Big & beautiful
In the third and final part of Sir Lee Pearson’s series, he talks us through training Jupiter, a Shire who’s proven that all breeds and types can excel in dressage
In this feature. . .
➤ Improve your horse’s balance in canter ➤ Improve his hindleg activity ➤ Create a more supple horse
As told to Nicky Moffatt. Photos: Jon Stroud
The most important quality for any dressage horse to possess is a good, trainable temperament. So even if your horse isn’t a conventional dressage type, the best starting point is a willingness to learn. Then, regardless of his size or stature, there are qualities you can focus on within his training that will improve his suitability and help him achieve the top marks – namely balance, suppleness and activity.
In this feature I’ll discuss the various exercises I use to help develop these skills. They’re useful for progressing any horse’s training, whether or not he has a natural inclination for dressage. Here’s how you can get started.
Our expert
Sir Lee Pearson is a 14-times Paralympic Games gold medallist. Based in Staffordshire, he’s represented Great Britain in Sydney, Athens, Beijing, London, Rio and Tokyo.
Our models
Izzy Green is a BHS Professional Accredited Coach who trains with Lee. She coaches horses and riders in all disciplines and has her own equine breeding programme. Here, she rides Roughcote Jupiter, her eight-year-old Shire gelding.