Classical vs Modern Dressage: The Pitfalls of Pursuing Perfection

ROLLKUR RECON, TRAINING TACTICS & EQUINE EMOTION SPECIALISTS! In this week's supersized episode, we are breaking down the biomechanics behind extreme hyperflexion (aka Rollkur) and speak to the damaging effects on horses' bodies in the context of modern dressage as well as all the training that goes into building a happy, healthy, and sound sport horse. PLUS why we literally owe our lives to horses. Featuring our guest, Melissa Gallagher, an equine emotion specialist, Grand Prix dressage rider & owner and trainer of Collective Roots Dressage.

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To watch the video recording of this episode, subscribe to our channel @FreelyForwardBodywork on YouTube.

You can find Melissa @collectiverootsdressage on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok!

This episode was executive produced by Maija Liisa Luttinger and Allie Watson Bayne. Special thanks to our editor and sound mixer, David Dalton of Driftwork Sound. This podcast is brought to you by Freely Forward Bodywork.

Our mission at Freely Forward Bodywork is to make equine bodywork accessible to any horse, no matter where you are in the world. If you are interested in learning more about my online catalog of courses designed to help you bond with your horse through the art of massage, give me a follow on Instagram @freelyforwardbodywork or click this link to check them out yourself!

In the episode, we mentioned books we recommend as resources to learn more about dressage training, here is our comprehensive list! 

Melissa's Recommendations:

• The Athletic Development of the Dressage Horse
• Basic Training of the Young Horse: Dressage, Jumping, Cross-country
• Beginners Guide: To Foundation Horse Training
• Training Strategies for Dressage Riders
• Dressage with Kyra: The Kyra Kyrklund Training Method
• Inspiration and Leadership: For Horse Lovers

Maija's Recommendations:

• Dressage for the Not-So-Perfect Horse: Riding Through the Levels on the Peculiar, Opinionated, Complicated Mounts We All Love
• Brain Training for Riders: Unlock Your Riding Potential with StressLess Techniques for Conquering Fear, Improving Performance, and Finding Focused Calm
• Tug of War: Classical Versus Modern Dressage: Why Classical Training Works and How Incorrect Riding Negatively Affects Horses' Health