Exclusive interview with Benjamin Werndl: ”Everything starts with balance”
When Benjamin Werndl meets the Swedish equestrian audience at the DressagePower Horse Show this autumn, it is with a passion that permeates his entire philosophy: how to build a long-term relationship with your horse and create balance.
Benjamin is today one of the world's most renowned dressage riders and, together with his sister Jessica von Bredow-Werndl, runs Aubenhausen in Germany. Here they work with over 55 horses, a team of 25 people, and also run Aubenhausen Club – a digital meeting place for thousands of riders and horse enthusiasts worldwide.
“Success alone is not enough. What motivates me is to help horses and riders, to give horses a voice and contribute to their well-being.”
A masterclass on balance
Benjamin has become a well-known name for his way of working with and training the young dressage horse. We asked him what dressage and, above all, ”dressage power” mean to him:
”Dressage is all about making the horse more beautiful and bringing it into balance – Everything comes from balance. Balance is the key to lightness and suppleness. When the horse finds its balance – energy and expression come naturally. And that’s what dressage power is all about”.
In the Masterclass he shows how the path to balance can look different depending on the type of horse one is working with. On the energetic and sensitive horse, one wants to build up trust in order to be able to let go of the reins. On a horse with less power and who is more insensitive, the rider must learn to dare to ease up on the aids.
The love for the young horses
The topic of the The MasterClass is the young horse between 4 and 7 years old. For Benjamin, there is something very special about working with the young horses. His focus is always the same: balance.
“I love to build an honest connection with the young horse. It takes years to develop real trust – but once you have it, the smallest aids are enough.”
He emphasizes that shortcuts rarely result in faster results; on the contrary. Patience is key, and sometimes you need to take a few steps back to the basics in order to move forward.
Impressed by the quality of our Swedish horses
Benjamin has a special relationship with Sweden – both with the horses and with the audience. He has previously been a test rider at the Breeders Trophy and was impressed by the quality of the Swedish breeding and our riders.
“I love Sweden – the country, the people and of course the horses and riders. I’m a Sweden fan.”
Now that he is returning to the DressagePower Horse Show, he does so with a clear ambition: to share his philosophy, experience and passion for dressage with the Swedish audience.
“For me, it’s always about the connection. The more patient I am, the faster we progress together – and that’s the magic I want to share.”
Five quick facts about Benjamin Werndl
What do you always bring to a competition?
My yoga mat. I want to be strong, flexible, and in control of my body so I can be a good dance partner for my horse.
A favorite memory from your career and horse life?
The Olympics with Jessi, both in Tokyo and in Paris. And then of course the gold medal we won with the German national team at the World Championships in Herning.
Do you have a mantra or quote that you live by?
No, but what inspires me every day are the horses.
What does the horse mean?
My biggest teachers. They always have a good will and want to do their best.
Something people don't know about you?
My emotional side. I am very honest and transparent.
About the MasterClass
Date: October 26
Time: 14:00-17:00
Tickets: Available on Tickster, search for the DressagePower Horse Show. Or click HERE!
Thanks to our main partner Kersö Equestrian and our partners StudioS19 and Jackson Hole Originals!
