15/01/2026
Thank you Sharon , this is brilliant 👍👍👍
Igor has only jumped in the ring 2 times over the last 18 months , yet he was the most rideable he’s ever been this weekend .
This is due to a number of reasons , undoubtedly and thankfully he is feeling physically good , but also because I have spent the last 18 months changing my outlook and improving my systems.
I have developed strict rules for myself whilst training - and this applies with all my horses !
-It must be fun - For both of us ! This means that the sessions are always positive. If they are too intense they are not happy and I’ve learned that they need to feel it’s achievable and enjoyable. Then they are happy to give their all.
- I work on their relaxation as much as their new skills . There is no point in putting in power and expression if you can’t relax them, over time it becomes bubbling tension . They need to be able to perform and then relax , particularly at competitions . Too much switch on is exhausting for them.
- There will be days when they don’t feel as good , that’s the nature of challenge and growth . I use these to understand and work out the limitations of my current training and reassess equipment used , my own posture etc . I very rarely have 2 of these days in a row , as I now use these for positive development, but you have to be extremely honest with yourself!
- I am constantly evolving and learning. You just have to be careful that you tweak things not make huge changes on a regular basis , or the horses will get confused, but done correctly they can learn unbelievably fast.
- I do small amounts of daily bodywork with all my horses . Loosening before tacking up , stretching and some light massage afterwards. It means I can feel areas of tightness and prevent issues and improve others that have been problematic or chronic.
- Less is more . The quieter I am with them on the ground and riding , the more we are able to bond and communicate.
- I make sure I am totally focused on them when I’m with them. I believe they deserve my attention and they really notice if you are not !
- Lastly , I tell them they are brilliant - every day and I never take them for granted now !