Shape Changing. I am not referring to the sort of shape shifting seen in Star Trek. This is a shape changing that refers to the horse changing shape; coming up in the withers and engaging actively with the hind quarters.
What is a half halt? Even dressage riders discuss the half halt ad infinitum, ad nauseaum! A half halt is a sort of “go forward, give me more energy, but wait, don’t go faster.” The rider gives an aid with their legs to go forward but with the fingers says ‘not too much’. Also the seat of the rider indicates to the horse what is wanted. It’s a go but don’t go message. The energy of the forward is directed up rather than out.
What is Belinda talking about in the video when she tells me to give Biasini a “shape changing ” half halt? That is what I have to do for that: sit up, ribs up, bring shoulder blades back and together, quick push with inside of the ankles and, if necessary, a reminder with fingers not to dip down and, if necessary, pin belly button back to spine for a couple of seconds. That’s it! It seems to be very effective when I manage to get it right.
Thank you Belinda for tirelessly taking the videos of my lessons. They help me a great deal and I know it is not easy to video and teach at the same time.
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