07/08/2025
One of the things that initially made me fall in love with the Ecole de Legerete- every horse was welcome, there were the warmbloods and iberians of course but there were also the quarter horses, the arabians, the draft horses, the thoroughbreds, the haflingers, etc. and all were welcome and treated well.
Sometimes, scrolling through social media, it can feel like classical dressage is only for the chosen few: perfectly turned-out horses, elegant riders in spotless outfits, and expensive tack gleaming in indoor arenas straight out of a photoshoot.
For everyday riders, those of us with hairy cobs, uneven fields, or budgets that don’t stretch to top-level gear, it can all feel very out of reach. Like we don’t belong in that world.
But here’s the thing: it shouldn't be exclusive. Its roots lie in understanding, lightness, balance, and partnership, qualities that any rider, on any horse, can explore.
That’s one of the many reasons I’ve been drawn to the School of Légèreté. It’s a system that’s based on classical principles, but it’s also practical, logical, and open to all. You don’t need a certain type of horse, arena, or background. What you do need is a willingness to learn, think, and ask questions.
Of course, classical dressage isn’t without its divisions. The internet can be full of “I follow this person, so you must be wrong” arguments. And it’s ironic to see people say they follow the French classical tradition, while rejecting the work of Philippe Karl, when much of what he teaches comes directly from the writings and methods of the old French masters. He’s never claimed to have invented anything, he’s just made their work systematic, transparent, and teachable.
Yes, he uses high hands at times. So did the masters. If we say we follow a tradition but then reject the very techniques those masters used, aren’t we just picking and choosing the parts that are comfortable? You can’t claim to follow classical ideals but leave out the bits that challenge your assumptions.
In the end, it’s not about labels. It’s about results. About building horses who are supple, balanced, and willing without force, without gadgets, and without losing their spirit.
So if you’ve ever felt like classical dressage isn’t for your horse, or your set-up, think again. There’s another way. And it’s not only possible, it’s deeply rewarding.
So if you’re on this journey, maybe feeling unsure, maybe riding a “non-traditional” horse in a borrowed arena or a field with tufty grass, know that you’re not alone. You do belong in the world of classical dressage. Not the polished, filtered version, but the real one: grounded in centuries of wisdom, made accessible by teachers like Philippe Karl, and kept alive by everyday riders like you and me who choose patience, kindness, and clarity over quick fixes. Keep going, this path is for you!
