Cavalli Connections » The lifelong pursuit of classical riding.

What is Classical Riding?

So what is all the fuss about? Today, classical riding has become somewhat of a catch phrase for many things that are decidedly not classical. Without further explanation, it can sound foreign and complex and even out of reach for novice and backyard riders. The truth is quite the opposite; classical riding for everyone and it is all about simplicity! In a nutshell, classical riding is correct riding, plain and simple. It follows the laws of nature and gravity, and is respectful of the horse. It banishes the use of force and allows the horse to be the calender for training. The end result is that horses are healthier in body and mind, and riding is safer.

Classical riding is related to dressage, and here is how: All classical riding is dressage, but not all dressage is classical riding. Sadly, the movement of “modern” or “competitive” dressage has brought a lot of misunderstanding to what originally started out as a pretty great idea. Additionally, classical riding is not a discipline in and of itself. While normally practiced in a “dressage” saddle and with a longer leg, the classical position and techniques are relevant to every discipline, and in fact are the underlying basics to all riding.

Riding classically dictates that you follow the training scale, seen below in its original form.

By following these principles, it is ensured that the horse is never pushed beyond his capabilities, and that muscles develop correctly. But more on the training scale later!