Dressage Riding - The Free Walk on a Long Rein ...

Winning basic dressage points in the free walk and making sure you don't lose points on basic dressage movements.

The free walk on a long rein is another area where the dressage rider can pick up an easy mark.

The rider should retain a light contact with the bit, rather than a loose rein.

The correct definition of free walk is maximum stretch with contact.

Dressage - the free walk

You can easily spot a dressage horse who doesn't have a good free walk, as his steps will be affected.

  • Your horse may under track in free walk

    If you have too much contact and do not allow your horse to stretch down.

  • Your horse may over track in free walk

    If you allow too much stretch in the neck.

Basically ... You should concentrate on the following points in free walk
  • Try to maintain an active pace without rushing.
  • Always make sure you maintain a long rein and not a loose rein.
  • Always aim for maximum neck stretch, while maintaining the contact at all times.

Remember : The correct definition of free walk is maximum stretch with contact

Overview of Top Dressage Horses