You’ve just popped the fence and, in your mind, it was a success. Mostly because you managed to stay on board for it! However, as soon as your horse lands, you are beginning to think that your ‘upright seat’ is becoming more and more of a fantasy… In fact, every stride your horse takes is literally bumping you further and…
Have you ever had the experience of riding a horse who was so heavy on the forehand, it felt as though your arms were a couple of inches longer by the time you dismounted?! The whole experience is exhausting! It feels as though you are literally carrying the horse’s head and neck by bracing your shoulders and arms against him…
When you are riding, is your horse carrying himself, or are you in-fact carrying him? Self carriage in horses can be explained as your horse carrying himself, without needing support from or relying on you, the rider, in order to continue and maintain the movement he is performing. Your horses ability to carry himself comes from him being responsible for his own…
Have you used ground poles in your schooling before? Do you perhaps think ground poles are only really useful for jumpers or competition horses? Ground poles are a fantastic tool for horses of all disciplines. They help to improve self-control, balance, focus, suppleness, elasticity, coordination (including hoof / eye) and strength in both the horse and the rider. Another added…
Have you tried it? For many riders, the mention of riding bareback is enough to see them running to the tack room for a saddle! However, for those that pluck up the courage – it can change so much… Bareback riding is a super way to improve your posture and position as well as balance, skills, and feel. However often…
Why is your horse falling in? More importantly, how do you know if your horse is falling in? The quickest and easiest way I can explain falling in is to imagine you are riding a circle. One that you have planned out beautifully in your head. However, as your horse travels around it you seem to be getting more and…
