Firstly, I wish to start by quickly skimming over what the scale actually is:
1. Rhythm - Takt Energy, tempo, clear and defined rhythm and correctness throughout all 3 gaits (i.e. A clear and rhythmical 1,2,3,4 walk, even and correct 1,2,1,2 trot and a balanced and clear 1,2,3 canter). Most well bred Warmblood horses these days have a built in "rhythm" and don't require much work in this section; however it should NEVER be overlooked as it is the foundation of this pyramid and will provide the base for all the horses training.
2. Relaxation - Losgelassenheit Elasticity and supplness throughout the whole horses body with no restriction of movement or evident tenseness. It is important that an "expressionate" horse doesn't become ridgid and sticky and this is where relaxation comes in.
3. Contact - Anlehnung Acceptance of the bit and acceptance of the riders aids (seat, leg and hand). A horse that fights the contact or wont willingly work down and into the riders legs shouldn't progress past Preliminary dressage. Contact is extremely important as a horse that comes behind the bit or above the bit is considered inconsistent and needs further work in Rhythm and Relaxation.
4. Impulsion - Schwung Increased energy and thrust from the hindquarters and therefore (generally) a lightened forehand. It is important that with desired impulsion that the gaits Rhythm isn't altered or ruined when the rider becomes greedy with Impulsion.
5. Straightness - Geraderichtung Increased alignment and balance within transitions, lateral movements and throughout general work. If a horse isn't straight and balanced, a horse cannot be expected to accept full weight on the hindquarters.
6. Collection - Versammlung Engagement, lightness of the forehand and the increasing development of self carriage. Collection is not easily achieved and will never be fully developed by a horse if the first 5 elements of the training scale are not exactly known by the horse and foundationed into his/her everyday work.
Now that we have a basic understanding of what each element is; don't believe you will simply be able to go out and begin insiting all of it on your horse immediately. You need to start from the ground and test yourself every day your ride however don't forget: just because they are past Impulsion today, it doesn't mean that tomorrow you wont rip your hair out because he doesn't even seem to know what Rhythm is.
Key Point To Remember: They are Horses!! Not every day will be perfect.
