How do I improve my dressage techniques?

Question

I am a dressage rider currently showing at intro level on a very fat dead-to-the-leg clevland bay mare. I cannot get her to be more forward, even with a dressage whip. Also, it would be helpful if someone would give me advice on improving things such as aligning the horse under me when i turn and making the PERFECT twenty-meter circle (nearly impossible for me). P.S. My back is so stiff when I ride, and i feel this is also making my horse tense. PLEASE HELP ME!!!!

Thanks ; )!

Answer 1

Really sorry but i'm not trained to dressage level, however saw no-one had stopped by so thought i'd add my views anyway :)

Regarding your stiffness, could you practice the circles and alignment without a saddle so you need to move your back muscles for balance?  I understand this wouldnt be ideal in some dressage movements, however might help with the circle and turnings as you would be able to feel your horses movement better than in a saddle?

Again, sorry its so general, hope you get an answer thats helpful

Good luck!