Dressage involves drawing out the natural capability of the horse and shaping it into something beautiful and expressive. The horse must learn how to balance under the rider and move in elegant self-carriage. When the rider has adopted a balanced seat, then the time is right to start the first dressage steps that will lead to a disciplined and flexible horse. The author describes lessons in serpentines, half halt, basic paces with lengthening and leg-yielding.

Anne-Katrin Hagen is an accomplished riding instructor and author of numerous equestrian titles.