Make the horse rounder, rounder, rounder. Just make the horse rounder!
Pull the horse’s head down!
Go get the draw reins!
We gotta stick him in the double (double bridle)!
You’ll ruin your horse if you don’t get his head down!
As long as the head is down, everything is fine. Carry on!
WAIT. What?!
Really?! Is this really the best the “experts” out there can say? Really?
Well, what’s the problem problem with that?
ADDRESSING ONLY THE HEAD AND NECK IS ADDRESSING THE SYMPTOM
It is like cooling down the thermometer rather than addressing the infection that has caused the fever. Pulling the horse’s head down with the reins only addresses the symptom. The head and neck merely reveal information about what is going on in the rest of the horse’s body. So when you address only the symptom, you are not only not addressing the issue, but you are making it harder to read the problem because you are adding another layer of problem that interferes with correct data.
"FRONT-TO-BACK RIDING"
Pulling the horse’s head down with the reins and only addressing the head and neck results in “front to back riding”. Over time this not only causes a disconnect between the reins and the rest of the horse’s body, but it causes the horse to use the rest of his body incorrectly. Over time, this can create spavin and other unsoundness issues, not to mention behavioural problems. (Horses don’t like “front to back riding” - it feels oppressive to them.)
TEACHES THE HORSE TO DISCONNECT
Pulling the head down with auxiliary aids, such as draw reins, side-reins, martingale, chambon, etc. again only address the symptom. On top of that, it teaches the horse that the only way to deal with the discomfort of the device is to “disconnect” the front end from the hind end and fixing his head and neck into place. This is not authentic and it interferes with your ability to communicate with the rest of the horse’s body through the reins, such as to effectively straighten the horse or influence the bending ability of the joints of the horse’s hind legs.
THE DOUBLE BRIDLE IS A REFINING TOOL, NOT A "GET THE HEAD DOWN" TOOL
There is a correct and classical use of the double bridle, but it is a refining tool. It should never be used to “get the horse’s head down”. When horses are ridden prematurely with the double bridle they develop lamenesses, disconnection, and it is also essentially “front to back riding”, same as if you used rollkur or draw reins.
THE HORSE'S BODY PARTS DO NOT WORK IN ISOLATION
Whereas it is true that when the horse is working in an inverted outline, that he is developing incorrect muscles, the answer is not to pull the horse’s head down, or to get the horse’s head down at any expense. The horse’s body parts do not work in isolation - the head and neck are part of a bigger picture where every part of the body interacts with every other part of the body, biomechanically. The answer is instead to decipher WHY the horse is carrying his head and neck incorrectly, which has everything to do with the REST of the horse’s body, and usually has significantly less to do with the head and neck themselves. Once you can decipher WHY the horse is carrying himself this way, you can biomechanically address these unproductive movement patterns and replace them with healthier movement patterns which inevitably allow the horse to carry his head and neck in a healthier outline automatically (he no longer compensates by inverting).
"HEAD DOWN" DOES NOT MEAN ALL IS GOOD
Head down does not necessarily mean all is good. You have to learn to be able to see and ride the whole horse, not just the head and neck. If the horse has the head down and the neck is in a “pretty” outline, but the hind legs are trailing, not engaging, and not bending to absorb the weight then it means absolutely nothing. It is false. In fact, it is misleading. You need to learn to ride the WHOLE horse, not just the head and neck, and you need to learn to evaluate and assess the WHOLE horse so that you have accurate data with which to make your full assessment.
High quality contact develops from a relationship between Balance, Straightness, and Suppleness so the energy of the hind legs can travel freely along the spine to the reins and back (it makes no difference if you ride with a bit or with a bitless bridle). The head and neck are a balancing device and they find the right place when the horse is in balance, straight, and a connection has been built between the weight into all four legs of the horse and into the ground.
You select riding exercises which are designed to help the horse find his balance and improve his body awareness.
These exercises develop the horse physically, but also develop the horse intellectually, so that the horse is a willing partner in the training process.
You develop your own theoretical understanding so that you see how all the individual parts of the horse work together as a holistic system.
You develop your own awareness and coordination so that your seat and aids are in harmony and can communicate unambiguously with the horse.
When you are able to understand…
the real cause of the problems you are having and differentiate between symptoms and causes, then you can finally break out of the dead-end cycle of doing the same thing over and over again and hoping it eventually yields a different result.
Once you know HOW to determine the cause of the problems your horse is having, WHY, and WHAT you can do to FIX them, then you can relax and ride with the CONFIDENCE that you can handle anything that comes up, you can troubleshoot in the moment, and you can reach a level of collaboration and dialogue with your horse that eludes you when you are focused on the problems rather than the solutions.
But when you can tell the difference, you can address the CAUSE rather than putting band-aids over the symptom. Knowledge is FREEDOM.
LEARN HOW TO ADDRESS THE CAUSE...
When you know HOW to address the cause, you end the endless, tiring cycle of fix, re-fix, re-fix, re-fix...
Your riding can move beyond the constant focus of recovering from the loss of connection.
You can focus on the THINGS that actually MATTER and will move your riding forward (which inevitably helps you progress).
You no longer need to be EMBARRASSED about your horse coming above the bit. Or behind the bit. Or losing the connection in transitions and changes of direction.
When you know HOW to ride your horse from BACK-TO-FRONT (not only that you "SHOULD"), your horse will use the right muscles CORRECTLY. You can develop your horse's topline and protect your horse from damage to the back and legs from traveling in a way that is unhealthy for his body. Your horse will stay SOUNDER longer!
When you remove the blockages in the horse, CONNECT the horse correctly from back-to-front, and sit in a way that helps your horse, you will find that you can access the WHOLE HORSE rather than your aids getting stuck in the head, neck, and mouth of the horse.
The horse is always communicating with you through their responses to what you do, but when you don't know how to read those responses, it can seem like a foreign language. When you can address the problems in your own seat and aids which are CAUSING The undesirable responses in your horse, the DIALOGUE and COMMUNICATION you have with your horse becomes clearer.
When you can DEPEND on having consistent steady contact that doesn't fail you in transitions and changes of direction, it allows you to do better quality work, allows your aids to go "through" more consistently, and allows you to progress up the levels.
And ultimately, you and your horse will ENJOY a better relationship because this is no longer a cause of frustration and annoyance for EITHER of you. Your horse will TRUST you and your riding MORE because what you do makes sense and it helps your horse to FEEL BETTER.
You can learn to use a variety of combinations of the seat the aids, exercises, and movements to FIX all of these symptoms CAUSES.
THIS is exactly what we teach our students, and we have developed a SYSTEM that helps you achieve results faster. These are not "quick fixes", but REAL improvements that create REAL LASTING change for horse and rider.
Wait. I should tell you a bit about us before we go any further.
We are Thomas and Shana Ritter.
We now live in Portugal, having moved here from Germany in February 2020. Thomas is an International Dressage Clinician, teaching all over Europe, the United States, and Canada. Shana is an FEI competitor, USDF Silver Medalist, and developer of the Artistic Dressage Online Course Program.
We have spent our lives researching and diving in deeper. We have studied the biomechanics. We have extensively studied the classical equestrian literature. We have ridden with many of the great classical masters of our time. We have distilled our years and years of learning down into a system which is straight-forward and gives you actionable, concrete tools to make real change in your riding.
Thomas wrote about his system in his first book, “Dressage Principles Based on Biomechanics” published through Cadmos Press in 2011, and he further expanded upon the practical application of those principles applied to the training at the Long Rein with his second book, “Long Reining: From the Beginning through the Levade” in 2014.
What will it be like when you ENJOY the incredible feeling of true, authentic contact and connection with your horse?
AS SEEN ON...
FORM A DEEPER BOND AND RELATIONSHIP WITH YOUR HORSE BY WORKING WITH YOUR HORSE AS A PARTNER.
ACHIEVE YOUR #RIDINGGOALS TOGETHER.
YOU CAN...
Educate yourself, your seat, your understanding, and your horse.
STOP HARMING.
Stop doing the things which are harming your horse’s ability to develop good, healthy contact so you can finally build true connection.
AVOID THE BAD ADVICE.
Avoid the bad advice and mistakes which create even worse problems.
START ADDRESSING THE WHOLE HORSE.
Start addressing the whole horse in your everyday training rather than only seeing the parts in isolation.
DEVELOP HEALTHY HABITS.
Develop healthy riding habits and movement patterns in both yourself and your horse.
FORM A DEEPER BOND.
Form a deeper bond and relationship with your horse, because you are working together rather than antagonistically.
ENHANCE EVERYTHING ELSE.
Enhance everything else in your riding, because your aids come through cleaner without interference or blockages. This results in smoother transitions, better balance, clearer straightness, and livelier gaits.
GAIN A REPERTOIRE OF EXERCISES.
Gain a repertoire of riding exercises and knowledge about the biomechanics of contact and connection.
INTEGRATE FUN
Integrate creative and fun riding exercises into your daily riding, so that you are never at a loss of what to do on any particular day.
RESOLVE PROBLEMS.
Resolve deeply-ingrained problems that you had no idea were related to contact and connection.
Learning to ride "Back to Front" was never before this much FUN, UNDERSTANDABLE, and FULFILLING!!
INTRODUCING
The 2024 Contact and Connection Course with Ritter Dressage. Starting March 29, 2024.
15-week online course to cultivate better quality, true, authentic contact and connection without resorting to devices or techniques which harm the horse’s soundness, happiness, progress, or the rider’s relationship with the horse.
WHAT’S IN THE CONTACT AND CONNECTION COURSE
BIOMECHANICS THEORY
Biomechanically-based theory components which explain how the interplay between the horse's body and the dressage training are spread throughout the entirety of the course. The theory is designed to stimulate your mind and cultivate your understanding. Each theory lesson builds upon the previous module, but they can also be used as a reference library.
GYMNASTIC EXERCISES
Each module has several biomechanically-based gymnastic horse exercises which correspond to the theory instruction, so you are are able to immediately apply the theoretical lessons into your riding, and experience first-hand how they work. Each exercise comes with a PDF with complete instructions outlining what to do, why to do it, and how to do it.
INSTRUCTIONAL VIDEOS
Each horse riding exercise is accompanied by an instructional video in which we expand upon the material in the exercise PDF, showing you where the problem spots are in the exercise and how to address the various problems that can come up while riding it. We also explain how to modify the exercise if you need to make simpler for a less trained horse, or more challenging for a higher level horse.
FELDENKRAIS LESSONS
We now include Feldenkrais lessons in nearly all of our courses for a distinct reason - they work! Throughout the course, we include Feldenkrais lessons which help you, as the rider, to learn better body awareness, coordination, flexibility, and control. Taught by Feldenkrais Practitioners, Catherine McCrum and Charlotte Zetterberg, you are in for a treat.
IMAGERY LESSONS
Often the best way to educate the body is through the power of visualization. We employ feeling-rich imagery lessons which convey not only the best way to sit, but also the best way to accommodate and shape the movement of the horse. Riders can use imagery on and off the horse, so that progress can be made even while not riding.
Q&A COACHING SESSIONS
You have questions and we actually encourage that!!! You will get access to all of the upcoming Q&A sessions, not only for the duration of this course (two per month), but also for every Q&A for every future version of this course*. That’s right. That equates to lifetime support. It can’t get better than that!
*a small admin fee will be incurred to repeat the course
EXCLUSIVE FACEBOOK GROUP
One of the most gratifying parts of this course is the incredible community. Since its original inception in 2019, the community that is built around this course is the most tight-knit, supportive, and stimulating group we have ever cultivated. As a member of the course, you are granted a lifetime VISA into the community. It spans many continents, several languages, includes riders of all levels and types, and is your new homeland. Welcome home!
ACCOUNTABILITY EXERCISES
Accountability accelerates performance.
HOT SEATS (OPTIONAL)
Hot Seats with Thomas & Shana for detailed, individualized feedback and guidance on YOUR videos
As an optional add-on for the 2024 Contact & Connection Course, we will be offering SIX (6) Hot Seats feedback sessions. In a group zoom session, we review your videos in real-time on screen, sharing our observations and explaining what we see. We will explain what is working, what is not, and what to do about it. This is the VERY best way to develop your eye and understanding. Not only do you benefit by getting our eyes and feedback on what is going on with you and your horse, but you will learn by watching all the other videos, as well. Available as an add-on option with the 2024 Contact & Connection Course.
In this course you will be learning HOW to develop a high-quality, more authentic (“REAL”) contact and connection with your horse. You will also refine your feeling and use of your seat and aids to enable that higher quality connection and relationship with your horse. (So yummy you will want to savor it!)
THE COURSE SYLLABUS
Module 1 - Why Contact
Why do I need rein contact?
Connection and Rein Contact as a Whole Body Experience
Honest Connection vs. Fake Outline
Road Map to a good Rein Contact
2 Riding Exercises
2 Rider Demo Videos
1 Imagery LessonFeldenkrais Lessons
Module 2 - Aspects of Contact and Connection
Aspects of Contact & Connection
Balance
Pushing vs. carrying
Straightness
Suppleness & Relaxation
Conformation
2 Riding Exercises
1 Imagery Lesson
Feldenkrais Lessons
1 Curated Yoga Lesson
Module 3 - Theory of Contact (The WHAT)
What does “on the bit” mean?
What is the right amount of contact? How much is too much contact?
What is the right rein length?
2 Riding Exercises
2 Rider Demo Videos
1 Imagery Lesson
2 Feldenkrais Lessons
2 Curated Yoga Lessons
Module 4 - Creating Rein Contact
How do I get my horse on the bit?
Ingredients for a Good Rein Contact
How do I pick up the reins or shorten the reins?
How do I get a light, steady, even contact?
How do I get the horse to reach forward to the rein contact?
How do I ride my horse over the back and into the outside rein?
How do I feel whether the contact is correct?
How do I identify how much contact a certain horse needs?
2 Riding Exercises
2 Rider Demo Videos
1 Imagery Lesson
2 Feldenkrais Lessons
2 Curated Yoga Lessons
Module 5 - The Seat and Contact
How to sit to create a good quality rein contact
Position
Stirrup Length
The Pelvis
The Thighs
Knees and Lower Legs
The Torso
Arms, Elbows, Wrists, and Fingers
Seat Function
2 Riding Exercises
2 Rider Demo Videos
1 Imagery Lesson
2 Feldenkrais Lessons
1 Curated Yoga Lesson
Module 6 - Application of the Aids
How do I develop a light, friendly hand, that is always ready to yield?
How Many Rein Aids Are There?
Framing And Turning The Shoulders
Lifting A Shoulder
Lifting The Withers
2 Riding Exercises
1 Imagery Lesson
2 Feldenkrais Lessons
1 Curated Yoga Lesson
Module 7 - Contact in Motion
Half Halts
Where Are My Horse’s Feet?
Connecting A Leg To The Ground And The Weight
How do I keep a good rein contact during transitions?
Bending Rein Aids
2 Riding Exercises
2 Rider Demo Videos
1 Imagery Lesson
2 Feldenkrais Lessons
1 Curated Yoga Lessons
Module 8 - Contact Problems
Rein Contact Problems: Symptoms and their Causes
Rein Contact Is Too Heavy
Rein Contact Is Too Light
Resistance against rein contact
Horse pulling/rooting
Uneven Contact
Mouth and Tongue Problems
Poll twisting/tilting
2 Riding Exercises
2 Rider Demo Videos
1 Imagery Lessons
2 Feldenkrais Lessons
1 Curated Yoga Lessons
Module 9 - More Contact Issues
Unsteady Head Position
Unsteady hands
Curling up
False Bend
Inverting
Better contact in bitless bridle
One hand higher than the other
2 Riding Exercises
2 Rider Demo Videos
1 Imagery Lessons
1 Feldenkrais Lessons
1 Curated Yoga Lessons
Module 10 - Advanced Concepts
Elevation, Poll Flexion, and Collection
Kinetic chains and blockages
The French Tradition - Ramener
Rassembler
Légèreté
2 Riding Exercises
2 Rider Demo Videos
1 Imagery Lessons
1 Feldenkrais Lessons
1 Curated Yoga Lessons
LIFETIME ACCESS
You never lose access to your course materials, as long as we are alive and able to support the course platform (and we hope that is a very, very long time). That means that you can work as fast or as slow through the materials as you wish. That means that if you get sick, tired, injured - you can pause at anytime and come back to it whenever you and your horse are ready for more. It will always be there for you, and so will we. In addition, you will always receive the newest version of the course, automatically.
ENROLLMENT IS OPEN FOR A LIMITED TIME.
We last offered this course in December 2022. Those who passed it up have had to wait ages before we offered it again. (I know because we got many emails from people that were anxiously waiting for this course to come back!) Finally, that time is NOW. But we don't know when we will be offering it next. If you pass it up, do you REALLY want to wait potentially two more years?
The course begins March 29, 2024 - your time is NOW.
WE KNOW YOU WILL LOVE THIS COURSE, BUT WE GET IT THAT YOU DON'T KNOW THIS YET. WE WILL GIVE YOU A FULL 30 DAYS TO FALL IN LOVE. 100% SATISFIED.
If you’re not 100% satisfied with this program, the strategies and teachings, or the support after 30 days, we will offer you an entire refund. Make your payment today, and you don’t even have to decide if you’re in for good! Take the full 30 days to explore the materials and experience the vibe of our community and THEN… make a decision using the information YOU HAVE, rather than the information you don’t.
FAST-ACTION BONUSES.
We have some brand new, never-before-offered mouth-watering bonuses to share with you…
.01
BONUS: Contact Studio (value €150)
If you liked the video analysis we covered in the Goldilocks Zone Challenge, you are going to LOVE LOVE LOVE this bonus. We are going to feature many more videos from a variety of Dressage traditions, breaking them down and discussing how the horses are working biomechanically in the context of contact, throughness, and topline development. Want us to analyze rollkur, LDR, French Classical Tradition, old Spanish Riding School, and modern Légèreté? This is where we are going to do it! We will even take your suggestions!!! And if requested, we can additionally hold several live discussion to meet and DISCUSS these rides together as a group. Whatdyathink? Sounds like fun, doesn’t it?
.02
BONUS: Dressage Principles Masterclass Series (value €150)
Because having principles is important!!! 12-part Masterclass Series with Thomas Ritter on the guiding principles that need to underlie the gymnastic training of your horse: The Alphabet Principle, The Root Principle, The Water Principle, The Aikido Principle, The Pottery Principle, The Medicine Principle, The Ping-pong Principle, The Corner Principle, The Principle of the Narrow Track, and The Basketball Principle. Some of these are featured in Thomas’ book, “Dressage Principles based on Biomechanics”. With worksheets and exercises over the rest of the month you will be encouraged to take the principle into the arena to experiment with your horse and see what you both can discover. The course is supported by a Private Facebook Community where you can share your discoveries with your fellow explorers. Lifetime access. Easy offline access with podcast player.
.03
BONUS: 2024 Goal Setting Workshop Recordings (value €39)
Shana and Thomas, joined by Catherine McCrum, guide you in how to use the Enneagram model to help you identify goals that align with your personality type, key motivators, and values. You get the complete set of recordings and homework for each day. This is a process that is not just beneficial to do at the beginning of the year, but will benefit you ANYTIME if you want to find a way to identify how YOU work best in the context of achievement, satisfaction, fulfillment, and connection.
.04
BONUS: 9 Contact Bonus Recordings (Value €63)
Curated from a series of previous trainings we have held, we have put together this little package of helpful trainings on topics such as: The role of tempo and speed on the horse’s soundness, What is Stirrup-stepping, The Half Halt, The Full Pass, 3 tips to improve your rein contact, 3 things you must NOT do if you want good rein contact, How to improve the horse’s topline, How to get a light and steady rein contact, The Circle of the Aids, and How to seize opportunities in riding.
.05
BONUS: Goldilocks Zone Downloadable Recordings (value €29)
Didn't get to it all during the challenge? Or, didn't have time to take notes? Don't worry. You've got the downloadable (and closed captioned) video and audio recordings of all three training videos and the Q&A sessions from the 2024 Goldilocks Zone Contact Challenge. Perfect for listening to in the car on the drive to the barn.
The 2024 Contact and Connection Course
The real secret to exquisitely delicious Contact and Connection
THE COMPLETE PACKAGE
- INCLUDES the 6 Hot Seat sessions
- INCLUDES 8 Q&A Sessions
- INCLUDES Facebook Community
Today's Price = €597
*payment plans also available. Payment starting as low as €67/month.
*Other currencies available: USD, GBP, AUD, CAD, NZD, and ZAR.
THE COURSE ONLY
- NO Hot Seats
- INCLUDES 8 Q&A Sessions
- INCLUDES Facebook Community
Today's Price = €397
*payment plans also available. Payment starting as low as €50/month.
*Other currencies available: USD, GBP, AUD, CAD, NZD, and ZAR.
SELF-STUDY, FIRST 3 MODULES ONLY
- NO Hot Seats
- NO Q&A Sessions
- NO Facebook Community
Today's Price = €197
*payment plans also available. Payment starting as low as €25/month.
*Other currencies available: USD, GBP, AUD, CAD, NZD, and ZAR.
HAPPY HORSES + HAPPY RIDERS
I have been riding for decades but never found the “secret of riding on the bit” that seemed effortless for others. The Ritter courses have explained my elusive butterfly in theory and in videos so I finally have been able to have a straight, comfortable, courageous mare with clear communication between us. And all without any need for strong (abusive) aids that previous trainers used on her. Gabby and I are so happy!
- Barbara Ellis
This was my first Ritter Course, have done many since, but this one helped me so much to understand and apply the theory behind this very complex issue of contact and connection. The Ritters have put a lot of thought into this course-their attention to detail and their ability to teach this concept in a format that allows the rider to understand and take immediately to their riding sessions is just so rewarding. Looking forward to revisiting this course.
- Sue Ann Schmitz
This course helped me to understand better of what contact and the horse being "on the bit" means. Also I discovered horse has a back, which I can influence with my seat and circle of aids. Different contact problems get understanding of What, Why and How. My seat started to develop during this course and some horses started getting rounder, which gave me great feelings. Excited to re-run the course and deepen my understanding of contact and connection :-)
- Maija Ylämäki
I am so excited to revisit this course with my new horse! The Ritter courses have helped me so much over the years and I can’t wait to continue improving my knowledge with my horse.
- Sonya Steeby
I have done most Ritter courses and love the teaching style. Thomas and Shana are amazing at getting into the reason of everything, the Why. They have helped me to decode what I feel at the end of the rein. Now any contact issues are simply information about the horse's body and as soon as I fix the cause the contact is back to being fab.
- Morgan Laura Osborne
I love Contact and Connection course! It opened a new world for me to riding.
- Theresa Silfver
I loved the combination of theory, mental images and horse exercises. The Feldenkrais lessons are awesome to create body awareness and uncover the rider's own stiffness and crookedness that reflects on the horse. Invaluable for me were the lessons in the video coaching clinic. I'm a visual learner and seeing what is happening and Thomas' comments and suggestions at the exact moment were very educative and helpful. Many things I could transfer to my own riding. Filming me riding on a regular basis during the course was essential to see the small differences, what worked, what didn't. I think my riding has improved quite a bit and I'm more confident solving problems as I've more tools in the box now. Looking forward to going through the course again!
- Verena Fuchs
I'm so ready to get back with a Ritter course as soon as I can. They are so incredible and I learned so much over the years. I'm lucky to get to share the horse of a friend here right now. He really changed since March, I think he might be in the process of being "ritterized". Even the instructor my friend rides with made a comment how much the horse has improved lately. Thank you all who make the courses possible, Thomas, Shana Ritter , Catherine McCrum and everyone else involved.
- Birgit MacKenzie
Remember, if you want to break out of the cycle of frustration, of only addressing symptoms and not knowing the nuts and bolts of how to achieve REAL, steady, elastic, and light contact and connection with your horse, then you are going to have to do something to change what you are doing. You need to take action to learn the things that will make a lifelong change in your riding.
It is not just practice that makes perfect, but strategic practice and the right SUPPORT that makes perfect.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What if I ride bitless?
You do not need to ride with a bit. The principles for a good contact and holistic balance are universal, regardless of whether you are riding with a bit or bitless bridle, whether your reins are connected to the horse's mouth or nose. In fact, we have a growing number of students in this course who DO ride bitless, so you won't be alone!
How fast can I expect to see results?
Within the first 3-4 weeks, you will already experience noticeable improvement.
When are the Live Q&A sessions and how do I attend?
We hold bi-weekly Q&A coaching sessions, so that means there are, on average, two Q&A coaching sessions per month. We try to vary the times so that we can accommodate our members all over the world in different timezones. In the first week, there will be some additional sessions to help everyone get started with the course.
All sessions are held through a Zoom webinar. Instructions for how to download the free Zoom software and how to access the sessions are included when you enroll and also enclosed in each event reminder. A time converter link is always provided for your convenience in calculating the time for your timezone.
What is a "Hot Seat" Coaching Session?
If you want feedback on the exercises ridden in the course, you can submit video. Each session has its own GoogleDoc on which you will sign up for a spot. In the Session, Thomas will be reviewing the submitted videos live on Zoom. He will break down what is happening. He often plays the video frame-by-frame to point it out clearly so you can see what he is explaining. He will give you exercises and tips to address what he sees. You can ask questions right there, and there is a chat where you can talk to the other participants in real-time. If you cannot attend live, you can watch the recording afterward. The Hot Seat sessions are held twice a month and if Thomas cannot finish all of the submissions within that session, we will schedule follow-up session(s) so no one is ever left out or behind.
What if I can't watch the Q&As or the Hot Seat sessions live?
Not a problem. All sessions are always recorded and the recordings are uploaded to the Q&A archives within 24-48 hours after the session is over. Every recording is available in downloadable video and audio format so you can watch or listen, whenever, and wherever you prefer.
How much time is required?
We know you have a busy life, you need time to actually go to the barn and ride your horse so you can implement what you are learning, and you don’t want to spend ALL of your time sitting in front of a computer watching videos every week. That is why we have broken this course down into 10 weekly modules so that it is doable. We also have incorporated periodic "catch-up" weeks so that no one falls behind. Each module should take you no more than, on average, 2 hours per week to go through. In addition, there are two Q&A sessions per month, and each one lasts 1-2 hours. So that means a range of 6-12 hours per month. Of course, we cannot predict the amount of time you spend in the Facebook Group because that is entirely dependant upon how much time you enjoy interacting with the other riders in there. If you join an Accountability Pod, you will want to factor in a little additional time for interacting with your Pod-members.
Will this course work for me and my horse?
We try to be all-welcoming. That means if you want to learn, we will do our very best to teach you. This course is suitable for thinking riders who are passionate about learning and have been looking for someone to answer all their questions. It is suitable for you:
whether you are a novice or professional rider.
Whether you are a dressage rider, a jumper, a western rider, or anything else in between.
Whether you have taken every online course out there, or have never taken one before.
Regardless of the breed or kind of horse you ride
Regardless of the kind of tack you use, or whether you use no tack at all
Regardless of whether you primarily ride or do work from the ground (most exercises are adaptable to work-in-hand and at the long-rein, and we are able to suggest modifications when needed)
Whether you are ambitious or wish to take your time.
What type of tack do I need? What other equipment will I need?
You need a horse to ride and a relatively level space to ride in. An arena with adequate footing is recommended but we have had course members who have had success even without a standard “arena” to ride in. In most cases, you can modify the exercises based on your riding conditions and we are able to suggest modifications whenever you need help finding a suitable way to modify an exercise for your situation. Not required but recommended: approximately 20 cones or other arena markers (homemade is fine), a smartphone/video camera/robotic camera to record your rides. You will also need an internet connection and a computer/tablet/smartphone with which to access the course materials and Facebook Group.
What level is this course appropriate for?
You should be able to do ride walk and trot. Canter is not necessary, but you will benefit even more if you can incorporate canter work. You do not need to already be highly experienced with lateral movements, but we do include them in this course, so you should be at least willing to learn and experiment with using lateral movements in your riding. If you have no experience with them but an open mind and curiosity to learn, you'll do fine.
What if I can't keep up or I or my horse get sick or injured and fall behind?
Just because one module is released per week does not mean you need to complete the content at that pace. You can take as much time as you need to go through each module. You have lifetime access to the materials, all course upgrades, and the Facebook Group, so you can work through it all at the pace that best suits you and your horse. You can come back to it at any time, you can start over at any time, and you can pick up wherever you left off whenever you like.
What if I want to watch everything off-line?
Every single video, every Q&A, every Hot Seat, every audio file, every exercise PDF, every diagram, every checklist, and the course Workbook… EVERYTHING is completely downloadable and yours to keep forever.
What if I am not riding right now? What if I don't ride anymore myself but I teach and want to learn more to help my students?
This course is yours to learn from however it suits you best. Some of our other members are instructors who no longer ride anymore but they use our trainings and exercises to improve their teaching for their students. We have had members join when they are unable to ride due to injury, illness, pregnancy, or life circumstance. It is not a problem. You can study the materials and apply the riding exercises later, etc.
What if I want to take a future "Contact and Connection" course after this one?
When you enroll today, you lock in access to all future upgrades and versions of the course for only a small Admin fee. That includes access to all of the Q&As. So when we run the course again, you can take it again alongside all of the Alumni and new members. In fact, it is a common theme in our Ritter Courses that the students come back time and time again to re-take the courses. Sometimes with different horses, and sometimes with the same horse but to refine their riding at a higher level.
Is everything available immediately?
No. You will have instant access to most of the bonuses as soon as your payment is processed. We will begin the course with orientation week starting April 5th. There is a live Welcome Session on April 11.
Modules are released on a weekly schedule, with "breaks" incorporated for integration and catch-up.
I take lessons regularly with a trainer. Will this still work for me?
Yes, absolutely. It isn’t necessary to have a home instructor, but it can be an advantage if you do. We have many members who have regular riding instructors and take lessons, some regularly and others more periodically. In any case, the regular lessons are an advantage because you can get feedback from your instructor on how you are implementing the lessons learned in the course. In most cases, the members in our courses have reported back to us that their instructor helps them go over the course materials and helps coach them through the riding exercises. In several cases, we have then had those instructors join our courses, too, and they work through the materials with all of their students.
I don't have access to a trainer, instructor, or competent "eyes on the ground." Will this work for me?
Yes, absolutely. In fact, how advantageous that you have the option to learn this way when you have no access to local instruction. You can fall back on the live Q&A coaching sessions and the Facebook community for camaraderie, support, and feedback in the absence of a local instructor.
Hotseats are a great option here too. You can video your sessions and get feedback and tips from Thomas.
I have taken other online programs for horsemanship, dressage training, straightness, etc. How is this different? Do I still need this?
No other program teaches our framework, our system, our methods, and our exercises. And no other program has the support of Thomas, Shana, and Catherine to give you pinpointed answers to your questions.
I have a non-typical horse breed for Dressage (Icelandic, TWH, Quarter Horse, Standardbred, etc.) Can I still take this course?
Yes! In fact, you won’t be the only one. We have a growing community of non-traditional horses and riders in our courses. It is a melting pot where everyone finds common ground through the love of the horses, the passion for learning, and the ability to apply the principles and exercises regardless of the breed of the horse, background of horse or rider, or the preferred equipment to use.
Do I need any special program or software?
You can access everything with an internet browser, however there is a free app for the course content which enables you to easily navigate the course materials on your mobile device. You will need to download the free Zoom app to access the Q&A sessions. We give complete instructions inside the course platform.
Do you have people who have used this course with success?
Yes, many! We have riders who have used this system to finally transcend being stuck at one level for many years, despite trying every solution that came along and then being frustrated and defeated that it didn’t work. We have had riders who have used it to take their horses from green to FEI. We have had riders who have never been able to find a learning style that worked for them who have told us it is like we are speaking their language and how grateful they are to finally find someone who can answer things in a way they can FINALLY understand.
What if this course is not what I expect?
Perhaps it will be even better than you expect! But nevertheless, if you are unhappy with it for any reason, we have a 30-day full money back guarantee.
Is there a guarantee?
We cannot guarantee success. That is up to you. There is no quick-fix method to anything. You still have to show up, study, and implement what you learn. But knowledge is power and the more access you have to knowledge and tools that WORK, the more you increase your chances of success. As far as satisfaction with the course, we have a 30-day money back guarantee. Try it and see if you like it for 30 days before making your final decision.
What is my obligation in this course?
You can do this course however it suits you. You do not need to join the Facebook Group if you prefer not to be on Facebook, but you are welcome to do so. You do not need to participate in the live Q&As or Hot Seat sessions, but you are welcome to do so. You do not need to post video of yourself for feedback, but you are welcome to do so.
Can I share this course with my spouse/child/parent?
We are happy to grant access to a fellow family member living in the same household.
How do I enroll? How do I pay for the course?
Click the button right here. There are several payment plans possible. Select your currency preference. You can pay via Credit Card, PayPal, or Bank Transfer (email us for bank transfer details). Enter your details and payment info. Within a few minutes, you will receive an email with your login information and a link to the course platform where you will find further instructions. You will also then receive instructions on how to join the Facebook Group, etc. If you have any trouble, email us at [email protected] so we can help.
What if I have more questions about the course? What if I have problem with the payment? What if I want to pay with Bank Transfer instead of credit card?
Just email us at [email protected]
The 2024 Contact and Connection Course
The real secret to exquisitely delicious Contact and Connection
THE COMPLETE PACKAGE
- INCLUDES the 6 Hot Seat sessions
- INCLUDES 8 Q&A Sessions
- INCLUDES Facebook Community
Today's Price = €597
*payment plans also available. Payment starting as low as €67/month.
*Other currencies available: USD, GBP, AUD, CAD, NZD, and ZAR.
THE COURSE ONLY
- NO Hot Seats
- INCLUDES 8 Q&A Sessions
- INCLUDES Facebook Community
Today's Price = €397
*payment plans also available. Payment starting as low as €50/month.
*Other currencies available: USD, GBP, AUD, CAD, NZD, and ZAR.
SELF-STUDY, FIRST 3 MODULES ONLY
- NO Hot Seats
- NO Q&A Sessions
- NO Facebook Community
Today's Price = €197
*payment plans also available. Payment starting as low as €25/month.
*Other currencies available: USD, GBP, AUD, CAD, NZD, and ZAR.
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