The Importance of Patience in Dressage Training: It Takes as Long as it Takes
- torreyrwilkinson
- Nov 21
- 4 min read
Dressage requires time, patience, and a deep connection between horse and rider. Many riders feel the pressure to progress quickly through the levels, but true dressage success depends on allowing each horse to develop at its own pace. This means recognizing when your horse fully understands a basic concept (e.g., relaxation, throughness, balance) and has the strength—both mental and physical—to move on to the next challenge. As one of my coaches wisely says, "it takes as long as it takes." This simple phrase holds the key to building trust, confidence, and lasting skill in your horse.
Why Patience Matters More Than Speed
Dressage is not a race. Each horse comes with its own conformation, temperament, and training history. These factors influence how quickly it can learn and perform new movements. For example, a young horse might take a full year just to learn how to stretch properly to the bit. This stretch is fundamental for developing throughness, which means the horse is relaxed, balanced, and connected from hindquarters to poll. Not achieving this will come back to haunt a rider as they move up the levels.
My four-year old mare, Elle, is a prime example. As a freshly started 3-year old, she liked to curl her gorgeous, long neck, grab the bit and rush around the arena. It took me nearly a year to get her to slow down (her nickname was "Turbo" for many months) and stretch her neck out horizontally. When we relocated to Florida, she reverted back for awhile to high, tight, and quick. It's taken a great deal of patience and humility to again teach her to trust me in this new environment and lower her frame and steady her tempo.
Rushing this process can lead to tension, resistance, or even injury. If a horse is pushed before it is ready, it may develop bad habits that are difficult to correct later. On the other hand, allowing the horse the time it needs builds a solid foundation for all future work.
Recognizing When Your Horse Is Ready to Progress
Knowing when to move on to a more advanced movement is a skill every rider and trainer must develop. It requires careful observation and honest assessment. Signs that your horse is ready include:
Consistent relaxation and acceptance of the aids
Ability to maintain rhythm and balance through the movement
Clear understanding of the basic requirement without confusion, resistance or force
Physical strength to perform the movement without strain
For example, flying changes require coordination and strength. If your horse takes over a year to perform a clean flying change, fine. It take as long as it takes. Trying to force the movement before your horse is ready will only cause frustration and setbacks.
Factors That Influence the Pace of Learning
Several factors affect how long it takes for a horse to master dressage basics and test movements:
Conformation: A horse’s build can make certain movements easier or harder. For instance, a horse with a naturally uphill frame may find collection easier.
Work Ethic: Some horses are naturally willing and eager learners, while others may be more cautious or sensitive.
Sensitivity: Highly sensitive horses may need more time to build confidence and trust.
Age: Younger horses require more time to develop physically and mentally.
Training History: Horses with previous training may progress faster, but they may also have ingrained habits that need correction.
Understanding these factors helps riders set realistic goals and avoid frustration.
Building Trust and Understanding Through Consistent Training
Patience is not just about waiting; it is about consistent, thoughtful training that respects the horse’s needs. This includes:
Breaking down complex movements into smaller, manageable steps
Using positive reinforcement and clear communication
Allowing rest and recovery to prevent mental and physical strain
Adjusting training plans based on the horse’s responses, not your show goals
For example, when teaching a horse to perform a canter pirouette, start with simple exercises that encourage a relaxed connection and a clear and steady tempo in small canter circles. Gradually increase the demand by asking the horse to turn his shoulders a few strides on a larger circle as the horse becomes more comfortable maintaining the collected canter. Help teach the horse the pieces required to perform a pirouette; don't just assume he will know what you mean if you've skipped preceding steps.
Avoiding the Temptation to Chase Levels
It can be tempting to compare your progress with other riders, especially when you see horses advancing quickly. But every horse’s journey is unique. Chasing levels before your horse is ready can damage your partnership and stall long-term progress.
Instead, focus on your horse’s individual needs. Celebrate small victories and improvements. Remember that mastering the basics thoroughly will make advanced movements easier and more enjoyable for both of you. Most importantly, it creates a horse that enjoys its work and performs with confidence. Go slow to go fast. It takes as long as it takes.
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