The Science & Art of Dressage - Recently Updated Pageshttp://mycirclesofhorses.wetpaint.com/pageSearch/updatedRecently Updated Pages on http://mycirclesofhorses.wetpaint.comen-usinfo@wetpaint.comWed, 16 Apr 2008 11:50:53 CDTWed, 16 Apr 2008 11:50:53 CDTwetpaint.com60The Science & Art of Dressagehttp://www.wetpaint.com/img/logo.gifhttp://mycirclesofhorses.wetpaint.comThe Science & and Art of Classical Dressage, and Centered riding as taught by Tammy Fifer through biomechanics, Feldenkrais, Centered Riding, and Positive Reinforcement.About Tammyhttp://mycirclesofhorses.wetpaint.com/page/About+Tammycirclesofhorseshttp://mycirclesofhorses.wetpaint.com/page/About+TammyWed, 16 Apr 2008 11:50:53 CDTContact Info--circlesofhorses@gmail.com
The Science & Art of Dressage HOME
Lessons and Clinics



TAMMY FIFER CERTIFICATIONS & BIO:
CLASSICALLY TRAINED from the lines of Alois Podhajsky and Nuno Oliveira
Centered Riding Instructor (Dressage Oriented)—
Susan E. Harris, Betty Lindquist, Wendy Murdoch
Certified Equine Massage Therapist -- through the Lindquist Method
Certified Remedial-Exercise Instructor --through Horses In Motion
Certified in Equine Biomechanics & Saddle Fit -- through Horses in Motion
Certified Equine Coach for the Mentally-Challenged -- through Epona-Woods
Dressage Instructor for Equine Science B.A. program



Lessons, Clinics & Seminars given on:
Dressage, Jumping, Centered Riding Principles; Massage, Biomechanics, and Saddle Fit (Private and Group lessons also given in all areas)

Clinics given in:
Florida - West Palm Beach, Cocoa, Ocala, Palm Bay
Virginia - Richmond, Middleburg
Maryland - Deal, Millersville
Indiana - Greenville, Paoli, Florence, Veyvey, Indianapolis
Ohio - Cincinnati
Kentucky - Louisville, Lexington, Shelbyville, La Grange

Dressage -Related Jobs:
Dressage Instructor for on-line B.A. Programs 2004-Current www.horsecoursesonline.com (Online Courses) Degrees presented by: Breyer University, Iyuptala University, Austin Community Center, Scottsdale Community College, Kanadiana International Equestrian Center, Equine Studies Institute

Dressage Instructor/Trainer 2000-Current
Showed and trained horses and riders through 4th Level.

Therapeutic Massage and Saddle Fitting 2001-Current
I perform these services at show grounds, endurance rides, clinics, private stables, and my stables.

Instructor and Coach for 2001-2007 Mentally-Challenged Children and Adults: Worked closely with a Doctor of Psychology. I Taught High-Level Functioning, At-Risk, children and adults to handle, tack up and ride horses. Preparing and showing horses was also part of the program as they honed their skills. Working with them helped me refine my communication skills between horses and riders.

Trainer 1999-2000 Valhalla Farm, (Eventing Stable), Florida
Started 4 year olds and worked horses through the upper levels. Dressage Trainer, Instructor & Youth

Equine Trainer/Coach 1986-1999 Yonder Hill Arabians and Amber Acres :
Trained Arabians (and other breeds) in all disciplines; organized Summer Camps and Youth Programs; trained and coached children and adults in dressage and jumping.

Junior Rider of the Year—Dressage; Space Coast, Florida 1983

Dressage Teachers and Philosophies : An avid learner, I spent most of my time learning from Barbara McNew, Grand Prix rider (a 10 year working student of Linda Zang’s), and Betty Lindquist (a long time working student of Nuno Oliveira’s). Additionally, I worked with prominent Centered Riding instructors Susan E. Harris and Wendy Murdoch.

I have also gained knowledge by participating in many clinics given by such notables as: Carole Lavelle, Michael Poulin, Greta Wrigley, Col. Schumacher, Dorrie Addy, Jean Brinkman, O’Shea, Julie Weiss, Lendon Grey, and Charlotte Trentleman, L. judge.

Always working on continuous improvement, I have Betty come up from Florida to work with me and my students a few times a year, or I try to get back down there so I can work with her and some of my students down there.

Additionally, I continue my learning through lessons with both Susan E. Harris and Wendy Murdoch whenever possible. I attend other clinics, with similar philosophies, when available.

Publications by Tammy:
"The Healing Touch", Dressage & CT, October, 1995. Vol. 109,
"Improper Neck Flexion", Equine Biomechanic Pamphlet, self-published, 1998. Online ArticleTitle: "How to Use Your Seat" Published, Feb. 2008, to a web site at: http://www.learningabouthorses.com/ Article Title: "FeaturingTammy Fifer", Equiworld Magazine, March, 2004


Through my Dressage background and understanding of biomechanics of both horse and rider, I combine a unique perspective that allows me to get the best out of both horse and rider. I will not only ask you to make a correction, I will explain how to make the correction, and why the correction works based on the biomechanical aspects as part of my instruction. I then give you a plan of progression to follow to make sure the lessons stay intact for both rider and horse



]]>Video Analysishttp://mycirclesofhorses.wetpaint.com/page/Video+Analysiscirclesofhorseshttp://mycirclesofhorses.wetpaint.com/page/Video+AnalysisMon, 31 Mar 2008 15:10:27 CDTLessons and Clinics
The Science & Art of Dressage
Online Courses
Contact Info.

VIDEO ANALYSIS

I used to offer this just for clients who live far away, or clients from clinics I have done, but the response has been so good, I am opening up to including anyone at all.

You just have to send in a video, CD or DVD of a dressage test, show class, or apattern you have made up at home and mail it in. You may email something as well -- (I will let you know right away if I have any problems uploading.) It can be in any discipline: dressage, hunter, jumping, western, bareback, pleasure, saddleseat, or gaming, cutting, reining, or just on the longe or free movement to evaluate potential or possible problem issues etc...

Using the biomechanical aspect of the equine, I will analyze the movements of the horse and tell you what parts of his body are not working correctly, and better yet, what you need to do to get them moving better and sounder. This will help the horse to move more correctly: better, faster, sounder or get correct leads, bigger trots and lateral movements according to the horse's conformation and riding style you are interested in.

As well, I will evaluate the rider with Centered Riding principles of balance and body movement (which relates to ALL forms of riding) and give you suggestions on how to improve your body balance and rider's aids according to the style you are interested in.
I will be very detailed in my descriptions and suggestions and also let you know if I feel that the horse needs help from a vet or alternative therapies, and also if I think the tack fit and placement is an issue. I can also help you if you show, as to what the judges are seeing and what they want to see, and how to achieve that. I explain things very clearly and simply so that it is understandable and easy to follow through on.

What I need from you is seeing the horse a few minutes on both sides in all three gaits, if possible, on the longe (or free-longe), then standing tacked up, then ridden at all 3 gaits from both sides. If it is a young or green horse, then show only what you can for his level of training. Show me any jumping, patterns, or special things you wish me to evaluate. I will be extremely open and honest and will guide you with specifices and sound advice. I even offer a money-back guarantee if you are not completely satisfied with my findings and if you get back to me within a week as to why your are dissatisfied.

As an introduction to everyone else, I will only charge $35. . . plus shipping and handling (no shipping if done completely online). I think you will find it an invaluable tool -- a How-To with easy instructions to make you and your horse BETTER!

Please email first and I will get right back to you and we can get this started and finished within one to two weeks! circlesofhorses@gmail.com

]]>The Science & Art of Dressagehttp://mycirclesofhorses.wetpaint.com/page/The+Science+%26+Art+of+Dressagecirclesofhorseshttp://mycirclesofhorses.wetpaint.com/page/The+Science+%26+Art+of+DressageMon, 31 Mar 2008 14:03:47 CDT The Science & Art Of Dressage & Classical Riding
TAMMY FIFER . . . Circles Of Horses
About Tammy
Lessons and Clinics
Video Analysis
Online Courses
How to use Positive Reinforcement
Understanding Biomechanics for Dressage
Contact Info -- circlesofhorses@gmail.com

Your Horse Stories link to my site where YOU write the horse stories: to be published! Check it out!!



CIRCLES OF HORSES
The Science & Art of
. . . . Classical Dressage . . .

Classical Dressage cannot be reinvented - It has been around since before the time of Christ! There is no new system, but many people feel they can say they discovered something new.

Podhajsky didn't teach the Podhajsky Method, Oliveira didn't teach the Oliveira Technique -- they were both very naturally talented and had great instinct with horses. They also had great balance and communications skills -- oh if we could all ride like them! With the science of Biomechanics we can gain knowledge that was previously unknown to average people, and use that to further our training and equitation skills.

Classical Dressage -

Correct or not - does it really matter?
There are many reasons why it matters to do things correctly, but the truth is an incorrect way of riding will impair the horse's movement and athletic ability and can do much damage both physically and mentally. Practised over a period of time, it generally leads to unsoundness in the horse and back pain for both horse and rider.
This is why biomechanics is so important, for both the horse and rider. And learning a Centered way of riding will help you to communicate better, and put less strain and stress on the horse, and yourself!

** Reasons to learn the SCIENCE & ART OF DRESSAGE:
  • Classical dressage is safer
  • Classical dressage is logical
  • Classical dressage tones and builds your horse's body (naturally)
  • Classical dressage makes horses more beautiful
  • Classical dressage makes horses happier
  • Classical dressage allows horses to live to a much greater age - e.g. the horses of the Spanish Riding School of Vienna
  • Classical dressage reduces stress both in human and horse
  • Classical dressage tones and balances the rider's body
  • Classical dressage challenges the rider's mind


CURRENTLY TRAINING IN KENTUCKY & INDIANA:

  • HOME STABLE (CIRCLES OF HORSES) IN CLARK CO. FOREST, HENRYVILLE, KENTUCKIANA
  • INDOOR STABLES AND BOARDING & TRAINING AT DIAMOND K. STABLES IN AUSTIN, IN
  • INDOOR STABLES AND BOARDING & TRAINING AT CAROUSEL TRAINING CENTER IN LOUISVILLE, KY

* PLUS: I WILL TRAVEL TO YOUR STABLE AS WELL

EMAIL ME FOR MORE INFORMATION AND PRICING:

CIRCLESOFHORSES@GMAIL.COM





]]>Lessons and Clinicshttp://mycirclesofhorses.wetpaint.com/page/Lessons+and+Clinicscirclesofhorseshttp://mycirclesofhorses.wetpaint.com/page/Lessons+and+ClinicsMon, 31 Mar 2008 13:59:27 CDTAbout Tammy
Video Analysis
The Science & Art of Dressage HOME
Contact Info.

Lessons and Clinics

I AM ALWAYS AVAILABLE FOR LESSONS AND CLINICS... JUST EMAIL ME FOR INFORMATION ABOUT HOSTING A CLINIC IN YOUR AREA.



UPCOMING EVENTS:

I have several clinics coming up in late Spring through Summer & Fall.

Some will be KDA (Kentucky Dressage Assoc.) sponsored and held in Lexington, and the others will be held in or just outside Louisville.

All of them are dressage-based, but with different themes. Please email me for any interests or ideas.

All Clinics will be posted when confirmed!



PHILOSOPHIES & METHODS:

I offer lessons in Centered Riding techniques to help people ride dressage in a more efficient way. Sally Swift created Centered Riding many years ago. It is the art of learning how to ride the horse in accordance with the horse’s movement and biomechanical makeup. The premise is that the horse will mirror the rider’s body. If the rider has imbalances, the horse will begin to manifest the same issues. If the rider can put her body in the correct posture, then the horse will move more correctly. Yet, if the rider has her back arched and stiff, the horse will drop and stiffen his own back. This will not allow the horse to move correctly, making him harder to ride and possibly develop training, body, and behavioral issues.

It matters not what style of riding, Centered riding techniques will help you become in harmony and move more balanced with him, thus allowing him to move more freely and correctly. Centered Riding techniques are based on the principles of Tai Chi: by first becoming aware of what your body is trying to tell you, only then can you learn balance and harmony within yourself. Only when YOU can become flexible, supple, and balanced can your horse carry you in a correct manner and frame. It is not good enough to sit pretty, but you have to follow your horse correctly while in motion, maintaining that balance. Hanging onto the horse with your hands or legs is not the answer. And that is important in ANY riding discipline you choose. Riding a horse correctly will not only help his balance, but his training, attitude and conformation as well.

In summation: He will be happier, and you will be happier knowing you are BOTH having fun. It is important for the horse to move correctly, but he only can when the rider, as well, is moving correctly.

I have had over 15 years of personal and private lessons with a certified Centered Riding (CR) instructor Betty Lindquist. I have also been fortunate enough to have had wonderful clinics with two of Sally Swift 's Senior CR instructors, world-renowned Susan E. Harris and Wendy Murdoch.

Although I had been teaching, training, and showing for many years before these ladies came into my life, this became the time when I truly learned how the rider affects the horse, and how to become, "One with the horse". I developed the skill to analyze the rider’s body issues and how to fix them. I can correctly position and teach people how to ride in motion, in accordance with the horse’s own movement. Riding well, without resistance, is the key to good horsemanship. Learning how to affect the horse positively with your body is the key to great riding.

I offer lessons in any discipline, but Centered Riding techniques will be used for everything. It does not matter if you ride dressage, jump, go western, pleasure or trail . . . Through Centered Riding you will gain the balance and finesse you need to be a great rider.


Training . . . "Teaching" -- I prefer the word "teaching" as opposed to "training". Horses are intelligent and sensitive beings. "Teaching" implies 2-way communication, feed back, and understanding. When teaching a horse, as with anyone human, it is vital to use positive reinforcement as opposed to fear, pain, and intimidation. The word "training" has always had a negative connotation to me. I have always felt that "training" implies "by–any-means", rigid, and one-way-communication or bossiness. In thinking of training, most people tell horses what "not" to do; whereas, when reinforcing the progressive steps of good performance, the horse can begin to understand what you "want" them to do . . . teaching! They will pick up things much faster, feel more confidant, and learn in a calmer and respectful manner.

Consequently, I do not believe in body-manipulating gadgets. Educated "trainers" should really never need "head-setting" devices, such as tie-downs, running martingales, chambones, and severe bits. If they truly know what they are doing, then there is no need for these things. Gadgets were made to give a temporary "help" to riders to control their horses until a trainer could be found to analyze the root of the problem and then, through correct training, help the horse along to proper movement.

Yes, some wonderful trainers often use side reins, and if these aids are used correctly and tactfully, then they become a "helping-hand". Unfortunately, most riders (as well as some"trainers") do not realize that they do not know how to use them correctly. They create a trap for the horse, and a crutch for themselves, creating damaging problems to their horse’s neck, back, and joints. And then, often, behavior problems result or exacerbate. Gadgets can ruin a horse’s body, character, behavior, movement, and create a false sense of security for the rider. It is a downward spiral oftentimes.

Sometimes, getting the horse out of the contraptions can take an "act-of-god". I can help you train your horse without these things. And if you are "stuck" with these devices, I will help you get rid of them and get you both back onto the road to proper movement and happiness. It does not matter what style you want to ride; classical dressage (the French word for training) will help your horse develop proper muscles, teach him how to carry himself in a comfortable frame, and help him to communicate with you on a higher level.

Once the basics are achieved, I can teach your horse any style of riding you wish, according to his conformation and willingness. You will learn how to properly ask for his movements, gaits, and frames, whether you want him to move more upright or level, go show-hack, or western pleasure (but only in a sound, correctly-moving way) . . . For instance: My trainer’s retired Grand Prix Morgan missed the show ring. She decided to take him to the World Morgan show, entering him in western pleasure classes. She asked for collected trot and collected canter (instead of the dogged jog and 4-beat lope), and won every class! Everyone thought he was phenomenal and wondered where he came from. She just replied, "The dressage ring."

You do not have to demoralize your horse to fit into the "fads" of what is "hot-moving" right now. If he is truly moving correctly within the chosen discipline, the judges should see it and reward him for it. If they do not, then shame on them.

I would never sacrifice my horse’s good movements or soundness for a ribbon or money. Although money is a great motivator for most people, you have to decide where YOU stand on the issue. I will NOT teach with gadgets, force, or take shortcuts. If you are looking for that, then go elsewhere. But if you truly want to learn how to work WITH your horse and achieve brilliance and joy in his movement, then let me help you.


Email me for availability in my schedule to meet your needs.

CIRCLESOFHORSES@GMAIL.COM




]]>Understanding Biomechanics for Dressagehttp://mycirclesofhorses.wetpaint.com/page/Understanding+Biomechanics+for+Dressagecirclesofhorseshttp://mycirclesofhorses.wetpaint.com/page/Understanding+Biomechanics+for+DressageThu, 27 Mar 2008 12:33:50 CDTHow to Use Positive Reinforcement
Contact Info.
The Science & Art of Dressage HOME


Understanding Biomechanics for Dressage


  • Biomechanics: understanding anatomy and how bodies are used according to their musculature, joints, and skeletal make up goes. For instance, the hocks are not made to be the driving force, (as you often see in the improper training of most horses) -- that is the job of the propulsion of the hips. The hips are a huge ball & socket joint -- they propel the horse forward. The hocks are like a "swing" that helps the leg "unfold" and hit the ground underneath as the horse passes over it. If the horse cannot use his back or hips, the hocks will try to propel the horse forward, creating mountains of stress in that joint. The hock then breaks down. That is why people are often compelled to have hocks injected. I do not know anything about the injections, but it seems it would just be better if the horses were able to use themselves correctly in the first place. Horses can learn this and learn to move more correctly according to the soundness of his anatomy.
  • Feldenkrais and Alexander techniques: these are techniques and methods that can be taught to horses and humans to change movement patterns that are detrimental to their overall being. They help awareness come to the consciousness of the being, and then help reform the body to move in a better and stable pattern. It sometimes takes deep tissue massage to integrate muscles and joints to create a more cooperative body.Then the methods will help make muscle memory and learning new patterns possible. For instance, you walk with one hip forward -- but don't know it. Your horse knows it, and it will interfere with your communication to him. Once you are aware, you can learn, through these techniques, how to regain flexibility and strength to put your body where is needs to be to communicate correctly with your horse. He will be happy, you will be happy, and you both will have better rides together.

THESE METHODS ARE NOT HARD TO UNDERSTAND OR IMPLEMENT!

These methods work for both horses and humans. To work as "one", both parties need to feel confident in themselves, be able to move their bodies correctly, and learn how to break old inhibiting patterns -- then foster new, beneficial ones. These methods together help create a positive way to learn Dressage without having to constantly fight against your own imbalances and your horse's as well.
All creatures use their bodies in certain patterns, be they beneficial or not to their overall posture or conformation. The way you move affects your posture; consequently, your posture affects the way you move! BIOMECHANICS! Athletes usually understand this. They will take measures to move their bodies in accordance, and to rehabilitate injuries with careful attention to this. They understand that using the correct muscles and joints will keep "break down" to a minimum and increase the proper movement of the body nature intended, BUT ---

Most people do not -- both they and horses will adjust how they do things according to the easiest pattern of movement. They will adapt to their new, lack of motion, (one instance: they limp long after the leg has officially healed.) thus limiting their range of motion. Old injuries often leave, if not visible scars, muscular ones.

This problem is often overlooked or misunderstood. In horseback riding there are two athletes involved, the rider and the equine. For brilliant performances, both rider and horse need to be at their best according to their posture, conformation, and movement. Isn't that our goal, what the judges are looking for? These methods work on both the human and the equine, and makes both their jobs easier to perform, and will keep them sound and happy.It does not take a long time to learn them and implement them for positive results for both rider and horse.

Learn the biomechanics of your body and your horse's, learn how to move more correctly with simple techniques, and how to teach your horse these things. Ride better, communicate better, stay sound longer, and have fun -- YOU and your HORSE!


]]>Online Courseshttp://mycirclesofhorses.wetpaint.com/page/Online+Coursescirclesofhorseshttp://mycirclesofhorses.wetpaint.com/page/Online+CoursesThu, 27 Mar 2008 09:09:28 CDTContact Info.
The Science & Art of Dressage
Video Analysis

Online Courses


Dressage Instructor for on-line B.A. Programs 2004-Current www.horsecoursesonline.com

Degrees presented by:
Breyer University,
Iyuptala University,
Austin Community Center,
Scottsdale Community College,
Kanadiana International Equestrian Center,
Equine Studies Institute


Don Blazer at www.horsecoursesonline.com.
Gawani Pony Boy at www.gawaniponyboy.com


For more information on the Programs, please check out these sites. You can get a degree, certification, or just take classes and have fun learning.


]]>Contact Info.http://mycirclesofhorses.wetpaint.com/page/Contact+Info.circlesofhorseshttp://mycirclesofhorses.wetpaint.com/page/Contact+Info.Thu, 27 Mar 2008 09:08:03 CDTThe Science & Art of Dressage
Online Courses
Video Analysis
My Contact Information:

circlesofhorses@gmail.com


]]>How to Use Positive Reinforcementhttp://mycirclesofhorses.wetpaint.com/page/How+to+Use+Positive+Reinforcementcirclesofhorseshttp://mycirclesofhorses.wetpaint.com/page/How+to+Use+Positive+ReinforcementMon, 17 Mar 2008 23:37:35 CDT
How to Use Positive Reinforcement




















Contact Info.
The Science & Art of Dressage
Lessons and Clinics
Understanding Biomechanics for Dressage

This one is under construction!

]]>ONLINE COLLEGE-CREDITED COURSEShttp://mycirclesofhorses.wetpaint.com/page/ONLINE+COLLEGE-CREDITED+COURSEScirclesofhorseshttp://mycirclesofhorses.wetpaint.com/page/ONLINE+COLLEGE-CREDITED+COURSESMon, 10 Mar 2008 15:22:15 CDT
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