At last, real answers
The Half-Halt Explained Self-Study Course is now available.
Start learning now and master this essential skill!!
“If only someone had told me THIS is the way to half-halt, I would have saved years of grief and frustration!”
Does any of this sound familiar?
-01-
You want to progress in Dressage, but you feel STUCK.
You’ve been told you just need to half-halt more or half-halt better, but (truth be told) you don’t even know what that means or how to do it! You’re told (or you know) that your half halts don’t go “through”. In other words, they don’t seem to do what you think they should be doing. But how do you fix this? How do you make it better?
-02-
You’ve read that the key to developing collection is the half-halt, but that seems so frustrating and elusive to figure out.
You know you need to get your horse off the forehand, but you don’t know how and you’re worried that your horse will become unsound eventually if you don’t figure it out. You want to improve your riding. Not only for you, but also for your horse. But how?
-03-
All the confusion around the half-halt just makes you doubt your abilities to figure this out.
Every explanation of the half-halt leaves you even more bewildered than before. Either people over simplify it or they overcomplicate it and it never seems to make sense to you. You worry that maybe you’re not cut out for Dressage.
...If I'm reading your thoughts, then keep reading, because *waves magic wand* I've got the answer.
To correctly learn the Half-Halt... you need straightforward explanation (no mystifying "word salad"), and the tools and support to help you progressively develop your skills, feel, timing, and refine your technique.
WHY does it matter?
^^ When you don’t know what is correct vs. what is NOT correct, you can easily make bad training decisions, take advice that harms your horse, and derail (or detour) your training progress.
The price of doing it wrong...
● You will continue to confuse your horse with contradictory aids and timing.
● Your relationship and communication with your horse suffers.
● You risk making your horse unsound with wear and tear from being on the forehand (or stressing the hocks from badly timed half-halts).
● You will not progress in your training.
● You risk losing faith in your ability to learn and progress in your riding.
● You will, sadly, never get to experience the joys of upper level collection and the “fun” stuff like piaffe, passage, half passes, and canter pirouettes.
It's a high price to bear.
✨But it's not necessary...
What you really need....
↠ Is to learn the What, Why, and How of the classical half-halt in a no-nonsense clear systematic way from someone who understands gentle, ethical, horse-centered training methods.
↠ A set of carefully selected lessons for you as a rider to help you tune into your own and your horse's body to improve your feel, timing and ability to aid subtly and effectively.
↠ A safe, supportive learning environment where you can ask questions without condescension or fear of ridicule.
↠ The knowledge, tools and encouragement to experiment and explore different possibilities for half-halting with your horse.
"To practice equestrian art is to establish a conversation on a higher level with the horse: a dialogue of courtesy and finesse.”
- Nuno Oliveira
The proof is in the pudding (a.k.a. the results of our students)....
Sue
"I have been a Ritter follower for many years. I patiently waited for a this course and it did not disappoint. This course totally demystified the half halt. As always, the Ritters encourage you to experiment to find what will work best for the horse you are riding. My mare was quite anxious as we have started lateral movements. Now I have found the timing to help rebalance her, not always using the same half halt, but knowing I have choices.."
Michelle
“I thought I had a good understanding of the HH before the course but I signed up as I was struggling to get my HH to go through when riding Archie. I soon discovered that I didn’t know that much about HH at all. I was using them inappropriately, wrong time, wrong pressure, etc.
I was fascinated by how precise a HH can be and experimented with Archie to find the best results. My HH aids are now quieter and better timed and Archie responds better for that. Still work in progress but if a HH doesn’t go through, I know what action to take to improve it.
I would definitely recommend this course. It provided me with a clear understanding of the how and why of HH.”
Henriette
“I joined this course because I realized that this was a subject I didn't know nearly enough about. And that understanding more would really benefit my riding and my horse.
As a result of this course, my understanding is so much better. I know a lot more of why, when and how to use the half halt. This has made my timing so much better and my horse happier, since I now know to recognize my own mistakes and don't think my horse ignores me, and am able to do the half halts in a way that is understandable to my horse.
I would recommend this course to everyone who likes to learn a lot and to improve their communication with their horse.”
Tanja
“Half halt was a big black hole for me. Everyone was talking about but nobody was able to tell me the exact information how to do and when and for what they are really necessary.
Now I have so much more information about the way to use HH and I feel the reaction of my hose. He is so happy that I have learned how to use HH. We have a great communication and it’s like a friendly conversation between us. And I am glad that I find a new way of understanding the HH. Now I have a better idea of what HH means and how to use.
The materials are so helpful and I have so many different ways to learn about HH.
The Facebook group is such a good place for questions. Everyone is so friendly and the answers are always helpful.
HH are so much more than I have ever heard before- thank you for the possibility to open up my mind for that”
Rachel
“The half halt course provided me with much better clarity around the what, why and how of the mysterious half halt. Before participating in any Ritter courses, I had regularly been instructed to half halt during riding lessons, but none of my instructors had given anything more specific about the aids or timing than "half halt"! Thomas talks frequently about half halts in all the courses so my knowledge had improved already before this course but my aids still weren't very effective. This course focused on the half halt and had a very practical focus, encouraging me to dedicate time to experiment with different aids and find out which combinations were most effective for my horse.
The feldenkrais lessons and imagery were very useful to help me discover nuances of movement that I could apply to riding. Since taking this course my half halts have become much more effective. My horse now rarely braces when I give half halt aids and the success rate of the half halt going through is much higher.
The biggest unexpected benefit of this course was how much it has encouraged me to experiment and explore different possibilities in my riding. I know that I will revisit this course many times in the future as my horse develops in his training.”
Lynn
“The mystery of Half Halt. I have never understood the use of several different aids in applying the half halt.
No wonder my half halts didn't go through or broke my horse in two.
It is an eye opener to know that there are the seat aids, stirrup stepping and then the reins. I like this order of aids as too often we are taught to start with the reins.
I don't profess to be an expert in applying all the aids as Thomas would suggest but after this course, I know have a greater understanding of the complexity of half halting and Thomas made it easy to understand the half halt.”
It will feel AMAZING to feel confident in your ability to communicate clearly and elegantly with your horse.
Effective half-halts completely up-levels your riding in every way:
- You will improve your communication (and hence your relationship) with your horse. When you can communicate effectively, you’re able to ride with finer aids and more subtlety. You will get greater responsiveness and understanding from your horse.
- Unlock the ability to balance and collect your horse. Effective half-halts are absolutely crucial for balancing the horse and developing collection. This results indirectly in the ability to improve impulsion, cadence, and expression in the gaits.
- Your transitions will become smoother and more harmonious. No more bobbles. No more lurching forward or hiccups. No more inverting.
- Your timing and feel will improve dramatically which will result in a more harmonious partnership with your horse.
- The ability to improve the quality of all the movements and progress up the levels.
- Greater precision. If you compete your horse, this will improve your test scores. If you don’t, you will still enjoy the ability to do what you want when and where you want it.
- Your confidence as a rider will increase. As you gain proficiency, your confidence will naturally increase, as well. Your sense of control, confidence, and enjoyment in your training will increase, too.
"The rider must learn to continually focus on the aids as an entire picture, from the seat and leg to the variable weight that is placed in the stirrups, the hands that are holding the reins as well as the horse’s conformation, way of moving and level of schooling. In every necessary repeated sequence of driving-half-halting and once more slightly yielding with the hands, the rider will recognize an immediate reward by the horse that begins to respond positively and lightly, instead of becoming tense and resistant."
- Egon von Neindorff
Imagine...
-
Riding a smooth transition where the horse beautifully rocks the weight back into the hind quarters.
-
Elegantly being able to adjust the speed and tempo of the horse, influence the cadence and impulsion, and increase or decrease collection at will.
-
Having the exquisite feel to know exactly how much leg, seat, and rein to apply to get the desired result.
-
Feeling absolutely connected with your horse.
-
Knowing how to use your half-halts to optimize your horse’s balance and alignment in all gaits, movements, and exercises.
-
Confidently understanding the nuances of the different KINDS of half-halts, how and when they are applied, and how to evaluate if the half halts go “through”.
-
Effortlessly being able to use your half halts to shift the weight off the forehand, off of a heavy shoulder, lift the withers and thoracic sling, and increase the flexion of the haunches.
-
Using your half halts to produce livelier, more expressive movement and gaits that have more impulsion and cadence.
What's Included
#1- The Function of the Half Halt
What is the purpose of a half halt? In order to do anything well, you always need to start with the Why. You need to understand the intended purpose in order to get results.
#2- The Ingredients and Components of the Half-Halt
What does the half-halt truly consist of? Let’s unpack all the details about stirrup, body weight, rein, and leg aid
#3- Applying the Half Halt
The half halt is part of the symphony of the aids, but how do you apply the half halt?
#4- The Correct Timing of the Half Halt
Perfecting the Precision by getting the timing down. What is the correct timing?
#5- The Half-Halt Goldilocks Zone
How big/strong does the half halt need to be? From whisper to shout, adjusting the volume of the half halt for Power and Subtlety.
#6- Gathering Feedback to Assess Results
Are you on the right track? How do you know that the half halt worked? Learn to read the horse’s feedback to determine the effectiveness of your half halt.
#7- Feeling the Rhythm of the Half Halt
How can you learn to feel when a hind leg is on the ground?
#8- Navigating the Half Halt with Finesse
Adjusting the half halt to each individual horse and situation. Understanding how the size and strength of the half halt should vary depending on your horse's size, temperament, and training level.
#9- Common Mistakes of the Half-Halt
Common mistakes (and how to troubleshoot and fix them)
#10- Rider Influence and Alignment
Understanding how the rider’s seat plays a crucial role in the effectiveness of the half halt and keeping the horse connected in the half halt.
How do I know if this is a good fit for me?
Perfect for you if:
- You are not totally clear on the mechanics or execution of the half halt.
- You sort of know the half halt but you’re pretty sure there is more to learn.
- You have heard of the Spanish Riding School method for the half-halt but no one has been able to teach it to you.
- You get remarks on your competition scoresheets such as “half halts don’t go through” or “needs more half halts”.
- You feel confused with the way others have explained the half halt before (or frustrated that no one would explain it to you in a way that made sense to you).
- You are fascinated with learning the traditional, classical teachings as passed down from the old masters..
- You love your horse and are interested in doing what is best for your horse.
- You want to improve yourself for your horse.
- You want to keep your horse sound, healthy, and happy.
- You want to be empowered with more information, knowledge, and skills. "Brutality begins where skill ends." - Egon von Neindorff
- You find learning fun... even exhilarating!
- You want to learn to be a “fine” rider who can ride with sophistication and subtlety
Not for you if:
- You think you already know it all.
- You find this subject matter boring and you’re not interested in learning more about it.
- You are more interested in forcing your horse to do something than learning how to work with your horse’s biomechanics and psychology.
- You would rather just do it the way you have been doing it, even if it’s not really working as well as it should.
- You don’t really care about what your horse thinks or feels - he works for you, he needs to do what you tell him to do.
- You detest any mention of classical riding or the “Old Masters”. Your motto is “Go Modern or Go Home!”
- You like using lots of gadgets and contraptions to force your horse into a frame. Forget learning to ride the horse from back to front, that’s for sissies!
- You’re not really into learning or investing in your education as a thoughtful rider.
- You like things the way they are and want to keep it that way.
- You aren’t willing to take advice and be coachable.
- You are attached to your excuses of why things are not working for you and your horse.
Let's take a look at what you will get
THEORY
The theory of the biomechanics of the half-halt. Each theory lesson builds upon the previous module, but they can also be used as a reference library.
HISTORY & TRADITION
The half-halt in history: the classical heritage and its relevance for you now in the 21st century. Our teachers were from the Spanish Riding School tradition, and we pass this heritage and teaching on to you.
WHAT, WHY, AND HOW
In-depth plain-and-simple explanation of every aspect of the what, why, and how of half-halts. Plus crucial troubleshooting information so you know what to do when your half-halts don't go through!
LESSON LIBRARY
The module content is available as Video (with closed captions) and Audio lessons. Downloadable PDFs are also included.
AUDIO LESSONS
Finally, learn to feel the footfalls of your horse with the FeldenRide Audio Lessons! Simple, effective, game-changing! A student favourite!
FELDENKRAIS LESSONS
Because a centered, balanced seat and the ability to ride with independent aids is a crucial point of the half-halt, we include Feldenkrais lessons to develop these skills.
COMMUNITY
It's self-study with optional friends... As a member of the course, you are granted access to our Private Customer community, where you can ask questions and share progress reports with like-minded equestrians.
EXCLUSIVE PODCAST
You will get access to an exclusive members-only podcast where you can listen to the course trainings from any place, at any time. Listen on the horse, in the car, while walking the dog, or while doing barn chores.
LIFETIME ACCESS
You never lose access to your course materials. Not after you finish the course, not after 6 months or a year (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 come back to it whenever you and your horse are ready for more. It will always be there for you.
BONUS MASTERCLASSES
"What is Good Movement" for the rider and horse? with Thomas and Shana Ritter with Catherine McCrum
Quality over Quantity Thomas Ritter with Yvonne Lübcke
“As a blind person touches an object softly with his fingertips in order not to disturb the sensitive nerve ends by to much pressure, so it is the rider's first obligation to keep soft those parts of his body with which he feels his horse.”
- Gustav Steinbrecht
A Note From Shana & Thomas Ritter...
Despite an immense amount of information available on the subject of the half-halt, the truth is that it still remains a mystery to many riders. That is because not all of the information is correct or is only partially correct. And many do not explain it in the explicit detail that you need in order to fully understand it and implement it beneficially into your riding.
Hi, we are Shana and Thomas Ritter. We have been studying and teaching classical dressage for over 30 years and we have discovered what riders need to know in order to truly be able to understand and use the half-halt effectively.
Our heritage is from the Spanish Riding School tradition: we are students of Karl Mikolka (SRS), Egon von Neindorff, Arthur Kottas (SRS), Charles de Kunffy (Hungarian SRS tradition), Dorothee Baumann-Pellny (Neindorff Institute), Thomas Faltejsek (Neindorff Institute), and Hubert Rohrer (SRS). We teach in this tradition, passing on the techniques, methods, and theory on to our students.
Having published several books and spent countless years teaching all over Europe, the USA, and Canada we now live in Portugal with our herd of Lusitanos and Lipizzaners. Together we create and orchestrate the Artistic Dressage program helping riders all over the world to have better, happier relationships with their horses through correct, gymnastics and a thoughtful, heart-centered approach.
How does this self-study course work?
Self-study means you get the complete classical training experience without the constraints of schedules. You receive immediate access to over 30 years of refined classical dressage teaching expertise, developed through our work with hundreds of riders. Every question has been anticipated and answered in comprehensive detail - and knowing Thomas, we're confident we mean every question!
-1-
Binge watch!
Unlike courses that drip-feed content, you receive immediate access to the entire curriculum. This means you can dive deep into the areas where you need the most help, or methodically work through each module.
-2-
Learn at Your Own Pace
Some concepts click immediately; others need time to settle. With lifetime access, you can work through the lessons at your own pace and revisit and replay them until the timing and feel becomes second nature. There's no pressure to keep up—only the freedom to truly master each element.
You can work to YOUR schedule and you can watch it as many times as you like. It is all easily downloaded for viewing offline, if that is what you prefer. There will be PDFs, videos, and audio files.
-3-
Facebook Group Community
We hope you will join us in our Exclusive Customers only Facebook Group. Here you will meet your fellow Ritter colleagues, share experiences, make friends. It is a safe, welcoming peer community where you can feel comfortable asking any questions that you have.
-4-
Master the Half Halt
Absorb the theory, improve your body awareness and movement and learn to precisely feel your horse's footfalls. With our expert guidance, progressively experiment with, troubleshoot and improve your half-halts until you discover for yourself the nuances that lead to an effective half-halt. (Because we all know that it is not as simple as squeezing the rein!)
I'M IN!
More words from our students...
Lisbeth
Before joining the course, I didn't have a specific problem, but I was eager to improve my communication with my horse and expand my toolset of subtle aids. I wanted to find new ways to refine my skills and become more in tune with my horse during our rides.
I decided to sign up for the course because I had never participated in an artistic dressage course before, and I was curious to experience this unique approach. The teaching method intrigued me.
As a result of taking the course, I’ve become more aware of the need to work on my body control, which has had a direct impact on my riding. I've also expanded my range of aids and techniques to communicate with my horses in a more subtle and effective way.
The best part of the course for me was the Feldenkrais exercises. They helped my body loosen up, which made a big difference in how I felt and moved while riding. It really deepened my body awareness in ways I hadn’t expected.
I would recommend this course to advanced riders who are looking to give more refined aids and further improve their communication with their horses. It’s a great way to take your riding skills to the next level.
In general, the experience was practical, insightful, and truly helpful in expanding my toolset as a rider.
Sandy
I decided to sign up for this course because of the many different definitions of half halt that I have encountered over the years.
The course explicitly explained the different types of half halt, their purpose, how to apply them, and how each influenced the horse. Very helpful!.
CLARITY AT LAST
The Half-Halt Explained Course
Now available in a Self-Study Format
* Other currency options are available (EUR, USD, GBP, CAD, AUD, NZD, and ZAR).
To pay via bank transfer within the EU, just email [email protected] .
IS THERE A GUARANTEE?
Yes! A 100% Money Back Guarantee
If you’re not 100% satisfied with the Half Halt Explained course after 14 days, we will offer you a full refund, rider’s honor!
That means you can enroll today, and take the full 14 days to explore the materials, and make your decision then. That enables you to make the decision then based on the experience you have first-hand in the course materials, rather than making the decision based on what you don’t yet know.
** Refunds must be requested in writing within this refund period.
"The weight and the half halts are similar to rainwater flowing from the roof of your house into the gutters, and from the gutters through a pipe into the ground. If the gutters are blocked by dead leaves or if the pipe is clogged, the gutters will overflow and the water will not be able to travel through the pipe into the ground.”
- Thomas Ritter
Commonly Asked Questions
When are the course modules released?
What if I have slow internet and want to watch offline?
Do I need special software?
How much time is required?
Will this course work for me?
Will this course be suitable for my horse?
What equipment will I need?
I don't have access to a local trainer or instructor. Will this work for me?
I ride regularly with a trainer/instructor. Will this work for me?
How does this compare to your other courses?
I have taken another person's course on the Half Halt. How does this compare?
Can I use this for my Gaited Horse or non-Dressage breed?
Can I share this with my spouse/parent/child/family member?
What if it is not what I expect?
Is there a guarantee?
Do you have people who have used this with success?
Does it come with English subtitles for the hard of hearing?
How do I enroll? Can I pay with bank transfer? What if I have payment problems or want to start my payments later?
YOUR FRUSTRATION ENDS NOW
The Half-Halt Explained Course
Master this essential skill, and and get your training back on track
* Other currency options are available (EUR, USD, GBP, CAD, AUD, NZD, and ZAR).
To pay via bank transfer within the EU, just email [email protected] .
"Riding: The dialogue between two bodies and two souls aimed at establishing perfect harmony between them.”
- Waldemar Seunig