Steffen Peters coaches a successful young rider currently advancing toward Intermediare I and Prix St. Georges level. Steffen explains that to succeed at these levels, the horse needs to become more sensitive overall and get in front of the leg while achieving more collection. They warm up with a focus on steadiness and testing both the inside and outside flexion while keeping the horse in front of the leg. Through half-pass at the walk and trot, the rider and Steffen work on keeping the horse engaged and offering appropriate reactions to the aids. As they begin to school the collected canter, Steffen reminds the rider to always send her horse forward after working on collection to help maintain impulsion and rhythm. When the horse becomes opinionated through a movement, Steffen reminds the rider that the horse is entitled to an opinion but must understand she means business when she applies her aids. Working together, they resolve the issue and complete the canter pirouettes. By coaching the rider on finessing and lightening the aids, Steffen helps to make the movement more elastic and supple. They finish the session with the horse and rider performing canter pirouettes with confidence.
