Strides for Success

Tag: training

  • Letting Go to Level Up – The Messy Middle

    Letting Go to Level Up – The Messy Middle

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    There’s always that rub when you realise that what got you here is not the thing that’s going to get you there. The big issue is usually that what got you to this point, here, now feels comfortable and familiar. Easy even. And so many of us, myself included, just want to double down on these things to get further. Now, sometimes that works, you will see a little progress… But almost always that progress will stall – and you will inevitably find yourself beginning to go backwards as you ‘effort’ even harder!

    Learning to identify what needs to change is really important in riding and in life – and becoming okay with the concept of letting go, no matter how uncomfortable that feels, is often the key to allowing the change to happen. 

    The initial burst of enthusiasm and motivation we feel when we decide to move to the next level as a rider will, unfortunately, be short-lived. However, when you are honest enough with yourself to understand that there will be a ‘messy middle’, you can be more self-aware when you get there, so that you can consciously navigate it with the least hassle possible.

    Letting Go to Level Up

    Any time you set yourself a goal to reach a new level as a rider, there will be a gap between where you are and where you want to be regarding skills, level, knowledge, abilities, resources, etc. It’s that gap that you have to close to reach your goal. And in order to close that gap, you will need to do something differently. Which seems fine when it’s said like that, right?

    The challenge arrives when we begin to believe that the thing or situation we are currently experiencing or have is essential – and we become unwilling to think or do anything different. 

    But it makes sense that changing or dropping things is the key. For example, if you were a novice rider who found that using the more ‘obvious aids’ of legs and hands made your communication with your horse easier… It would make sense that you would think this is the way to continue to reach the next level of your riding and your horse’s training, right? Wrong! To reach the next level, you will need to refine your aids from the obvious to the subtle – seat, weight, mind, thoughts, etc.

    You will have to let go or be willing to change what worked up to this point, to reach the new point in your riding – and that can feel scary, uncomfortable, and counterintuitive! 

    You’re Not Just Adding Skills

    Imagine that each new skill you learn as a rider is a package. When you began riding, you had no packages. Your arms are wide open, keen to begin collecting these packages that will make all the difference to you and your riding. And as you progressed, you began accumulating packages. Soon, you will reach a point where you have quite a few packages. Which is fine – until it’s not.

    Because when you want to level up, you need new skills. New packages. And this will require you to put a past package or two down so you can pick up a new package. Swap an old ‘method’ or belief for a new one.  

    Here’s a good example. I bet that earlier in your riding journey, you realised there was a direct correlation between the degree your heels are down and the frequency you fall off. More down usually equals fewer falls! So, it makes sense that you will work to get your heels down and keep them there! However, forcing your heels down might just be what’s holding you back from reaching a new level of skills…

    And because you were so committed to doing something one way, means that it will feel uncomfortable or ‘different’ when you suddenly begin doing it a different way. Welcome to the messy middle! 

    Using Self-Awareness to Win

    This is where your level of self-awareness will play a big role. If you simply hurtle along through your riding journey, with no real understanding of what’s going on, it will take longer and feel harder than it needs to be! But if you already know, when you make your decision to level up your skills, this makes the transition period much easier.

    When you know to expect a ‘messy middle’ on your way to levelling up, you can begin to put systems and ‘rules’ in place to help buffer for it when it comes. You can also work through it much more quickly. 

    So how will you know when you’re in the thick of the ‘messy middle’? The following might begin to happen or start happening more frequently:-

          • Your horse’s way of going is not as ‘pretty’ as it was
          • Your abilities seem to have gone backwards
          • The communication between you and your horse is jumbled
          • You feel frustrated at not being able to do something
          • You feel like you’re ‘trying harder’ but getting nowhere
          • The overall standard seems to revert back to a previous version!

    For many riders, when they hit this part of the journey but don’t realise it, they throw in the towel and give up. However, when you know that it is coming, you can plan for it. Find the right people to help guide you through the challenges. Maybe that is a trainer, coach, group of riders, or online community…

    You can also notice the specific places the challenges are showing up – the triggers – and learn more about what needs to be uplevelled from this. 

    What Are You Holding Onto?

    So, back to the original concept for this episode, letting go to level up… Have you experienced this in your riding and training? And if so, what did you do? Hold on (and remain stuck)? Or allow yourself to embrace the messy middle and use it as insight into what needs to shift in your riding or approach to riding?

    Letting go can feel scary. But remember, you can always go back if needs be. However, if you are to really allow your nervous system to upgrade to the new level you want to ride at, learning how to be ‘okay’ with letting go is a big step towards that!

    Happy Riding
    Lorna

    Want Support While You Do This?

    Inside Connection, are dedicated to working on the 5 essentials, the keys to refining all the training elements we just talked about.  It’s exactly where your progress begins again.

    If this episode made you squirm a little, and wonder “…is she talking about me…?”, then Connection is exactly where you need to be!  Join us for the Half Halt Training at:- https://stridesforsuccess.com/join

    Online Training & Coaching

    The Your Signature Ride Challenge

    Here’s the idea: you use only your seat and leg aids to “write” your name in the arena. Sounds simple, right? But what it really does is sharpen your awareness of timing and clarity.  You’ll learn when your aids actually make a difference.  And you’ll have fun doing it.  All while creating a pattern that’s uniquely yours!

    You can sign up by CLICKING HERE

    It’s free to join, and every rider who participates gets access to a guided audio lesson to help them through the challenge. Plus, you’ll have a chance to win 3 months inside Connection (a $66 value)

    Restart & Reschool

    And if you would like a little more 1-to-1 coaching, explore Restart & Reschool Private Coaching. It is perfect if you’re starting your practice – or if you’re looking to turn your existing practice into something ‘real’ for you and your horse. I’ll guide you step by step on the way! You’ll not only get the full ‘OTTB; From Racetrack to Ready Program’, but also fornightly private lessons with me to move you forward in your riding.

    We can work on anything you would like; from groundwork, to lunging, to riding, to jumping… With the virtual private lessons, we can do all of these things – and more.  If you would like to find out me, you can let me know a little more about you HERE, and I will then reach back out, and we can chat!

    This is the support, training, and accountability you’ve been missing to finally follow through and start seeing progress. No fluff. No overwhelm. And as flexible as you need for your lifestyle. 

    Connect with Lorna online:-

  • Group or Private Lessons; Or Just Stick with Solo Riding?

    There’s one question I get asked at least once a week, by both ‘in-person’ riders, and online riders I’ve connected with. And just yesterday, I realised that, somehow, I’ve never actually answered it here! The question goes something like this:- “Should I have lessons? And if so, what kind; private or group?”.   Some riders will also enquire about my thoughts on DIYing it!

    And my answer, as with so many things in horse riding, is “It depends.”  Because the truth is, where you are right now in your riding journey will determine what type of lessons, or combination of lessons, will help you move forward the fastest.

    So today, let’s unpack the pros and cons of private lessons versus group lessons, and where they fit in your journey.

    Beginners & Riders Rebuilding Confidence

    If you’re at the beginning of your riding journey, or if your confidence has taken a tumble, my answer is easy.
    Start with short, focused, and consistent private lessons.  Private lessons give you time, space, and focused attention. You’re not worrying about someone trotting up behind you or cutting across your path. You can breathe, learn, and actually absorb what’s happening.  Plus, by keeping them on the shorter side (I would say no longer than 30 minutes), you’re doing both yourself and the horse a favour.

    Most beginner riders (and those returning after a break) aren’t “riding fit” yet. Thirty minutes of focused, one-to-one instruction will take you further than an hour of chaos and confusion in a group.

    But I’d add a twist that most riders never think about… Watching lessons.  Yes, really.  Find a good instructor and sit with them during another rider’s lesson.  The other rider that you’re watching should be ‘slightly’ further along than you are in their riding skills and abilities. This type of lesson is so valuable because your instructor will get to point out things that are often hard to ‘feel’ or comprehend when in the saddle as a beginner. Things like:-

          • The difference between sitting and posting to the trot
          • How the diagonals work in the trot
          • What “bend” or flexion actually looks like, etc.

    Watching someone else do the things, and learning from their mistakes makes it so much easier to understand when it’s your turn in the saddle. 

    And for nervous riders, watching can also help to calm your mind. You see that other riders can ride safely, happily, and confidently, which allows your brain to begin to accept that maybe you can, too.  And that opens the doors to different possibilities.

    Whoa, Go, & Steer Riders

    If you can comfortably go, whoa, and turn without ending up in a collision, congratulations! I would say that this is the point where you can graduate to the group lesson phase.  And this is really where group lessons become priceless.  You get to both ‘see’ and ‘do’.   You’ll see another rider perhaps make a mistake, and then you get to learn from it when your instructor explains why it happened. So often, you’ll have these ‘light bulb moments’. And all without having to actually make the mistake yourself!

    Another benefit to group lessons are the breaks between when you’re actively doing the work. Because, let’s face it, if your not riding fit, your body and mind will need a chance to catch it’s breath – and mentally reset! 

    There’s also the motivation factor. A good group lesson creates momentum.  Everyone’s cheering each other on and celebrating small wins together.  These group lessons are fun, energizing, and inspiring, everything a mid-level rider needs to keep growing.

    Happy Hackers

    I know this is not a name all riders like to identify themselves by, but I feel it fits the bill here. You’re pretty good at handling yourself when riding in the arena – and equally as good at keeping the conversation with your horse safe and working forward outside of the arena. You’ve got the basics down.  You’re competent, capable, and comfortable. But, you’re not quite sure what’s next.

    That’s where the blended approach comes in.  Group lessons and/or clinics help you stay connected, motivated, and learning from others. And when coupled with private lessons; you’re onto a winner! 

    The private lessons (even once or twice a month) give you targeted feedback on your specific goals; contact, canter transitions, or that sticky confidence moment that still lingers.

    My one word of advice here is regarding mixing instructors. Maybe you have a local instructor you meet up with once a month with 3 other riders for a group lesson. And then a private instructor that you meet up with once a month online… Make sure they’re on the same page with your basics and your goals. They don’t need to agree on everything (few ever do!), but conflicting methods will only slow you down.

    Finding Your Balance

    At some point, every rider wonders:  “Do I really need lessons? Can’t I just figure this out myself?”  And of course, yes, you can ride on your own! But if you never get feedback, your training bubble starts to shrink. You and your horse get comfortable, too comfortable, and before you know it, you’re wandering instead of progressing.

    Even a monthly check-in with a coach can make a world of difference. It keeps you accountable, motivated, and aware of what’s really happening in your riding.

    Riding alone can be wonderful. But riding alone forever can make you stuck.

    Connection

    Inside Connection, we blend all of this together intentionally.  Each month, we have a live virtual group lesson, where riders from around the world join in real time. Some are in the saddle; others watch and take notes.

    Everyone learns something valuable, especially when we’re working on foundational topics like half halts (our focus for the next three months).

    Then, there’s Connection VIP and Restart & Reschool Private Coaching. Both of these are built around the private one-to-one online riding lessons where we dig deep into your exact challenges, refine your aids, and build your confidence.  This blended model, group learning plus private feedback, gives riders the best of both worlds.

    So, Which One’s Right for You?

    Ask yourself a few questions…  Is it space, time, and quiet focus that you’re craving? If so, go private. However, if you want motivation, community, and new challenges… Group lessons are probably the way forward. And if you want the best of both worlds, then begin experimenting today with finding your blended rhythm.

    Whichever you choose, make it intentional.  And remember: the best riders in the world still have trainers.

    Not because they’re not good enough.  But because they know growth happens faster when someone helps you see what you can’t see yourself.  Join the Connection membership today for monthly group lessons, live reviews, and ongoing support.  Or explore Connection VIP and Restart & Reschool Private Coaching if you’re craving focused, one-to-one guidance.

    Happy Riding
    Lorna

    Online Training & Coaching

    Connect with Lorna online:-

  • How Using A.I. in Your Horse Riding Is Like a Half Halt

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    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 and flow of a ride. And how much time you spend ‘reestablishing’ rather than ‘maintaining’ the good work you’re doing!  So what if you could take the concept of a half halt and apply it to your own learning and mindset as a rider?

    Today, I want to show you how you can do just that, and how bringing A.I. into your horse riding can help you pause, reflect, and make more progress than ever before.

    Half Halt for Horse & Rider

    Imagine this… You’re riding your horse through a corner. Maybe you’re in the arena, maybe you’re out on the trail. Everything feels fine, and then suddenly there’s a little speed wobble. You feel your horse tip forward, lose rhythm, and start to feel a little off balance.  Now, what do you do in that moment?  You could just push on, right? Add leg, ride through it, and hope everything settles. Sometimes it does, but often it doesn’t.  What usually happens is that your horse gets heavier on the forehand, loses more balance, and you spend the next few minutes trying to get things back on track.

    But if you feel that wobble and respond with a well timed and put-together half-halt instead…  A quick, intentional pause to rebalance and redirect energy, chances are you will catch the ‘wobble’ before it becomes a problem!

    You stay connected. You and your horse realign.  The half halt saves what’s already good, without having to start all over again.  Now, what if you could do that for yourself?  For your mindset as a rider and trainer.

    Half Halt for Your Mind

    A half halt is like a “whoa, steady up” moment.  It’s a pause, but not a stop. It’s a second to reconnect, re-engage, and move forward with intention again.  As riders, we need to learn how to apply that same principle mentally. Because just like our horses, we have our own speed wobbles. Those moments where we lose focus, get frustrated, or push on without really thinking about why.  And that’s when things start to unravel.

    Instead of rushing through, the mental half halt is your moment to pause, to assess, not judge. To say, “Hold on, what’s really happening here?” That’s how you stay balanced as a rider, no matter what’s happening underneath you.

    Review Your Rides

    I’ve said it for years (since 2013, in fact): intentionally reviewing your rides is one of the single most important things you can do to improve your riding.  If you want to improve your skills and your partnership with your horse, you have to know what’s actually happening. Not just guess! You can’t change what you’re not aware of.

    But here’s the thing… Reviewing your rides takes time. Writing or typing notes after every session can feel like another task on a long list. And most riders, understandably, stop doing it.  That’s where A.I. in your horse riding becomes a total game-changer.

    How A.I. Can Help You “Half Halt”

    Now, before you switch off at the word “A.I.,” hear me out.  I’m not talking about robots replacing riders or trainers. I’m talking about using A.I. as a simple reflection tool. Something that can help you notice things more clearly and quickly, so you can redirect and rebalance your training just like a half halt does in the saddle.

    Think of it as your digital accountability partner.  Let’s say after your ride, you open an app and record a short voice note:

            • What worked today?
            • What didn’t feel quite right?
            • What do I want to focus on next time?

    I’ve found that by speaking freely with no filters or structure, I give more details and feelings. And this is where the gold happens. Because, even if you feel that it will take ages to make heads or tails of what you just said, A.I. can do this in seconds.

    Simply ask your A.I. tool (like ChatGPT, etc.):  “Can you summarize what I said and help me identify any patterns or key takeaways?”

    It doesn’t tell you what to do. It simply packages what you’ve already said in a clear, structured way, like a tidy, ready-to-use reflection note. It’s your personal lesson review assistant! 

    Over time, it begins to spot the subtle things you might miss. It highlights trends in your training, your focus, even your mindset.  And, from my own personal experience, that’s where the magic happens!

    Why A.I. Works So Well for Equestrians

    A.I. is designed to spot patterns. That’s literally how it functions, by noticing connections and recurring details in what you feed it.  When you apply this to your horse riding, it becomes an incredible awareness tool.  It might show you that:

          • You mention “rushed transitions” in three separate sessions
          • You keep describing a left bend issue in canter
          • You only talk about rhythm when you’re on one specific horse

    Those are the kinds of patterns we often miss because we’re too close to the work.  And once you see them, you can half halt your own habits,  redirect your focus, rebalance your energy, and progress with purpose.

    A.I. Won’t Replace Feel – It Refines

    It’s worth saying again, this isn’t about letting A.I. tell you what to do! It’s about letting it help you see what’s already there.  Because when you can clearly see your own patterns, you can make better choices. You can set goals that are realistic and motivating. You can train with focus instead of frustration.

    That’s the real half halt in your riding development and training; learning to pause and rebalance or refocus if necessary, before pushing forward.

    Using A.I. in Your Horse Riding

    Let me give you a final example… Let’s say your current goal is to ride a track of fences in a balanced canter.  However, you’ve noticed that every time you approach a fence from the left rein, the chances of rubbing or knocking a pole are higher!  When you start reviewing your rides consistently, you start to see what’s happening. It’s not hte jump – its the turn on the left rein BEFORE the jump that’s the issue!

    The same way a well-timed half halt through the corner sets you up for a balanced jump, a mental half halt — through regular reviews — helps you steady your thoughts, refocus, and decide what really needs your attention next.

    And when you bring A.I. into your horse riding, you multiply that effect. You make it easier to pause, easier to notice, easier to learn.

    Learning A.I. in Your Horse Riding.

    Inside Connection, we’re spending October, November, and December diving into exactly this; how to use A.I. in your horse riding to review, reflect, and plan better.  Each month, riders get live “Review and Planning” calls and for the final quarter, I will be delivering new training to riders on how to get the best results with A.I. as their riding journal. Riders will be getting prompts to test out for themselves, and my feedback if they need it as well.

    It’s all about learning to use modern tools to enhance traditional equestrian training, not replace it.

    If this idea of half halts, reflection, and using A.I. in your horse riding resonates with you, I’d love for you to join us inside Connection.  It’s a completely new experience, rebuilt from the ground up, to help everyday riders (especially those working without a regular trainer) make steady, measurable progress.  Join Connection here: www.stridesforsuccess.com/join

    Happy Riding
    Lorna

    Online Training & Coaching

    Connect with Lorna online:-

  • Using Half Halts on the Lunge to Build Balance

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    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 a little!

    Most riders see rushing on the lunge as a disobedience problem; their horse is being naughty, ignoring them, or just full of vuma! But what if that’s not what is always going on?

    What if your horse’s rushing while on the lunge is really a balance problem, not a speed problem?

    Rushing v’s Speed

    When a horse loses balance, the natural instinct is to speed up to try to catch themselves. You’ve probably experienced this yourself, either while walking, running, or cycling. Just like when you run on a few steps, or pedal faster to stop yourself from falling over, your horse often does the same.

    If they feel unbalanced, they often run on a little – in an attempt to remain upright!

    Now, I get that some horses will 100% rush and race ‘just because’.  However, that is not what I’m chatting about today. Today, I want to talk about how, for many horses, suddenly speeding up can indicate a lack of balance. And how lunging gives you the perfect opportunity to see this clearly.

    So, if your horse is usually pretty relaxed and ‘rhythmic’ – until he’s not. This might indeed be what’s going on. And I think that lunging can help your horse to develop so that this happens less and less often. You see,

    Because without your weight or mixed signals from the saddle, your horse can figure out how to carry themselves and begin to develop self-balance while developing strength

    Of course, that won’t happen overnight. Building balance takes strength, coordination, and consistency. But lunging — when done correctly — gives your horse space to experiment, to learn, and to begin developing rhythm. And rhythm is where it all starts.

    Rhythm & Relaxation: The Foundations

    No matter what discipline you ride, or what age or stage your horse is at, the first two building blocks of training are relaxation and rhythm.  When they feel that both of these pieces are in place, the energy can flow, and this increases confidence for everyone, horse and rider.

    So, it makes sense to begin at the start with relaxation & rhythm, and one of the best tools for introducing and establishing both of these is to use the half halt while on the lunge.

    Half Halts on the Lunge

    When most riders hear the words ‘half halt’, they immediately think about their hands. Specifically about using the reins. But the half halt is not just a rein aid. It’s a conversation. A pause. A moment of rebalancing that comes from your whole body and your intention, not just your hands.

    When you’re lunging, just like when you’re riding, your lunge line can be ‘part’ of the question or aid… Not the whole aid! You have to learn to communicate using it AND everything else. Your voice, your energy, your body position, your weight, your body language, and even the timing of your breathing.

    When you ask for a half halt on the lunge, you’re really saying,“Hey, come back to me for a moment. Find your balance again.” It can be an invitation, a request, or a correction. 

    And what’s really special about lunging is that, because of your position to your horse, you can see it happen. You can actually watch your horse process the request. And you can see the results. Maybe it’s the moment they soften through the contact, or when they slightly shift the weight off the forehand. It could just be the reestablishing of the rhythm that was in danger of being lost!

    That visual feedback you get from lunging is gold. It helps you begin to understand what a good half halt looks like before you try to feel it in the saddle.

    Reward the Intention

    When you begin introducing half halts on the lunge, I’m going to bet that your horse might not know what you’re asking for yet! Especially if this is not something you’ve been working on regularly before.  So it’s really important to reward every ‘try’. Every subtle thought in the right direction.

    Meaning that even if your horse just thinks about slowing down or steadying, that’s your chance to acknowledge it. If you miss that window, your horse gets confused. The message becomes muddy.

    So, ask for the half halt, then wait. If you see even a hint of balance returning, mark that moment. Praise. Use your voice to tell them, “Yes! That’s what I wanted.”  Clarity and timing are everything.  Every aid you use to ask should also be echoed when you reward. That’s how you build trust and confidence, and understanding. It’s also how your horse will begin to develop strength.

    Transitions, Rhythm & Flow

    Now, if you’ve been guilty of using the lunge line like a steering wheel or a brake (so pulling to keep your horse on the circle or yanking to slow them down), that HAS to stop!  The lunge line isn’t there to control the horse. It’s simply the connection between you.

    Just like how your reins work in riding to ‘gather’ and channel energy, your lunge line will do the same when lunging. 

    I really do think that the only way to begin to truly replace this habit is to create boundaries in the area you are lunging. Let them ‘keep the horse on the circle’ so that you can begin cultivating the contact through the lunge line. I’ve a whole post on this HERE.

    Refining Half Halts on the Lunge

    And once you are using your line correctly, then you can look to improving everything by getting started with basic transitions. Walk to trot. Trot to walk. Halt on the track. Back to walk, etc. etc., etc. Think smooth, not sharp.
    If your horse takes three full circles to make the change or the transition, no worries! That’s your starting point. You’re working on understanding, not obedience.

    Your half halts will be the preparation for every single one of the transitions your horse performs while on the lunge. They set things up so that the transition can be as good as it can be. 

    After a few days or weeks of practicing this, you’ll notice that your horse will become more ‘tuned in’ with regard to your aids and overall communication. That’s when you can begin playing with transitions within the gait. Covering more ground and then covering less ground within the same gait.  The goal is to keep the rhythm steady, no matter the speed.

    Lunging as a Mirror

    Lunging, done well, trains you almost as much as it teaches your horse. It becomes a mirror for your communication. You see, in real time, how every little change you make, your tone, your energy, your posture, affects your horse’s response.

    And the better you get at reading and influencing your horse from the ground, the easier everything feels once you’re in the saddle.

    And remember, lunging isn’t just for young or green horses. It’s for every partnership that wants to improve communication, rhythm, and balance.  It’s also not just for ‘hot horses’ or for when time is short. I am REALLY encouraging you to begin crafting time for lunging starting today.

    Bringing It All Together

    So next time you clip on that lunge line, shift your focus. Instead of thinking, “I need to slow you down,” think, “How can I help you find your rhythm and then maintain it for longer. How can we work together to achieve more balance and lightness?”

    Notice where any of the ‘whoopsies’ appear in your horse’s way of going, when it feels like he’s starting to rush. Pay attention to what led up to that point that may be causing the loss of balance. Then, use your body, voice, and energy to help your horse rebalance, to come back to you. That’s your half halt.

    You’ll be amazed at how your horse starts listening, not just to the sound of your voice, but to the feel of your intention.

    Happy Riding
    Lorna

     Half Halting on the Lunge

    I’ve got 3 resources to help you improve and refine your half halts.

          1. Inside Connection we are working on how to use half halts on the lunge to develop rhythm, relaxation, and self-carriage. Step-by-step audio lessons, a live group lesson, and so much more to really help you understand and put this principle into practice.
          2. Join me for the Half Halts Made Simple Webinar on October 28th. We’ll take everything you’ve learned from the ground and bring it into your riding work.
          3. Sign up for the FREE Your Signature Ride Challenge. It’s a fun, on-horse experience that ties beautifully into everything we’re doing this month.

    Online Training & Coaching

    Connect with Lorna online:-

  • Timing Is Everything: Finding the Sweet Spot for Half Halts

    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 phrase “half halt.” It sounds complicated, almost mystical!  Like something only advanced riders can master. But that’s just not true!

    A good quality, well-timed half halt doesnt’ have to be rocket science! It can be a simple communication tool between you and your horse. And because it’s part of the conversation, the timing needs to be right as well.

    In this episode, we’re going to chat about why timing is so important for your half halts and a few common mistakes riders make when implementing it. I also want to touch on how lunging can be a change in perspective for riders working on their half halt and the timing of it.

    By the end, you’ll have a much clearer picture of how to sharpen your half halts so they actually work. And this will help set you both up for greater balance, responsiveness, and flow in your work together.

    Why Timing Matters So Much

    Think about a conversation with a friend. If they tell you a story and you interrupt too soon, your point falls flat. If you jump in too late, the moment’s passed. And if you constantly interject every two seconds? They’ll tune you out completely.  Half halts work pretty much like this for you and your horse.

    A half-halt is essentially a moment of ‘pause’ within the stride. It’s your way of saying to your horse: “Refocus, rebalance, and prepare for what’s next.” If you ask in the wrong place or at the wrong time, your horse may not be able ot respond. And if you are not paying attention and apply the aid too late, things will already have gone sideways! You’ll have missed the opportunity to rebalance before it all fell apart.

    And keep in mind that the timing of the half halt is vital, but so too is how you ask. Too strong, and you’ll block the energy. Too light or badly timed, and you run the risk of becoming ‘background noise’! 

    Common Mistakes Riders Make

    Most riders think they’re applying perfectly timed and executed half halts. However, that is often not what’s really going on! And, over the years, I’ve seen 3 common challenges and mistakes show up time and again.

    1. Not Getting Your Horse’s Attention

    The half halt is great. However, like most things in riding, it’s usually only as great as what came before it! And if you’re not first actually ‘focusing’ your horse’s attention to the fact that you’re going to ask a question, the answer will probably fall short! One of the key purposes of the half halt is to first get your horse’s attention. I chat more about that HERE.

    When you fail to first get your horses attention, you end up “nagging” with constant mini half halts, every stride, that your horse is just completely ignoring!  

    Imagine your phone buzzing with notifications all day long. After a while, you don’t even notice them anymore. The same thing happens with your horse — they tune out.  It’s only when your phone actually RINGS, that you’re reminded to pay attention and do something about it.

    2. Too Late

    This happens when you wait until things have already gone completely sideways before stepping in. It’s a bit like just ignoring the warning signs, wishing and praying that things will sort themselves out. Sometimes they do – but often they don’t! Picture riding on a downhill slope and feeling your horse becoming a little ‘more energetic’ underneath you. Instead of half halting and rebalancing so that your horse maintains the existing trot or canter, you find yourself barrelling down the hill!

    At this stage, your “half halt” turns into a desperate ‘drop the anchors’ in an attempt to brake! And instead of helping your horse rebalance, you end up blocking energy and, usually, creating excess tension!

    4. Too Strong

    This is the overcorrection. Now, often this is in direct reaction to the previous issue of applying the half halt a wee bit too late! But sometimes this can also show up when riders fail to realise that there is a ‘balance of aids’. Riders know they need to do something, so they just ‘haul’ on the aid that ‘seems’ to be the one that will work. Usually the reins, but sometimes the seat!

    The result? The horse doesn’t recycle energy through the body. Instead, it shuts down, hollows, or even stops! The flow of the energy is lost, replaced with resistance. And, you have to start from scratch to reestablish what you were originally doing.

    Timing: From Awareness to Feel

    So, back to our timing. Let’s be really honest here; timing isn’t something you can learn from reading a book or watching a video. You can understand it in theory, but to truly ‘get it’, you need to feel it.  You need to begin to understand how your aids directly influence your horse.

    You need to learn how to feel when the best time to apply the aids is, so that your horse can best respond. 

    And while there are many exercises and ways to do this in the saddle, I’m going to suggest starting off on the ground. Before you ever feel it, educate yourself by actually seeing it happen. And that’s where lunging comes in.

    Lunging Helps You ‘See’ Timing

    When you’re in the saddle, your brain is juggling a lot: your position, your hands, your legs, your seat, the arena, your horse’s balance… the list goes on. Throw into the mix trying to figure out when to half halt and when best to time it… It can feel overwhelming!

    On the lunge, a lot of the overwhelm drops away. You’re not working on a million things and hoping that you’re feeling it all correctly – you’re simply watching your horse move.

    And when you watch closely, you’ll notice something important: the rhythm of the stride. Every stride has a natural moment where your horse is best able to respond to your influence.  This will depend on what you want to ask for or do… But, if we think of half halt, the best time to balance is when your foot is firmly on the floor, yes? So, apply this to your horse as well.

    By observing this over and over on the lunge, you train your eye to recognize timing. And once you see it, you can start to anticipate it. Then, when you’re back in the saddle, your body learns to match that rhythm almost automatically.

    You and Your Riding

    If your half halts aren’t working, don’t beat yourself up. Most riders are either too late, too strong, or talking to the wall when it comes to half halts. And often, because they haven’t developed the timing piece yet.  The takeaway here is that timing is a skill you can train. It’s not about being a “natural rider” or having some magical gift. It’s about practice, observation, and awareness.

    Start with lunging. Watch your horse move. Identify the sweet spot of the stride for the question you want to ask. Then, begin experimenting. What happens when you ask slightly earlier? Slightly lighter? Less heavy handed?

    Over time, you’ll start hitting that sweet spot more consistently. And that’s when your half halts become powerful.  Not because they’re bigger or stronger, but because you’ve learned to refine them by applying the aids at the right time.

    Timing Your Half Halts

    Half halts are the foundation of so much in riding: transitions, balance, collection, even safety out on the trail. And yet, so many riders miss out on their potential simply because of timing.  If you can learn to assess the “when” before you ask, you’ll unlock a whole new level of communication with your horse.

    That’s exactly what we’re working on inside Connection this month. We’re starting with half halts on the lunge — the clearest way to train your eye and develop timing — before moving into half halts under saddle later this year.

    Because when they’re done well, a half halt feels almost magical: your horse shifts balance, lightens the front end, and tunes in to your next aid.

    And it’s a skill you can learn, step by step.  Start by seeing it on the lunge. Play with it in the saddle.  And remember: every time you refine your timing, you’re making it easier for your horse to understand you.

    Happy Riding
    Lorna

    The Your Signature Ride Challenge

    Here’s the idea: you use only your seat and leg aids to “write” your name in the arena. Sounds simple, right? But what it really does is sharpen your awareness of timing and clarity.  You’ll learn when your aids actually make a difference.  And you’ll have fun doing it.  All while creating a pattern that’s uniquely yours!

    You can sign up by CLICKING HERE

    It’s free to join, and every rider who participates gets access to a guided audio lesson to help them through the challenge. Plus, you’ll have a chance to win 3 months inside Connection (a $66 value)

    Restart & Reschool

    And if you would like a little more 1-to-1 coaching, explore Restart & Reschool Private Coaching. It is perfect if you’re starting your practice – or if you’re looking to turn your existing practice into something ‘real’ for you and your horse. I’ll guide you step by step on the way! You’ll not only get the full ‘OTTB; From Racetrack to Ready Program’, but also fornightly private lessons with me to move you forward in your riding.

    We can work on anything you would like; from groundwork, to lunging, to riding, to jumping… With the virtual private lessons, we can do all of these things – and more.  If you would like to find out me, you can let me know a little more about you HERE and I will then reach back out and we can chat!

    This is the support, training, and accountability you’ve been missing to finally follow through and start seeing progress. No fluff. No overwhelm. And as flexible as you need for your lifestyle. 

    Online Training & Coaching

    Connect with Lorna online:-

  • 15 Minutes or Less with Your Horse… For 90 Days?

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    Are you guilty of only looking for longer gaps of time to work with your horse? I mean, what could you possibly do in 15 minutes or less to move things forward, right?!  If this has been your thinking up to now, you’re not alone. I was guilty of this… To be honest, I think we have all been there. However, once I began to reframe what those smaller chunks of time could be, everything changed!

    Get the 50+ Inspiring Ideas to do with your horse when you find yourself with a small gap of timeCLICK HERE

    What would happen if you began seeing the value in finding small gaps of time to connect with your horse? Using short, focused time periods—15 minutes or less—can be a game changer for you, your riding, and your partnership with your horse.

    Here’s why becoming more intentional (and excited) about the odd 15 minutes or so a few times a week can transform everything for both of you.

    The C Word – Consistency…

    So many riders want to become more consistent. And, a lot of them want to swipe some magic wand and make it happen! It won’t. The only way to start becoming consistent is to be intentional. And doing short regular things with your horse are just that.

    Especially when you want to get started with something, the short sessions are easier and often more effective for both of you. And because they are more likely to get done, they create steady progress.

    Your horse probably loves consistency, most horses thrive on it. Use this to your benefit and begin using each of those 15 minutes or less gaps of time to build something together.  These small moments, when repeated, add up over time. It just requires you to have a plan for them.

    GET THE FREE DOWNLOAD, 50+ INSPIRED IDEAS & EXERCISES FOR WHEN YOU’VE 15 MINUTES OR LESS WITH YOUR HORSE BY CLICK HERE

    Focus on Quality…

    I’m going to assume that you have something you and your horse are working towards… If not, you now have your ‘Step 1’ ;) Once you know what you’re longer term vision is for you both, you can then begin thinking about ‘smaller steps’ that will compliment or act as stepping stones to that goal.

    Which activity will make more sense for your 15 minutes or less with your horse; something fun, partnership building, or a training related focus session?

    Keep in mind that shorter training sessions can often result in a breakthrough for you and your horse. We often think that the longer the ride, the better. But fatigue plays a big role in both of your work.  So by keeping the session short and sweet, often you can achieve more. Especially when you’re consistent with them.  This applies to all 3 categories; fun, partnership, or training.

    Get the 50+ Inspiring Ideas to do with your horse when you find yourself with a small gap of time CLICK HERE

    1. Fun

    Fun is enjoying the moment. The process. It is usually not an ‘end goal’ or ‘endpoint’.  We rarely say “I am struggling on through the mud now because I will feel like it was fun when I’m finished”. Fun is the actual activity. And, fun is for both horse and rider.

    It is something that you can do together and that has the single goal of allowing you both to enjoy yourselves and each other’s company.

    And please don’t make the mistake of confusing things that you enjoy  as being fun for all involved! You horse must enjoy the activities as well. I’ve created a free list with some ‘fun’ activities you can enjoy with your horse in 15 minutes or less when you CLICK HERE. Download it and put it somewhere you can quickly access when the next 15 minutes or so of ‘free time’ pops up for you and your horse :)

    2. Partnership

    No matter how long you have been working with your horse, you can always deepen the trust in your relationship. Short, meaningful interactions can really help to improve this bond between you both. And, strengthening the partnership will also help to improve the training. It’s a win, win :)

    By focusing your 15 minutes or less on strengthening the partnership, you can build trust, reduce anxiety, and increase your horse’s willingness to cooperate – especially in those less than ideal moments you encounter later.

    Your horse is always responding to your body language, mood, and energy.  By intentionally showing up with ‘partnership building’ in mind, you can strengthen the emotional connection between you.  I’ve listed some partnership building activities you can do with your horse in 15 minutes or less in a free download CLICK HERE

    3. Training or Developing

    This is exactly what it sounds like; activities that will help you or your horse to improve mentally, physically, or emotionally. And when it comes to training, I am a big believer in keeping things simple. Simple exercises that focus on simple outcomes. Having a time restriction of 15 minutes or less makes this even easier to apply!

    Often, if you are not seeing progress (usually because Fun and Partnership are not included in the plan), it feels ‘right’ to instinctively jump to complicated where training is concerned. Choose simple exercises and rather work on them through the filter of what you want to achieve in your riding.

    I am going to urge you think simple when it comes to training when working with your horse for 15 minutes or less. 

    Get the 50+ Inspiring Ideas to do with your horse when you find yourself with a small gap of timeCLICK HERE

    More Opportunities – and Flexibility!

    When you are planning out the coming week with yoru horse, actively look for those 15 minute or less time ‘gaps’. Shorter time blocks are much easier to make happen, especially if you’ve a busy schedule. And then decide what approach would best help you and your horse make the most of that time together.

    Stop waiting for a large chunk of free time, which for so many riders are few and far between! Rather begin looking for those smaller pockets of time where you can do something valuable with your horse.

    Whether it’s practicing groundwork, working on specific exercises, or simply grooming, you’ll find that you have more opportunities to interact with your horse throughout the week. And because you’re intentional, they will act as stepping stones to your longer term vision.

    Get the 50+ Inspiring Ideas to do with your horse when you find yourself with a small gap of timeCLICK HERE

    Your 15 Minutes or Less List

    Having a list of potential activities is a great way to get started with making the most of those smaller pockets of time. I’ve created one for you that you can download HERE for free. My suggestion is to print it off and then add to it over the coming weeks and months.

    When you begin to see the benefits of intentionally connecting with your horse during those smaller 15 minutes or less time pockets, you will actively begin searching for them in your week!

    Happy Riding
    Lorna

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    Online Training to Help Your Riding

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