Michelle Gerlach has been a professional dressage instructor and trainer for 25 years. During that time, she has continued her own education while bringing along young horses, teaching both adult amateurs and juniors, and competing through Grand Prix.
Over the years, Michelle has had many opportunities to further her own education. In the classroom, she has been through the USDF “L” Program and earned a USDF University Bronze Diploma.
On horseback, she has earned her Bronze, Silver, and Gold medals on horses that she trained to those levels. In her first year at Grand Prix with her current mount, Udjang, Michelle qualified for the US Dressage Finals. Over the years, she has brought several client horses to the FEI levels earning many regional awards along the way. Young horses benefit from Michelle’s consistent nature. She handles them daily herself and rides them with correct classical principles.
Regular lessons are also a part of Michelle’s dedication to learning. Nothing is more important than having someone you respect keeping you on track with your own riding. During the 4 ½ months of Florida winter, Michelle takes weekly lessons with author and previous USET Team Member Kathy Connelly. Summers shift to monthly clinics with “S” Judge, Sue Madden-Mandas.
As an instructor, Michelle has helped students earn their own USDF medals. 7 have completed their Bronze Medals, 4 have completed their Silver Medals, and 3 are halfway to their Gold Medals. Nothing gives her greater pleasure than to be there when those final scores are earned.
With a strong background as a writer, Michelle realizes the importance of good communication with her students. To this end, Michelle has developed a methodology for teaching that includes not only the “hows” but also the “whys.” Using biomechanics, diagrams in the sand, whips, and occasionally her own body, Michelle thoroughly explains movements, half halts, collection, and seat position to her students.
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