More detailed explanation of
New French Classical
| Riding, particularly in the dressage sphere,
has diverged into either classical or competitive styles (not forgetting
the natural horsemanship division). In the last decade "classical"
seems to have become the new fashion and has a firm following. Yet
some would say that those calling themselves classical riders differ
very little from the competition riders. A brief glance at equestrian
history will show two schools of thought - that of the German classical
(modern competitive dressage) and New French classical (as taught
by masters such as Nuno Oliveira).
In my personal opinion, those wishing to ride French classically differ in one major way - their wish is to work with the horse. With respect, admiration and a genuine wish that the horse is happy and comfortable being ridden. I admire so much of the natural horsemanship philosophy being spread around the world that is placing both the horse's and the rider's mental and physical well-being as top of the list of priorities. But why do I feel that New French Classical is best? Because it allows both the rider and the horse to move naturally and give their best within their own abilities and characters. |