DefinitelyDressage.com

Hello! New here.

I'm currently starting to take dressage lessons after a long time of showing hunters and I am struggling with a few things. I ride very forward, light, short irons, etc. I need to deepen my seat, open my knee more, lengthen my leg, and gain strength as I've taken a LONG break from riding. Do you think riding in my hunt seat saddle with no irons is a good place to start, or will that push me into old habits? I don't have a dressage saddle at the moment.

if you can lengthen your leg when you ride with no irons and sit more vertically it will help. even riding with stirrups but lengthening them a few holes will help.

I agree with Chisamba. Also I find with dressage thinking about your pelvis/hips is a big help. Also think about letting your leg be long and wrapping it around the horse without being tense.
Lunge lessons are the best too.