This question is very common and there isn’t a general answer that works for every horse or situation. Knowing what type of conformation your horse has and what sport he is suited for will help you decide when to start him. Continue reading When Should I Start My Young Horse?
Summer is the busiest time for riding and other horse activities. Although this is the best riding weather in most parts of the country, there are a few heat related dangers that could put you and your horse at risk. Learn what they are and how to avoid them with a few summer time tips. Continue reading Hot Weather Help
Combination fences can be challenging, and require you and your horse to be athletic and adjustable. These fences also allow you to show off your riding skills and your horse’s ability. Lots of practice is necessary to master combinations as they are fast, fun, and can make or break your course. Continue reading Combination Fences
The added difficulty of jumping fences that are placed on hills builds your skills and challenges the horse’s athletic ability. Jumping up and downhill will improve your communication with the horse while strengthening your partnership. Continue reading Jumping Up and Downhill
Jumping fences at a full gallop is thrilling for all experienced riders. Mastering this exercise takes a lot of practice and control from both horse and rider. Continue reading Jumping At Speed
The horse is tacked up, the sky is clear, and the trails are calling your name. You and your horse are all set to go, but right as you go to mount up your horse walks off preventing you from beginning your ride or any ride for that matter. Continue reading Mounting Problems
There are four important angles that are key to correct riding. Those four angles include the elbow, hip, knee, and ankle. Using these angles effectively allows you to give subtle aids to communicate with the horse. Continue reading Riding From All Angles Part One: Upper Body
Horses who throw a fit every time you try to leave the barn by refusing, turning back, or even rearing are barn sour and rather be at the comfort of the barn or with his buddies instead of riding with you. Horses can also exhibit a barn sour habit by rushing toward the barn on your way back from a trail ride. Here I will give you some exercises to cure your horse’s barn sour behaviors. Continue reading Barn Sour Behaviors
Does your normally good mannered horse turn into a monster come feeding time, pinning his ears, kicking out or otherwise acting aggressively? You may be causing the behavior by feeding a horse with a cranky look on his face in your hurry to finish barn chores without even knowing it. Here I will help you prevent that from happening by giving you a few tips to keep your horse respectful during feeding time. Continue reading Feeding Time Frenzy
Even if you aren’t a hunter/jumper or competing in trail classes, working your horse over ground poles will help you work on control, timing, and rhythm. Here I will outline the basics of getting your horse comfortable crossing poles at a walk then we will progressively get your horse walking, trotting, and cantering confidently over poles. Continue reading Pole Progression: The Walk