Horseback training is an ongoing process that many times can see to put us in a rut. There is no rhyme or reason why "riders block" occurs, but it does happen. Sometimes it is just impossible to learn a new movement, such as transitioning from inside to shoulder in flexion.

At times like this a horse riding video can help you get out of that rut and move forward.

A horse riding video can be used in 3 different ways to improve your riding skills.

1. Your Own Horse Riding Video

Ask your instructor, or a friend, to videotape you as you're riding, especially getting footage of when you're attempting to perform whatever that elusive movement is. Make sure they know to record the entire session, not just the part that's not working for you.

This will enable you to see whether any bad habits have crept into your general style. Are you balanced in the saddle? Do either of your heels come up, making your legs go back and causing you to lean forwards? Or do you lean too far back with your legs pushed forwards?

If any riding issues are not immediately obvious to you, take the next step and replay your home horse riding video afterwards.

2. Take Time To Watch Professionals Ride

Many riding professionals have sets of training videos that you can invest in.

For beginners there is a wonderful eBook, Horse Riding Lessons: Teaching Yourself to Ride, that will give you everything you need to get started. This eBook includes a horse riding video which features professional riders demonstrating the basics of horseback riding.

For those of you who are ready to advance to higher levels of dressage, you'll find training videos online. A good horse riding video to watch is On the Levels produced by the United States Dressage Federation (https://usdf.org) with a judge's commentary giving you excellent insight into what's expected when you advance through the levels.

Watch the rider's overall style in your chosen video. See how supple the horse is and how easy he finds the movements as a result. Observe the quietness of the rider's aids and how effective they are. These are things to aim for when you ride.

Now look specifically at how the rider asks the horse for your 'tricky' movement. Play that part over and over, to better understand how the rider applies the aids for it.

3. Be Sure To Compare The Two

Watch the professional horse riding video until you understand the area you are having trouble with, then play your video. Note how your style and skill differs from the professional rider.

This gives you the opportunity to see what you need to do to improve your own riding. Note what you're doing differently on a piece of paper as you're watching your own video, so you don't forget, and then return to the professional video to reinforce the right way of doing it.

When you ride again apply the changes and see how the move works when you approach it differently. Many issues you will face as a horseback rider can be worked through using horse riding videos. Your riding will improve and you will move right past your "riders block".

Visit Jim's horseback riding for beginners website for a comprehensive horseback riding instructions along with horse riding videos.

Posted under Horses