Dressage Rider Training Reviews

Read these dressage rider fitness program reviews and testimonials below. These are from riders just like you who have completed the program and then sent me these photos and comments.

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Maree Siliato, Brisbane, Australia

Hi Nicola, The above picture was on an Endurance ride this June where I had a fall and ended up in hospital for a few days. Flick had spooked while we were cantering up a hill, when rounding a bend, there was a large stack of wood painted with splashes of white paint. I landed fairly hard on a large rock partly embedded in the ground. I came across the DRT program when I was googling “exercises to build strength in legs to help when riding a horse that shies”. I really had to work hard on my mindset as I was really scared riding her after this. I was always waiting for the big shy that was going to send my flying again. Since doing the program I am no longer worried about her shying as I am a lot more confident that I have the strength and ability now to react in time to ensure my seat is strong and I stay on. Also since my mindset has changed, she is not shying as much – so it is so true that your horse picks up on your vibe. If I had not started the DRT program I am 100% certain I would still be struggling with riding out again. Now I am back to looking forward to going out training for endurance and Flick is responding so positively to my stronger more balanced sheet. I also really enjoy your emails reminding us to commit to our goals, how little changes everyday make large long term changes. Love the 2 day rule! I use these in all aspects of my life now. I cannot wait for DRT to commence. Great Job Nicola.

Karen Lorimer, Ontario, Canada

Hi Nicola, I had some doubts about subscribing to DRT2 as I wasn’t sure that I would be up to a more advanced program. However, I was wrong! DRT2 progresses in such a way that I was able to keep up quite well. Nicola provides options that allow you to progress in a way that works for you. Over the course of the program, I found I built my strength, stamina and flexibility but in addition, I just feel so much more secure and stable in the saddle. I believe I am a more effective rider, and my confidence has really been boosted. I highly recommend the program. Here is a photo of my quarter horse Limerick and me, riding a Training Level test at a show this summer.

Eva, Gustavsberg, Sweden

Hi Nicola, This amazing programme has help me to be more still in the saddle especially with my arms. My hole position is better now and I become able to activate my core during the trot. Best regards Eva

Forever Sweet, Ohio, US

Hi Nicola! I loved the program and I am strongly considering DRT 2 once I know more about it I hope to make a decision. I was 8 months after having our second daughter and I can not tell you how fit I feel! I know I am in better shape now then I think I have been in my life! Also the making me get out and I committed to riding my horse twice a week helped me mentally and emotionally! I feel so much closer to my horse and I didn’t think I could feel that way again! My horse and I are so much better after completing this awesome 12 week program! Thank you for putting together such a wonderful life change!

Tiffany Handley – NSW, Australia

Hey Nicola, I Started DRT to help ease my pain with riding after suffering a broken pelvis and 3 kids later I have never been pain-free or myself on a horse! I ride BIG horses I have joined gyms and found it did nothing but gain weight (muscle) even gain cellulite even full-term pregnancy I didn’t have that. I was after that something that gave me what I needed something that focused on my goal of riding better and I found it here. I took a punt and I do not regret it the exercises are amazing and a lot of it is pelvis related so I hit the jackpot I’m riding better mostly pain-free except on cold snaps my body probably has arthritis I have done dressage days scoring nicely!! The option to buy on USB was also great giving I’m not much into the internet. I often see people flogging themselves at gyms etc but I have found DRT a better fit for me for time with roughly 60 mins a week I have toned my body people have noticed made comment and that dreaded cellulite is almost gone! Less is best thanks Nicola for your wonderful program that works.

Eyðna Simonsen, Faroe Islands

Hi Nicola, this is me and my sweet Icelandic gelding Snæþór frá Austurkoti (try to pronounce that).I am so glad, that I joined DRT! And the exercises are perfect with 20 minutes 3 times a week. I feel, that my core and back is getting stronger (broke my back last year after falling off a horse), and my balance is getting better. I also feel, that my left side – which is clearly weaker than my right side – is slowly getting stronger and I am feeling more balanced on the horse. My plan is to continue doing week 9-12 and starting doing the exercises on the horse, which I have not done so much of yet – only walk without stirrups yet – and I will for sure be joining DRT2, but maybe not until next time… So thank you so much, Nicola.

Lynne Williams, Wisconsin, US

I returned to riding 1 year ago after a 20 yr break. DRT has helped me regain my strength, flexibility, balance and confidence in the saddle. The program has helped me identify my strengths and weaknesses. I love her clear explanations of all the exercises along with some helpful visualizations that ensure I get the most from each workout. Her explanations of how each exercise will affect my riding keep me motivated. I simply cannot say enough good things about the program… Did I mention the encouragement you receive? I have been able to follow the course at my own speed, redo a tough week to be better prepared for the following week, take a break when life gets crazy I can pick up where I left off or forge ahead. It’s so easy to tailor to your specific needs. Thank You Nicola for helping me enjoy my riding once again. Grateful, Lynne

Susan Chamberlain, Virginia, US

Hi Nicola, The DRT program helped strengthen my core and make me so much more flexible. I was always very stiff in the lower back – well actually the entire back, shoulders included. Now I can actually move with my horse at the canter which I have not been able to do for a long time. It’s help improve Bella’s canter significantly. I also had not done any no-stirrup work for many years and with doing the homework I now will continue to try to keep up riding without stirrups at least once a week. Thanks so much for creating such a workable program.

Jenny Gordon, NSW, Australia

Hi Nicola, Your programs have greatly improved my balance and body awareness, which translates into me being a much better rider. But I think the real benefit will be long term in body awareness and control – being able to turn on and off different parts of my body. As I see my mother struggle with balance (she is 87), with reduced mobility, I see huge value in working on balance and muscle control for my long term mobility. I love the program – was not sure at first about the timed approach – but four rounds is mentally about right. I will keep repeating it until DRT4 comes out.

Dana Gastaldo, California, US

Hi Nicola, I enjoyed all the DRT programs you made because they had a good combination of different movements /exercises then conventional exercise programs. There was always something new to learn each time I participate. I also like that it is simple-3 days a week. I gained more insight into my assets and liabilities when it comes to being in the moment. It was great to hit the pause button on your program and reevaluate what I was doing while performing the exercises. I learned that I can change and break down my patterns which will definitely help with my dressage journey. I also enjoyed reading about your own journey with life. I liked the DRT3 program because of the myofascial concept which is atypical in most exercise programs. Exploring is important to me to help keep the mind and body fresh in learning. I like your positive encouragement comments with some fun humour alongside. The simplicity of the program is helpful in not taking ourselves too seriously. This can make all the difference in our perception and interpretation of our journey with our horses. Thanks for all your hard efforts and I am looking forward to doing it all again.

Sonia Gardner, New Zealand

Hi Nicola, the DRT program has helped me so much. I love how easily accessible the exercise videos are and it has helped me become more stable and balanced in the saddle. There is still more for me to work on (a lot more) but that’s what I love about this program, is that I can keep on going. The mindfulness, advice and articles are super helpful and I write down certain things that I always go over to remind myself. One of my favourite’s and definitely suitable for me. Don’t overthink it and definitely don’t let perfection get in the way of progress. Thank you Nicola. Sonia x

Serena Bron, Queensland

Have loved the DRT1 training program. Over the 12 weeks I have found myself becoming more aware of my body and my balance. My balance has improved out of sight and by doing the yoga regularly I am much more flexible. Can’t wait for DRT 2 to start.

Kelly Rinehart, Tennessee, US

I’m very grateful for the program, Nicola. The exercises strengthened my core and seat and I felt more balanced and connected in my riding. I would recommended DRT to anyone wanting to improve their strength in the saddle.

Sonia Evans, Berkshire, UK

Hi Nicola,This is me and my 6yo mare Zara aka(big bird),
I have thoroughly enjoyed DRT1 and it has showed my weaknesses and what I needed to work on, not only has it made me stronger and made a big difference to my riding it has also helped with the back pain I have suffered with for years ! I think anyone that rides would benefit from this course.

Nancy Owen, California, US

This program has helped me not only with my strength, balance, flexibility and stamina but also with my confidence. I recently got back into dressage after 30 years of mostly trail riding. I was quite dismayed at how I’d lost muscle tone and balance. DRT sounded like it was just what I needed and it was! Sitting trot is much easier, my trainer constantly comments on how much my seat has improved and when my horse spooks and jumps a bit I don’t lose my balance but just keep on going. I plan on continuing with DRT2. I’m sure my horse appreciates it too.

Terri Matera, California, US

Hi,This program was exactly what I needed! My core strength and flexibility have improved significantly and I feel great!
Thank you! Looking forward to DRT 2

Kathryn Saunders, North Carolina, US

Hi Nicola, Just wanted to say that the DRT2 Program has been really making a big difference in how I feel both mentally and physically. I felt the DRT1 program was great and I had noticed improvements with my posture and stability but the DRT2 has helped me improve even more. Even family and friends noticed that my posture has straightened and my stomach flattened. On my horse I have been more aware of noticing my body position and started really feeling my seat bones and how I was moving with him. I have also become more confident on my horse, I think because I feel more centered and my stability has improved. Thank you for this great program.

Emily Peacock, Queensland, Australia

Hi Nicola, Thank you so much for your help through this program. The 20min workouts are super easy to fit in around work and riding and I’m definitely feeling more balanced and centered in the saddle. Thanks!

Darcy Sun, Georgia, US

Hi Nicola, I was able to perform all of the workouts and exercises in the program with the exception of one. I’m still unable to kneel on the Swiss ball. I can maintain balance on all fours but am not confident to balance on my knees. On the last strength workout, I asked my husband to stand in front of me so at least I would know what it felt like and was able to balance for a few seconds. My new mission is to balance on that ball no matter how long it takes! I will also repeat all of phase 3. The program has definitely helped me improve my balance and mobile strength. I was able to complete my regular lesson with my trainer without feeling overly tired. I now feel like I’m helping my young pony balance himself instead of hindering his movement. My seat is deeper and his canter departs are getting better. I’m excited about our progress! Thank you for a wonderful experience. Attached are some pictures of us. Kind regards, Darcy Sun & Gus

Gabriela Vitta, New Jersey, US

Dear Nicola, Your program is fantastic. I always kept myself in shape, ate healthily and have a disciplined lifestyle. (obviously, its all because of the horse! hahaha). So adding your program, where you strengthen and keep flexible explicit, in favour of us crazy horse people and make us workout specific the muscles, we need for our sport, is a real treat! My balance improved. My strength and focus improved. I feel blessed to finally find myself in an awesome barn, with correct and horse-friendly training and a supportive team. It took a long time, and now, signing up for your program is the icing on the cake. Thank you so much for your passion, your love, your knowledge and for sharing it with us! I’m looking forward to DRT2!

Brister Shum, Tennessee, US

I am much more flexible. I can use my legs and communicate more effectively with my horse due to this program. I am an AQHA Select Amateur rider. This is a pic of my horse, KM BORN TO BE BEST and myself at the All American Quarter Horse Congress

Lindsey Field, New Zealand

The program helped me to reconnect with my body and made me mindful how to keep balanced and safe in the saddle. I’m almost 60 and an “adult returning to riding” not fit and carrying too many extra Kg. The program helped me get stronger and fitter and with that came confidence in the saddle. The things I said I couldn’t do, I am doing. Like going deep in the sea! Was too scared and unstable to do this before! And even trying a little jump over a log! Amazing. I’m more balanced in the saddle and in my everyday life with a skip to my step!

Evangeline LaMore, North Carolina, US

Nicola, This program helped me with my balance. I was leaning to the left in my saddle. The swiss ball is an excellent tool. I am only doing the low level work outs. I am 62 yrs old and am trying to get back some of my flexibility. I tend to get tension in my lower back. I am trying to do the stretches and strengthening excercises everyday. Thanks for the program. I got the thumb drive so I will be able to keep doing the work outs. Pictured is me and Prince my 14 yr old quarter horse who was rescued from a kill pen, he is a lovely mover! I have had him for almost 3yrs. Thank you again.

Kathryn Godsiff, Oregon, US

DRT 2 may have saved my life. Not in the literal sense, though I did stay on my mare during a big spook and I’m sure credit must be given to my better balance and strength. No, DRT 2 helped me through a breast cancer diagnosis and recovery. I got the diagnosis just before week 1, so it was several weeks before I was cleared to exercise. All I could do was breathe, which I’d learned to do very well through DRT 1! When I was finally able to get to the mat, I was anxious that all the good work of DRT 1 was lost, but that was not so. DRT 2 starts slowly, building (or rebuilding, in my case) on what went before. It took a few more than 12 weeks to get through it, but each week I felt my strength and confidence returning. Confidence in the saddle and confidence in the new normal of life after a devastating diagnosis. Do this program, no matter what your physical or mental health. An added bonus…through the Facebook group I found a cancer warrior sister who helped me through the whole dang journey and is now a friend of my heart.
Thank you, Nicole. You have changed my world.

Susanna Ryan, Massachusetts, US

Hi Nicola, I completed the final strength workout this morning.  Thank you so much for creating these wonderful, affordable, and highly effective programs.  They really have made a huge difference in my riding!  I did need to modify some of DRT 3 because of a persistent shoulder injury — a rotator cuff that just won’t seem to heal.  But I did all the workouts I could and just changed some of the plank-based moves and the weightlifting/resistance band work. I found DRT3 different in that it built on the strength and flexibility I gained with the other two programs — I did each twice with little to no break in between and then moved on to DRT 3 — but it also targeted new areas like fascia health (a different angle on flexibility) and reaction time.  The latter is particularly important for me, as it’s exactly what I’m trying to work on in my riding!  I really enjoyed the addition of plyometric exercises in particular, and the yoga in DRT3 was slow but intense, a good complement to the more active core and strength workouts. I work with a dressage trainer regularly each week and also a guest clinician who comes in about once a month.  Both have commented on how much progress I have made in my seat and core strength over the past year, and I can definitely feel the effects of DRT not only in my body but also in my confidence. I really appreciate how doable the program is and also how accessible you are:  you make the workouts fun, never fancy anything up, and just come across like someone who’s doing the exercises with us, not like someone who embodies kind of unachievable superwoman ideal! Thank you for everything.  Is there a DRT 4 in the making, perhaps?

Veronica Moore, New Zealand

I have ridden enthusiastically, but poorly, all my life, and spent most of those years wishing I was a better rider.  18 months ago I stopped wishing, and started to do something about improving myself via the DRT programme.  What a revelation, and how many years I have wasted! I repeated DRT1 three times over the course of 12 months before moving on to DRT2. The format and presentation was so familiar, but the new focus just takes things to a whole new level.  I enjoyed DRT2 even more than DRT1, and as I became SO much stronger and fitter, I was able to gradually extend the “quality working time” in a session with my mare.  We have worked and strengthened together, and the quality of our work has improved exponentially.   No one ever tells me I look like Charlotte Dujardin (sigh), but almost everyone comments on how well developed my horse looks. I think I have formed a life changing habit. And habit is the key!  The hardest thing is to press the “Play” button on those videos, but then you can sit back and reap the rewards for you and your horse.

Lisa Devine, Dublin, Ireland

Hi Nicola,Thank you for your email. The DRT programme and being a member of the online gym has been a truly transformative experience which has improved both my general and equestrian fitness and my overall attitude to my health. DRT 3 really pushed me to my edge but I enjoyed every bit of it and I look forward to repeating it again in a few weeks. For the moment I’m taking a break to do your yoga retreat. Thank you to you and your whole team !!

Margie Shoop, Ohio, US

I fell in love with Dressage Rider Training because of the philosophy and unique understanding Nicola brought out in all the exercises. It’s tailored for the rider. It allows me to go at my own pace.I have only done DRT 1 and still only the first 4 weeks of sessions, I keep going back to and starting over and moving forward through again and again. It’s because they are what my body needs now and have helped me make the break through on the independent spine and seat that I needed now!I am 58 years old, I do not compete. I am a full time IT Project manager and work in an office. I owned my own horse, Haze (you can read about us in the book The Breath of Horse Crazy: The Love Affair Between Women and Horses, Chapter – Baron’s Hazey Shade). Haze had to be put down at 28 in 2016. I made a decision, along with my husband, that we would not buy another horse. My goal was to take lessons on various horses and gain the confidence to ride more than just one horse. My first mistake was to think that continuing to ride would keep me fit too. I was “wrong” ! Dressage Rider Training program and Nicola’s insight into the body, the horse and our connection has shown me the truth in the phrase “Be fit to ride, not ride to be fit”. I currently lease a mare named Moose. She’s a thoroughbred / draft cross. She’s 15 years old, ex Eventer and was out of shape and came to our barn. I started DRT and began working with Moose and my trainer. My trainer noticed a huge difference in my strength, my independent seat and my balance ! I’d ridden 3 other horses for her over 4 years, but starting DRT and on a fresh new horse it happened ! My canter became more consistent. I now I have the ability to help Moose balance and move forward. I am no longer a rider that always interferes with the horses forward motion. I am learning to be a better rider to help the horse achieve a better balance and strength too ! I love not feeling like I am a burden now to be carried but that I can help lift the horse !!

Joanne Korosi, United Kingdom

Hello Nicola, I thoroughly enjoyed DRT despite painful arthritis. When the rider uses her core, so does the horse (even the fluffy pony). Would definitely recommend this programme xxx

Juliet Iremonger, Bay Of Plenty, New Zealand

For me DRT3 really consolidated all the DRT1 and DRT2 work along with challenging me that bit more. Its that step up and without 1 and 2 you wouldn’t be able to do it so helped me realise just how far I have come. All 3 programs are worth their weight in gold. I started not having a core, let alone knowing how to engage it and use it effectively! The programs have not only helped me in the saddle but have also helped in my everyday way of doing the jobs that come with looking after a horse, property and household. Stuff is just easier. I feel stronger, stable and much more able. I noticed the difference after DRT1 and DRT2, but I feel that it is DRT3 that has really cemented all of that and made the biggest difference.

Jennifer Lenio, New York

Hi Nicola, My horse, Declan, has been troubled with feet issues for the last three months & I’ve only been able to do light riding with him. But, in this case I’ve been even more glad that I’ve had DRT2 to keep me going & keep my fitness at least somewhat up! I think we have his feet issues under control & we are hopefully getting back into full work now. Even though he is out of shape, I am in pretty good shape thanks to DRT2 and so am finding it easier to help him work correctly again! So thank you so much for creating and sharing this wonderful program with us all!

Dawn Shaver, Missouri, US

I can’t say enough good things about the DRT program and creator/trainer, Nicola Smith. I’ve just completed the second level of the program, DRT2, and am ecstatic with my progress. My balance, strength and flexibility have all improved tremendously since the beginning of the program. The progress seen from the workouts combined with my weekly horse “homework” have transferred to the saddle and improved my riding. Being more balanced in the saddle with a stronger core helps my horse complete the tasks I’m asking him to do instead of having to work that much harder because I’m not doing my part. I feel strongly enough about this program that I think every rider should go through Dressage Rider Training, no matter the discipline. That being said, even though my original goal was to improve my riding when I started the DRT program, I’ve found the benefits of this program go much farther than the saddle. Daily activities have become easier and my posture has become so much better! Even if you are a non-rider, this program would be extremely beneficial – just leave the horse homework part out! Nicola’s instruction is fantastic and she has a way of correcting you at just the right time, almost like she’s right there working out with you. Finally, I live in a rural area and our internet service is not the best. I mention this because I love the fact that they understand not everyone in the world has the ability to stream videos easily and offer the program on a USB drive for people like me. I’ve purchased the USB drive for both DRT1 and DRT2 and it has been wonderful not having to watch that spinning circle waiting for a video to download.

Shannon O Kinney, Minnesota, US

I turned 60 in May, and you do a lot of reflecting at this age. For quite some time, I felt my riding was not progressing due to a number of issues both I and my horse were having. I was stuck in training level/ some first level work and I was not having much fun riding. It became work, an obligation. And I thought I was in shape, but clearly I wasn’t and I had to figure something out or I was never going to be able to move forward.
I came across DRT looking for exercises to help with a sciatica injury. So I thought why not commit to the DRT program and see what happens. I enrolled in the DRT program in May of 2019 and I can’t say enough good things about the program. Nicola is an amazing virtual coach. The 20 minute work outs, 3 times a week are perfect with added homework and wonderful reading material. Each week served a specific purpose in building you up to reaching the 12 week goal. I have a stronger core which I now realize how important that is if you want to be a great dressage rider, I have more stamina, and I have the correct balance and relaxation required to allow my horse to perform at his best. I had none of these 12 weeks ago. I was never able to ride without stirrups effectively so I never did ride without them much less post and cantor without them. I comfortably and effectively and often ride without my stirrups in all gaits. My trainer, for the first time feels we can start more lateral work and upper level work. The very best part of all is seeing how positive my horse has responded! Thank you Nicola, my trainer thanks you, my horse thanks you more. I am looking forward to DRT2!
– Shannon Kinney

I’m Kathy Theissen and have been a farm owner for 40 years.  I’m a gold medalist and have taught many students to the highest levels.  I’ve been teaching Shannon Kinney for quite a few years and I’ve seen a huge change in her riding since she started this program.  She is much fitter and more effective in her riding.  This program has been a huge benefit to her riding and helped me in my teaching. I wish all my students would commit to this program. Thank you. – Kathy Theissen

Hilde Eli Bjerke, Norway

Hi, Nicola, I started up DRT 2 in May and almost finished week 3. But so much happened and the training was a bit irregular, so I decided to start from the beginning again. Now I`ve finished week 4 – and I enjoy the program so much! You`re doing a great job – and it always makes me in a good mood to see your smiling face on the screen and showing and explaining so good how to do the exercises. And to feel how it really works on important muscle groups and other structures that are necessary for riding goo. The core training is the easiest for me. I struggle a bit more with yoga and rider strength – but I`m working on it! My hips are very stiff and I also have some pain in this area. I also have arthritis in the hip joints, but it doesn`t feel as this is the main problem. I go to a Physiotherapist – and he also approves of the DRT program and thinks it`s good for me.

Nancy Sullivan, Colorado, US

DRT3 is my favorite program—perhaps because DRT1,2 got me in shape for the challenges of DRT3. First, I love the micro focus—the smaller movements, the quieter routines—mixed with some really challenging core and fitness workouts, especially weeks 11 and 12. And the yoga (which is new for me in DRT) is paying off in balance and my awareness of where my body is. Now, I feel if I’ve dropped my shoulder, if I’m straight, if I’m leaning too far back in the canter. So often dressage becomes about the advanced maneuvers: changes, tempe, half passes, etc. No one emphasizes the core strength, flexibility and grace needed to DO these maneuvers. I was told so often to get my horse forward! But I didn’t have the solid balance and stamina to ride forward on a big warmblood. For me it was the gradual gains of a good physical form that paid off in confidence and skill. I have gone from being a rather clumsy, uncoordinated piece of cargo to a rider who can “ride every stride.” At least for a few strides! Great feeling! We cannot all be Olympic team riders, but we can ride our brave horses with great affection and lightness. Thank you for helping me be a better partner. Now, my horse looks up, whinnies and trots to the gate when I call her name. We are both having great fun. Thank you again. Starting over with DRT3 and working backward through all three programs…I have a lot of miles yet to ride. With affection and appreciation, Nancy

Sharon Barber, Texas, US

Nicola, I thoroughly enjoyed DRT 3. It was helpful with balance, breathing, and quiet strength. The riding without stirrups for homework has helped with confidence and communication with my horse through posture and balance (instead of nagging her with my hands) I greatly appreciate all the time and effort you have put into your classes, as well as the articles and education. Thank you so much!! Sharon and Charm

Kristine Tate, California, US

Hello Nicola! I think DRT3 was the perfect “step-up” to more advanced concepts after completing DRT1 and DRT2. I enjoyed how the program held one accountable and built upon the previous training. Even though each DRT program can be done as a individual, I think its true benefits come from completing it as a whole set. I have seen a big difference in my stability, posture, and core strength which manifested itself in some stellar performances this horse show season. Not mention my horse is much happier! Thank you for all your hard work! I am looking forward to repeating these programs to maintain my riding fitness! Cheers, Kristine

Mary Spencer, Suffolk, UK

Hi Nicola, I am so pleased I found DRT and have enjoyed all of it; the exercises; motivational and educational side, covering nutrition and mindfulness. I have learned so much and my riding has improved too because my body has been made stronger and more supple ! I am 61 yrs old and have found a new enthusiasm for my hobby. I have scoliosis and inevitably am uneven in the saddle, but I am better than I was!! I know, if I keep it up, I am equipped with the tools to keep me enjoying my riding for the rest of my life. Thank you so much for spreading your knowledge all around the world.

Katy Law, Surrey, UK

Hi all I wanted to share with you the amazing DRT journey I have been on which has blown me away. Exactly a year ago today I started DRT1. I had no idea whether an online fitness course would be any good and seriously doubted whether I would be able to motivate myself. I found the first half of DRT1 hard, constantly ached and felt weak. After week 6 I questioned whether I should repeat the first 2 phases. My routine was to do core early in the week and yoga and strength on Sunday one after the other. I work full time in London and spend 4 hours a day commuting so fitting it in was a challenge. After week 6 of DRT1 I thought I would carry on regardless which was a complete mindset change. What I learnt was consistency is key. I started to find things getting easier and stopped aching. Even if the reps were hard I forced my way through them even if I was shaking at the end of it. Without thinking too much about whether it was beyond me, I then did DRT2 and have just completed DRT3. I am now so strong in my body and flexible and my riding has improved immensely. My instructor regularly comments “wow look at that core” and has taught me to ride with my seat. Sadly I don’t have my own horse as I don’t have time around my current work and family commitments but will definitely get one down the line. The one thing I could never master was balancing on the swiss ball, that was until week 12 of DRT3 when I realised I could finally do it! I am so so grateful to Nicola Smith for devising this incredible programme and am waiting with baited breath at what she has up her sleeve next!! In the meantime, I’ve just started Morning Yoga which is very gentle but a great way to start the day. I’m on holiday right now but brought my mat, foam roller, mobility ball and resistance bands). I am also starting the Thrive programme for something a bit different and will then repeat DRT2 and DRT3.

Rachel Bladon, Newbury, UK

Hi NicolaI have loved DRT 2. I have found most of the workouts challenging and some really tough, but I have always been able to do them, even if I am muttering “oh no you must be joking” as you cheerfully announce another set!What I am most pleased with is the effect it has had on my riding – the kneeling on the swiss ball has given me a true understanding of how to stay balanced on my seat, and even on my horse whatever he does underneath me. So, I finally understand how to be the rider I always wanted to be, even if I still have plenty of work to do, now I think I can get there. Thank you, Nicola, it has been awesome.Attached is a picture of me and Harry my rather cheeky but very lovely dutch warmblood gelding at a recent clinic. Thank you

Jenny Binks, Surrey, UK

Dear Nicola, I finished DRT 3 about a week ago and have been mulling over what to say. Like DRT 1 and 2, DRT 3 is an excellent programme that is progressive and gets results. The joy to me this time round was the yoga, I really liked the fascia release work and it was very beneficial to my very stiff and creaky body. I never used to look forward to the yoga components of DRT 1 and 2 as I just could do a lot of it; I’ve never been able to sit crossed legged or touch my toes. But with DRT 3 it was my favourite workout. I have a bit of a love-hate relationship with the resistance bands; I could see the purpose and benefit, but did I enjoy using them……not very much! You have developed a wonderful programme here, but also an amazing and supporting community which adds to the pleasure. I’m so glad I signed up to DRT1 as it was a leap of faith at the time. I’m sure my horse is too! But it has had a knock-on positive effect on my whole life and attitude. I am now exercising more frequently, with more variety, I’m regularly running 5k, and eating more healthily. All thing I used to do, and enjoy, before having children and a bout of ill health. The DRT programmes have got me back into a routine and I’m definitely a better and healthier person as a result. I applaud you, the program, Ben for all the behind the scenes stuff, and also your lovely animals which always were a pleasure to see popping up. Best wishes.

Darlene Yudell, North Carolina, US

Here I am with ‘Wrangler’ (MaximumCashFromTrash) at a Western Dressage event at Sport Of The Horse in North Carolina. The program Nicola has provided has helped me reestablish a regular exercise routine with the proper exercises to strengthen my entire body, balance and support my confidence. The short 20 minute routines made all the difference. The diversity of the three focus areas of core, mobility and riding continues to provide me a means to continue strengthening, not just maintaining even after the first 12 weeks is done. Thank you Nicola. Darlene Yudell and Wrangler.

Tahnée, Victoria, Australia

Hi! I’m so glad I was part of DRT 3! Once again it was an amazing program different to the others but really easy to follow again and gave me a great chance to really get a good grasp of the exercises. I also loved the way it personally fits so well with my stages of riding improvement. I’ve been without a saddle that fits recently and so through the confidence and fitness I’ve gain from the homework part also, I’ve kept riding but bareback instead! Without the strength created I doubt I would have managed to continue our dressage training in such a connected and balanced way! So thanks once again! I definitely hope to see more of these! Tahnée and Xena (pony!)

Sylvia Schafer, Connecticut, US

Dear Nicola,

I am just about finishing up (late) on DRT3. I want to thank you for the huge difference it has made in my riding. Last year we were struggling with 4th level. This summer I have been competing PSG and just earned my USDF silver medal. As an amateur with a full-time job and just one horse to ride, the extra strength, flexibility, and reaction speed that I have gotten from DRT has allowed me to reach the next level. My horse likes how much more evenly I sit and the greater clarity of my aids (even though my rogue right leg still swings forward from that tighter hip flexor. Grr!)

Happy riding!

Sylvia Schafer

Suwayon Roska, Wisconsin, USA

Feeling strong and happy! I just finished the last week of Dressage Rider Training Program* Phase 2.  This was another 12 weeks of core, yoga, and rider strength exercises designed to improve all the muscles we use when we ride.  But really it is so much more. I feel fit, flexible, and strong. There is an obvious pay off in the saddle – long rides in  Iceland were no challenge at all – but also in everything I do.  I am very glad that I began this program with Phase 1 in January and stuck to it.  I’m looking forward to Phase 3 in September.  In the meantime, I’m going to repeat all the workouts I found especially  challenging until I know that I’ve nailed them!* I do not ride dressage but as most riders know, dressage requires a lot of strength and coordination in order to make it look effortless.   The exercises in this program carry over to any riding discipline.

Joette Everist, South Dakota

What I liked best about this program is the progression through each level. I love that it is different every week and sessions are short enough to fit into a busy life. I feel so much more stable in the saddle. I am 63 and have a very talented Hanoverian with a difficult trot to sit. My transformation is amazing. I now feel like I am part of him. I don’t even bobble when he does something stupid. Hoping there is a DRT 4!

Sue Gaisford, NZ

I have been doing the DRT1 program, haven’t finished all the sessions yet as have repeated some, also behind with ridden homework as it is winter here and I don’t have an arena. But already I am 100% more aware of my riding position and am trying really hard to be more stable and in control. It is quite a change after 30 years SJ but this program has made me feel more confident and in control of my fizzy Irish x mare. The photo attached is before the program, I see that I tip forward but it was a good day and we got 69.8% in level 2.

Colette Crosby, USA

I have had a noticeable improvement in achieving correct balance on my seat bones — a goal that has evaded me for quite some time — since starting this program. I love the balance in this program between core strength, rider strength and yoga. The yoga program has been my favorite, as it helps me focus on calmness, centered-ness and breathing (all key to successful and enjoyable riding!). But don’t get me wrong: the core and rider strength programs are also excellent!

Jolene Brewster – Banff, Alberta  Canada

Hi Nicola,  This has been a big year of me,  my son was born, I bought new dressage horse, and as a small business owner, I am a working mom. I have a lot on the go and yet I still found your program easy to follow and squeeze into life.  Dressage Rider Training has even helped me prepare for my very first dressage show on my new horse Dramatico,  we finished off with 4 ribbons!!  I feel fit, strong, and fantastic.  I’m already looking forward to Dressage Rider Training #2.

Wendy Barr, New Jersey

Hi Nicole. Your program helped me in a way you might not have expected! Got through the first four weeks and couldn’t get farther even with repeating the first four weeks! What the heck?! … Did a little thinking and investigating and in late October I’ll be getting my second new hip. Looking forward to restarting the program as part of my rehab. Definitely saw a difference in my riding. Starting to ride at 65 is no small physical adjustment, but your program, even the few weeks I was able to do and repeat several times, made a wonderful difference. Thank you! Sincerely, Wendy Barr

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