by Walter Zettl
Classical Dressage Instructor
I was talking to one of my students today about the importance of the "give." The horse has to know he has the possibility to go forward. I like to tell my students, even when you think you cannot give more, give again. Don't throw away the contact - this is just as wrong as riding with your reins too tight. The "give" should come from relaxing the shoulder and softening the arm - not from lengthening the reins or losing the contact.
The "give" has a profound effect on the horse. Instead of the horse feeling blocked or trapped, they feel free to step through with the hind leg. The "give" encourages the horse to move with an active hind leg, with schwung, a soft neck to a gentle inviting contact. It ignites the circle of energy between the horse and rider. When you give, it encourages the horse to try harder, to work with the rider, and to be willing to approach the limit of his abilities without tension. I like to tell my students "Open the door!"
When you are confused, or if your horse is tense and things are not going well, just "give." You won't be wrong!
(Thanks to Michelle Coleman-Grimmer for sending this to us!)
