A Pilates for Dressage Clinic systematically and effectively teaches riders how to improve through body awareness and control. Clinics can be offered in day, weekend or weeklong format.
Clinics begin with Janice Dulak’s lecture on her book "Pilates for the Dressage
Rider." This provides an excellent introduction to the history and theories
of Joseph Pilates as well as defines how the work is specifically applicable
to riding dressage.
Pilates Ground Work introduces mat exercises that will later be used in a corresponding Pilates In the Saddle
session. (See below for more complete program information.)
What a Clinic looks like
Here's a typical schedule for a clinic:
Day One
9:00 Power Point lecture on "Pilates for the Dressage Rider"
10:00 12:00 Pilates Ground Work (Phase 1)
12:00 1:00 Lunch
1:00 1:45 Pilates in the Saddle (Phase 1A)
(continuing in 45 minute sessions, 3 riders per session)
Day Two
9:30 - 11:30 Pilates Ground Work (Phase 2)
12:00 1:00 Lunch
1:00 1:45 Pilates in the Saddle (Phase 2A)
(continuing in 45 minute sessions, 3 riders per session)
Pilates for Dressage
Phase 1—Pilates Ground Work
Introduces the Powerhouse and “wrap” of the Pilates method, which will directly relate to posture and position/seat on the horse. Specifically chosen Pilates mat exercises will be worked on to find the “in and up” of the stomach, the “squeeze and scoop” of the bottom and the “wrap” of the legs. The articulation of the spine required of many Pilates exercises will introduce the rider to the “feel” for the horse’s ability to lengthen and collect the spine with engagement. Emphasis is on the basic concepts and exercises of Pilates and how they will be relative to riding dressage.
Phase 1A— Pilates in the Saddle
If an equestrian facility is available, Pilates in the Saddle explores using the exercises and body control taught in Phase 1 to inform and correct posture and position/seat while mounted. The use of the “stomach in and up” will teach riders how to use the Pilates musculature for half-halts, stopping and eventually, backing a horse. The use of the “squeeze and scoop” combined with “wrap” of the leg will inform the rider how to use their seat effectively for proper dressage position, opening the hip angle to create a longer leg and deeper seat, as well as upward transitions. Work will be done mostly at the walk and trot. Participants must enroll in Phase 1 to be eligible to enroll in Phase 1A.
Phase 2— Pilates Ground Work
Reviews and deepens the work of Phase 1 for further consideration in posting and sitting trot. This session introduces more Pilates exercises, which involve bending and twisting to begin the concept of stabilizing the core and seat while using the upper body for circling and turning. Participants must have completed Phase 1 to enroll in this session.
Phase 2A —Pilates in the Saddle
If an equestrian facility is available, this session continues Phase 1A with exploration both at the walk and at the trot. The rising and sitting trot will be addressed in relation to the use of the “wrap” of the leg to keep the hip angle open during trot work and the use of the “scoop” for deepening the seat for sitting trot. This phase begins exploring the use of the musculature learned in Pilates Ground Work 2 to stabilize the core and seat while using the upper body. Participants must have completed Phase 1 and 1A and Phase 2 to be eligible to enroll in Phase 2A.
Future Phases of Pilates for Dressage are available as a solid understanding of this work develops.
