November 5, 2008
How Long DOES it take?
I suppose my intention in this writing is to address the burning questions we dressage riders often have in regards to our varying levels of desired achievement in the sport. The questions “How long will it take me to learn to ride at x level?” and “How long will it take to train my horse to y level?” are the two that I believe are most often asked of instructors and trainers, and are definitely the two that need to be acknowledged so that riders and owners can be clear about what it will honestly take to achieve their goals.
Let’s start with the first question, “How long will it take me to learn to ride at x level?”
Learning to ride happens in two arenas with people. First, humans need to have a cognitive understanding of what is happening when they are on the back of the horse, the theory that supports what is happening and the process that will lead them to being able to influence what is happening. This is not because I or any professional says it is so, it is simply human nature; the process by which we learn. Success in this arena is based on the student’s desire to learn and the instructor’s knowledge and willingness to share that knowledge.
The second piece of the puzzle belongs to the kinesthetic understanding of how to use our bodies to communicate and work in harmony with the movement of the horse, or what I call developing a ‘sensory memory’ for riding. Success in this second arena is based on repetition and accurate correction of inappropriate and ineffective riding technique. Again, the instructor must have the ‘kinesthetic’ understanding himself and be able to recognize and correct ineffective technique. The student must have the willingness mentally and ability physically to receive and implement those corrections.
So, to actually answer the question……
It entirely depends on the rider, and his/her desire to achieve that goal to ride at x level. Ask yourself these questions:
1. Realistically, what level are you riding now?
2. Do you have an instructor who you are certain has personal experience and knowledge of riding at the level you desire to achieve?
3. How much time are you willing and/or able to commit to achieving that goal? (The answer to this question is crucial in determining the answer to your question…repetition is the ONLY way to develop sensory memory)
Now, while every human learns at a different rate, I will offer some guidelines for you to think about. If you are able to ride once per week, you can expect to have the same ride (or lesson) indefinitely. If you are able to bump that up to two, you may be able to maintain your current level if you are working at the lower levels (Intro through First). It is at three rides (or lessons) per week that you can for the most part (there will always be exceptions) expect to solidly maintain your abilities, and anything beyond three will help you progress to your desired goal. However, do not forget that the cognitive piece has to happen for the new level you are working for. Please remember, these are guidelines, not absolute answers.
The answer to the question “How long will it take to train my horse to y level?” is a bit less complicated. While horses also develop a sensory memory by repetition, there is no need (or ability for that matter) for them to have a cognitive understanding of what is going on with their training. The important pieces, understanding what is being asked of them and the strength to accomplish those tasks, are developed by consistent repetition of sound riding technique. By sound, I mean proven, over and over again….not some new gimmick to get the job done faster.
Most countries, including ours, have developed their national dressage tests to reflect that the training to accomplish the progressive levels be done, well, progressively. In the US, it is intended that with consistent training (3-5 training sessions per week….the guideline for building strength appropriately without harm to your horse) your horse should progress one level per YEAR. Seriously.
Sure, there are horses out there that are at first level when they are four, nine year olds doing Grand Prix. Their training is often excruciatingly intense and I would say that the animal that stays sound both mentally and physically into the prime of his career (usually considered to be 10 years old) is the rare exception. Is it really worth the risk?
The bottom line answer to this question is, it takes as long as it takes. Again, take into consideration your ability to commit time-wise to the training and you or your trainers knowledge and ability to train to the level you desire.
With that, I wish you amazing success at achieving your riding goals.
JW