After your horse understands the basic “whoa and go” aids in the walk, trot, and canter, and you can make basic figures such as a 20-meter circle and three-loop serpentine, it’s time to introduce him to the concept of...
The number of bits available are almost limitless. Most of us have a pretty hefty collection, and even then it’s just the tip of the iceberg. It can be a challenge to make a quick decision and pluck just...
Posting the trot is a skill like riding a bike: Once you learn to do it well, you won’t forget how, no matter how long it’s been since you last sat on a horse. If you learn to “rise...
Of all the movements, it is always the canter that seems to cause the most problems for students and their horses. Whether this is because the gait is generally speedier, or horses tend to misbehave because the rider is...
Q. I used to do well in my hunt seat equitation classes, but my new horse has a really bouncy trot. It's fine when I post, but I have trouble holding my position while sitting his bouncy trot. If...
We’ve all been there. You’re looking forward to a great riding lesson, but from the minute you mount your pony, you’re begging him to go faster. He moves at a snail’s pace no matter how many times you cluck...
When it comes to horsemanship, much of the focus is on the proper use of our leg aids. But what about our hands? Horses are great at letting us know when our hand aids are either too rough or...
Have you dreamed of riding Pegasus as he soars through the air? Flying over jumps aboard your favorite horse gives you nearly the same feeling. Yet jumping is a specialized equestrian sport. In order to jump successfully—and safely—you and...
Every rider should strive to have soft, giving hands. As a result, your horse will have a soft mouth. Establishing correct contact will help develop your horse’s topline and make him more supple. Learning correct contact takes concentration and...
We’ve all been there. You’re looking forward to a great riding lesson, but from the minute you mount your pony, you’re begging him to go faster. He moves at a snail’s pace no matter how many times you cluck...
