The Before and After

/

A question of reflection…

I originally shared this with my team as “Questions to ask yourself after a show.”  The idea was for them to use a little self-reflection and critique themselves after riding their tests.  Having done that, I then encouraged them to have a look at Judge’s comments and see if their own observations lined up with the judge’s thoughts. If not, why not?

The list of questions was to help my riders understand which target areas to work on to improve scores.

I stressed the importance of recognizing things that went well. These are the movements that one works on to move into the 8-10 score range. Trying to take the good and make it great!

Likewise, they needed to take a good hard look at the places where there were struggles. Was the training at home possibly omitting work on something that then became glaringly apparent in the show ring?

As of late, I decided these “pyramid based” questions can be the Before and After Questions for my show riders. Whether show riding or practice test riding, one can answer them either by analyzing how the ride felt or by watching a video of the ride. Read what the judge thinks or ask a teammate, friend, or trainer to critique. Are you determined enough to self-reflect?

It is helpful to keep your questions and tests from your shows each year. Periodically go back and look for patterns or reoccurring issues. Ask your coach or your teammates for help with questions you cannot answer. Keep questioning. Keep learning. Keep going forward.

RHYTHM

  1. How was my walk quality and tempo?

  2. My trot?

  3. My canter?

SUPPLENESS

  1. What bending needs work? (corners, lateral movements, circles.)

  2. Which transitions need work?

  3. How swinging was my horse’s back? (stretching down, easy to sit?)

CONTACT

  1. Did I keep my hands forward allowing stretch to the contact?

  2. When was my horse not equal and steady in the connection?

  3. When did I not have position/flexion as needed?

IMPULSION

  1. When did my horse not respond to my aids promptly?

  2. Did I have to use a whip and if so, when did I use it?

  3. Where did my horse lose energy or lag behind?

STRAIGHTNESS

  1. Did I drift off any of my lines in the movements?

  2. What movements were not symmetrical? (figures, changes, rein-back)

  3. How well did I maintain a centered position? (halts, change of rein)

COLLECTION

  1. When was I unable to ride my horse’s poll up with my seat/legs?

  2. Was I able to shorten the stride without losing impulsion?

  3. Where did I have moments of self-carriage?

“Light tomorrow with today.” Elizabeth Barrett Browning