Blog
Your Dance Floor: The Regulation Arena
Before you record your freestyle, make sure your arena is set up to regulation size — it’s more important than you might think. A properly measured dressage arena ensures your choreography, music timing, and technical execution all align exactly as designed. Learn how to measure and mark your arena correctly so your freestyle performance reflects your true preparation, precision, and artistry.
Freestyle Reference Materials
This resource post gathers essential tools and inspiration for riders preparing their own dressage freestyles. You’ll find official USDF links, helpful checklists, and examples to guide you through music selection, choreography, and show preparation. Explore tutorials on song structure, browse music genres suited for each gait, and listen to curated playlists for trot, walk, and canter. Whether you’re creating your first freestyle or refining an advanced routine, these materials offer everything you need to plan, practice, and perform with confidence.
10 Reasons To Ride a Freestyle
Ever dreamed of dancing with your horse? A dressage freestyle transforms your ride into a performance — blending precision, artistry, and partnership. Whether you’re chasing a championship or simply want to celebrate your connection, riding to music builds rhythm, boosts confidence, and creates memories that last. Discover ten inspiring reasons to create your own freestyle and take your dressage journey to the next level.
My Journey as a Dressage Freestyle Designer
My passion for creating and producing musical freestyles began with my own experience competing in one. The thrill of riding to music that was uniquely mine — executing choreography I had designed, in harmony with my horse, in front of the judges — was unforgettable. From that moment, I was hooked.
Goal Setting Workshop Feb 22nd, 2025
Passage to Success—A Goal Setting Soiree Fundraiser for Boulder Valley Dressage—Happy hour with food, drinks, and friends. Sat, Feb 22nd 5 to 7 pm 8687 Spring Creek Trail, Niwot BVD Members $25, Nonmembers $35 pay at https://www.bouldervalleydressage.org/payments...
Artistic Freestyles by Sally Work Plan
Artistic Freestyles by Sally Freestyle Creation and Delivery Plan This is a fun process where you and I will work together to bring your vision to the dance floor, er dressage arena. To begin, and to get to know you better, you will complete a detailed questionnaire...
And the Survey Says…
Unlocking Progress in Dressage: A Data-Driven Approach to Rider Development By Sally O'Dwyer, Chief Statistician Illustrations by Susan Difelice Many riders believe their success hinges on external factors—such as buying an expensive European warmblood or working with...
Learn From Your Competition Tests
“learn by looking back”
What’s Too Old?????????
What’s Too old? Thoughts for my fellow silver saddle riders. By Sally O’Dwyer Can you feel me? I am a 65-year-old, and sometimes I worry that the time is approaching when I will no longer be able to ride. I can go into a panic looking at the dressage training pyramid...
Progress Is Possible
It's not just about working harder; it's about working smarter. I will help you to unlock your potential and experience the thrill of making definitive progress!
