Training & Development
Keeping up with riding through a Pacific Northwest winter
Keep riding through Pacific Northwest winter with practical scheduling, horse fitness and lesson tips from Seven Hills Training in Monroe, Washington.
INSIGHTS FROM SEVEN HILLS
Training & Development
Ideas and observations on dressage, biomechanics, rehabilitation, and the work of helping horses move with greater balance and comfort.
THE LIBRARY
Training & Development articles
13 articles
Training & Development
Is leasing a horse right for you?
Learn how an on-site horse lease supports consistent riding and regular instruction. Explore dressage leasing at Seven Hills Training in Monroe, WA.
Training & Development
How to film your ride for a virtual lesson
Camera placement, lighting, audio, and setup tips for live virtual riding lessons and recorded video review, using tracking systems, phones, or tablets.
Training & Development
Out of the arena: a trail ride at Lord Hill Park
A trail ride at Lord Hill Park in Snohomish gives Seven Hills dressage horses a change of setting. Read how trail riding adds variety to arena training.
Training & Development
What a well-ridden warm-up should accomplish
A thoughtful warm-up prepares the horse’s body and attention for the work ahead. Learn what to look for without drilling or chasing a predetermined frame.
Training & Development
When repetition helps and when it becomes drilling
Repetition builds coordination only while the horse can understand and organize the task. Learn when another try is useful and when it is time to change the exercise.
Training & Development
A quiet arena is a training advantage
A calm, private training environment can improve attention, confidence, and learning, especially for sensitive horses and riders rebuilding trust.
Training & Development
How to build a horse's topline
Learn how balanced movement, postural strength, and progressive gymnastic work develop a horse’s topline.
Training & Development
Beyond the contact: What true connection means in classical dressage
In dressage, connection is one of the most frequently discussed concepts, yet it remains widely misunderstood. Adult amateur riders are often told to hold a firmer rein, drive the horse forward into a…
Training & Development
What changes when training is built for long-term soundness
Training built for long-term soundness prioritizes how a horse uses their body over time, not just what they can produce in the moment. By focusing on balance, coordination, and progressive development, this approach supports movement that remains comfortable, consistent, and sustainable throughout a horse’s training career.
Training & Development
Training for soundness: Classical principles and modern biomechanics
Good training should make a horse stronger, sounder, and happier—not just more obedient. At Seven Hills Training, I combine classical principles, the H.Dv. 12 system, and modern biomechanics to develop horses that move freely, stay comfortable, and build strength and confidence through correct, thoughtful work.
Training & Development
The synergy of classical dressage and modern horsemanship
The synergy between classical dressage and modern horsemanship creates a powerful framework for training that honors both tradition and innovation. By blending centuries-old principles with behavioral science, trainers can deepen communication, improve performance, and support horse welfare through balance, empathy, and partnership.
Training & Development
Redefining horsemanship: How learning theory enhances horse welfare and rider safety
Modern horsemanship is evolving. By applying learning theory, riders can reduce tension, improve communication, and promote welfare in every training session.