Digital Age Lessons
/
How long does it take to learn dressage? About 2 Lifetimes…
Things to learn…
#1 Think outside the box.
Do I prefer “on the ground and in the flesh”? Yes, I do. However, recently I can also say “And no…”
If your client is far away. If your client has to ride less because they cannot make the haul to the barn. If both of you have a small scheduling window. I have had to rethink my ideas on this apparent blasphemy of classical ideals. I actually can be present, although in a more Sci-Fi way.
Do I love the stupidity that has surfaced in this digital age? NO. However, as in all things there is a good side to the ever-present dark side. Digital lessons do offer an opportunity to share knowledge and foresight that may otherwise be left unused, unsaid, and lost to time.
#2 Lots of equipment that can be used to film and follow and communicate with.
Work with those that understand how to make this all come together. Get help. That is what I do as my technological skills are quite limited. There will be some hiccups as in all things. Just look up and go forward. It is worth the trouble. Do not expect instant gratification at every moment. Just be patient and flexible.
#3 I have a system now that I have done this awhile.
I work with two different platforms. Either I receive and critique previously filmed video or my client and I work in real time using an online service such as MoveNSee or any Zoom type of thing.
A standard video critique is quite simple and anyone with a phone or camera can manage. Riders will video a clip or two of the current warm-up and work that they are doing with their horses. This is sent to me through email (usually a private YouTube link) and I will critique the session and provide feedback along with a few suggestions of exercises to try.
Real time lessons require a camera (Pixem works well but there are some other choices you can research). Once you figure out the camera system and find an online streaming service then you can schedule/ride lessons as you normally would. My clients hear me through a device such as a CeeCoach or Bluetooth headset or some have hooked up a speaker to listen. I am able to see in real time on my computer screen and as an added benefit, I am able to jot down notes as our lesson unfolds. Later, I use these notes to put together a lesson summary along with some lesson/training ideas which I then email to my student.
This recap and regular assessment with notes is perhaps my favorite part of this digital training system. It is helpful to both the instructor and the student. Similar to the manner of a school teacher or college professor, there is a methodology as well as an accountability that comes along with written assessment and planning.
I think this is a super “add-on” to one’s hands on training. Yes, the digital age has opened the flood gates to “armchair professionals”, horrible advice, and cruel critique. This is not that. Digital lessons are as private as you (and your instructor) would like them to be.
Perhaps worth a try?