The DRT Training System
Mindset
Dressage is a subjective sport and so much is out of your control. Your mindset — and your ability to nurture positive thoughts, focusing on your own goals and what you can control — is the single most valuable life skill you could have.
The DRT Training System
A model to help you understand the four elements that combine to achieve the ultimate goal of dressage — that of coalescence. We are currently looking at the element mindset.
Your mindset governs the actions you take and decisions you make. The results you achieve both in riding and in life are directly related to your mindset. Mindset, to me, is made up of the following three elements.
Focus
Focus is the ability to stay on task when there are distractions all around you. At any dressage show there are distractions everywhere, for both you and your horse! Being able to stay focused on your own riding and what you need to do is a skill that can be learned. You are asking your horse to keep listening to you no matter what is happening around them — well, your horse needs the same from you.
Thoughts
Your thoughts are the second aspect that contribute to your mindset. Did you know that you have over 12,000 thoughts per day? Most of these are random and fleeting; it’s the thoughts that are persistent and tied to your belief and self-worth that you need to learn to control. Nurturing positive thoughts and seeing the good in every situation, no matter how drastic, is a habit you can instil that will lead you to making good decisions and feeling good about yourself.
Goals
As humans, we need to have purpose and growth in order to feel good about ourselves. Knowing where you want to get to gives you confidence and a sense of purpose to your day. Setting goals on how you are going to get there will give you the challenge you need in order to grow, and the sense of self-worth when you achieve them.
Dressage is a subjective sport and so much is out of your control. Your mindset and your ability to nurture positive thoughts, focusing on your own goals and what you can control, is the single most valuable life skill you could have.
The four elements that combine to achieve coalescence
Each element strengthens the others. Together, they form one entity — you and your horse, moving as one.
Tap an element to explore its program.
Explore the elements
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Suppleness
Suppleness in your muscles, ligaments and joints allows you to move freely with your horse’s movement, with less strain on your body.
Learn MoreStability
Stability in the saddle gives you a centered and balanced seat, dramatically helping your horse’s movement.
Learn MoreStamina
Improved stamina allows you to ride for longer, maintain mental clarity and not make mistakes. It also reduces your risk of falling.
Learn MoreMindset
Your mindset governs the actions you take and decisions you make. Controlling it is the single best life-skill you could have.
Learn More
Free Download
Dressage Rider Fitness Guide
Gives you specific exercises and stretches to do before you ride — so you can start moving with your horse from your very next session.