Horseback riding is a graceful and elegant sport that demands a harmonious relationship between rider and horse. A crucial component of this partnership is the rider’s leg position. The lower leg, in particular, plays a pivotal role in maintaining balance, stability, and effective communication with the horse. A fundamental principle in horseback riding is to…
Last week, I embarked on a vacation to the second-highest-ranked dude ranch in the United States. While the experience offered stunning scenery, friendly staff, and a plethora of activities, my initial excitement was tempered by a growing sense of unease. As a seasoned riding instructor, I couldn’t help but notice the potential safety hazards that…
The time required for training a horse varies for each horse. Several factors will affect the time needed. The required time depends on several factors, including the horse’s age and experience, training methods, temperament, and desired training level. A young, unhandled horse will take much longer to train than a young horse exposed to basic handling. When training starts,…
There are so many factors to consider when purchasing a horse, the horse’s age, temperament, size, experience, show record, personality, your riding style and its future purpose. The equine industry unfortunately is also known for “horse traders”. Like snake oil salesmen of the 1800s, horse traders have earned their reputation. And this is what makes buying a…
Coaching is a powerful tool, as a riding instructor we have access to so many aspects of people’s lives. We become a friend and a therapist. Winston Churchill said there is nothing better for the inside of a man than the outside of a horse. And that is so true. Riding a horse allows us to open up about…
I have found that the quickest way to improve someone’s position is to have them focus on these two analogies. The first is to identify what I call the “heart muscle”. (I know that is not the technical term. The technical term is rectus abdominis). Just think about your abs. Your abs are the most important part of your position. Not…
Horseback riding is a popular recreational activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels. However, it is important to be aware of the inherent risks involved in this activity. Inherent risks are risks that exist due to the nature of horses such as falls, injuries from being kicked, stepped on, or…
UGH! Why? When I was young and competing in 3-Day-Eventing my instructor would make me ride circles all the time. And I hated it. I didn’t understand why I needed to ride those damn circles or why they had to be so perfect. I just wanted to go jump. Maybe if my instructor had explained the “why” in…
Today I was watching a dressage clinic. And I noticed one of the students was having the same lesson that she had the last time this instructor was visiting. This is not an uncommon thing, but as a rider and trainer, we all like to see progress and there is no progress. I know why there is no…
And why is it essential for your riding journey. Equitation is not just riding pretty. Most of the time when we think of equitation classes at the horse show we think “it’s got to be pretty”. But really equitation is about putting your body the correct position where it makes you the most effective. Once you can…
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