The techniques I use give me consistent results with a wide variety of horses. By being flexible about when and how I use an exercise, I am able to adjust what I am doing to best suit the horse I am working with. This makes it easier for the horse to be successful, which will help him build confidence in himself, build confidence in me, and encourage him to keep trying.

When watching gymnastic competitions, we look for athletes competing in gymnastics to “stick the landing” before the eagle-eyed judges who will discount marks for even the slightest waiver in form. While this phrase is rather commonplace in our understanding of these athletic events, it is not so in our equine world… at least not until you have read this article.

“Whether it be a football player studying ballet or a dressage horse learning to work cows - cross-training is a central pillar to athletic success and longevity,” says Dr. Brianne Henderson BVMS MRCVS, Ferguson Equine Veterinary Services & Toronto Equine Hospital.

By Lindsay Grice - Riding should not be an aerobic workout like riding an exercise bike. Self-carriage is when a horse maintains his pace, straightness, and frame or outline when you lighten up on your aids. You’re not really riding until you take the training wheels off!