Ralf's clinics are always tremendous for not only remembering the basics of riding, but learning the refined effects of how NOT to interfere with the horse's balance and ability to perform. We are incredibly lucky to have training of this high caliber available to us twice a year!

I absolutely loved my sessions.  I believe that I make much greater strides with Ralf than any other instructor I've ever worked under.  My horses are moving so much better and I feel so much more confident and capable than I ever have in my riding life.  Ralf's methods are thorough and direct with each ride packed with information, practice and great feedback. I cannot wait for October but I have lots of great "homework" until then!

One of the many things I like about Ralf Schmitzer's dressage clinics is that once you relate to his method of training, you become more capable of correcting yourself and your horse when working on your own. Emphasis is put on the rider/handler being dominant (I can hear Ralf saying, "Active walk!"), therefore being in control of the horse in a consistent, knowledgeable, and kind manner. The horse learns to be in self-balance ("Widen your hands.") as the rider works toward the same goal of self-balance and effective aids ("Activate with the inside leg only.").

Ralf teaches that the schooling exercises are not to be done for the sake of just doing them, but for the development of the horse's muscular readiness to proceed with each dressage movement. There is never pressure to rush the process in order to compete, and the ongoing process of accomplishment results in a feeling of camaraderie and elegance between horse and rider. To me, this is the essence of classical dressage.

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Dorothy "Dotti" Elfers

I found the Ralf clinic to be the best experience I have had with my horse He gave me so much confidence in myself and my horse ,with sensitivity and technique. This horse has never been an easy horse for me , but with Ralf's guidance , I have come to appreciate his brilliance and his abilities . I look forward to returning next spring to achieve even more . The drive from Wisconsin was very worth it . Thank you Ralf , and Simone for putting together such  worthwhile four days . My horse and I have benefited greatly from these great masters of classical dressage, and I now realize that dressage is not just putting your horse in frame.