Gia - session 359 - Suzin rides Gia!

 Suzin hopped on Gia today,  and it was super educational for both of us!  Suzin really focused on getting her to be softer in her hands, and more equal in her contact.  She did most of her work at the walk and trot, but there were a lot of transitions and changes of bend as well.  When Suzin would get a good moment, I could really see Gia stretching into her hands better, and then lengthen her stride more.  There were moments when Gia would have offered canter, trot lengthenings, and maybe even piaffe, if Suzin had asked for it!  She wants her to be much more supple, obedient and responsive before moving on to the fun stuff though.  Although, she did say that Gia was "bloody yummy to ride!"

I hopped on afterwards, and I could really feel what I was watching Suzin do just a few minutes earlier.  Sometimes it is very helpful to watch what needs to be done, and get a visual in your head.  Then, when you try it, you can get a better feel of whatever it is you are trying to accomplish.  I could feel how much softer Gia was and needs to be.  I could also feel her a lot straighter.  Finally, we both worked on having Gia halt and stand still before getting off.  That might have been the most challenging thing for her.  She really wants to move her feet to get away from the pressure.  She has to learn to stand still, and then the pressure will go away.