Dressage flexion and extension training device and method

Abstract

An efficient and economical dressage training device and method that teaches dressage riders proper hip and elbow flexion and extension instinctively establishing muscle memory patterns in the rider.

1 . A device for training a dressage rider or for a similar equestrian rider proper hip and elbow flexion and extension to remain in harmonious and influential motion while mounted, said device comprising:
 A flexible ball,   said ball constructed in whole or in part of a rubber or similar material or a combination thereof,   said ball shaped in a round or oblong shape or similar shape emulating the back of a horse,   said ball may be non-inflatable or inflatable;   said ball containing an upper portion for receiving a rider and a lower portion for contacting the ground,   said ball containing an attachment means to receive blocks located on opposing sides of said ball;   said attachment means constructed of Velcro or other similar connecting material;   said ball containing blocks to contact the upper portion of the rider's thighs to emulate a dressage saddle;   said blocks attached to said ball by an attachment means such as Velcro or similar connecting material;   said blocks constructed in whole or in part of foam, rubber or plastic or similar material.   
   
   
       2 . The device of  claim 1 , further comprising reins;
 Said reins simulating the reins encountered by the rider on an actual horse.   
   
   
       3 . The device of  claim 1 , further comprising stirrups;
 Said stirrups simulating the stirrups encountered by the rider on an actual horse;   Said stirrups constructed similar to stirrups found on an actual riding saddle or, alternatively, constructed in the form of blocks placed on the ground underneath the rider's foot.   
   
   
       4 . The device of  claim 1 , designed for riders of varying abilities, wherein the shape of the device is adjusted to permit the maximum amount of contact between the bottom surface of the ball with the ground for beginner riders, an average amount of contact for average riders and a minimal amount of contact for advanced riders. 
   
   
       5 . A method of equestrian training for a rider to maintain proper hip and elbow flexion and extension for dressage riding having an rounded ball, stirrups, thigh blocks, and reins, said method comprising the steps of:
 positioning the rider upon the top of the ball with the rider properly holding the rein's and the rider's legs properly positioned with the thigh blocks and stirrups;   observing the rider and ball;   adjusting the ball shape, thigh blocks, stirrups and reins to allow for variations in proper rider position and variations between the rider and the device;
 further observing the rider and training device to ensure rider maintains the proper hip and elbow flexion and extension to remain in harmonious and influential motion while mounted.