“Partner.” The word evokes different mental images for each of us, based on our life’s experiences. The dictionary talks about partners in terms of dance, business, tennis and marriage/close relationships. The specifics of a partnership can vary tremendously depending on needs of the partnership as well as roles of the … Continue reading

You may think the legs of the horse are the most important element of their soundness, but maybe it’s actually their back. Over the years I’ve retrained several nice horses who were trained by “good” riders and were absolutely pathetically low in their back. They looked like broodmares. Their ribs … Continue reading

The current rage is “core muscles.” I remember years ago when I was coaching students at a show and saying, “use your core,” I was the only one saying it! Now, everyone is. So that’s good, except for one thing, . . “What the heck are the core muscles?” I’ve … Continue reading

Well, that’s obvious, pull on the reins! Not so fast! I suggest you find a few more refined aids. In dressage, pushing the heels down is a commonly taught method for half-halting, or halting/stopping your horse. Instructors often say, “sink into your heels.” They also say, “sit deeper.” Actually, these … Continue reading