Mounting For the First TimeMounting or backing young horses for the first time is a huge milestone in their life. Fortunately, most riders acquire their horses already fundamentally trained. Sending your young horse off to a trainer is a common way to go, but backing your own horse, in my experience, is not as traumatic or di... More..
Successful Trailer LoadingUsually, the last thing on the list before heading to the equestrian event is to load the horses, and then off you go, right? My old veteran gelding, Nicky, was usually loaded last, much to his consternation, as he was always quite anxious and excited to go. Didn't matter where or for how long, just ... More..
Cavalletti: Fun and FunctionalCavalletti are a valuable tool in training both the horse and rider. They can be used in a myriad of configurations to help develop and improve strength, balance, and judgment. Riders benefit by gaining security in the saddle and developing an independent seat. From students learning to jump, to ... More..
The Balanced HaltBy Jeanne AdamsThere is a big difference between just stopping your horse and executing the movement: balanced halt. It is often hastily rehearsed or even overlooked.All performance horses need to learn a balanced halt. A stock horse could not execute that athletic sliding stop; a dressage horse could not acc... More..
Basic GroomingGrooming your horse is an essential part of any horse's routine. Not only is it important for his physical health, but the quality time you spend grooming will cause the bond between you to increase and will benefit his emotional well-being. His mood can be partially assessed during the grooming session and may ... More..
A Brief on Equine NutritionIn contrast to other herbivores, equines have a rather primitive digestive system. Fortunately, current grain mixes and supplements are much more convenient and complete than ever before. Becoming familiar with what the daily required food elements are will help you build the best nutrition plan for... More..
X Water Crossings XMany years ago I leased a horse to compete to help get an upper rating in Pony Club. I first saw him at a Horse Trials in Oklahoma. He moved impressively in the dressage phase but when it came to the cross-country… well, lets just say the water hazard did him in. Come to find out, every cross-country ... More..
Musical RhythmMusical kurs are a dressage pattern of movements showing your horse's training to music. When my sister and I set out to ride our first musical kurs, we didn't have far to go to obtain what we needed. That is partly due to the family all being musicians. Our chief goal was to find music to fit our horses' tempos... More..
Jeanne Adams
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