A dressage rider moving in harmony with her horse

The Official 12-Week Program

Become a better partner for your horse

We spend all our time improving our horse's balance, strength and fitness. Yet riding is a team sport. DRT 1 is the flagship program that finally trains you — your suppleness, stability, stamina and mindset — so your horse can move freely beneath you.

Instant Access
On-Demand Training
21,000+ Participants
Let me show you how

First, a gentle reminder…

Riding is a team sport.

We train with our horse to perform beautiful dances together, creating a common language and forming an unbreakable bond. Moving together in unity is the ultimate goal.

But often, as riders, we never consider ourselves. We don't invest the time into improving our own suppleness, stability, stamina or mindset in the saddle. It's possible we may be holding our horse back — or making life harder for them — without even knowing it.

The amount of time we spend on our horse's fitness, strength and suppleness… imagine if we put the same effort into our own side of the equation. Our partnership would soar.

A rider sharing a calm, connected moment with her horse

“This program focuses on you as the rider — so you can give your best for your horse.”

Alumni

This program has helped riders across the globe

It is proven to work. It's highly likely that someone in your town has already completed the program and achieved great results — here's the company you'd be joining.

21,000+
Participants
81
Countries
12
Week Program
30
Day Guarantee
World map showing Dressage Rider Training participants across 81 countries
Nicola Smith, founder of Dressage Rider Training, with her horse

And in case we haven't met…

Hi, I'm Nicola Smith.

I hold a University degree in Physical Education & Exercise Prescription, and I've spent my entire life in the health and wellness industry — first as a personal trainer, then a group fitness instructor, and for the last 15 years running Dressage Rider Training.

I'm a dressage rider, hugely passionate about horses ever since I was a young girl with my pony Smokey. My lifetime of riding, combined with my knowledge of exercise prescription, gives me a deep understanding of what a rider needs in the saddle: the elastic strength, the balance, the biomechanics, the quick reactions.

This unique combination led me to create Dressage Rider Training, which has now helped 21,000+ riders from 81 countries. I'm confident it will help you too.

  • Bachelor of Physical Education & Exercise Prescription, Otago University
  • CHEK Level 2 Practitioner
  • Functional Diagnostic Nutrition Practitioner

Let me ask you something…

Do any of these challenges sound familiar?

  • Getting stiffness in your hips, back or shoulders during or after you ride.
  • Feeling imbalanced in the saddle — not quite as strong, secure or aligned as you would like.
  • Feeling sticky or rigid, unable to move freely with the horse's movement in sitting trot.
  • Not being able to ride for as long as you would like — getting tired, losing concentration, or making mistakes.
  • Feeling nervous or lacking confidence, especially after an injury, a fall, or time away from riding.
  • Self-doubt creeping in at a competition, struggling to manage anxiety and nerves.

Whatever challenges you're experiencing in the saddle, they will fall into one of the four elements of the Dressage Rider Training System that this program is built upon.

The four elements

Suppleness, Stability, Stamina & Mindset

Let me explain each one, and exactly how it will improve your riding.

Su1

Flexibility · Elasticity · Integrity

This program improves your Suppleness in the saddle

Suppleness is achieved through a combination of elasticity, flexibility, and the integrity of the muscles and ligaments that surround your joints.

Improving your Suppleness allows you to…

  • Gain a deeper seat
  • Move more freely with your horse's movement
  • Eliminate stiffness before, during or after you ride
  • Mount your horse with ease and grace
  • Gain a better posture in the saddle
  • Ride without aches and pains
  • Enjoy your riding more

Suppleness results achieved by riders like you

In just the first 4 weeks the changes in my riding, strength and flexibility were significant. My hips got looser, my upper back became more relaxed, and my riding improved as a result. I can open the hip angle, sit up straight, and hold the position throughout my ride. I swear my horse has been saying "FINALLY!"
Rider from Calgary, CanadaCalgary, Canada
I now have a feeling of better suppleness through my body — I am able to do my sitting trot with more fluidity. I also feel more centered and better able to execute the canter pirouette work I have really struggled with.
Rider from Gaborone, BotswanaGaborone, Botswana
I work out regularly, but I didn't realise how inflexible I was. Working on that flexibility has been an absolute game changer. My balance is so much better because I now understand where my body is on the horse, making his job so much easier. Your program is top notch!
Rider from MA, United StatesMA, United States

Otherwise, read on to learn how improving your Stability will help you in the saddle.

If you are ready to fix your Suppleness properly, here is how to begin.

Included in Premium Membership

Unlock DRT 1

$179/ year

One Premium Membership unlocks the flagship DRT 1 program along with every other Base & Premium program — instant access and full use of our mobile app.

We'll notify you before any renewal so you can cancel then, or at any time you choose — because we hate surprises too.

Register HereWhat is Premium vs Base?
Instant Access
On-Demand Training
21,000+ Participants

Your Premium Membership includes…

  • Full access to DRT 1 — the official 12-week program
  • Every other Base & Premium program (DRT 2–5, Hip Suppleness, Core, Alignment, Strength Roadmap & more)
  • Instant access & full use of our mobile app
  • A supportive global community of riders
Sarah Baldwin, DRT participant
“The strength, balance, coordination and body awareness this course has given me is worth every cent.”
Sarah Baldwin
Sb2

Core Strength · Balance · Alignment

This program improves your Stability in the saddle

Stability is achieved through a combination of core strength, balance, and alignment.

Improving your Stability allows you to…

  • Gain a better posture & seat
  • Stay in position on a large or fast-moving horse
  • Reduce your risk of falling from the saddle
  • Ride an improved seated trot
  • Give clearer & more precise aids
  • Ride with reduced stress on your body
  • Enjoy your riding more

Stability results achieved by riders like you

During a recent lesson, my horse spooked and then threw in a little buck. I stayed on! I absolutely credit DRT for a stronger core, stronger overall position, and faster reactions. My instructor cheered, "Your seat never left the saddle!"
Rider from Woodland, CanadaWoodland, Canada
As I began learning to ride correctly, it became clear some of my core muscles were long neglected. DRT 1 and 2 targeted my weak areas and I immediately became more straight, balanced and effective. Both of my horses became calmer and more willing as my cues became clearer.
Rider from CO, United StatesCO, United States
The exercises completely dovetail with my coach’s teaching. DRT has given me the ability to use my "sitting surface" to sit the trot far more effectively, and keep myself upright and in harmony with the horse.
Rider from VA, United StatesVA, United States

Otherwise, read on to learn how improving your Stamina will help your riding.

If you are ready for more Stability in the saddle, here is how to begin.

Included in Premium Membership

Unlock DRT 1

$179/ year

One Premium Membership unlocks the flagship DRT 1 program along with every other Base & Premium program — instant access and full use of our mobile app.

We'll notify you before any renewal so you can cancel then, or at any time you choose — because we hate surprises too.

Register HereWhat is Premium vs Base?
Instant Access
On-Demand Training
21,000+ Participants

Your Premium Membership includes…

  • Full access to DRT 1 — the official 12-week program
  • Every other Base & Premium program (DRT 2–5, Hip Suppleness, Core, Alignment, Strength Roadmap & more)
  • Instant access & full use of our mobile app
  • A supportive global community of riders
Sarah Baldwin, DRT participant
“The strength, balance, coordination and body awareness this course has given me is worth every cent.”
Sarah Baldwin
Sm3

Strength · Endurance · Energy

This program improves your Stamina in the saddle

Stamina is achieved through a combination of strength, endurance, and energy.

Improving your Stamina allows you to…

  • Ride for longer & make the most of every ride or lesson
  • Maintain mental clarity & eliminate mistakes
  • Reduce your risk of falling from the saddle
  • Improve your reaction time & be more effective
  • Preserve & enhance muscle mass and strong bones as you age
  • Make the most of every ride & lesson
  • Enjoy your riding more

Stamina results achieved by riders like you

If you trust in the process of DRT, the results will come. I've had comments from my trainer and people I hardly know about the improvements in my seat. Riding feels different, I feel quicker and I never get tired — I'm 52 and ride my 178cm warmblood six days a week.
Rider from SwedenSweden
I feel much stronger. My trainer complimented me on improvements in strength and endurance in the saddle — and she does not hand those out very often. This program has given me more than physical benefits; I’ve gained confidence and calm focus through all aspects of my life.
Rider from United StatesUnited States
I've made huge improvements in my riding and physical fitness. I'm now riding pain-free as my hips, lower back and core strength have improved tremendously. My flexibility, strength, fitness and overall health have improved enormously with DRT. Feeling pumped and proud!
Rider from CanadaCanada

Otherwise, read on to learn how this program will improve your Mindset for riding too.

If you are ready for more Stamina in the saddle, here is how to begin.

Included in Premium Membership

Unlock DRT 1

$179/ year

One Premium Membership unlocks the flagship DRT 1 program along with every other Base & Premium program — instant access and full use of our mobile app.

We'll notify you before any renewal so you can cancel then, or at any time you choose — because we hate surprises too.

Register HereWhat is Premium vs Base?
Instant Access
On-Demand Training
21,000+ Participants

Your Premium Membership includes…

  • Full access to DRT 1 — the official 12-week program
  • Every other Base & Premium program (DRT 2–5, Hip Suppleness, Core, Alignment, Strength Roadmap & more)
  • Instant access & full use of our mobile app
  • A supportive global community of riders
Sarah Baldwin, DRT participant
“The strength, balance, coordination and body awareness this course has given me is worth every cent.”
Sarah Baldwin
Mi4

Focus · Thoughts · Goals

This program improves your Mindset in the saddle

A productive mindset is achieved through a combination of focus, thoughts, and goals.

Improving your Mindset allows you to…

  • Think & respond calmly under pressure
  • Thrive on the challenge of overcoming obstacles
  • Reduce or eliminate anxiety when competing
  • Freedom to perform without judgment or fear
  • Maintain your commitment when things don't go as planned
  • Regain your confidence when returning from an injury or time away
  • Enjoy your riding more

Mindset results achieved by riders like you

DRT was absolutely fabulous! I looked forward to the workout each week so much. The feedback from family, friends and my coach has been amazing. Coming from a rider held back with mindset issues, your program has given me hope, confidence and belief in myself. I can’t thank you enough!
Rider from AustraliaAustralia
As I feel more secure in the saddle, my confidence to 'ride the horse' has increased. My balance has increased dramatically, and I can feel myself breathe and smile much more. As a plus-size rider in a sport of teeny-tiny bodies, DRT has encouraged me to think positively. I cannot recommend this program enough.
Rider from New ZealandNew Zealand
I returned to riding after a long time away and things fell apart — I was an emotional mess, doubting my ability. Then I found DRT. My attitude, fitness, strength, confidence, health, mindset and balance have all improved. I can ride again, and my mare is responding so positively. I am so grateful!
Rider from AustraliaAustralia

Or, if you are a details person and want to know exactly how the program works, keep reading.

If you are ready for a huge boost in confidence and self-belief, here is how to begin.

Included in Premium Membership

Unlock DRT 1

$179/ year

One Premium Membership unlocks the flagship DRT 1 program along with every other Base & Premium program — instant access and full use of our mobile app.

We'll notify you before any renewal so you can cancel then, or at any time you choose — because we hate surprises too.

Register HereWhat is Premium vs Base?
Instant Access
On-Demand Training
21,000+ Participants

Your Premium Membership includes…

  • Full access to DRT 1 — the official 12-week program
  • Every other Base & Premium program (DRT 2–5, Hip Suppleness, Core, Alignment, Strength Roadmap & more)
  • Instant access & full use of our mobile app
  • A supportive global community of riders
Sarah Baldwin, DRT participant
“The strength, balance, coordination and body awareness this course has given me is worth every cent.”
Sarah Baldwin

How it works

The program runs in three phases

Phase 1

Weeks 1–4

Mobility & Core Activation

We build a foundation of functional strength, mobility and core activation through three 20-minute routines each week, plus some stretching and foam-roller homework. I also add simple things to your daily ride to help your posture.

Phase 2

Weeks 5–8

Rider Strength & Stamina

The focus moves to developing the strength and fitness riders need for good posture. The same three 20-minute workouts, now that your strength has grown — and we keep challenging you by introducing resistance bands.

Phase 3

Weeks 9–12

Progressive Rider Balance

In this final stage we add progressive exercises for strength and balance, with the option of a balance ball to take your workouts to a new level. This is where you really start to notice your hard work paying off.

…with these weekly sessions

Suppleness

Flexibility · Elasticity · Integrity

One 20-minute workout each week combining yoga, mobility and stretching to free up your spine, hips and shoulders.

Stability

Core Strength · Balance · Alignment

One 20-minute workout each week of dressage-specific core exercises to strengthen your mid-section and seated position.

Stamina

Strength · Endurance · Energy

One 20-minute rider-strength workout each week for your legs and sling muscles to improve endurance and energy.

Homework

Learn · Refine · Review

Weekly homework such as extra stretching, mobility work, or something to focus on while riding — like riding without stirrups.

Optional

Simple equipment, big difference

This program can be done without any equipment at all. But to get the most out of it, we recommend three inexpensive items. You can order them after registration, or any time throughout the program — but remember, they're completely optional.

The optional equipment used in the program: foam roller, resistance bands and a balance ball

Foam Roller

Used for self-massage and improving the suppleness of your muscles, removing stiffness. A recovery tool to help your body feel great at the end of each week.

Resistance Bands

Introduced in week 5 to add resistance and help get your muscles, ligaments and joints stronger. If you’d rather not use one, there are options within the workouts that allow for this.

Balance Ball

Introduced in week 9 (Phase 3) to improve balance, coordination and alignment. It replicates the dynamic, unpredictable movement of the saddle, improving your ability to adjust.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

When you join, you will receive login details to the website, and also instructions on how to install the DRT app for your iPhone, iPad, or Android device. You can also choose to receive a weekly overview email at the start of each week that contains everything you need for that week of the program. We give you all these details in your Welcome email you receive upon signup.

Still wondering if it's for you?

Hear from riders who weren't sure either

If you don’t ride dressage, don’t compete, or aren’t sure you’ll benefit…

I hesitated as I wasn’t sure I’d benefit. I’m 57, not a dressage rider, and I don’t compete. Somehow, just three 20-minute sessions a week work wonders — after a few weeks I could feel an improvement in my seat, and I now hold tone but stay relaxed and feel so much more part of my horse. Off the horse I have better posture and am stronger and more flexible. If you ride, you should do this course!
Sandi Leach, DRT participantSandi Leach United Kingdom

If you think this program might be too much for you…

I signed up to get back in shape after nearly two years out of the saddle. I was completely out of shape and thought it might be time to give up horses. DRT was a lot easier than I expected, and the phased program gave me more energy and strength than I’ve had in years. My confidence is coming back and riding is fun again. This program has been life changing for me.
Kara Noble, DRT participantKara Noble United States

If you’re a high-level rider wondering whether you’ll get much out of it…

I love getting up and starting your workouts at 6am, warmed up and ready for the stables by 7am — it works perfectly! The thing I like most is how you give options from less intense to most intense. Since I hit my 50s my muscle mass has been decreasing, so DRT is awesome for me. I recommend your programs to many of my students.
Amanda Littlejohn, DRT participantAmanda Littlejohn New Zealand

This program is for riders just like you

Age is not a barrier. I want to be riding when I'm 90+ and not let my body hold me back. If you feel the same, this program will help keep your body from stopping you doing what you love.

  • Casual, serious or competitive — whatever kind of rider you are
  • Pleasure, dressage, show jumping, eventing, hunter, or any other discipline
  • Any age — the fundamentals of suppleness, stability, stamina and mindset apply to everyone
  • Gain strength in the support mechanisms around your spine
  • Increase the mobility and flexibility of your joints and muscles
  • Understand how your posture affects the way your horse moves
  • Improve both static and dynamic stability on your horse
  • Prevent injury, avoid pain, and keep riding for years to come

And you risk nothing

My 30-Day Guarantee to you

I'm so confident you'll love this program that if you start it and find it's not what you expected, you can ask for a full and complete refund — no questions asked. I simply want you to be 100% confident in your decision to try it.

A rider and horse moving in effortless harmony

So here's where it's up to you

Give your best for your horse.

The amount of effort you put into your horse's training is extraordinary. Imagine putting the same care into your own suppleness, stability, stamina and mindset — and watching your partnership soar.

Thousands of riders from all over the world can't be wrong. The results are proven. All that's left is your decision to begin, and I truly look forward to having you with us on the program.

Let's do this.

Ready to become a better partner for your horse? Here's how to begin.

Included in Premium Membership

Unlock DRT 1

$179/ year

One Premium Membership unlocks the flagship DRT 1 program along with every other Base & Premium program — instant access and full use of our mobile app.

We'll notify you before any renewal so you can cancel then, or at any time you choose — because we hate surprises too.

Register HereWhat is Premium vs Base?
Instant Access
On-Demand Training
21,000+ Participants

Your Premium Membership includes…

  • Full access to DRT 1 — the official 12-week program
  • Every other Base & Premium program (DRT 2–5, Hip Suppleness, Core, Alignment, Strength Roadmap & more)
  • Instant access & full use of our mobile app
  • A supportive global community of riders
Sarah Baldwin, DRT participant
“The strength, balance, coordination and body awareness this course has given me is worth every cent.”
Sarah Baldwin

I know this program is going to help your riding and give you everything you want out of it. If you have any final questions, or you're not sure about something, please use the chat box at the bottom right of the screen to send me a message. I would love to hear from you and help as best I can.

Helping you be a better partner for your horse.

Kind regards, Nicola Smith