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Grand Valley Dressage Society
Horse and Rider Adult Connection Camp
September 25-27, 2026
10 AM – 3 PM
Grand Valley Dressage Society (GVDS) is offering a 3 Day Connection Adult Camp
Camp Organizer: Barbara Progess
Location: Barbara Progess’ farm 2036 M ¼ Rd in Fruita.
Cost: For all three days is $50 for GVDS Members
$75 for NONE Members
Registration Deadline: September 9, 2026
Helping Your Horse Build Confidence and Self-Regulation
Discover effective strategies to help your horse develop self-regulation and boost his confidence. These approaches are designed to support your horse in becoming more balanced and attentive, both on the ground and under saddle.
Teaching Balance and Connection
Learn methods to teach your horse how to balance himself by refining his way of moving. The focus is not only on improving physical skills but also on creating a deeper connection with your horse—one that extends beyond riding and into your everyday interactions.
Becoming Your Horse’s Trainer
By learning to understand and interpret your horse’s signals and behaviors, you can take on the role of your horse’s trainer. This skill allows you to support your horse’s growth and well-being, fostering a trusting partnership.
Camp Details
The camp is tentatively planned for the end of September 25-27, with an option for a midweek session if preferred. It will be held at Barbara Progess’ farm 2036 M ¼ Rd in Fruita.
What We Will Learn
Throughout the camp, we will focus on becoming more connected with our horses using a variety of techniques, both on the ground and while riding. The following areas will be covered:
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Groundwork: Straightening bending, backing etc.
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Pole Work: on ground and ridden
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The 4 Basics – Turn on Forehand, Turn on Haunches, backing, bending, Jec Ballou’s various pole exercises
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Lunging: (Inka Spatafora) Single and double lines, the use of various rein accessories
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Trail obstacles: (Barb Progess) A course of obstacles, Walking/riding in a field ponying another horse (optional), Coming to the mounting block
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Horse Massage – Krista Nobilo
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Medical techniques – how to take horse temp, heart rate, respiration and put together a “Horse Health Assessment Sheet” for your horse for emergencies.
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In addition to all the fun horse stuff we also hope to Incorporate HUMAN FITTNESS time. We will spend 1-hr each day spending pleasurable time doing :
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Tai Chi for balance. Without and with our horses
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Stretching exercises from Jack LaTorre’s playbook
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Rider Massage from a professional (1- 30 min session)
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Let's sign up for Camp!
Step One: Fill out Forms and mail the Registration!
Download form!
Step Two: Make your payment!
Pay Now via PayPal:
RMDS/GVDS Members
& GVDS Associates
$55
Rider fees: $50 GVDS Members for entire camp.
$75 for NON GVDS Members
If you are interested in attending this camp, please note that participation is limited to 6–8 riders. To reserve your spot or request more information, contact Barbara Progess at starman7@comcast.net
If paying by Check: Make Payable to GVDS.
GVDS
2242 Signal Rock Court
Grand Junction, CO 81505-8305.