Instant gratification. It can be tempting to take a shortcut if it means you get the quick result. But shortcuts in your riding rarely have long-term benefits. Riding is one of those beautiful (and sometimes frustrating) journeys where the lasting results are usually anything but instant! It takes time, patience, and a good dash of humility. For most riders, the…
There’s a moment in every rider’s journey, whether you’ve just started learning to ride, or you’re returning after a break, when you suddenly become very aware of everything that’s not quite right… Maybe your leg moves too much. Or you bounce in the saddle. Perhaps you struggle with consistency with your reins – they’re either too long or too tight.…
There is always a look of pure satisfaction on a rider’s face when they finally ‘get’ the rising trot! You know, they stop bouncing about and can actually work with the horse, in rhythm. And that is an important stepping stone for all riders. More than likely, when you were first learning how to ride the trot, your instructor taught…
Have you ever glanced down mid-trot or canter and seen your lower leg doing a full-on windscreen wiper impression? You’re not alone. I see this all the time. Novice riders trying to figure out how to stop that swinging lower leg from distracting their horse (and them!). The issue is that so often, trying to ‘fix’ your lower leg won’t…
Ever catch yourself thinking, “Seriously, we’re working on this again? I should be past this by now!” You’re definitely not alone. So many experienced and returning riders feel frustrated when asked to revisit the basics. But here’s the thing: The basics aren’t something you master once and leave behind. They’re the building blocks of truly great riding. And the more…
The challenge is real… And, unfortunately, the momentum is as well! For so many riders, cantering is all well and good until the point where you have to turn! Cantering around corners can be so challenging for many riders for a lot of reasons. Here are 3 points to focus on to help you maintain your alignment and balance. 1.…
