Dressage with Amelia

Amelia Newcomb
  • 5.0 (72)
  • EDUCATION
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

These sessions are recordings from Amelia's LIVE Q&A sessions on Facebook. We cover a variety of Dressage topics - from basic Dressage concepts up to more advanced exercises."As a dressage trainer, my goal is to make good training accessible to everyone who is interested in learning. I want to help YOU learn to love your ride!"~ Amelia

  1. 3D AGO

    Shaping Your Rides for Progress Q&A

    This week’s Q&A was a mix of real-life Florida barn chaos updates (frozen pipes, frozen water, and Germán learning how to break ice for horses 😅) and a really useful training discussion on how to shape your rides for progress. Germán kicked things off with a short reading on the theory of the aids, and we talked about how good riding comes down to clarity, consistency, and (most importantly) timing. We covered why your aids shouldn’t be “on” all the time, how to get your horse truly in front of the leg, and why your seat can either allow the movement through… or block everything. Then we answered rider questions on: How to make a plan for your ride (and adjust it when your horse tells you the plan isn’t happening today)What to do when you feel overwhelmed and don’t know where to start (hint: come back to rhythm and the basics)How to use the whip effectively for a laid-back horse without creating resistance (and my simple whip “re-sensitizing” exercise)I hope this helps you go into your next ride with a clearer plan and a better feel for what to focus on first. Next week we’ve got a little Valentine’s weekend series with extra lives and a “love of the horse” theme planned, stay tuned! Amelia PS. Download my free 10 Dressage Terms PDF here!

    32 min

  2. JAN 30

    Improving Your Rising Trot Q&A

    This week’s live was a fun mix of posting trot chat, Strides Q&As, some Florida move updates, and of course a little groundwork talk. We covered how to post without slapping down into the saddle, why sitting trot is better with shorter, high quality moments, and how to think about lengthening the trot as longer steps rather than just faster steps. We also touched on simple rider focus points like looking through your horse’s ears to help with straightness, plus a few easy groundwork ideas to support your horse’s back and topline. I shared a little bit about my free “10 terms every rider should know” PDF, breaking down common dressage jargon in a clear, simple way, and a sneak peek at a new course coming soon that builds on topline, throughness, and correct basics. Enjoy the episode, and thank you for being here! Happy Riding, Amelia PS. Download that "10 Terms Every Rider Should Know" here!

    31 min

  3. JAN 23

    Riding with Independent Aids Q&A

    This week’s Q&A was a fun mix of behind the scenes Florida move updates, rider position chat, and a really great discussion on groundwork. We talked about using the inside leg on a circle and why it isn’t something you hold on constantly. Instead, the idea is a "breathing leg" so your horse stays responsive and balanced. From there we break down the “point and shoot” idea for turning, pointing the line of travel first, then sending the horse forward from a balanced moment with the legs while the hands allow. We also answer questions about half halts on hot horses, there’s a great discussion around fussy contact and we share why groundwork and lunging can be such a helpful support for horses that are still finding their balance. We touch on simple ways to release tension in your lower back, including an easy stretch at the walk and the wood and jelly idea to help you notice when you’re locking up. We also reflect on why groundwork matters so much, not just for training, but for real life moments like travel, loading, and busy environments, when you really need your horse to feel confident and connected. Thanks so much for listening and being part of this community. I’m really grateful you’re here. Happy Riding, Amelia PS. Sunday is the last day to join the Groundwork Superpack, check it out here!

    34 min

  4. JAN 16

    Rider Straightness & Symmetry Q&A

    In this live Q and A, we talk about rider straightness and symmetry and why it is such an ongoing conversation for every horse and rider. This session blends rider position, training priorities, and a deeper look at how groundwork supports both safety and progress. Straightness Begins With Suppleness We discuss why straightness cannot be forced. Bend and suppleness have to come first, whether you are working from the ground or under saddle. Without that foundation, riding straight often creates tension instead of balance. Groundwork as a Foundation and Safety Net Groundwork plays a bigger role than many riders realize. It can help prevent accidents, give you options when something feels off, and allow you to address connection, bend, and mental focus before getting on. Groundwork also helps you safely manage your horses energy. Sitting to the Inside A key part of this Q and A focuses on rider symmetry, especially sitting to the inside seat bone. We talk about why this matters on circles, in lateral work, and in the canter. Progress Over Perfection Straightness is something every horse and rider continues to refine over time. Awareness, patience, and consistent basics make the biggest difference. Thank you so much for being here and for all the thoughtful questions. Happy Riding, Amelia PS If you have not already, make sure to RSVP for tomorrow’s groundwork webinar. We will be diving deeper into how groundwork supports safety, connection, and better rides overall.

    33 min

  5. JAN 9

    Three Keys to Success in Riding Q&A

    In last night's session, we dove into some topics that can truly unlock your riding success: the importance of soft, effective aids, developing rhythm & suppleness, and building balance in your horse. We explored how to apply your leg aids without creating tension. It’s all about practicing and finding the right balance: applying the aid and then softening immediately. Consistency is key—it’s about being aware of your body and rhythm while giving your horse the right amount of support. To get your horse to move from their hindquarters in a balanced and supple way, you need to feel the rhythm. When practicing the sitting trot, the trick is to stay relaxed and in rhythm—feel your hips move with the horse’s back while your elbows follow their neck. Keep practicing at the trot, maintaining soft contact. The key to success? Stay consistent with your aids and rhythm, and stay mindful of your seat. We also answer some questions from our nwe Strides members: How do I make sure my horse isn't heavy on the forehand in the stretch circle? How do I prepare for a right canter departure? And more! I am so glad to have welcomed so many new Strides members after bootcamp, thank you for being a part of the Strides community. I'm excited for everything that’s coming this year. We’ve got so much in store, including special guest speakers and new exercises for you to dive into. Happy Riding, Amelia PS. Make sure you RSVP for my Groundwork Webinar coming Saturday 17th Jan at 8am PT.

    31 min

  6. 12/19/2025

    Learning from the masters Q&A

    Last night's Q and A was a really good reminder that progress in dressage is rarely linear and that both riders and horses need space to learn, rest, and reset. Boot camp is coming up I shared a quick overview of our New Year boot camp, which starts on December 31 with goal setting and runs for five full days. The focus is not just on setting goals, but on giving you practical tools for rhythm, balance, rider position, connection, and throughness so you start the year with a clear plan and momentum. If you are in Strides, you are already enrolled and have VIP access. Otherwise, make sure you RSVP! Winter training and groundwork We talked about winter reality and how to stay productive when riding is limited. In cold or slippery conditions, simple groundwork like hand walking, walk-halt-walk, rein back, and the poll release can be incredibly effective. Safety matters, so footing and common sense always come first. Riding without your own horse One great question came from a rider who does not own a horse and was feeling less motivated. Riding different horses can actually make you a stronger rider! When you do not have one horse, your goals can shift toward your position, clarity, and feel rather than what one specific horse can or cannot do. Staying motivated and redefining consistency We talked a lot about motivation and consistency. Consistency does not mean riding every day. It can include learning, watching videos, reading, groundwork, fitness, and even rest. Fewer high quality rides with real focus are often better than doing everything every day while exhausted. Handling setbacks One of the most important takeaways was about setbacks. Bad days do not mean you are failing or that you will never get there. They are thoughts, not facts. Confidence comes and goes, and so does doubt. What matters is remembering why you ride and allowing yourself to be on your own journey without comparison. Thank you for being part of these conversations and for bringing such thoughtful questions. I am really looking forward to starting the new year together. Happy Riding, Amelia PS Bootcamp will be a great way to reset your mindset and your training plan if you are feeling a little stuck or uninspired right now. If you are not a member of Strides, RSVP here to save your spot!

    25 min

  7. 12/12/2025

    Growing & Developing with your Horse Q&A

    This week’s Growing and Developing With Your Horse Q and A was a really special one, as my mom JoElyn stepped in to host it. She shared so much wisdom from her own riding journey, from choosing horses to developing bend, setting goals, and learning to truly love the horse you have at every stage. Why bend matters JoElyn spent time explaining why bend is so foundational. Bend supports safety, helps the horse stay attentive, and allows the inside hind leg to step under and strengthen the body. True bend comes from the rib cage, not just the neck, and you can see it when the head and tail stay on the same line of the circle. Your body influences the bend She reminded us that rider position plays a big role. If we collapse or tip, it becomes harder for the horse to bend around the inside leg. Thinking about your alignment and allowing your body to guide the bend can make your aids much clearer and more effective. Groundwork and patterns Groundwork is a powerful way to improve bend. Asking for more bend on the ground helps it show up more easily under saddle, and riding clear patterns helps keep both horse and rider organized and balanced. Goals and long term development There was a thoughtful discussion about goals, from big long term dreams to small daily steps. Breaking goals down and focusing on rider position, learning, visualization, and consistency helps you make progress even when saddle time is limited. Loving the horse you have One of the most touching parts of this conversation was the reminder that loving your horse matters, regardless of the level. Horses can continue to grow, improve, and connect with us deeply, even as their bodies change with age. Thank you for being part of this community and for bringing so much care and thoughtfulness to your horses and your riding. Happy riding, Amelia PS Bootcamp is coming up soon. If you have not signed up yet, be sure to do that so you do not miss the daily lives, exercises, and motivation to head into the new year feeling focused and inspired. RSVP here for bootcamp.

    39 min

  8. 12/05/2025

    Horse Personality in Training Q&A

    Last night’s Q and A was such a fun conversation about horse personalities and how to adjust your riding to match the horse you have. Stacie joined us live, which was a treat because many of you know her from the comments section and as a Strides member. We covered everything from reading your horse’s natural tendencies to adjusting your own energy and building confidence in both young and experienced horses. Understanding personality Some horses are hot, some laid back, and many shift depending on our energy. The big takeaway was noticing the small signs and matching your approach. Raise your energy for a dull horse. Slow everything down for a sensitive one. Groundwork builds confidence For green or new horses, groundwork is the place to start. Leading, bending, yielding, and responding to pressure help the horse feel safe and give you tools you can use later in the saddle. It has made a huge difference for Stacy and her boys. The basics always win Winter is the perfect time to revisit stretching, bending, rhythm, and suppleness. Going back to basics makes everything easier when you start schooling movements again. Thank you to the Dressage Foundation We also highlighted the Dressage Foundation and the many grants that support riders. Stacie recently received the Gifted Memorial Grant, and our own “Dressage for All” Youth Fund will award its first grants this spring. Community support truly keeps our sport thriving. Thank you all for joining and for being part of this amazing community. Your questions and your stories are what make these live sessions so meaningful. Happy riding Amelia PS. Don’t forget to RSVP for Bootcamp coming in January!

    30 min
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5
out of 5
72 Ratings

About

These sessions are recordings from Amelia's LIVE Q&A sessions on Facebook. We cover a variety of Dressage topics - from basic Dressage concepts up to more advanced exercises."As a dressage trainer, my goal is to make good training accessible to everyone who is interested in learning. I want to help YOU learn to love your ride!"~ Amelia

Information

  • Creator
    Amelia Newcomb
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    214
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Amelia Newcomb Dressage All Rights Reserved.
  • Show Website
    Dressage with Amelia

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