first year in review dressage with an unstarted gaited horse

Tennessee Walking Horse Marvel

Starting an Untrained 3-year-old Tennessee Walking Horse / Spotted Saddle Horse Under Saddle using Dressage

introducing the bridle — **Learn more: Introducing a Gaited Horse to a Snaffle Bit**

The next gaited horse chapter of Naturally Gaited began October 16, 2021. Marvel, arrived as an untrained, three-year-old Tennessee Walking Horse / Spotted Saddle Horse gelding. He was gifted to me from my dear, horse-loving friend, Mary.

lunging a gaited horse — **November 2021:** Marvel, a three-year-old, untrained, Tennessee Walking Horse / Spotted Saddle Horse in his fourth lunging session, wearing a saddle, snaffle bit, and rope halter.
**Learn more: Lunging a Gaited Horse**

Before saddle training, we began with six months of groundwork, lunging, liberty, and working in hand with a snaffle bit.

Watch: Following contact with a snaffle bit and why

This video explains the importance of teaching the gaited horse how to accept a gentle snaffle bit contact and then the rider gently following the natural head and neck motion of the horse to develop relaxed quality smooth gaits.

Watch: Jambette and Spanish Walk with the naturally gaited horse

Liberty: Jambette and Spanish Walk with the Naturally Gaited Horse. Why Jambette for the naturally gaited horse? Learn more

*I began saddle training with Marvel in May 2022 when he was soon to be 4 years old.*
**Learn more: Starting a Gaited Horse Under Saddle**

While Marvel’s conformation is more of a rail class Tennessee Walking Horse, dressage will be his training method, since it will develop his best possible quality smooth gaits on cue. Dressage will develop our partnership and communication as I lead Marvel into relaxation of mind and body, rhythm, forward movement without rushing, balance, connection, symmetry, and collection over time.