Equestrian Clinics

Riding the Shoulder-In

Fri, 05/28/2010 - 17:47 | Jane Savoie

Shoulder-in is the father of the advanced lateral dressage movements. It does many wonderful things for your horse. Here are just some of them:

1. Shoulder-in is a suppling exercise because it stretches and loosens the muscles and ligaments of the inside shoulder and forearm. During shoulder-in, your horse passes his inside foreleg in front of his outside foreleg. This motion increases his ability to move his forearm gymnastically in other movements.

9 Tips to Help You Sit the Trot

Fri, 05/28/2010 - 17:44 | Jane Savoie

One of the most frequently asked questions I get is, "Can you help me sit the trot better?"

So here are some quick tips to help you with this all too common challenge.

1. First and foremost, your horse needs to be on the bit. If his back is hollow, stiff, or tight, you'll find it impossible to sit comfortably. (And, in turn, you'll make your horse uncomfortable too!)

To put him on the bit, review the "connecting half halt". If you missed it, there's an article on it in the August archives of my blog at wordpress.

Connection to Collection: the Art of Horse Listening

Thu, 05/27/2010 - 18:37 | Jenny Rolfe

Have you ever heard somebody say, ‘Although we only just met, I felt a real connection,we seemed to just ‘click, straightaway!’ Human nature is always looking for a common bond with family, friends and colleagues to enhance mutual understanding which will nurture empathy and friendship. So how can we use our intelligence and inner wisdom, to connect with the language of the horse?

The Positive Side of Long, Deep and Round as a Supplemental Training Method

Mon, 04/12/2010 - 17:44 | Pat Degen

I adhere to the Classical principles of the training scale. However, there are times when alternate training techniques can be helpful when applied within the boundaries of " What is best for the horse".
One of these methods is working long, deep and round. When used properly and appropriately, this method can help a horse work over his back better, and achieve the flexion that a supple horse easily gives. When used correctly, there is no visible force on the riders part or signs of discomfort, tension or any other mental or physical stress on behalf of the horse.

Seeking Submission: From the Mind of the Horse

Tue, 03/16/2010 - 11:34 | Jenny Rolfe

Submission is a natural and instinctive response for the horse, from the moment he is born. If you observe a herd of horses, you will see the young foals cautiously approach an older herd member demonstrating a submissive stance in their body language. These observations can show us that submission is a code of behavior, totally acceptable within the structure of the herd. Colts at play will be trying to assert their dominance in preparation for their role in the future, when they could become the head stallion with their own herd of mares and young.

Half Halt - How to Put Your Horse on the Bit

Wed, 01/27/2010 - 13:38 | Jane Savoie

No matter where I travel, the most frequently asked questions I get are, "How do I put my horse on the bit...and how do I keep him there consistently?" This concept baffles many riders. My hope here is to simplify the process for you with the following information.

First, you need to know that there is a SPECIFIC AID to put your horse on the bit just like there is a specific aid to ask for canter or for a leg yield. That aid is a half halt. (Don't groan...I can hear you!)

Now for some information on the half halt:

Understanding How a Pushy Horse is Made (And How to Avoid Making One)

Wed, 01/27/2010 - 13:16 | Diane Longanecker

The situation starts out innocently enough. While you are standing next to your horse, he steps in a bit closer to you than you find comfortable. Automatically, you take a step back. What pivotal event just occurred?

Who's Directing?

By moving into your personal space, the horse put pressure on you. Had you responded with enough pressure in return to cause him to move back instead, your position of being the one doing the directing would have been maintained.

Things You Must Do When Cleaning Your Horse Blanket

Wed, 01/27/2010 - 13:08 | Theresa Truscott

For hygiene reasons each horse should have its own blanket. Sharing blankets can facilitate the spread of skin problems such as girth itch, ringworm, and other fungal infections. Even if no horses in the stable have known skin problems, fungal spores can cling to the blankets and be spread to other horses.

If the blankets are used often during the winter they should be washed at least twice, using cold water and a disinfectant soap. Rinse the blankets well to make sure that no soap residue remains otherwise it might irritate the horse's skin.

Just Holding On - Riding Your Horse Bareback

Wed, 01/27/2010 - 12:58 | Tanya Vorgan

When riding bareback, there is no saddle or blanket. The bareback rider sits in the hollow of the horse's back and stays there mostly through the rider's ability to balance. It's an especially uncomfortable seat though less so at the walk and the slow canter pace.

Before stirrups and saddles were invented in ancient Central Asia, everyone rode bareback. Feet dangled and upper thighs griped the horse for security. Early soldiers rode bareback with nothing to hold them onto their horses but talent, will, and possibly the terror of falling off in the heat of battle.

Essential Horse Show Etiquette

Mon, 01/04/2010 - 19:40 | Tanya Vorgan

Just like any other social occasion, attendees at a horse show are expected to maintain certain standards of behavior. For the safety and enjoyment of everyone involved, both you and your horse should follow established horse show etiquette. Behaving well at a horse show comes naturally for some people. These folks naturally look out for others. Most people, however, need to take a look at some guidelines for good manners. Here's a list of ways you can show good etiquette at a horse show:

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