The use of training aids – such as spurs, whips, draw reins and martingales – is a polarizing subject among decision makers of major equine associations and riders alike. Some say they are useful tools in the hands of an …
Training
In this article, we will be talking about how you can influence your horse to choose the thinking part of his brain, rather than the reactive side, when faced with everyday decisions. The mind of the horse is very powerful, …
Stop and back. It’s the final segment in many show patterns, putting the finishing punctuation on the phrases of the manoeuvres you’ve linked together for a winning presentation.
Equitation, western horsemanship, western riding and reining are among the classes that …
Here are some tips to improve lateral control and keep your horse on the track of your choice without derailing!
Have you ever experienced the feeling of your horse shutting down or freezing up on you during a ride? Picture yourself riding along on a nice quiet trail, when, all of a sudden, your horse is completely consumed by the …
The hand gallop is a great physical and mental exercise for horses and riders of all disciplines - and it's fun!
“I don’t use spurs, because I don’t want to make my horse dull!” If you share this opinion, you’re in good company; many of the riders I meet feel the same way. But what if I suggested that the opposite …
Good riders not only have soft, quiet hands, they also have soft, quiet legs. These qualities come from an independent seat – the foundation of balance.
In today’s fast paced world, many equestrians are being drawn back to the concept of developing an all-around horse – one that is willing and able to participate in anything from local horse shows to team penning events, trail rides, …
In autumn, the trails are often muddy and the schooling ring ground frozen. This leaves people looking for an off-season, poor-footing training idea to keep them motivated and develop their horses’ skills. In cases like this, I often suggest riders …
As a judge, I hate to be the “off course” whistle-blower. As a competitor, I hate to hear it. Because I was the “off course queen” as a young rider, I know well that lost-in-the-jungle feeling when you don’t know …
Control of a horse’s feet without having to handle them will come in handy for vet work, photos or even stepping your horse off the hose during bath time.
When you are in the correct jumping position, you will go with the motion of your horse over a fence, instead of jumping ahead or being behind his movement.
If your horse is difficult to steer, it not only ruins your enjoyment of riding, but can also be dangerous. You can have a horse who steers easily and willingly without pulling into the bridle or running through your leg. …
In dressage terms, impulsion usually refers to the forward driving power of the hindquarters. Reiners know impulsion is about responsive forwardness.
