Why Dressage Takes Time - and Why That’s a Good Thing

At Kings View Acres, we understand that some parents may be new to horses and riding. You may wonder why our lessons seem slower than other programs. That’s completely normal, and it’s actually a key part of our philosophy.

Dressage is about building a strong foundation, not rushing through milestones. Our careful pace ensures your child develops skills, confidence, and habits that last a lifetime - both in riding and in life.

1. Learning Slowly Builds Strength and Confidence

Children spend significant time learning to ride correctly at the walk before moving on to trotting or cantering. This slow start:

  • Builds balance, core strength, and coordination

  • Teaches children to communicate clearly with the horse

  • Creates confidence so they can safely handle faster gaits later

Rushing into trot and canter can lead to bad habits, frustration, or injuries. By taking our time at the walk, we ensure your child is ready for each next step, both safely and confidently. Think of it like learning to walk before you run. Getting the basics right sets your child up for long-term success.

2. Dressage Teaches More Than Riding

Dressage isn’t just about controlling a horse; it’s about building skills your child can use in everyday life as well. Children will develop:

  • Patience and focus

  • Responsibility and discipline

  • Problem-solving and decision-making

  • Confidence in themselves and their abilities

  • Clear communication skills

These life skills help children in school, sports, and other activities, not just in riding.

3. A Slower, Safer, More Thoughtful Progression

Unlike some programs that encourage kids to canter, jump, or race early, dressage follows a step-by-step approach:

  • Riders master the walk and trot first before cantering

  • Gradual training ensures proper balance, coordination, and timing

  • The horse develops strength, flexibility, and soundness, which reduces the risk of injury

This methodical approach allows children to gain confidence, skill, and understanding of their horse at each stage.

4. Patience and Discipline Are Key

Dressage requires focus and self-control. While kids at other barns might seem to progress faster, our students are building lasting habits that make them better riders in the long run.

The walk and trot aren’t “beginner steps”; they are critical training tools. Mastering them sets your child up for success in cantering, jumping, or any other advanced riding.

5. Safety Comes First

Horses are large and powerful animals. Moving too quickly into trotting or cantering can be dangerous if the rider isn’t ready.

At Kings View Acres, children progress only when they are physically, emotionally, and mentally prepared, which:

  • Keeps the rider safe

  • Protects the horse from strain or injury

  • Ensures every lesson is confidence-building

6. Building a Partnership Between Horse and Rider

Dressage is about creating a harmonious, trusting relationship with the horse:

  • Riders learn to communicate with subtle cues

  • Horses learn to respond with balance and precision

  • Children develop a deep understanding of the horse’s movements and needs

Other programs may emphasize excitement and speed. Dressage emphasizes connection, control, and trust, giving your child a solid foundation for any riding discipline.

7. Long-Term Benefits: Prepared for Any Challenge

Dressage may feel slow at first, but it prepares riders for all kinds of challenges in horseback riding:

  • Control, timing, and communication with the horse

  • Confidence in new or challenging situations

  • Better preparation and safety in all equestrian disciplines

8. What to Expect: Individual Progress, Readiness, and Emotions

  • Children advance at their own pace: Students move through our classes (Intro A, B, C) based on skill and readiness, not just time in the program. Completing a year does not automatically move a child to the next level—they must be ready physically, mentally, and emotionally.

  • Bareback Pad First: Riders often start on a bareback pad to develop balance and confidence before moving to the saddle.

  • Walk Before Trotting or Cantering: Mastering the walk is essential. It sets the foundation for posture, balance, and communication with the horse.

  • Faster Gaits Come Later: Trotting, cantering, or more advanced movements happen only when your child is ready, ensuring safety and enjoyment.

  • Emotional Growth Is Part of the Process: Learning dressage can sometimes feel slow or challenging. Some children may:

    • Become frustrated if a movement doesn’t go as planned

    • Feel nervous or scared about trying new skills

    • Cry when overwhelmed or uncertain

These reactions are normal. Our instructors provide support, encouragement, and guidance to help each child work through their emotions while continuing to build confidence. Over time, children learn patience, self-control, and resilience - skills that carry far beyond horseback riding.

  • Life Skills Built In: Focus, patience, confidence, and responsibility grow alongside riding skills.

By understanding that progress is individual and that emotional reactions are normal, parents can better support their children through both the physical and emotional journey of dressage.

The Takeaway

Dressage may feel slow at first, but that’s by design. It builds strong foundations, life skills, and lasting confidence, making your child a safe, capable, and well-rounded rider.

Families who value patience, long-term growth, and thoughtful instruction are the best fit for our program. At Kings View Acres, we help children develop not just as riders, but as confident, capable young people, one step at a time.



Lisa Brenize