Have you ever noticed how the principles we use to train our horses almost always apply to us as riders, too? I’m a big believer in that — the idea that if something’s important for your horse, it’s probably important for you as well. Lately, we’ve been diving deep into half halts. These little moments can completely change the feel…
Have you ever been lunging your horse and find yourself saying “Whoa there Tonto” a little too often?! That moment when your horse seems to go from cool and calm to tripping over themselves as the speed quickens! I can 100% hand over heart say that, from experience, this has the potential to make even the calmest of riders stress…
If you’ve ever asked for a half halt and felt… well, nothing – you’re not alone! So many riders don’t really use the half halt in their riding because they find that it either doesn’t work, or it’s a little ‘too much’ for them and their horses! I know many riders can feel a little daunted when they hear the…
This morning I sat in a big school hall, surrounded by parents buzzing with anticipation, watching my six-year-old son and his classmates step onto the stage for their very first school concert. And as I was watching them put their weeks of practice into action, I began thinking how we, as riders, can learn a thing or three from these…
If your riding hasn’t changed, it’s probably not because you haven’t learned something new. It’s more likely because you haven’t committed to doing something new. I know, that might seem a little harsh! And if it stings a little for you, perhaps there is a morsel of truth in there? In fact, if your riding isn’t improving, this might be…
Have you ever felt like you’re doing all the “right things” in the saddle, but your horse just doesn’t seem to get the memo? Maybe they won’t go forward. Maybe they cut in on the circle. Or maybe they find creative ways to avoid what you’re asking. It’s frustrating, isn’t it? Here’s the thing: so often the problem isn’t the…
