This month we are starting a new series of articles on “training outside the box.” The “box” refers to those confined areas, such as arenas and paddocks, where many riders spend training time. It’s time to get out of the “box” and learn to train outside in order to have more fun. Remember, however, that safety always comes first!

The goal for both the bending and turning aids is to control the horse’s body position and his balance. In this article, I will use a circle pattern to demonstrate how to correct the two most common problems that occur when trying to keep a horse straight through a turn—the problems called falling out and falling in.

In this article, we will continue our discussion of the bending and turning aids. The goal for both the bending and turning aids is to control the horse’s body position and balance. I have received many requests to describe in detail the role of these aids, and so I want to review the nuts and bolts of this very important issue in riding.

In the last article, I discussed the importance of the rider’s natural aids in communicating with the horse. This time, I would like to share with you a simple exercise to help you improve the use of your aids: your seat, leg, and hands.

Most people who do any form of exercise know that it is important to warm up. Because a horse is an athlete too, he also needs a pre-exercise warm-up routine to help loosen and limber up his muscles after standing in a stall or in a pasture. A warm-up also prepares the horse’s mind, as well as his body, for the work you will be asking him to do — whether it is schooling, trail riding, pleasure riding, or showing.

This month’s article is the beginning of a series based on the second part of my visual series, “Dressage Principles for the Western and English Horse and Rider.” This part is titled “Communicating with Your Aids—Keys to Success” because I believe that it contains the lessons every rider needs to learn in order to create a responsive and willing horse.