New instructor, new school horse, problems adapting :D

I have just started riding at a new lesson place. Its run by a coach educator who really knows what she is doing.

After my first lesson there she has put me on her schoolmaster, a horse who can do up to Prix St-Georges. Just before christmas I had my first lesson on him and it really illuminated how much I don't know.

I don't think I was mentally prepared for the precision I needed with my cues, but it was REALLY obvious when I got them spot on and when I was a bit off. It wasnt helped at all by the fact that he had a hell of a lot more movement than any other horse I've ridden before.

So its really encouraging that I'm being given this opportunity, but am after some tips for how I can get used to the larger movement. I have a really strong core from all of the fitness I do for skiing (i.e. Do core pretty much every 2nd day). The instructor said that my position was good and was impressed by my balance, but I just felt like I was all over the place. Is there anything that I can keep in mind when Im riding that will help, or is it just a process of getting used to it...

Cheers

Cookies for anyone who read that all!!!

Sounds like your off to a great start! That so awesome! Having a instructor who has years of experience will really help you!
I ski too so I know that would help with any balance to do with riding, strength in your legs and core and being able to multi task!

Counting really helps sometimes, really try to work on getting used to your body moving with the horse's natural movement. Deep breathing, lots of stretching before and after will really help keep your body loose and workable!

I'm sure we'd all love photos!
Hope you had a great holiday!
Good luck!

Klassic Superstar - thanks for the tips. Really thinking about my breathing and counting the strides helped a lot.

I had another lesson there last week and am going back tomorrow for my last lesson for a couple of weeks (she is going away to take some clinics). Last time I was in a Jumping saddle instead of a dressage one and interestingly enough, I found it a lot easier to go with the horse.

I am unsure if the improvement was because of the change in saddle or because I had a better idea of what to expect.

So naturally I have asked to go back to the dressage saddle (why make things easy for myself :P )

Just a thought...When I get on a new horse, it takes me a few rides to get used to the horse. Im used to short horses, 14.3 and under. When I purchased by 15.2 mare with a HUGE, FORWARD stride, I felt so off balance. And im a pretty good rider. First trot was just exhausting! And the canter was a complete disaster! LoL.

Give it a few lessons to adapt to this new guy and see what happens from there!
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Those well schooled horses really know how to put you in your place, don't they? It takes me a few rides to get used to a new horse. I would add a 20% factor of difficulty with a horse than knows more than you do. Don't over think it. Do what I do. Cover your flaws with your good balance until your muscles catch up!

Just remember to stay confident in what you know and can apply to this horse. Like the others, I too have a hard time adjusting to a new school horse - especially since I own my own horse. It's hard getting on another horse and doing the same things you'd do with one you know very well.

Just keep trying and keep up your self-esteem and remember that no one can get on a new horse and be perfect right away.

Sounds like you're off to a great start! Keep itup and good luck. :)
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