sluggish to the leg, regardless of what you are actually doing (Walk/trot transitions? Shoulder-in? Piaffe?) make a quick correction, and a quick reward when you get a good reaction. Your horse will become much more attuned to your leg aids, and you will find that over time you will be making fewer and fewer corrections, and be able to use lighter leg aids throughout your entire ride. It's really much more fun to ride a horse that is truly “In Front of the Leg”!

International Grand Prix trainer and competitor Shannon Dueck is a Pan Am Games Individual Silver Medalist, and has competed at both WEG and the World Cup Final. She has trained with Bert Rutten of the Netherlands, Kathy Connelly, Lars Peterson, Hubertus Schmidt, Robert Dover, and most recently, Wolfram Wittig while in Germany this past summer.

What Do We Really Mean By "Forward"?

2011-02-04T15:58:00.006-05:00

[Shannon Dueck is a contributing writer to the
Sho Clothes Sho News monthly newsletter]

by Shannon Dueck
(Photo of Shannon Dueck by Sue Stickle)

What Do We Really Mean By “Forward"?

OK, we all get told at some time that our horses are not “Forward” enough. I certainly did when I went to train with Wolfram Wittig in Germany this summer! I told him that my lovely mare was much more forward than a few months previously, and he asked me (only slightly joking) “were you doing it in slow motion before?” So, off we went for a gallop!

I think forward is not always the best term, because it is easy to confuse fast with forward. And while we dressage riders really should desire that our horses are always forward, they should rarely be really fast.

Fast means that the horse speeds up the tempo of the gait - and if the tempo of a gait is too fast, there is very little time for a swinging back, suspension or cadence in the gait. Thus the quality, balance and beauty of the gait is lost. A horse can be fast without being forward. This sounds weird, I know, but it's not if you know our dressage definition of forward. Forward in a dressage sense means that the horse reacts instantly to the leg aid, and responds with a forward desire and flexion of the hind legs. This can be apparent (or very apparently not) in piaffe, which has almost no forward motion.

What we dressage trainers really want most of the time when we yell “more forward”! is actually “more in front of the leg”! Yah - sometimes it is just that you need to go faster, but more often we want your horses (and ours, believe me) to react quicker and more correctly to your leg aid. I tell my students that I don't want the horse to even think about your leg aid, I would like to bypass the thinking part and have an unconscious reaction trained by consistent repetition. I don't believe horses think about the fly that just landed on them before swishing it off with their tail - they just react. Why do they react? Because if they don't, their subconscious knows that in a split second that fly will nibble them. So their body just reacts, as the brain has learned the consequences of not reacting (chomp!)

A horse that is correctly in front of the leg is a dream to ride - the rider doesn’t have to push all the time to create energy, so instead the rider gets to focus on all sorts of fun stuff, like relaxation, throughness, balance, suppleness and swing - all those things that make dressage riding like dancing with your horse, and a joy to watch.

Next months Training Tip: How to make our horses “In Front Of The Leg”!

International Grand Prix trainer and competitor Shannon Dueck is a Pan Am Games Individual Silver Medalist, and has competed at both WEG and the World Cup Final. She has trained with Bert Rutten of the Netherlands, Kathy Connelly, Lars Peterson, Hubertus Schmidt, Robert Dover, and most recently, Wolfram Wittig while in Germany this past summer.

Feb Shop Talk to Feature Kathy Connelly

2011-02-03T18:25:00.002-05:00

Tuesday, February 8th
6:30 pm - 8:00 pm

Topic: How to Solve Mouth & Tongue Problems with Proper Bridle Fitting

The discussion will include the consideration of the horse's head conformation and the individual anatomy of his mouth. There will be suggestions & tips on how to provide more comfort for your horse. Kathy will also present products which she developed after years of testing on many horses of national and international quality.

Kathy Connelly is an International rider, trainer and coach. She trained extensively in Europe, working with Herbert Rehbein in Germany and Ernst Bachinger in Austria. Kathy has competed for the U.S. Team both in the World Cup and in the North American Championships. Her long bio includes being member of the USEF High Performance Committee for the last ten years and an "S" judge. She was the sole Dressage commentator for Radio WEG at the 2010 World Equestrian Games in Lexington, Kentucky.

Announcing the winner of our GPA Helmet!

2011-02-03T18:23:00.003-05:00

Congratulations to our GPA Helmet Winner: Kyle McIver!

Our NEXT giveaway is a pair of Pikeur Breeches!
Stop by the Sho Clothes mobile boutique at the Wellington Classic Dressage CDI and with purchase you’ll be entered to win a FREE pair of Pikeur Breeches! Drawing will be held on February 13, 2011.

Announcing the winner of our Charles Owen Helmet

2011-02-03T18:22:00.002-05:00

Congratulations to the winners of our Charles Owen Helmet giveaway: Katie Foster & Lynne Foster!

Kathy Connelly to Speak at Sho Clothes “Shop Talk”

2010-12-28T17:39:00.004-05:00

Wellington, FL – International Dressage Rider, Trainer and Coach Kathy Connelly will headline the February 8, 2011 Sho Clothes Shop Talk. Her bio is impressive:

Kathy Connelly Bio -
Kathy Connelly is an International rider, trainer and coach. She trained extensively in Europe with Herbert Rehbein in Germany, and in Austria with Ernst Bachinger, where she focused on piaffe and passage on the long lines and in hand. Bachinger was with the Spanish riding school for 20 years and is a former Director of the School.

Kathy has competed for the U.S. Team both in the World Cup and in the North American Championships. Kathy has trained and does train many successful International riders and horses, including Olympic, World Games, Pan Am and World Cup riders. She has served as Chef D'Equipe for the U.S Team both in Hickstead, England, and in Australia in 2003, where she also coached the Silver Medal U.S. Young rider Team.

Kathy has served on many committees over the years for USDF and USEF. She has been a member of the USEF, High Performance Committee for the last ten years, and is an "S" judge.

She has partnered for the last 12 years with top KWPN judge, Toine Hoefs in the Netherlands to import some of the most prominent Dressage horses in the U.S.

She has also served as the sole Dressage commentator for Radio WEG at the 2010 World Equestrian Games in Lexington, Kentucky

“Shop Talk,” a monthly gathering of equestrians, is presented by Sho Clothes at their Wellington dressage retail location. It is held in association with the Gold Coast Dressage Association. “We thoroughly enjoy hosting ‘Shop Talk’ each month,” Hundt said. “We host incredible speakers and each Shop Talk audience enjoys the plethora of information presented.”

Sho Clothes is located at 3220 Fairlane Farms Road in Wellington, Florida. They specialize in top dressage clothing, accessories & gifts and they have become THE dressage store for riders from around the world. Sho Clothes features a wide variety of the finest dressage riding apparel, horse-related gifts, jewelry and many accessories. And the mobile boutique is fully-stocked, appearing at many of the top Florida Dressage shows. For more information on Sho Clothes or “Shop Talk,” visit www.shoclothes.com or call Michele at 561-319-2121.

Tina Konyot Speaks At Sho Clothes “Shop Talk”

2010-12-15T16:59:00.002-05:00

Dressage Rider and World Equestrian Games Competitor Tina Konyot Speaks At Sho Clothes “Shop Talk”

Wellington, FL (December 9, 2010) – Tina Konyot, dressage rider and World Equestrian Games competitor, spoke to a packed house at Sho Clothes dressage boutique’s recent “Shop Talk.” An energetic and well-educated crowd listened to Konyot speak about her experience at the 2010 WEG, the transition from the Small Tour to Grand Prix and her stallion Calecto V.

“Tina was fascinating to listen to and I know everyone in the audience enjoyed learning about her experience with Calecto, a horse that she trained by herself and took all the way to the World Equestrian Games,” said Michele Hundt of Sho Clothes. “Tina was also able to field questions from the audience and they really appreciated her feedback.”

During her talk, Konyot explained that Calecto was only an average performer while on the Small Tour but that she believed he would excel in the Grand Prix. Calecto not only excelled, but made history during the Collecting Gaits Farm/USEF Festival of Champions, a Selection Trial for WEG, when together he and Tina won four Grand Prix classes.

Konyot, who is known for being a gifted rider, trainer and teacher, also explained to the “Shop Talk” audience that she believes when a rider trains a horse on their own it brings the horse and rider that much closer together. Konyot has a close relationship with all of her horses and still owns her older, retired dressage horses.

“Shop Talk” is a monthly get together for equestrians presented by Sho Clothes at their Wellington boutique in association with the Gold Coast Dressage Association. “We have such a great time hosting ‘Shop Talk’ each month,” Hundt said. “We always have wonderful speakers and the audience leaves the evening after a great educational experience.”

Sho Clothes, located at 3220 Fairlane Farms Road in Wellington, specializes in dressage apparel and has become the “go to” dressage store for riders from around the world. The shop features a wide variety of the finest dressage riding clothes, apparel, jewelry and dressage accessories available. Their mobile boutique is also a fixture on the Florida Dressage circuit. For more information on Sho Clothes or “Shop Talk,” visit their website at www.shoclothes.com or call them at 561-319-2121.

Photo: Tina Konyot, dressage rider and World Equestrian Games competitor, is pictured with Michele Hundt of Sho Clothes. Tina spoke to a packed house at Sho Clothes dressage boutique’s recent “Shop Talk.”

Red Dot Sale and Free Shipping now!

2010-12-02T07:33:00.002-05:00

Just in time for the holiday season! We're having a Red Dot sale with 25-40% off select breeches and jackets. Also - receive Free Shipping now through December 23, 2010 - no minimum order required! (U.S. destinations only.)

Michele Hundt’s Artwork Returns to Artists Haven Gallery

2010-05-26T14:50:00.002-04:00

Back by Popular Demand - Michele Hundt’s Artwork Returns to Artists Haven Gallery

Wellington, FL (May 19, 2010) – Artwork by Michele Hundt is back by popular demand at the Artists Haven Gallery in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. Hundt, the co-owner of Sho Clothes dressage boutique, recently had a painting appear in the 2010 International Juried Fine Art Painting Competition at the gallery.

“I was very pleased to have my work accepted for the juried show, and now my artwork will appear in two more shows at the Artists Haven Gallery as well as on their website,” Hundt said.

Hundt is no stranger to the art world, having spent 17 years as a Designer and Art Director in Ohio before joining with Betsy Rebar Sell to open Sho Clothes. Hundt continued to use her artistic skills at Sho Clothes, designing the company’s logo after Rebar Sell’s award winning horse Wonderful Walden. Hundt’s Sho Clothes logo appears on the store’s bags and show coolers.

“I am really excited to have my work featured at Artists Haven. Although I have had a diverse career, it has always been art related,” Hundt said. “I have been painting for years, and this has really been a great adventure. I see a great deal of my love for horses incorporated into my artwork, which of course is a wonderful way for me to combine my love for horses and art.”

Sho Clothes, Hundt’s dressage boutique located at 3220 Fairlane Farms Road in Wellington, boasts a wide variety of the finest in dressage clothes, apparel, jewelry and dressage accessories. Visit www.shoclothes.com for new products and store information. For more info about Hundt, visit her website at www.michelehundt.com and for more information on the Artists Haven Gallery, visit www.artisthavengallery.com.

About Michele Hundt:
Artist Michele Hundt is masterful in her bold use of color, working with color and shape to capture the moment or someone. Michele specializes in Original Abstract Paintings, Figure Paintings, Equine Artwork and Impressions of the Moment of Now and enjoys the process of working in large dimensions.

Michele’s career has been diverse, but has always been art related. She served as a Designer and Artistic Director at various companies in Ohio for 17 years. Michele studied Drawing at the Cleveland Museum of Art and Figure Drawing at the Cleveland Institute of Art and graduated from the Cooper School of Art in Cleveland. Michele’s work has appeared in the Mulry Fine Art Gallery in Palm Beach, Florida and the Artists Haven Gallery in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida.

Photo: A painting by Michele Hundt, co-owner of Sho Clothes dressage boutique, will appear at the Artists Haven Gallery in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. Hundt’s love for horses is evident in her artwork. (Photo courtesy of Michele Hundt)

Recycle Those Old Horse Polo Bandages!

2009-12-02T19:16:00.004-05:00

One thing most of us have plenty of is polo bandages. Don’t throw them out once they have outlived their use as working bandages. Recycle them. Use your imagination and be creative. Here are some suggestions for re-use:
- Cut them shorter keeping the velcro end and use them as cuff bandages below your regular standing wraps.
- Cut them into pieces to keep in your boot polish kit. Use a small piece to apply polish and then just throw it away. Use a longer piece to buff your boots.
- Cut them into pieces to keep in your tack-cleaning kit. Use a small piece to oil tack. Use a small piece to polish silver.
- Wrap pieces around halters, bridles, cribbing straps, etc. to prevent rubbing.
- Use pieces to wrap around baling twine to protect your hands while carrying hay bales.
The list goes on...

How to Get a “10” on Your Dressage Hair Bun!

2009-10-29T19:48:00.003-04:00

For long hair:
To achieve that great looking bun, fullness and placement is important. You can easily increase the fullness of your bun holder by adding cut nylons that match your hair to your bun holder. Place the cut nylons in a circular pattern in the bun holder so you can easily fit it around your own hair bun. The bun placement is important. Start your hair bun up as high as possible. The less space between the bun holder and the brim of your top hat the better.

For short hair:
Fill your hair bun with cut nylons that match your hair. Place a matching hair net over your hair. Place hair bun on top of the hair net and attach clips to the hair net and your own hair. If necessary, place a dark hair net over your hair bun and hair to help keep it in place. Make certain the bun holder is placed high under the brim of the top hat.

Welcome to the new Sho Clothes Blog!

2007-10-25T13:53:00.000-04:00

We offer the finest in dressage apparel and stock the following name brands: Arista, Cavallo, Eurofit, Kentucky and Pikeur. We also offer beautiful handmade dressage stock ties & stock pins, Carol Ehrlich jewelry and more!

You will find that we have a huge inventory of clothing with fabric and color selections that change weekly. Due to this unique and highly specialized assortment, we use direct ordering methods as opposed to online shopping carts. You are invited to visit our Dressage Apparel and Clothing Website to look through our most popular items!

Sho Clothes Shows the Difference!