“Try these useful, free resources’

Carl Hester on the importance of training and accepting criticism

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WE know many, if not most, competitors have regular training, but for those trying to compete at the top level, the devil is increasingly in the details. Lessons from a trainer you trust and put your faith in have to be the most important thing to prioritise if you want to progress. Finding a trainer who can give you the tools and knowledge to progress is of the utmost importance.

Of course, with the effects of the cost-of-living crisis, or for people who work long hours every week, or for those who can't afford regular lessons, it's not always possible to get consistent help from a trainer. But did you realise you can download a few useful documents to help you with your training?

The FEI Dressage Judging Manual, for example, is free to access online and gives clear definitions of the general principles of dressage and how fundamental mistakes are marked. Sometimes it can be helpful to read the requirements for the movements you're doing. Reading about the movements and the reasons for doing them can be a lesson in itself.