My System

I teach Classical Dressage based on the Portuguese method. This has, over the centuries, incorporated the best from both the French and German methods, with additions from Nuno Oliveira and current scientifically-supported theories on training.

This is not the same as the majority of dressage coaching done today. I focus on keeping the horse comfortable, not using force or fear, and riding in lightness with a correct, balanced position. Additionally, this method employs ground work, voice cues, and parallel progression.

Other systems differ by their focus on precision, constantly driving the horse forward, simultaneous application of driving and restraining aids. I prefer to keep the horse calm, separating the aids and encouraging his natural forward urge rather than restricting it.

While results may be achieved by pushing the horse hard against the bit, the same results may be better obtained by relaxing the aids. I aim to produce a horse that will work without continued intervention of the aids.

This is a structured, progressive system which ensures excellent results in the competition arena and rapid progress through the levels. This is possible because the work is done with training and exercises which don’t create resistances, rather than coercing the horse and then having to spend time eliminating those resistances.

Parallel progression means that the rider and horse are introduced to all the basic concepts at the beginning of schooling, rather than working on one particular movement until it is perfect, and then moving on to the next one. In my system, the rider develops an understanding of what they are doing and why, and where it all fits in the journey to Grand Prix.

All the exercises begin with very easy steps, and continue in the same way. Every schooling session consists of bending, transitions and lateral work. When these basics are faithfully followed and absorbed, the rider then has all the tools needed for the Grand Prix movements.

My early introduction of lateral work is consistent with French, German and Portuguese teaching and it produces horses that not only enjoy this kind of work but also become better balanced, softer and rounder. Because the principle of keeping the horse comfortable is followed, they are never asked to do work that they are not ready for.

I give a two-fold guarantee:
1. if you feel you have not achieved in a lesson I will refund your fee, and
2. if you follow this system absolutely, you will succeed in competition.