The gentle nuzzle of a velvety nose, the rhythmic pounding of hooves on soft ground, the undeniable thrill of soaring over a jump in perfect sync – these are the moments that draw us, unequivocally, to horses. As horse lovers, our bond with these magnificent creatures runs deep, often beyond words. But in recent times, …
There’s nothing quite like the feeling of being in sync with your horse, a true partnership where unspoken conversations flow effortlessly. But achieving that harmony isn’t always straightforward. Effective communication, both in and out of the saddle, is the cornerstone of a successful and happy partnership. It’s about speaking their language, not confusing them with …
Why every horse owner, no matter how experienced, still needs lessons If you own a horse, you know the deep bond and constant learning that comes with it. You’re not just a rider; you’re a guardian, a caregiver, and often, your horse’s primary trainer. So, why do even the most seasoned horse owners – those …
Read more “Beyond the Basics: Why Horse Owners Still Take Lessons”
Seasoned equestrian? You already know the importance of a well-rounded fitness regime. But are you truly maximising the potential of hill work? Hill work isn’t just about a change of scenery; it’s a strategic tool to sculpt a stronger, more resilient, and athletic equine partner. Let’s delve into the physiological advantages. Targeted muscular development Hill …
Read more “Hills = Horsepower! Harnessing the Power of Hill Work”
One thing I’ve discovered from coaching is that coaching is only a small part of the job. Other aspects seem to include counsellor, confidante, chief cheerleader and occasional butt-kicker. In recent weeks, with teens choosing their GCSE options and making post-16 decisions (A-levels, vocational qualifications, apprenticeships), conversations have taken a different turn, and I have …
We all know that we and our horses should be wearing high-visibility (hi-vis) when we ride out to make ourselves visible and ensure other people can react in time. For example, drivers can slow down, dogs can be recalled and put on the lead. There are also other instances where we want to be visible …
We invest countless hours perfecting our horse’s performance in the arena. We drill movements, refine transitions, and strive for that perfect partnership. But sometimes, the most valuable training comes from stepping outside the familiar confines of the school and venturing into the wider world. Hacking out offers a wealth of benefits for both horse and …
Read more “Beyond the Arena: The Undeniable Value of Hacking”
For centuries horses have been our partners in work, transportation, and sport. But how we think about our relationship with horses has changed a lot over time, and thinking continues to shift with scientific advances that help us to understand increasingly deeply the ways of the horse and their complete welfare needs. In the past, …
Read more “From Ownership to Guardianship: How Our Relationship With Horses Has Changed”
The changing of the year always presents the opportunity to reflect on the past and think about goals and wishes for the year ahead. For equestrians, this is the ideal time to decide on some goals to work towards to ensure we don’t lose focus or get stuck in a rut with our riding. What …
Winter can be a tough time for horses and their owners. The cold weather, seemingly endless mud, and rain can make it difficult to keep them fit and healthy, especially if you have limited turnout, or don’t have the luxury of a floodlit arena. However there are still ways that you can maintain your bond …