Daily Strides Podcast for Equestrians: Recent Episodes
Lorna Leeson
If you are tired of riding the endless circle, or you're struggling to find inspiration for your riding each week, this is the podcast for you.
The Daily Strides Podcast is for equestrians wanting to learn more, stay inspired, and continue to move the conversation between horse and rider forward.
Each episode provides step by step guided instruction on different aspects of riding, groundwork, and lunging your horse or pony.
All episodes have a full blog post published at https://StridesForSuccess.com. New episodes are published every Monday.
Say goodbye to the endless circle and hello to intentional interaction with your horse in a way that you both enjoy, that you both benefit from, by subscribing to the Daily Strides Podcast for Equestrians today and
Let's Make Every Ride Great
Have you ever felt like if you stopped managing every little detail in the saddle, the whole ride would fall apart?
Maybe your horse gets a little quick in trot. Maybe they lose balance, rush, lean, or wobble. And before you know it, you are shortening the reins, squeezing more, holding more, and trying to fix every stride. If that sounds familiar, you are not alone. In this episode, we're diving into a big truth many riders need to hear; you cannot control your horse, but you can absolutely influence them!
This episode is all about the difference between control and influence in your riding and training. Because so often, what feels like "helping" is actually over-managing. And while that might make you feel better in the short term, it can stop your horse from developing the balance, confidence, and responsibility you are trying to build.
We also explore why riders feel the need to control in the first place, what that says about trust, and how this shows up so clearly when lunging. If your goal is a horse who can carry themselves better, stay more balanced, and rely less on constant correction, this episode will give you plenty to think about.
In this episode, we talk about:- * Why trying to control your horse is often a sign of fear, tension, or lack of trust * How 'helping' can quietly become over-riding or micro-managing * The question to ask yourself:- What am I not trusting right now? * What you actually can control as a rider * Why influence is more effective than force * How lunging reveals whether you are guiding your horse or reacting to them * How trust, self-awareness, and better timing help build self-carriage over time
Connection Membership Join a growing community of riders from around the world who are building consistent progress in the saddle, often without riding more. Inside Connection, you'll get access to our fortnightly Review & Planning Calls, live virtual group lessons, Q&A sessions, and a full library of on-demand audio horse riding lessons. Start your two-week cycle with us today: 👉 https://stridesforsuccess.com/join
🐴 Restart & Reschool: Private Coaching Feeling stuck or uncertain in your riding and training? This 13-week 1-to-1 coaching program is designed to help you get unstuck and move forward with clarity and confidence. We'll work closely together to map out your next steps, troubleshoot your challenges, and get real results with your horse. 👉 https://stridesforsuccess.com/rr
⏱️ 15 Minutes or Less Short on time? You don't need a full hour to make meaningful progress with your horse. This free resource gives you over 80 ideas for exercises, groundwork, mounted work, and mindset—all designed to help you move forward in your riding in 15 minutes or less. Perfect for busy riders or unpredictable days. 🎁 Grab it here: https://stridesforsuccess.com/15
💬 The Daily Strides Podcast Online Community Want to join other riders who are working alone but not feeling alone? Come be part of our free Facebook group where we share inspiration, training ideas, behind-the-scenes updates, and mini-challenges like Your Signature Ride. We'd love to welcome you! 👥 Join the group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast
🎧 Subscribe, Share, Rate & Review If this episode helped you, please consider subscribing to the podcast so you never miss a new one. Share it with a riding friend who could use a little extra clarity and encouragement. And if you have a moment, rating and reviewing the show really helps us reach more riders around the world. Thank you for being part of the Strides for Success community!
A lot of riders think they need a better outline, smoother transitions, or a horse who feels more "together"…
But underneath all of that is a deeper question:- Can your horse maintain their own body without you micromanaging every stride?
In this episode of the Daily Strides Podcast for Equestrians, we're diving into why self-carriage matters so much more than most riders realise, and why it has very little to do with head position, 'frames', or how your horse looks on the outside.
Because, let's face it; if you are constantly having to hold everything together, balance every stride, and manage every little piece of the ride, it very quickly becomes exhausting!
As riders, it is so important to help our horse to understand and begin workin on carrying their share of the 'team work'.
In this episode, I'm breaking down what self-carriage actually means in practical rider language, what it definitely is not, and how you can begin recognising where your horse may need more support and development.
- What self-carriage really means for everyday riders
- Why self-carriage is not about head carriage or a pretty outline
- How to tell if your horse is leaning on you for balance
- The question every rider should ask:- 'If I softened here, would my horse maintain?'
- Why some horses can hold things together for only a few strides
- How riders often end up doing too much without realising it
- Why lunging is one of the best places to begin developing self-carriage
Connection Membership Join a growing community of riders from around the world who are building consistent progress in the saddle, often without riding more. Inside Connection, you'll get access to our fortnightly Review & Planning Calls, live virtual group lessons, Q&A sessions, and a full library of on-demand audio horse riding lessons. Start your two-week cycle with us today: 👉 https://stridesforsuccess.com/join
🐴 Restart & Reschool: Private Coaching Feeling stuck or uncertain in your riding and training? This 13-week 1-to-1 coaching program is designed to help you get unstuck and move forward with clarity and confidence. We'll work closely together to map out your next steps, troubleshoot your challenges, and get real results with your horse. 👉 https://stridesforsuccess.com/rr
⏱️ 15 Minutes or Less Short on time? You don't need a full hour to make meaningful progress with your horse. This free resource gives you over 80 ideas for exercises, groundwork, mounted work, and mindset—all designed to help you move forward in your riding in 15 minutes or less. Perfect for busy riders or unpredictable days. 🎁 Grab it here: https://stridesforsuccess.com/15
💬 The Daily Strides Podcast Online Community Want to join other riders who are working alone but not feeling alone? Come be part of our free Facebook group where we share inspiration, training ideas, behind-the-scenes updates, and mini-challenges like Your Signature Ride. We'd love to welcome you! 👥 Join the group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast
🎧 Subscribe, Share, Rate & Review If this episode helped you, please consider subscribing to the podcast so you never miss a new one. Share it with a riding friend who could use a little extra clarity and encouragement. And if you have a moment, rating and reviewing the show really helps us reach more riders around the world. Thank you for being part of the Strides for Success community!
Letting go is hard. Especially when what you're letting go of feels like who you are.
In this episode of Sunday Strides, Lorna explores the idea of mental suppleness as a rider; and why it's just as important as physical suppleness in the saddle.
Because sometimes the very thing holding you back isn't your horse, your skill, or your circumstances…
It's the identity you're clinging to!
Connection Membership Join a growing community of riders from around the world who are building consistent progress in the saddle, often without riding more. Inside Connection, you'll get access to our fortnightly Review & Planning Calls, live virtual group lessons, Q&A sessions, and a full library of on-demand audio horse riding lessons. Start your two-week cycle with us today: 👉 https://stridesforsuccess.com/join
🐴 Restart & Reschool: Private Coaching Feeling stuck or uncertain in your riding and training? This 13-week 1-to-1 coaching program is designed to help you get unstuck and move forward with clarity and confidence. We'll work closely together to map out your next steps, troubleshoot your challenges, and get real results with your horse. 👉 https://stridesforsuccess.com/rr
⏱️ 15 Minutes or Less Short on time? You don't need a full hour to make meaningful progress with your horse. This free resource gives you over 80 ideas for exercises, groundwork, mounted work, and mindset—all designed to help you move forward in your riding in 15 minutes or less. Perfect for busy riders or unpredictable days. 🎁 Grab it here: https://stridesforsuccess.com/15
💬 The Daily Strides Podcast Online Community Want to join other riders who are working alone but not feeling alone? Come be part of our free Facebook group where we share inspiration, training ideas, behind-the-scenes updates, and mini-challenges like Your Signature Ride. We'd love to welcome you! 👥 Join the group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast
🎧 Subscribe, Share, Rate & Review If this episode helped you, please consider subscribing to the podcast so you never miss a new one. Share it with a riding friend who could use a little extra clarity and encouragement. And if you have a moment, rating and reviewing the show really helps us reach more riders around the world. Thank you for being part of the Strides for Success community!
Have you ever started working toward something new in your riding where you intially felt excited, motivated, and ready to do the work...
Only to realise halfway through that you might have bitten off more than you can chew?! If so, welcome to the messy middle!
In this episode, we're diving into the phase of growth that most riders experience, but many allow to keep them stuck - and even turn back!
It's the point where:
- Things feel worse before they feel better
- Your horse doesn't look as "pretty" as before
- Your aids feel awkward
- Communication gets a little jumbled
- You're tempted to go back to the way things were
This is not failure; it's a sign that change is happening and this is the episode to encourage you to stick with it.
Connection Membership Join a growing community of riders from around the world who are building consistent progress in the saddle, often without riding more. Inside Connection, you'll get access to our fortnightly Review & Planning Calls, live virtual group lessons, Q&A sessions, and a full library of on-demand audio horse riding lessons. Start your two-week cycle with us today: 👉 https://stridesforsuccess.com/join
🐴 Restart & Reschool: Private Coaching Feeling stuck or uncertain in your riding and training? This 13-week 1-to-1 coaching program is designed to help you get unstuck and move forward with clarity and confidence. We'll work closely together to map out your next steps, troubleshoot your challenges, and get real results with your horse. 👉 https://stridesforsuccess.com/rr
⏱️ 15 Minutes or Less Short on time? You don't need a full hour to make meaningful progress with your horse. This free resource gives you over 80 ideas for exercises, groundwork, mounted work, and mindset—all designed to help you move forward in your riding in 15 minutes or less. Perfect for busy riders or unpredictable days. 🎁 Grab it here: https://stridesforsuccess.com/15
💬 The Daily Strides Podcast Online Community Want to join other riders who are working alone but not feeling alone? Come be part of our free Facebook group where we share inspiration, training ideas, behind-the-scenes updates, and mini-challenges like Your Signature Ride. We'd love to welcome you! 👥 Join the group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast
🎧 Subscribe, Share, Rate & Review If this episode helped you, please consider subscribing to the podcast so you never miss a new one. Share it with a riding friend who could use a little extra clarity and encouragement. And if you have a moment, rating and reviewing the show really helps us reach more riders around the world. Thank you for being part of the Strides for Success community!
One Pole = Endless Possibilities.
Why do we overcomplicate our riding, when often the biggest breakthroughs come from doing less?!
In this episode of Sunday Strides, Lorna challenges you to strip things right back. No fancy setups. No complicated grids. No elaborate plans.
Just one pole, placed on the ground, and a willingness to get creative.
Back to Basics to Move Forward Inside Connection this quarter, the theme is ground poles. But instead of building complex exercises, Lorna suggests starting with the simplest possible version: a single pole.
Because when you remove the overwhelm, you create space for clarity. And clarity leads to progress.
Your Challenge This Week: Place one pole on the ground and explore what you can do with it.
- Groundwork around it
- Lateral movements
- Stride adjustments
- Riding straight lines with intention
- Raising it slightly for core strength
The possibilities are endless when you stop waiting for the "perfect setup."
Take Action This Week 1. Set up one pole. 2. Get creative with how you use it. 3. Film a short clip. 4. Reflect on what you notice.
Then head over to the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community and let us know how it went https://facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast
What happens when you expect the worst in your riding?
More often than not, you brace! And when you brace, your horse feels it.
In this episode, I'm diving into what bracing when working with your horse really looks like (physically, mentally, and emotionally), why it quietly blocks connection and suppleness, and how it can accidentally teach your horse to anticipate tension before anything has even happened.
If you've ever:
- Gripped before asking for canter
- Tightened your reins when another horse whinnied
- Held your breath during transitions
- Expected things to go wrong before they even started
This episode is for you!
We'll explore:
- Why bracing becomes a habit
- How horses learn to anticipate our anticipation
- Why "just relax" isn't always the answer
- The real opposite of bracing (and how to practice it)
- Simple ways to shift from bracing to embracing in your next ride
📖 Read the Full Blog Post: Bracing When Working With Your Horse https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1389-guilty-of-bracing-when-working-with-your-horse
📥 Free Resource: Download the 15 Minutes or Less Workbook Simple, practical ideas to help you show up intentionally with your horse. 👉 https://www.stridesforsuccess.com/15
💛 Want More Support? Inside Connection, we work on exactly this — building softness, clarity, and confidence in your riding (without overthinking everything).
Learn more here: 👉 https://stridesforsuccess.com/join
If this episode resonated with you, please share it with a fellow rider or leave a review; it helps more riders find the podcast.
Happy Riding and chat soon Lorna
Life doesn't always leave space for long, luxurious rides, but that doesn't mean your riding has to slide backwards. In this episode, Lorna shares a simple, intentional 10-minute riding plan that keeps you connected, consistent, and moving forward with your horse… Even when everything else feels chaotic.
If you've ever found yourself thinking, "I don't have time for a proper ride," this episode will show you how to make the most of the time you do have, and why short, focused riding sessions often create more progress than long, unfocused ones.
In This Episode, You'll Learn… * Why a 10-minute plan can save your riding during busy seasons * How to set up a smaller space to improve focus and reduce overwhelm * Why "riding" doesn't have to mean being in the saddle * The exact structure of the 10-minute riding plan * What not to do when you're short on time * Why intentional short rides often lead to better results than rushed long ones * How to create momentum over 4–6 busy weeks using time windows, weekly focuses, and tracking
https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1388-a-10-minute-riding-plan-to-keep-you-riding-when-life-gets-busy/
🐴 Connection Membership Join a growing community of riders from around the world who are building consistent progress in the saddle, often without riding more. Inside Connection, you'll get access to our fortnightly Review & Planning Calls, live virtual group lessons, Q&A sessions, and a full library of on-demand audio horse riding lessons. Start your two-week cycle with us today: 👉 https://stridesforsuccess.com/join
🐴 Restart & Reschool: Private Coaching Feeling stuck or uncertain in your riding and training? This 13-week 1-to-1 coaching program is designed to help you get unstuck and move forward with clarity and confidence. We'll work closely together to map out your next steps, troubleshoot your challenges, and get real results with your horse. 👉 https://stridesforsuccess.com/rr
⏱️ 15 Minutes or Less Short on time? You don't need a full hour to make meaningful progress with your horse. This free resource gives you over 80 ideas for exercises, groundwork, mounted work, and mindset, all designed to help you move forward in your riding in 15 minutes or less. Perfect for busy riders or unpredictable days. 🎁 Grab it here: https://stridesforsuccess.com/15
💬 The Daily Strides Podcast Online Community Want to join other riders who are working alone but not feeling alone? Come be part of our free Facebook group where we share inspiration, training ideas, behind-the-scenes updates, and mini-challenges like Your Signature Ride. We'd love to welcome you! 👥 Join the group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast
🎧 Subscribe, Share, Rate & Review If this episode helped you, please consider subscribing to the podcast so you never miss a new one. Share it with a riding friend who could use a little extra clarity and encouragement. And if you have a moment, rating and reviewing the show really helps us reach more riders around the world. Thank you for being part of the Strides for Success community!
Slowing down in your riding can feel frustrating, especially when you're eager to move forward or feel like you "should" be doing more. In this episode, I'm answering the most common questions riders sent in after last week's conversation and showing you how slow, steady work creates real, lasting progress for both you and your horse.
We'll cover:
- Where to begin when slowing things down (and why groundwork is the missing step for most riders)
- How to tell the difference between thinking forward and rushing so you know what's actually improving
- Why your first attempt at slow work might feel awful, and what that really means about your basics
- How to keep your horse (and yourself!) engaged when the work feels simple or repetitive
- What to do if you've been helicopter-riding and your horse falls apart when you stop helping
- Whether going slow affects fitness — and the mindset shift that makes all the difference
- How to know if your slow work is working by watching for specific changes in rhythm, balance, and responsiveness
If you're a rider working alone without a regular coach or trainer, this episode will help you feel more confident, more prepared, and far less overwhelmed about what "going slow" really looks like in practice.
Connection Membership Join a growing community of riders from around the world who are building consistent progress in the saddle, often without riding more. Inside Connection, you'll get access to our fortnightly Review & Planning Calls, live virtual group lessons, Q&A sessions, and a full library of on-demand audio horse riding lessons. Start your two-week cycle with us today: 👉 https://stridesforsuccess.com/join
🐴 Restart & Reschool: Private Coaching Feeling stuck or uncertain in your riding and training? This 13-week 1-to-1 coaching program is designed to help you get unstuck and move forward with clarity and confidence. We'll work closely together to map out your next steps, troubleshoot your challenges, and get real results with your horse. 👉 https://stridesforsuccess.com/rr
⏱️ 15 Minutes or Less Short on time? You don't need a full hour to make meaningful progress with your horse. This free resource gives you over 80 ideas for exercises, groundwork, mounted work, and mindset, all designed to help you move forward in your riding in 15 minutes or less. Perfect for busy riders or unpredictable days. 🎁 Grab it here: https://stridesforsuccess.com/15
💬 The Daily Strides Podcast Online Community Want to join other riders who are working alone but not feeling alone? Come be part of our free Facebook group where we share inspiration, training ideas, behind-the-scenes updates, and mini-challenges like Your Signature Ride. We'd love to welcome you! 👥 Join the group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast
🎧 Subscribe, Share, Rate & Review If this episode helped you, please consider subscribing to the podcast so you never miss a new one. Share it with a riding friend who could use a little extra clarity and encouragement. And if you have a moment, rating and reviewing the show really helps us reach more riders around the world. Thank you for being part of the Strides for Success community!
If you've ever felt like things in the saddle are either happening at 100km/h with you just hanging on, or your horse feels like the handbrake will not release no matter how you ask... This episode is for you!
Today, we're diving into the uncomfortable truth that keeps so many riders stuck: not being willing to slow down in order to go faster later. We're stripping everything back to the foundational communication between you and your horse, the mindset of forwardness, and rebuilding from the beginning in a way that actually works.
Whether your horse feels like a rocket with a mind of its own… Or like they need a push and a prayer just to enter the arena; this episode will help you understand what's really going on, and what needs to happen next.
In this episode, you'll learn:
- Why "forward" has nothing to do with speed and everything to do with mindset
- The biggest communication gap that causes both rushing and slugging
- How groundwork becomes the key to changing your horse's willingness under saddle
- Why walk–halt transitions are the most underrated power tool in your riding
- How to know when you're ready to move on to trot and finally canter
- The 12-week framework that will rebuild responsiveness, confidence and connection
You don't need a different horse, you don't need to ride more. You just need to start at the beginning again, with the basics done correctly this time.
Let's dig in… https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1386-what-youre-not-willing-to-do-in-order-to-improve-your-riding/
Connection Your next step if you're serious about creating actual progress in your training, without needing to ride more or change horses! Inside Connection, we're currently working through the Half Halt: first on the lunge, now in the saddle, and December is where everything clicks into place.
✔️ For riders working without a regular coach ✔️ Structured lessons + accountability so you stay consistent ✔️ A training rhythm that builds confidence, clarity & connection
Join us for the December Half Halt Training 🚀 👉 https://stridesforsuccess.com/join
The Daily Strides Podcast Online Community This is our free, friendly Facebook group where you can share your wins, get support, ask questions, and connect with other riders who are also working alone, but not doing it alone anymore.
✔️ Weekly prompts & practical ideas ✔️ A space to stay motivated between rides ✔️ Real conversations with riders like you
Join us inside → https://facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast
15 Minutes or Less Freebie If time is the reason you feel stuck… This is your lifeline! The "15 Minutes or Less" workbook gives you quick, focused exercises you can do on busy days to keep momentum going with your horse.
✔️ For riders short on time ✔️ No arena required ✔️ Keeps progress happening in tiny but powerful ways
Download it now → https://stridesforsuccess.com/15
Restart & Reschool: Private Coaching If after listening you're thinking: "Yes, this is me. I need personal guidance through this process…", this is where we work 1–to-1 over 12 weeks to restart patterns, rebuild foundations, and reschool habits so you can move forward with certainty.
✔️ Tailored coaching for your exact partnership ✔️ Video reviews + clear assignments each week ✔️ Perfect for horses coming back into work or needing a clean slate
Learn more → https://stridesforsuccess.com/rr
Subscribe, Share & Leave a Review 💛 Loving the podcast? The best way to support the show is to:
1️⃣ Follow/Subscribe in your favourite podcast app 2️⃣ Share this episode with a riding friend who needs to hear it 3️⃣ Leave a review so more riders can find us
Thank you, truly! You being here matters, and your progress in the saddle matters even more 🐴✨
Your Energy Begins the Conversation From the moment your horse becomes aware of you, before any halter, tack, or aids, the conversation has already started. In this episode, we explore how your energy sets the tone for the entire interaction. Whether it's calm, chaotic, focused, or distracted, your energy speaks louder than your words or actions.
Suggested Reflection: Pause before you approach your horse. Ask yourself: What energy am I bringing into this space?
Intentional Stillness as a Training Tool Doing "nothing" might be the most impactful thing you do this week. We often think connection comes through doing, but true partnership is often built through simply being with your horse. Still. Calm. Present.
Try This: Spend 5–10 minutes just being with your horse this week. Sit, stand, or walk quietly, no agenda. Just notice the shift.
The Power of Breath Awareness Lorna reminds us that breath is one of the most underutilized tools in riding and groundwork. Shallow, erratic breath reflects stress. Deep, calm breathing brings safety and groundedness. Your horse will feel the difference.
Mini Exercise: Before interacting, take 3 slow, conscious breaths. Let each exhale settle you more deeply into the moment.
Partnership Starts on the Ground, Not in the Saddle Many riders focus on improving their connection during rides, but often skip over the groundwork of connection that starts long before the ride. The first look, the first breath, the first touch. All shape your training outcomes.
Shift in Perspective: See every interaction, grooming, leading, even watching from the fence, as an opportunity to strengthen your partnership.
🎧 The Connection Partnership Program This powerful program was originally created as a live in-person experience at the farm. It's now available as a self-paced audio training, designed to help you intentionally develop your presence, energy, and awareness to deepen your partnership from the ground up.
🟢 On special this weekend only! Access the full Connection Partnership Program at 👉 www.stridesforsuccess.com/cpp
You're in the arena. It's just you and your horse. No trainer. No instructor. Just the two of you - riding alone. This probably wasn't the plan, yet here you are. And if you're like most riders, it's not the riding alone that's the problem... It's what tends to creep in when you do:
- You lose motivation
- You skip the structure
- Progress stalls (or feels non-existent!)
- Boredom shows up
- You start questioning everything
- And before you know it, you're wondering if you're going backwards
This week's Strides Revisited episode goes back to the heart of riding alone, and how to actually keep moving forward when it's just you and your horse.
"Riding alone can work brilliantly if you know how to keep yourself inspired, accountable, and structured."
In this episode, you'll learn:
- The 5 sneaky roadblocks riders face when going solo
- How to create small wins that keep you showing up
- Why having markers in the arena can change everything
- How to start holding yourself accountable (even without a coach)
- The power of timing, tracking, and planning (yes, even as a solo rider!)
Listen in and rediscover how to take ownership of your riding, and do it in a way that actually feels fun again.
Download the 15 Minutes or Less Freebie If you struggle to ride consistently because of time… this is for you.
The 15 Minutes or Less Riding Plan Guide includes:
- 10+ exercise ideas you can do with just 15 minutes
- Instant 'get in, get done' ride themes
- Goal-aligned prompts for every session
- Editable plan templates
🎁 Grab it now (free): https://stridesforsuccess.com/15
Join Connection The structured monthly membership for riders who train alone
Inside Connection, you'll get audio horse riding lessons, live virtual group riding lessons, monthly themes for clear progression, bi-weekly Review & Planning Sessions, and something to work on every day your with your horse!
Riding alone doesn't have to mean guessing alone. Get the rhythm, structure, and set lessons you need to ride better, from wherever you are.
👉 Learn more at: https://stridesforsuccess.com/join
Restart & Reschool: Private Coaching Perfect for riders feeling 'stuck' or overwhelmed on their horse's training journey, especially if you're starting over, returning after a break, or working with a green or retraining horse.
You'll get:
- Private virtual lessons
- 1:1 feedback and video reviews
- Clear step-by-step guidance
- Support to rebuild confidence and structure
Get off the merry-go-round and into real progress.
📝 Get the Details here:- https://stridesforsuccess.com/rr
Join the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community A free group for riders like you, committed to riding better and building real momentum.
Inside, you'll find:
- Weekly discussion questions
- Bite-sized tips and prompts
- Accountability threads
- Community support
🟣 Come join us: https://stridesforsuccess.com/group
Whether you're training your own horse or simply trying to get back into the saddle more consistently, planning when riding alone can feel like a guessing game. In this episode, I'm breaking down how to use your own riding review to create focused, doable 1 to 2 week plans that actually move your riding and training forward.
We'll cover:
- What to include in your review (and why timing matters)
- The 3 planning traps most riders fall into (and how to avoid them)
- How to choose your one priority that will create the most progress
- Building in practice, progress, and pauses for lasting improvement
- How to make your next review easier by tracking smarter now
If you're riding without a regular coach or trainer, this is exactly what will help you feel less alone and more in control of your progress.
https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1385-turning-your-reviews-into-a-plan-when-riding-alone/
Connection Membership Join a growing community of riders from around the world who are building consistent progress in the saddle, often without riding more. Inside Connection, you'll get access to our fortnightly Review & Planning Calls, live virtual group lessons, Q&A sessions, and a full library of on-demand audio horse riding lessons. Start your two-week cycle with us today: 👉 https://stridesforsuccess.com/join
🐴 Restart & Reschool: Private Coaching Feeling stuck or uncertain in your riding and training? This 13-week 1-to-1 coaching program is designed to help you get unstuck and move forward with clarity and confidence. We'll work closely together to map out your next steps, troubleshoot your challenges, and get real results with your horse. 👉 https://stridesforsuccess.com/rr
⏱️ 15 Minutes or Less Short on time? You don't need a full hour to make meaningful progress with your horse. This free resource gives you over 80 ideas for exercises, groundwork, mounted work, and mindset—all designed to help you move forward in your riding in 15 minutes or less. Perfect for busy riders or unpredictable days. 🎁 Grab it here: https://stridesforsuccess.com/15
💬 The Daily Strides Podcast Online Community Want to join other riders who are working alone but not feeling alone? Come be part of our free Facebook group where we share inspiration, training ideas, behind-the-scenes updates, and mini-challenges like Your Signature Ride. We'd love to welcome you! 👥 Join the group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast
🎧 Subscribe, Share, Rate & Review If this episode helped you, please consider subscribing to the podcast so you never miss a new one. Share it with a riding friend who could use a little extra clarity and encouragement. And if you have a moment, rating and reviewing the show really helps us reach more riders around the world. Thank you for being part of the Strides for Success community!
How well do you really know your horse? Not just how he feels under saddle, but how he is when you're not riding?
This week on Sunday Strides, I'm inviting you to do something simple, but powerful. You're going to spend a few minutes each day checking your horse's vitals. Why? Because when something feels "off," knowing what's normal helps you act fast, give your vet accurate information, and be the advocate your horse needs.
No riding required. No lunging. Just you, your horse, and a little extra attention.
Here's Your Challenge for the Week: ✅ Take your horse's temperature (morning + evening) ✅ Count their resting breath rate ✅ Check the colour of the mucus membranes (gums or inner eyelids) ✅ Test capillary refill time ✅ Record the digital pulse in the lower leg (for all 4 legs) ✅ Run your hands down their legs and feet for lumps, swelling, and heat
Do this four times this week, ideally morning and evening for 4 days, and then commit to making this part of your regular routine twice a week going forward.
It takes just a few minutes, but could save you hours (or worse) later.
Mentioned in the Episode 🔁 Strides Revisited (Thursday Episode) Want to saddle up with more clarity this week? Thursday's Strides Revisited episode is a riding-based lesson that complements what we covered today. It helps you take what you're learning from your daily groundwork and body checks—and apply it to the time you spend in the saddle. Listen in to keep your momentum going.
➡️ Listen here →
💬 Join the Free DSPodcast Online Community The conversation continues in the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community on Facebook. It's a welcoming space to share your wins, ask questions, and get support as you build a stronger connection with your horse. This week, post a photo of you doing one of your daily checks—or share what surprised you most!
➡️ Join the free group →
🎯 Connection Membership If you're enjoying this and want more structure, support, and rhythm in your riding and training, Connection is where it all comes together. Inside, we follow a clear 90-day cycle of Groundwork, Basics, and Training. Members receive ride plans, live lessons, and monthly challenges that turn awareness (like today's topic!) into consistent progress.
➡️ Explore Connection →
🧭 Connection VIP Private Coaching Sometimes you don't need more information; you need the right eyes on your riding. The Connection VIP Private Coaching is a private coaching experience where we identify the gaps, create a plan, and move you from stuck to certain. If you feel like you're spinning your wheels, this is for you.
➡️ Learn about private coaching →
🏇 Your Signature Ride Challenge A fun and free challenge designed to get you thinking (and riding!) in new ways. You'll track your ride using GPS and 'write' your name in the arena using only seat and leg aids. A great way to practice intentional riding, and maybe even win 3 months of Connection!
➡️ Join the Challenge →
Most riders think they're balanced, until something unexpected happens! This episode brings you back to one simple, brutally honest test:
If your horse disappeared beneath you right now, would you land on your feet?
That's the Click-Your-Fingers Rule. It's the fastest way to check if you're actually carrying yourself, or letting your horse carry you. This matters because when you rely on your horse for balance, EVERYTHING gets harder. Your transitions are 'less than' great, leg position goes for a ball and the overall communicate between horse and rider breaks down.
But when YOU take responsibility for your position, you immediately become clearer, more stable, and more influential in the saddle.
In this episode, you'll learn:
- What the Click-Your-Fingers rule actually means in practice
- Why head–shoulder–hip–heel alignment still matters (and where most riders go wrong)
- How your seat affects EVERYTHING, including your horse's back
- Why relying on the horse for balance blocks progress
- How to apply this rule in transitions, jumping, AND hacking
This rule holds up anywhere; walk, trot, canter, transitions, hills, jumps. If you'd land on your feet, you're in business. If not, you've just found your next training focus ;)
Ready to go deeper? Inside Connection, we take this concept off the page and into your actual riding, helping you build an independent seat that works with your horse, not against them.
For the coming 3 months inside of our online membership, we're dedicating our work to developing a reliable, effective half-halts, from the foundations upward. Includes audio riding lessons, live group lessons, monthly planning + review sessions, and more. Join here → https://stridesforsuccess.com/join
⭐ Restart & Reschool: Private Coaching Get personalised guidance to retrain your horse or rebuild your own skills with confidence and clarity. Details → https://stridesforsuccess.com/rr
⭐ Your Signature Ride Challenge A fun, simple way to build awareness of your seat and leg aids — and start communicating more clearly with your horse. Learn more + join → https://stridesforsuccess.com/ride
⭐ The Daily Strides Podcast Online Community A free space to continue the conversation, ask questions, and share your riding progress with likeminded riders. Join here → https://www.facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast
✅ If You Loved This Episode… Please:
- Share it with a riding friend
- Subscribe / Follow so you never miss an episode
- Rate + Review the podcast to help other riders find it
Your support helps us reach and help more horses & riders around the world.
✅ Connect With Lorna Website: https://stridesforsuccess.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/stridesforsuccess YouTube: https://youtube.com/@stridesforsuccess
Have you ever felt your horse suddenly "drop out" from underneath you? It can feel like his back becomes a little shallow underneath you, his head and neck lift, energy is usually lost... And things become REALLY jarring and disconnected! If so, you've likely experienced your horse becoming hollow.
It's uncomfortable, frustrating, and honestly, it can feel like the whole arse has just fallen out of your ride!
In this episode, we're unpacking:
- What hollowness really is
- Why it happens (there are 3 big culprits)
- How to begin retraining your horse so the back engages again
- Why half-halts often don't work on a hollow horse, and how to change that
What You'll Learn * How to feel and identify when your horse is hollow * Why chasing your horse's head and neck only worsens the problem * Why rider balance is often the secret contributing factor * The importance of mental + physical forwardness * How rhythm helps your horse organize his body * A simple walk–halt exercise to start rebuilding communication * Where the half-halt really fits into improving your horse's balance
⭐ Connection Our online membership where we're dedicating October–December 2025 to developing a reliable, effective half-halt, from the foundations upward. Includes audio riding lessons, live group lessons, monthly planning + review sessions, and more. Join here → https://stridesforsuccess.com/join
⭐ Restart & Reschool: Private Coaching Get personalised guidance to retrain your horse or rebuild your own skills with confidence and clarity. Details → https://stridesforsuccess.com/rr
⭐ Your Signature Ride Challenge A fun, simple way to build awareness of your seat and leg aids, and start communicating more clearly with your horse. Learn more + join → https://stridesforsuccess.com/ride
⭐ The Daily Strides Podcast Online Community A free space to continue the conversation, ask questions, and share your riding progress with like-minded riders. Join here → https://www.facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast
✅ If You Loved This Episode… Please:
- Share it with a riding friend
- Subscribe / Follow so you never miss an episode
- Rate + Review the podcast to help other riders find it
Your support helps us reach and help more horses & riders around the world.
✅ Connect With Lorna Website: https://stridesforsuccess.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/stridesforsuccess YouTube: https://youtube.com/@stridesforsuccess
"Make the plan… but stay supple in your approach."
In this short and sweet Sunday episode, Lorna shares a real-life moment from the past week where sticking to the plan just wasn't going to work. What started as a flatwork session in the arena quickly turned into a very different kind of ride; one that ended up being even more impactful.
Because sometimes… The plan isn't wrong. But the timing is.
Here's What You'll Hear: * Why tension can derail even the best-laid training plans * How to tell when it's time to change your session on the fly * A simple way to "reset the comfort zone" for your horse * What makes training feel productive, even without the arena * The permission slip every rider needs: It's okay to change the plan
Want More Support for Rides Like This? 🐎 Inside Connection, you'll find weekly riding plans that build progress—without rigid rules. Each session is designed with flexibility in mind, so you can meet your horse where they are on the day. Join us and ride with rhythm, clarity, and confidence.
👉 Learn more about Connection here
Join the Conversation What did your last "change the plan" moment look like? Share your story inside the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community on Facebook. We're chatting about episodes like this every week, and we'd love to hear from you!
👉 Join the free community here
🎙️ Subscribe, Rate & Review If this episode made you breathe easier or rethink your ride… Please share it with a fellow equestrian! And don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review the show on your favorite podcast app. It helps other riders find us, and helps you never miss a Sunday boost!
Few things feel as unsettling as when your horse suddenly whips around and bolts. It can knock your confidence quickly, especially if it becomes a repeated habit.
This episode explores why it happens and practical ways to help your horse stay with you mentally and emotionally so you can both relax on your rides again.
Key Takeaways * Spinning usually starts from fear, not "naughtiness." * Your job is to help your horse feel safe & supported. * Clear boundaries and calm leadership matter. * If he begins to spin, gently interrupt the pattern and guide him back the way he came. * Look for triggers (location, objects, rider tension, herd separation). * Build confidence slowly with groundwork, desensitisation, and positive experiences. * An experienced rider may help in the early stages.
What You'll Learn * Why horses spook & spin * How to interrupt the spin calmly * Ways to prevent it from starting * Confidence-building strategies
Free Resource 👉 Get the 15 Minutes or Less Workbook Short, simple sessions to strengthen trust + communication.
https://stridesforsuccess.com/15
Go Deeper Inside Connection There's a full week of training on this inside Connection, in the Reschooling Collection
Join us to get the step-by-step lessons and support.
https://stridesforsuccess.com/join
👋 Continue the Conversation Share your experience in the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community on Facebook.
https://facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast
If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, rate, review, and share the podcast.
2025 Note from Lorna: This episode was first recorded in 2017. I explain things a little more firmly than I would today; you live and learn 😉 The heart of the message remains: spooky horses need clarity, confidence, and trust to feel safe.
If you've ever wondered why your half halt isn't working, you're not alone. The half halt is one of the most commonly referenced tools in riding, yet it's also one of the most misunderstood!
In this episode, we strip away the confusion and break down what the half halt actually is, what it isn't, how to tell if your half halt worked, and what to do when it doesn't deliver the rebalancing and clarity you were hoping for.
Whether you're a newer rider or you've been in the saddle for years, this conversation will help you simplify your approach and start getting more consistent results with your horse.
Here's what you'll learn in this episode * What the half halt actually means (and why it's much simpler than you've been told) * Why so many riders struggle to ride an effective half halt * The real purpose of the half halt; hint: it's not just slowing down * How to ride the half halt correctly * Signs your half halt is working * Why your half halt isn't working (and how to troubleshoot the most common issues) * The role of timing, feel, and forward energy * How to start practicing and refining your half halt today
If the half halt has ever felt mysterious, complicated, or just plain ineffective… you'll walk away from this episode with clarity and practical next steps.
Connection - Deep Dive the Half Halt Inside Connection, my online membership for equestrians working alone without a regular trainer or coach, we are dedicating October, November, and December 2025 to refining the half halt. We are working on the lunge, on the ground, and in the saddle.
Each month includes:
- Weekly live training sessions
- Audio riding lessons
- Clear step-by-step guidance
If you want to go beyond "knowing what the half halt is" and begin feeling it consistently, Connection is where we do that work together.
Learn more here: https://stridesforsuccess.com/join
Your Signature Ride Challenge Ready for something fun to add to your training? Join the Your Signature Ride Challenge, where you'll use seat and leg aids to "write your name" with your horse using a tracking app.
It's a playful way to improve accuracy, body awareness, and communication, while having a laugh at the same time.
You'll get:
- A guided audio lesson
- Direction and support
- The chance to win access to Connection
https://stridesforsuccess.com/ride
Join the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community If you enjoy this episode, you'll love the free Daily Strides Podcast Online Community. Share your experiences, ask questions, learn from other riders, and stay inspired, especially if you're riding alone without a trainer.
Come join us here: https://facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast
Subscribe, Rate & Review If this episode helped you understand why your half halt isn't working - tell someone :) Please subscribe, rate, review, and share the podcast with a friend. It helps us reach more riders who are working alone and want reliable, supportive guidance.
Thank you for being here and for riding with us.
Ever find yourself clicking "add to cart" on another shiny new piece of tack or training tool, hoping this one will fix it all?
In this week's Sunday Strides episode, we're calling it like it is…
What are the last five things you bought for your horse… And are they actually helping you get where you want to go?
Lorna's walking you through a quick Sunday mindset reset that might just challenge how you approach your riding and training this week. Spoiler alert: it's not about gear, it's about getting back to the basics and using what you already have…
Your natural aids.
What if the very thing holding you back is all the stuff you thought would help?
Here's What You'll Learn: * Why minimalism in training might be the secret to real progress * What to strip away from your current setup to focus on true connection * How to audit your tack and training gear with intention * Why your natural aids are often neglected, but crucial * A challenge to reset your ride this week (with zero purchases required)
Ready to Ride Smarter? 🏇 Join the free Your Signature Ride Challenge and learn how to use your seat and legs with purpose to literally ride your name in the arena 👉 https://stridesforsuccess.com/ride
Grab the free training on how to Turn Your Phone into Your Riding Instructor here 👉 https://stridesforsuccess.com/video
Want Help Figuring Out Your Basics? If you feel like you're spinning your wheels and not improving, private support might be your missing piece. Learn more about 1:1 coaching inside Restart & Reschool 👉 https://stridesforsuccess.com/rr
Join the Community ✨ If this episode got you thinking, come share your reflections and progress in the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast
🐴 Prefer Weekly Structure & Support? Connection is the membership for riders like you who train solo and want a simple, supportive system to keep progressing 👉 https://stridesforsuccess.com/join
🍷 And for the Wine-Loving Horse Girls... Don't miss Equine'n'Wine, the podcast where Lorna and her sister Emma-Jane dish out lighthearted horse chat, laughter, and stories you'll swear could be your own. Search for Equine'n'Wine wherever you get your podcasts!
Do You Dream of Relaxed, Happy Group Rides? Most riders do! The image of cantering across open fields with friends is magical — until reality sets in. Will your horse stay calm? What if someone else's horse spooks?
This week on The Daily Strides Podcast for Equestrians, we're revisiting how to socialise your horse for riding in a group, and how to prepare both of you for calm, confident trail rides.
Inside the episode, you'll learn:
- How to choose the right riding companions (horses and riders!)
- Why starting in an enclosed space builds confidence faster
- How to teach your horse to listen to you, not just follow the herd
- The best way to find your horse's 'happy place' in the group
- Why slow and steady rides build the foundation for future adventures
Whether you're preparing your OTTB for their first hack or getting your young horse ready for trail adventures, these steps will help you both enjoy the experience; without the drama!
Inside Connection: Train with Riders Who Get It If you're ready to build confidence and calm both in and out of the arena, you'll love Connection, the membership that helps you create rhythm and progress in your riding.
Each month inside Connection, you'll join live virtual group riding lessons where we work through focused themes together. Things like rhythm, balance, and yes, group riding confidence! You'll get the replays, private podcast access, and real community support to keep your momentum going.
https://stridesforsuccess.com/join
Your Signature Ride Challenge Want to test your focus and fun? Join the Signature Ride Challenge; a free, interactive mini-event where riders "write" their name using seat and leg aids alone. It's a playful way to improve coordination, clarity, and connection with your horse (and there's a prize up for grabs each quarter!).
https://stridesforsuccess.com/ride
Restart & Reschool: Private Coaching If your rides are feeling stuck, scattered, or stressful, you don't need to start over; you just need a plan. Through Restart & Reschool Private Coaching, we'll work together 1-to-1 to rebuild your confidence and create a clear, tailored training path for you and your horse. This is ideal for riders bringing a horse back into work or retraining alone.
https://stridesforsuccess.com/rr
Join the Conversation I'd love to hear your experiences with riding in a group; what's worked, what hasn't, and what you're planning next! Share your thoughts and stories inside The Daily Strides Podcast for Equestrians Online Community, our free, friendly Facebook group for riders all over the world.
Enjoying the Podcast? If this episode helped you, please subscribe, rate, review, and share The Daily Strides Podcast for Equestrians. Your support helps me reach more riders who are working alone with their horses and want to make every ride great.
There's one question I get asked at least once a week, both from riders I coach in person and those I help online. Somehow, I've never answered it on the podcast until now!
"Should I have lessons? And if so, what kind; private or group?"
Some riders even ask if they can skip lessons altogether and just ride solo.
In this episode, I'm breaking down the pros and cons of private lessons, group lessons, and going it alone, plus when each one makes the biggest difference in your riding journey.
💡 Here's What You'll Learn in This Episode: * Why private lessons are essential for beginners and riders rebuilding confidence * The power of watching lessons and how they fast-track your understanding * When to move into group lessons (and why they can transform your learning) * How "happy hackers" can use a blended approach to keep growing * The hidden danger of riding solo for too long, and how to avoid it * Why the best riders in the world still take lessons
Whether you're new to riding, finding your way back, or somewhere in between, this episode will help you choose the lesson style that fits you, right now.
🐎 Inside Connection If you love the idea of learning alongside like-minded riders, Connection is where it all comes together. Each month, we host live virtual group lessons, where riders from all over the world join in real time. Some ride along; others watch, learn, and take notes. Everyone walks away with fresh insight and renewed motivation.
Join Connection today and start finding your rhythm in the saddle 👉 https://www.stridesforsuccess.com/join
🎯 Restart & Reschool: Private Coaching If you're craving focused, one-to-one feedback on your riding, with online private lessons tailored to your specific goals, you'll love Restart & Reschool Private Coaching. Together, we'll identify what's holding you back, create a clear plan, and get you moving forward with confidence.
Learn more here → 👉 https://www.stridesforsuccess.com/rr
💬 Join the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community Continue the conversation inside the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community on Facebook; it's free! Share your takeaways, connect with riders from around the world, and get inspired to keep showing up for your horse and your riding goals.
Join us here → 👉 https://www.facebook.com/groups/DailyStridesPodcast
🌟 Subscribe, Rate, Review & Share If this episode helped you rethink how private lessons (or group ones) can work for you, please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and review the show on your favourite podcast app. It really helps other riders discover the podcast, and it means the world to me!
And if you know a fellow rider who's been wondering what type of lessons they should be doing… ➡️ Share this episode with them!
How excited are you to tack up and ride right now... Honestly? This week's episode of Sunday Strides dives into the often-overlooked truth that motivation is fuelled by joy. If you're feeling a little "meh" about your riding, it's probably not your schedule; it's your spark that's missing.
After rediscovering excitement by building (very rustic!) jumps at the new farm, I'm reflecting on how tiny changes can shift everything. From making trails to jumping sticks in the arena, I've learned that reigniting your passion is often one small experiment away.
And it's not just about fun, it's about creating momentum, connection, and a rhythm that keeps you showing up week after week.
🎯 What You'll Take Away: * A simple mindset shift to raise your enthusiasm each week * How joy and motivation are deeply connected in riding * Why fun is a non-negotiable ingredient in long-term consistency * How to find your own version of "building jumps" this week * A challenge to raise your riding excitement, one point at a time
🎧 Mentioned in This Episode: * 💥 Your Signature Ride Challenge (Free): Explore a fun, creative way to bring intention back into your rides. Ride your name using only your seat and legs! ➡️ https://stridesforsuccess.com/ride * 💡 How to Turn Your Phone Into an Instructor (Free Video Training): Practical steps to use your phone for feedback, progress, and confidence. ➡️ https://stridesforsuccess.com/video * 💪 Restart & Reschool Private Coaching: 1-to-1 coaching for riders ready to break old habits and finally move forward with their horse. ➡️ https://stridesforsuccess.com/rr * 🌱 Connection Membership: Your consistent, supportive, and structured riding journey—built around YOUR lifestyle. ➡️ https://stridesforsuccess.com/join * 👯♀️ The Daily Strides Podcast Online Community (Facebook Group): Join the conversation and let us know how you're adding fun to your riding this week! ➡️ https://facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast * 🍷 Equine'n'Wine Podcast: Want to hear more about the "jump building" story (and a few good laughs)? ➡️ https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/equinenwine/id1832643897
🧠 Final Thought If you're not looking forward to riding, you won't ride! Joy isn't optional, it's essential. This week, challenge yourself to make just one change that nudges your excitement a little higher.
Because when you feel good, your horse feels it too 💛
Have you ever caught yourself thinking "I'm just not a natural rider"… or "I'll ruin my horse if I try that"? If so, you're not alone, and these thoughts might be quietly holding you back in your riding.
In this episode of the Daily Strides Podcast, we're tackling four of the most common mindset myths that keep riders stuck in place, and how to break free from them starting today. Whether it's doubting your natural ability, waiting for "feel" to magically arrive, thinking you need more equipment before starting, or fearing you'll make mistakes with your horse, these myths are all fixable.
When you start replacing them with truth and awareness, everything changes; your confidence, your communication, and your results in the saddle.
🎧 Here's what you'll learn in this episode: * Why the idea of "natural talent" can keep you from reaching your potential as a rider * How to actually develop feel in your riding (without waiting years) * The truth about needing special tack, arenas, or ideal circumstances * Why doing nothing often harms your horse's progress more than making small mistakes * Simple shifts to start rewriting your own rider story
💡 Free Resource: Want to get started improving your feel and focus right away? Grab the free training "How to Use Your Phone as Your Riding Instructor". It'll help you see what's really happening in the saddle and start making confident corrections in real time. 👉 https://stridesforsuccess.com/video
🌿 Inside Connection If this episode resonates with you, you'll love what we're doing inside Connection. This is where riders learn how to use modern tools like A.I. in their horse riding to reflect, plan, and ride with purpose, all while keeping things simple and achievable.
Every month, members join me for live Review and Planning Calls, focused riding sessions, and guided prompts to help you see and feel progress in real time.
Join us today and start finding your rhythm in your riding: 👉 https://www.stridesforsuccess.com/join
💬 The Daily Strides Podcast Online Community Want to chat about this week's episode? Join the free Daily Strides Podcast Online Community on Facebook. It's full of riders just like you who are working on their mindset, confidence, and connection with their horses.
You'll find weekly discussions, bite-sized training ideas, and exclusive invites to live events. https://facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast
🐴 Restart & Reschool: Private Coaching If you're ready for more personalised help, explore Restart & Reschool Private Coaching, designed to help you go from stuck to certain in your riding and training.
Together, we'll work 1:1 on your biggest challenges, refine your aids and communication, and create a custom plan that gets results in 13 weeks. This is perfect for riders working alone who want clarity, structure, and real feedback.
Apply or learn more here → https://stridesforsuccess.com/rr
🎥 5-Lesson Virtual Coaching Package Want my personal feedback, but prefer something flexible? The 5-Lesson Virtual Coaching Package is a great option for riders who want tailored lessons with ongoing support, without the need for travel or complicated tech.
All you need is your phone (and optionally a Pivo or simple tripod setup). You'll receive personal feedback, exercises, and guidance between lessons.
Book your 5-lesson package today and start transforming your riding: 👉 https://training.stridesforsuccess.com/offers/jpuTon32/checkout
🧠 Episode Takeaway The biggest myth of all is believing that you can't change your riding because of what you don't have, time, talent, tack, or confidence. Progress starts the moment you decide to begin, exactly where you are, with what you've got. Your horse doesn't need perfection, just your presence and a plan!
Have you ever thought about how the same principles we use to train our horses can apply to us as riders? Half halts help our horses rebalance before moving forward, but what if you could apply that same idea to your mindset and training process?
In this episode of the Daily Strides Podcast, we'll explore how bringing A.I. into your horse riding can help you pause, reflect, and make more consistent progress in your training… even if you don't have a regular coach.
🎁 Free Resource for Riders Before we dive in, if you ever feel like you're riding alone and not sure if you're doing things right, grab your free guide here: 👉 www.stridesforsuccess.com/video
It's a simple step-by-step resource showing you how to use your phone as your riding instructor. You'll learn how to film your rides, review your position and aids, and actually see your progress in real time.
Here's What You'll Learn in This Episode: * How to take the concept of a half halt and apply it to yourself as a rider * What a "mental half halt" is, and how it can help you regain focus during training * Why reviewing your rides is one of the most important things you can do for consistent progress * How using A.I. in your horse riding can help you notice patterns and see results faster * Real-world ways to use A.I. tools (like ChatGPT) to summarise your ride notes or voice memos * Why A.I. won't replace your feel, it will refine it * A simple way to combine awareness, reflection, and modern tools to become a more balanced rider
Inside Connection If this episode resonates with you, you'll love what we're doing inside Connection. This is where riders learn how to use modern tools like A.I. in their horse riding to reflect, plan, and ride with purpose, all while keeping things simple and achievable.
Every month, members join me for live Review and Planning Calls, focused riding sessions, and guided prompts to help you see and feel progress in real time.
Join us today and start finding your rhythm in your riding: 👉 www.stridesforsuccess.com/join
The Daily Strides Podcast Online Community Want to chat about this week's episode? Join the free Daily Strides Podcast Online Community on Facebook. It's full of riders just like you who are working on their mindset, confidence, and connection with their horses.
You'll find weekly discussions, bite-sized training ideas, and exclusive invites to live events https://facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast
Restart & Reschool: Private Coaching If you're ready for more personalised help, explore Restart & Reschool Private Coaching. It's designed to help you go from stuck to certain in your riding and training.
Together, we'll work 1:1 on your biggest challenges, refine your aids and communication, and create a custom plan that gets results in 13 weeks. This is perfect for riders working alone who want clarity, structure, and real feedback.
Apply or learn more here → https://stridesforsuccess.com/rr
5-Lesson Virtual Coaching Package Want my personal feedback, but prefer something flexible? The 5-Lesson Virtual Coaching Package is a great option for riders who want tailored lessons with ongoing support — without the need for travel or complicated tech.
All you need is your phone (and optionally a Pivo or simple tripod setup). You'll receive personal feedback, exercises, and guidance between lessons.
Book your 5-lesson package today and start transforming your riding: 👉 https://training.stridesforsuccess.com/offers/jpuTon32/checkout
Episode Takeaway Just like a half halt helps your horse rebalance before moving forward, using A.I. in your horse riding helps you pause, refocus, and progress with purpose.
It's the pause that creates progress, both in the saddle and in your mindset as a rider.
You know those little supports that help keep things upright while you find your balance? In riding, we have them too, let's call them 'training wheels' ;).
And while they're brilliant for getting started, there comes a time when they're no longer helping… They're holding you back.
In this short and powerful episode, Lorna shines a light on the invisible aids and supports riders often lean on for far too long. From boundary fences to artificial aids, and the well-worn track around the outside of the arena... It's time to ask: What training wheels have outlived their usefulness in your riding?
"What got you here, won't get you there. Let go of what's holding you in place, one finger at a time if you must!"
🎯 What You'll Learn in This Episode: * What "training wheels" look like in horse riding (and how to spot yours) * Why some aids and tools help at first but hinder long-term * How to know when it's time to let go and move on * The difference between relying on boundaries vs. creating your own channel of communication * How small shifts in mindset and awareness unlock big progress in the saddle
🌿 Ready to Ride Without Training Wheels? If you're stuck in the same riding loop and wondering why you're not progressing, Connection will help you step forward confidently.
💫 Join Connection: https://stridesforsuccess.com/join Inside our signature membership, you'll find structure, support, and smart lessons that guide your next step, whether that's letting go of the arena fence, a training gadget, or your own doubts.
🧭 Learn more and join here https://stridesforsuccess.com/join
🚀 Want More Personal Guidance? Restart & Reschool: Private Coaching is for riders who are ready to upgrade everything, seat, aids, mindset, and training structure. You don't need more hours in the saddle. You need to make the ones you do have count.
🪶 Learn more or apply here https://stridesforsuccess.com/rr
🤝 Come Ride With Us… Join our free Facebook group for more conversations like this one. Ask questions, connect with other riders, and join the next fun challenge to shake things up in your riding routine.
🎉 Join the DSPodcast Online Community
💡 This Week's Riding Prompt: What are you holding on to that helped you, but is now holding you back? Pick one "training wheel" and start letting go.
Most riders think the lunge line's main job is to keep their horse on a circle… But what if that's the exact reason lunging feels like a tug-of-war?
In this Strides Revisited episode, we go back to the foundations and look at how to use the lunge line correctly, not as a restraint, but as a powerful aid to develop true contact and connection with your horse.
You'll learn how to:
- Rethink the purpose of your lunge line so it works with your horse, not against them
- Use arena boundaries as supportive artificial aids that clarify communication
- Combine your position, body language, voice, and the boundary to create forward energy
- Transform that energy into meaningful contact, just like you do with your reins under saddle
This approach turns lunging into a dynamic training tool that helps both you and your horse find softness, rhythm, and responsiveness; on the ground and when you ride.
🔑 Key Takeaway Your lunge line isn't there to hold your horse in place. It's there to shape energy into connection. Once you shift how you use it, lunging becomes a powerful way to develop softness, straightness, and feel, from the ground up.
💡 Next Steps for Riders Inside Connection, we're spending the next few months mastering Half Halts, from the lunge to the saddle. This episode fits perfectly into that theme, helping you refine timing, feel, and contact in every stride.
👉 Join Connection at https://stridesforsuccess.com/join to follow along and begin improving your balance, communication, and results with your horse.
If you're ready for more direct coaching and personalized feedback, explore Restart & Reschool Private Coaching. In there I will help you go from stuck to certain in your riding and training. https://stridesforsuccess.com/rr
🫶 Stay Connected Join the conversation with other riders who are training alone inside the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community on Facebook, a free space to share wins, ask questions, and get inspired https://facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast
And don't forget to follow, subscribe, rate, review, and share this episode of the Daily Strides Podcast so other riders can find it too!
Have you ever been lunging your horse and found yourself saying, "Whoa there, Tonto!" a few too many times? That moment when your horse suddenly goes from calm and focused to rushing around the circle, tripping over their own legs?
In this episode of The Daily Strides Podcast for Equestrians, Lorna dives into why rushing on the lunge is rarely about disobedience, and almost always about balance.
You'll learn how to use half halts on the lunge to help your horse build rhythm, relaxation, and self-carriage, while becoming more aware of how your own posture, tone, and timing shape every stride.
If you're ready to create smoother, more connected rides, on the ground and in the saddle, this one's for you.
💡 Next Steps for Riders Inside Connection, we're spending the next few months mastering Half Halts. From the lunge to the saddle. This episode fits perfectly into that theme, helping you refine timing, feel, and contact in every stride.
👉 Join Connection at https://stridesforsuccess.com/join to follow along and begin improving your balance, communication, and results with your horse.
If you're ready for more direct coaching and personalized feedback, explore Restart & Reschool Private Coaching; helping you go from stuck to certain in your riding and training https://stridesforsuccess.com/rr
🫶 Stay Connected Join the conversation with other riders who are training alone inside the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community on Facebook, a free space to share wins, ask questions, and get inspired https://facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast
And don't forget to follow, subscribe, rate, review, and share this episode of the Daily Strides Podcast so other riders can find it too!
You're showing up, riding regularly, putting in the time…. But something still feels stuck. In this short and powerful Sunday episode, Lorna delivers a reality check every rider needs:
What if the reason you're not progressing is because you're unknowingly reinforcing the wrong thing, over and over again?
If you're riding with unbalanced aids, a crooked seat, or tension that goes unnoticed, those habits are becoming your new default. And that's why you're plateauing, even though you're working hard.
Lorna explores how the smallest tweak (especially to your seat) can have a ripple effect through everything else, and why it takes more than one tweak to truly shift the pattern. The key is awareness and repetition of the right thing, not just any repetition.
"Your seat might not be wrong. It might just need an upgrade."
🎯 In This Episode: * The difference between riding consistently and practicing effectively * Why riders confuse repetition with results * How your seat might be the silent saboteur of your progress * Why awareness is the first step, but not the only one * Lorna's top recommendation to see your blind spots (spoiler: it's video) * How to stop reinforcing mistakes and start building new muscle memory
🐴 Feeling Stuck? Let's Fix That… If you're not sure what you're actually practicing each ride, Lorna can help you figure it out, fast!
💬 Book a private virtual lesson Let's find the hidden habit and fix it at the root https://stridesforsuccess.com/rr
🎁 Free Download Turn your phone into your instructor. Learn how to record, reflect, and ride forward with more clarity. https://stridesforsuccess.com/video
🤝 Join the Free Community The Daily Strides Podcast Online Community is full of riders like you https://facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast
Sprinkled through every ride, and every interaction on the ground, the half halt is one of the most powerful communication tools you'll ever use. But most riders only ever think of it in the saddle.
In this Strides Revisited episode, we're rewinding to a listener-favorite that explores how the half halt begins long before you put your foot in the stirrup. You'll discover how groundwork can clarify your timing, refine your aids, and completely transform the quality of your conversations with your horse.
We'll talk about…
- Why your thoughts are your most important aid, on the ground and in the saddle
- How to use body language, voice, and position to create light, responsive communication
- The subtle difference between a halt and a half halt (and why it matters everywhere)
- How to take your daily handling off autopilot and rebuild real feel and connection
If you've ever struggled to "feel" when to use a half halt or what it should actually do, this episode will give you simple, practical ways to start improving today, even without riding.
💡 This Month in Connection Inside Connection, we're spending the next three months deep-diving into Half Halts. The timing, balance, and feel, both on the ground and in the saddle. Each week brings a fresh live session, audio horse ridign lessons, Q&A, and a private-podcast replay to help you put it all into action. 👉 Join us inside Connection at https://stridesforsuccess.com/join
🐴 Ready to Restart & Reschool? If your rides have hit a wall or your horse feels "stuck," Restart & Reschool Private Coaching will help you move from confusion to clarity, one step at a time. Learn more at https://stridesforsuccess.com/rr
👥 Join the Conversation Come share your biggest takeaway or ah-ha moment inside the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community on Facebook; a free group for riders who train alone and want to make every ride count. https://facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast
❤️ If You Enjoyed This Episode… Please follow, subscribe, rate, review, and share the Daily Strides Podcast with your riding friends. It helps more riders find us and start creating better conversations with their horses.
Have you ever asked for a half halt and felt, well, nothing? Or maybe your horse slammed on the brakes instead of rebalancing?
If so, you're definitely not alone. Many riders either skip using half halts altogether or feel like they're just not working. But here's the truth; it's rarely about your ability or your horse's willingness to listen. It's about timing.
In this episode, we're breaking down why timing makes or breaks your half halts, and how you can start improving yours this week with a simple exercise.
💬 In This Episode, You'll Learn: * Why timing matters more than strength or frequency in your half halts * The three biggest mistakes riders make (and how to fix them) * Why lunging your horse can help you see timing clearly before you have to feel it in the saddle * A simple way to start refining your timing, even if you're riding alone
🐴 Key Takeaway: Your half halt isn't about "doing more." It's about doing the right thing at the right time. When your timing improves, your horse understands you more easily, your communication feels lighter, and everything starts to flow.
🎧 Listen Now To Discover: * How to stop "nagging" your horse with constant micro half halts * The real reason your half halt feels too strong (hint: it's often late) * How lunging reveals the exact stride moment when your horse can rebalance * Why great riders make half halts look invisible — and how you can too
⚡ This Week's Challenge: The Your Signature Ride Challenge If you're ready to improve your timing in a fun, low-pressure way, join the Your Signature Ride Challenge. You'll use your seat and leg aids to "write" your name in the arena while developing clearer timing and connection.
It's free to join, and you'll get a guided audio lesson to help you through it, plus the chance to win 3 months of Connection (valued at $66)! 👉 Join here: https://stridesforsuccess.com/ride
🌿 Want to Go Deeper? Inside Connection, we're spending the next three months exploring half halts in depth.
- October: Half Halts on the Lunge
- November: Half Halts Under Saddle
- December: Refining the Feel
You'll join live group lessons, guided audio sessions, and Q&As, all focused on helping you master this fundamental skill. 👉 Join Connection here https://stridesforsuccess.com/join
What if the final quarter of the year was the perfect time to quietly experiment with what's next?
In this week's Sunday Strides, Lorna invites you to rethink the end of the year, not as a time to wind down, but as a chance to try things on. To become curious about what your riding could look like in 2026 by gently testing the waters now, while the pressure is low and the possibilities are wide open.
Whether you're considering a new goal, working on connection, or coming back to riding after time off, this short episode will help you use Q4 as a quiet launchpad for big future wins with your horse.
"What would it look like to experiment now, so you enter January with real clarity and momentum already built?"
What You'll Hear in This Episode:
- Why October, November & December are a great time to experiment in your riding
- How curiosity (not pressure) can drive more consistent, joyful progress
- Ways to start lightly testing your 2026 riding goals now, without overwhelm
- How to avoid the "goal-setting trap" of waiting until January to figure it all out
- The power of laying foundations now, so you're ready to fly in the new year
Join our amazing free community where we're helping riders like you find clarity, connection, and confidence, one stride at a time. 👉 Join the DSPodcast Online Community
Ready to Start Aligning Your Practice with Your Progress? Here are a few resources to support you this week:
- 🎁 Free Training – How to Turn Your Phone Into Your Riding Instructor** Get better results from every session—without needing a coach in the arena!
- 💬 Connection Membership https://stridesforsuccess.com/join Weekly live lessons and training, private podcast feed, and support to help you ride with purpose. Monthly themes keep you aligned and moving forward.
- 🐴 Restart & Reschool Private Coaching https://stridesforsuccess.com/rr Want help identifying and fixing the habits holding you and your horse back? Work 1-to-1 with me to move from stuck to progress.
And if you're looking for something more relaxed and casual, come join me and my sister Emma-Jane over on our second podcast Equine'n'Wine! We talk horses, riding life, and everything in between.
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/equinenwine/id1832643897
Have you ever spent weeks practicing something in your riding, only for it to completely fall apart the moment you're under pressure? You're not alone.
In this episode of the Daily Strides Podcast for Equestrians, Lorna shares a heartwarming story from her son's first school concert that perfectly mirrors what happens when riders and horses step out of their comfort zones.
You'll discover why even after all your careful practice, things can still go "wonky" when pressure shows up, and how those very moments can become the foundation for confidence, growth, and a stronger partnership with your horse.
In This Episode, You'll Learn: * Why practice and pressure feel completely different, and how to use both to your advantage * How to reframe mistakes so they become confidence builders, not confidence crushers * What to do when things go sideways in the saddle (because they will!) * Three real rider examples that prove progress doesn't require perfection * Simple mindset shifts to help you stay consistent, compassionate, and in sync with your horse
Key Takeaway Your confidence isn't built when everything goes right. It's built in those imperfect, unpredictable, "wonky" moments, when you keep showing up, keep riding, and keep communicating with your horse anyway.
Pressure doesn't mean failure. It's just feedback showing you where to focus your next bit of practice.
Resources Mentioned in This Episode * Your Signature Ride Challenge → Practice applying gentle "pressure" in a fun, no-judgment way. https://stridesforsuccess.com/ride * Restart & Reschool Private Coaching → Work 1-to-1 with Lorna to turn your practice into progress. Find out more https://stridesforsuccess.com/rr * Connection Membership → The online space where real riders learn, plan, and stay consistent with their horses. https://stridesforsuccess.com/join * The Daily Strides Podcast Online Community → Continue the conversation with other riders who listen to the podcast. Share your own "wonky" moments, ask questions, and celebrate progress inside our free Facebook community. Join Here
How are you showing up for what you say you want in your riding?
In this quick Sunday Strides pep talk, we’re diving into the powerful (but often uncomfortable) truth: you can’t receive what you’re working toward if you’re not in alignment with it.
Many riders set goals like building confidence, improving their seat, or developing better contact. But then... - They avoid the saddle - Rush through rides stressed - Or keep drilling the same old exercises and expecting a different result
In this episode, Lorna invites you to pause and check in:
- Are your actions aligned with your intentions?
- Are your habits and mindset helping, or quietly sabotaging, your goals?
- Are you creating space for the results you say you want to actually arrive?
Because real progress in your riding often starts within...
Want More Support in Aligning Your Riding? ✅ The Signature Ride Challenge Write your name with your seat and leg aids. A fun (and free) GPS challenge that helps you finally put your knowledge into action. Join the Signature Ride Challenge here:- https://stridesforsuccess.com/ride
✅ Connection Join our monthly membership for grounded, joyful, rider-aligned progress — with weekly group audio lessons, mindset support, and a clear plan every month. Learn more about Connection here:- https://stridesforsuccess.com/join
✅ Restart & Reschool Private Coaching Feeling stuck? Ready for structured support and transformation? Restart & Reschool gives you 13 weeks of 1:1 coaching to move from stuck to certain in the saddle. Check out Restart & Reschool here:- https://stridesforsuccess.com/rr
Let's Keep the Conversation Going Come share your takeaways (or your aligned action for the week!) inside the Daily Strides Podcast for Equestrians Facebook group. It’s completely free and full of like-minded riders who want to show up better in the saddle. Join us here »
Subscribe to the Daily Strides Podcast on your favorite app so you never miss a mini pep talk or full training episode.
Have you ever felt like you're just a passenger when riding? Or like you've forgotten how to “feel” your horse underneath you?
In this Strides Revisited episode, we’re bringing you Week 1, Day 2 of the Original Returning to Riding Program; a guided audio ride designed to help you gently reconnect with your horse and yourself in the saddle.
Whether you’re returning to riding after a break or simply want to become more intentional with your seat and rhythm, this ride will help you:
- Tune into your horse’s natural rhythm
- Re-establish balance and posture through your seat
- Begin riding from feel, without overthinking every step
- Build quiet confidence, ride by ride
It’s a simple, supportive lesson to help you get back into your body and into the moment with your horse.
Special Offer for Podcast Listeners 🎧 Love this ride? You can get the entire 6-week Returning to Riding audio program, plus all the bonuses - for less than $50!
👉 Use this special link to unlock your 50% discount (no expiry!): https://training.stridesforsuccess.com/offers/9JG8NhCv?coupon_code=ORTR_BLOG
More Support for Returning Riders Want private coaching as you rebuild your confidence and skills in the saddle? Check out Restart & Reschool Private Coaching to work with me 1-to-1 and create a personalized plan for you and your horse.
Mentioned in This Episode: * Returning to Riding Audio Program – 50% Off * Restart & Reschool Private Coaching * The Signature Ride Challenge; Free Lesson & Workbook
Let’s Connect Join the free Daily Strides Podcast Online Community on Facebook It’s the best place to get support, encouragement, and fun ideas for you and your horse.
Do you ever feel like you're constantly learning new things—but your riding still isn’t improving?
You’re not alone.
In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on why so many riders get stuck in the learning loop: collecting content, planning obsessively, and overthinking every ride - without actually making progress in the saddle.
You’ll hear real stories from three riders I’ve worked with inside Restart & Reschool Private Coaching, and how they moved from stuck and frustrated to focused and confident again. The secret? It wasn’t more knowledge. It was action.
Whether you’ve been out of the saddle for a while, feel like you’ve plateaued, or just want to ride better with less stress—this episode is for you.
🎯 In This Episode: * The “content collecting trap” keeps riders stuck * Why learning alone doesn’t create progress * Real breakthroughs from 3 different riders * How short, focused rides can change everything * What to do when fear or perfectionism holds you back * An invitation to take your first step with the Your Signature Ride Challenge
🧭 Links Mentioned: → Join the FREE Signature Ride Challenge: https://stridesforsuccess.com/ride
→ Get 50% Off the Original Returning to Riding 6-Week Audio Program: https://training.stridesforsuccess.com/offers/9JG8NhCv?coupon_code=ORTR_BLOG
→ Work with Me in Restart & Reschool Private Coaching: https://stridesforsuccess.com/rr
→ 15 Minutes or Less Freebie: https://stridesforsuccess.com/15
💬 Let’s Continue the Conversation: Are you inside the Daily Strides Podcast for Equestrians Facebook Group yet? Join other riders who are taking part in the Signature Ride Challenge and supporting each other’s progress. It’s free and you’re invited!
→ Join the Facebook Group
So often, riders practice their riding without ever realising what they’re actually reinforcing. And more often than not, it’s the exact habits or tension patterns that are holding them back...
In this episode of Sunday Strides, we’re talking about the unconscious patterns that sneak into your riding. Whether it’s physical (like tension in your left side) or mental (like self-doubt or over-analysis), these patterns become the default if we don’t intentionally interrupt them.
You’ll hear a real-life example of a rider who changed everything with just one tweak in her lesson, and how you can use this same approach in your own ride this week.
We’ll also kick off a fun new challenge in just a few days that builds on this exact idea 🎉
In This Episode, You'll Discover: * Why most riders are reinforcing their blocks, without even realising it * How your body and mind create patterns that feel automatic (even when they aren’t helpful) * A simple story that shows how one intentional change can shift everything * Real ideas you can try this week to disrupt an old habit * A sneak peek at the Your Signature Ride Challenge launching this Tuesday!
Links & Resources Mentioned: 🧭 Free Training – How to Turn Your Phone into Your Instructor Discover how to ride with more intention using your phone and a few simple tools: 👉 stridesforsuccess.com/video
🐴 Join Connection – Formerly Daily Strides Premium If you’re ready to actually do the thing you’ve been learning, Connection is the best next step. Weekly ride plans, live support, and audio horse riding lessons to work on. 👉 https://stridesforsuccess.com/connection
📣 Restart & Reschool – Private Coaching Feeling like your horse (or your mindset) needs a reset? Work 1:1 with Lorna to get back on track in your riding with confidence and clarity. 👉 https://stridesforsuccess.com/rr
👯♀️ Join the Free Facebook Group – The Daily Strides Podcast for Equestrians
Meet other riders who are improving their riding solo – one stride at a time. 👉 https://www.facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast
🍷 Equine’n’Wine Podcast! For something fun, light, and a little cheeky, tune into Lorna & her sister Emma-Jane as they sip wine and chat all things horses. 👉 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/equinenwine/id1832643897
What to Do Next: 🎧 After you listen, take 30 seconds to pause and ask yourself: What pattern might I be unconsciously practicing in my rides?
Then, decide on one small change to try this week.
And don’t forget—Tuesday’s episode kicks off a challenge that will help you take this even further in the saddle (and have a bit of fun along the way 😉)
Have you ever felt like you and your horse just aren’t meeting the jump together? You see the fence, you’ve chosen your line… and yet, right at the last stride, things fall apart. More often than not, the issue isn’t your horse... It’s your timing.
In this replay of Episode 1031: Learning to Wait for the Jump, we dive into one of the most common challenges riders face: jumping ahead of their horse. When you tip forward too soon, your horse can feel dropped, lose confidence, and start refusing or ducking out.
The good news? A simple shift in your position and timing can completely change the outcome, for both you and your horse.
Listen to the episode and get all the links HERE
What You’ll Learn in This Episode * Why your timing matters when it comes to building confidence over fences * How your jumping position should change depending on the fence * Practical ways to train yourself to “wait” for the jump * The difference between following your horse vs. going first * How small, uncomfortable tweaks can create big breakthroughs in your riding
🚀 Take the Next Step with Restart & Reschool If you’re working through sticky moments like this — refusals, hesitation, or confusion about your own position — you don’t have to figure it out alone. Inside Restart & Reschool, I’ll coach you step-by-step so you can create clarity in your aids, confidence in your timing, and consistency in your training.
👉 Enroll now: stridesforsuccess.com/rr
🎥 Free Resource: How to Use Video for Rider Feedback Want a quick win today? Grab my free training on how to use video to improve your riding. You’ll learn how to film yourself, what to look for, and the simple changes that can make the biggest difference.
👉 Get it here: stridesforsuccess.com/video
🐴 Join the Daily Strides Podcast Community Come join other riders who are committed to making every ride great inside the Daily Strides Podcast for Equestrians Facebook Group. Share your experiences, get support, and connect with riders who “get it.”
👉 Request to join here: Daily Strides Podcast Online Community
Lunging is one of the most underestimated training tools riders have at their disposal. Yet so many riders miss the key ingredient that makes lunging truly effective; your position!
In this Strides Revisited episode, you’ll discover how where you stand in relation to your horse can make the difference between “going nowhere slowly” on the circle and having a clear, forward, focused training session.
This conversation ties directly into what we’ve been talking about this week on the podcast. That, often, one small perspective shift can unlock a massive breakthrough in your riding and training.
In this episode, you’ll learn: * Why your position on the ground has the same impact as your seat in the saddle * How to identify neutral, driving, and resisting positions while lunging * What happens when you’re too far ahead or behind your horse on the circle * Why allowing your horse to turn in breaks the connection, and how to fix it * How to create small shifts in your position that result in big changes in your horse’s way of going
Ready to Restart & Reschool? If you’re feeling stuck with your horse or frustrated that training isn’t moving forward, the Restart & Reschool Coaching Program will help you create real momentum. You’ll get the clarity, step-by-step guidance, and personalized support to finally move past those sticky spots in your riding.
👉 Learn more and join us today at stridesforsuccess.com/rr
Free Resource: Use Video for Better Feedback Want to start seeing what’s really happening in your training sessions? I’ve created a free resource to help you use video for instant feedback in your day-to-day riding. It’s a simple, practical way to spot patterns, track progress, and make smarter decisions each time you ride.
🎥 Grab it now at stridesforsuccess.com/video
Join the Conversation Don’t ride alone! Come join a community of like-minded riders who are all working on making every ride great. Inside the Daily Strides Podcast for Equestrians Facebook Group, you’ll find support, encouragement, and plenty of inspiration to keep moving forward.
🐴 Join us here: Daily Strides Podcast Facebook Group
💬 Your position matters. On the ground, in the saddle, and in your mindset. This Strides Revisited episode will remind you how powerful a small shift can be.
Have you ever felt like you’re doing all the “right things” in the saddle, and yet your horse still doesn’t seem to get the memo? Maybe they won’t go forward, maybe they cut in on the circle, or maybe they just find clever ways to avoid what you’re asking.
In this episode of the Daily Strides Podcast, I’m sharing why the problem often isn’t the exercise you’re doing… but the perspective you’re coming from. Sometimes a small perspective shift can be the key to your next riding breakthrough.
I’ll walk you through real-life examples from riders I’ve worked with in virtual live lessons: lunging issues, canter transitions, gripping with the knees, and refusals at fences. In each case, the transformation came from seeing things differently, making one small tweak, and allowing the horse to respond in a new way.
🎧 Listen in to discover how you can start creating breakthroughs in your own training today.
Inside This Episode You’ll Learn: * Why perspective shifts often feel “wrong” at first, and why that’s a good thing * How moving your position while lunging can make forward the only option * Why waiting in canter transitions can change everything * How releasing your knees can transform balance and softness * Why watching yourself on video is one of the fastest ways to improve
Free Resource: Start Using Video in Your Riding Recording yourself might feel daunting, but it’s the simplest way to spot your blind spots. That’s why I created a free step-by-step guide:
👉 What if recording yourself for 5 minutes could change everything?
This guide shows you exactly how to set up your phone, what to look for, and how to use the footage to spot small tweaks that lead to big results.
Restart & Reschool: Your 13-Week Path to Progress Sometimes it’s hard to see your own blind spots, even on video! That’s where coaching makes all the difference.
Inside Restart & Reschool, I’ll work with you and your horse for 13 weeks to help you step out of frustration and into clarity. Together, we’ll uncover the small perspective shifts that create lasting change in your riding.
👉 Learn more here: stridesforsuccess.com/rr
Connection Membership Looking for consistent lessons, structure, and accountability in your riding? Connection is my monthly membership that helps riders make steady progress with their horse, especially if they’re riding alone without a trainer.
Inside, you’ll find:
- A monthly live virtual group riding lesson
- Themed collections of audio lessons and training
- Live review & planning sessions to keep you on track
- A place to get all of your riding and training-related questions answered
👉 Get all the details and join here: stridesforsuccess.com/connection
Join the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community Want to connect with other riders who are improving their riding step by step? The Daily Strides Podcast Online Community is our free Facebook group where you’ll find:
- Conversations around each new podcast episode
- Mini-challenges to inspire your training
- A place to ask questions and get support
👉 Join us here: facebook.com/groups/DailyStridesPodcast
Improving Your Riding & Training Your next riding breakthrough doesn’t have to come from learning a new exercise or drilling harder in the arena. Sometimes, it’s as simple as shifting your perspective and giving yourself the chance to see what’s really happening.
🎧 Tune in now, grab the free video resource, and start making small changes that lead to big results with your horse.
Most riders think of the halt as simply… stopping.
Pull the reins, horse stops - job done.
But what if I told you that each halt you ride could be one of the most powerful training tools you have? That, with a little intention, your halts could improve your balance, posture, communication... And your horse’s focus, engagement, and responsiveness?
In this Strides Revisited episode, we’re heading back to a favourite from August 2021 to help you see the halt in a whole new light. We’ll explore:
- Why the halt should be treated like a movement, not a full stop
- The difference between a horse who “steps into” a halt and one who’s dragged into it
- How working on your halts on the ground, on the lunge, and under saddle can transform your whole ride
- The tiny tweaks in your own position and aids that make a massive difference to your horse’s response
When you start seeing each halt as an opportunity rather than an ending, you’ll begin to notice more clarity, more connection, and better quality in every part of your riding.
Listen to the full episode, read the blog, and get all the links over at:- https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1203
🎁 Free Resource for Riders Who Train Alone If you’re riding without a regular instructor and find yourself running out of ideas, I’ve got you covered. My 15 Minutes or Less freebie gives you over 30 quick, impactful ways to work with your horse when time (or daylight!) is short. 👉 Grab it here for free https://stridesforsuccess.com/15
💬 Join the Conversation Come join the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community on Facebook — it’s full of riders just like you, working on their skills, sharing their wins, and finding solutions together.
Listen now and make your next halt count for more than just stopping your horse…
Ever feel like if you didn’t get it right the first time, it must not be for you? This week's Sunday Strides is your reminder that confidence isn't born from perfection; it’s built through repetition.
So many riders get discouraged when things don’t go well on the first try. But what if showing up again (and again) is exactly what’s required?
In this short pep talk, I’m sharing why the real breakthroughs happen after the first awkward, messy attempts, and how committing to repeat with intention is the secret to true progress with your horse.
Whether you're learning a new skill, restarting after a break, or supporting your horse through retraining, this one is for you 💛
✨ What You’ll Hear in This Episode: * Why it’s totally normal to feel awkward when trying something new * The damaging belief that you should be good at something the first time * Why clarity and confidence are built, not found * How to create progress through repetition, tweaking, and consistency * A practical challenge for this week: choose something you’ll try again, on purpose
💬 Ready to Make Progress in Your Riding? If you’ve been feeling stuck, unsure, or like you’re constantly starting over, you're not alone.
This is the final week to apply for Restart & Reschool, my private coaching program designed to help you retrain yourself and your horse with support, structure, and real momentum.
🔗 https://stridesforsuccess.com/rr
📧 Or just email me directly: lorna@stridesforsuccess.com Let me know what’s going on with you and your horse, and we’ll take it from there.
🔁 Catch Up On This Week’s Podcast Episodes: * Tuesday: Why You’re Still Not Riding Like You Want To (And What to Do About It) * Thursday (Strides Revisited): Creating an Initial Program for Your OTTB or Ex-Racehorse
👉 Let’s Connect: * Join the conversation in our Daily Strides Podcast Online Community * Let me know what you’re committing to this week by emailing lorna@stridesforsuccess.com
Have you recently welcomed an OTTB (Off-the-Track Thoroughbred) into your life, only to feel overwhelmed by where to even begin?
This episode is all about helping you build a solid foundation for your ex-racehorse. Whether your Thoroughbred just left the track or has been with you for a while, this episode will guide you through how to create a clear, step-by-step plan to move forward confidently in your training.
Ex-racehorses are incredibly athletic, intelligent, and versatile, but those same qualities can make retraining feel confusing or frustrating if you don’t have a system in place. This episode will show you how to simplify the process, communicate clearly, and set both you and your OTTB up for long-term success.
🎯 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: * Why your OTTB needs an adjustment period (and not necessarily months in a field) * How to help your horse learn a completely new language of riding and handling * The difference between fitness and strength development, and why it matters * Why clarity and intentionality are essential in every ride you take * How to work with your horse’s intelligence and sensitivity, not against it * Why hopping from method to method creates confusion and gaps in training * The power of sticking to a progressive, adaptable plan
📣 Need a Clear Path Forward with Your OTTB? Join Restart & Reschool – Your Personalized Private Coaching Program If you’ve been starting over again and again… If your OTTB seems talented but progress feels frustratingly slow… If you're tired of second-guessing yourself every ride…
The Restart & Reschool private coaching program is here to help you break the cycle.
Inside this 13-week journey, I’ll help you: ✔ Identify & fill the gaps in your OTTB’s training ✔ Develop a rhythm in your riding that leads to consistent results ✔ Regain confidence and clarity in your own approach
Click here to learn more - Let’s get you and your ex-racehorse moving forward again.
💬 Be Part of the Conversation – Join Our Free Facebook Community Are you retraining an OTTB? Or maybe just looking to ride more intentionally with your horse?
👉 Come join other like-minded riders inside the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community on Facebook. It’s where we share insights, ideas, challenges, and wins—all designed to support your riding journey, especially if you're doing it without a regular trainer.
🌿 Join the community here >>
🌀 Looking for Ongoing Support, Lessons & Structure? Step Into Connection – Formerly Daily Strides Premium If you loved this episode and want ongoing guidance, Connection is the place for you.
💡 Inside Connection, you'll get:
- Weekly live group virtual riding lessons
- Themed collections like Groundwork, Confidence, Re-Schooling, and more
- Monthly challenges, goal-setting calls, and mindset sessions
- Private podcast access with guided in-saddle audio lessons
- A community of riders who get it
Connection is designed to help you build a rhythm and ride with intention, week after week.
🎧 Join Connection here https://stridesforsuccess.com/join
🔁 Listen Again or Share This Episode If you know another rider with an OTTB or ex-racehorse, share this episode with them—it could be the clarity they’re craving.
🎧 Listen to the full episode here >>
Are you stuck in that cycle of wanting to ride… But not actually riding the way you want? Or maybe you’re not riding at all right now, even though the tack, the horse, and the arena are all sitting there, waiting for you?!
In this episode of the Daily Strides Podcast for Equestrians, we’re getting honest about the real reason so many riders stall out in their progress. (Spoiler alert: it’s not motivation.)
I’m walking you through a simple 4-step process to get back into the saddle, or back into the right kind of saddle time... This week. Yes, this week!
This process works whether you're returning to riding, restarting your horse’s training, or simply feeling stuck in a rut. The key is clarity. And we’re going to create that together, one tiny step at a time.
In This Episode, You’ll Learn: * Why knowing what needs to be done isn’t enough to get unstuck * How to set a clear, specific goal for the next 6 months of your riding * The simple way to spot the real gaps between where you are and where you want to be * How to choose one small action to take in the next 3 days, and why that’s the key to building momentum * Why clarity comes after action, not before
The full article for this, with all of the examples and links, is at:- https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1374-why-youre-still-not-riding-like-you-want-to-and-what-to-do-about-it-this-week/
Tell Me What You’re Committing To... I would love to hear what you decide to do with this episode!
👉 Email me at lorna@stridesforsuccess.com and let me know:
- Your specific 6-month riding goal
- One gap you’ve identified
- And the tiny action you’re committing to take in the next 72 hours
Let’s celebrate your step forward together 🙌
🎉 Join the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community Want some accountability and support as you take action?
Come join us inside the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community on Facebook. It’s filled with equestrians just like you who are working through similar challenges and cheering each other on.
👉 Click here to join the group
We have regular live sessions, practical challenges, and loads of encouragement to help you move forward in your riding.
Interested in Restart & Reschool? If this episode resonates with you and you’d love more personal guidance to restart or reschool your horse, or even just yourself in the saddle, then my Restart & Reschool coaching program might be exactly what you need.
It runs every quarter, and I work privately with a small group of riders to help them:
- Build consistency
- Close the training gaps
- And finally ride the way they know they’re capable of
If the current round is full, don’t worry! You can still apply now to get early access to the next one.
Send me an email to lorna@stridesforsuccess.com and I’ll share all the details.
🐎 Ready to Start Riding with Clarity & Confidence? Don’t let another week pass by spinning your wheels…
Take one small step toward your 6-month goal today, and let that action begin the momentum you’ve been missing.
Listen now, and then email me your commitment at lorna@stridesforsuccess.com
In this episode of Sunday Strides, we're exploring a common, but quietly damaging, belief many riders hold:
“If I was truly capable, I wouldn’t need help.”
Whether you’ve just begun leasing, you’re training solo, or you’ve always dreamed of being an independent rider, today’s message is for you.
I share why needing support doesn’t make you any less capable… In fact, it often means you’re getting closer to your next breakthrough.
And I gently redefine what guidance really is: not control or correction, but structure, perspective, and encouragement, especially when you’re feeling stuck, messy, or unsure.
🧭 In This Episode: * Why trying to do it all alone leads to slow (or no) progress * How reaching out for help can accelerate your success, not slow it down * A powerful metaphor from the racetrack that illustrates why focus and momentum need backup * What structure really offers; freedom, not restriction * An invitation to shift the way you view coaches, teachers, and guides in your journey
You’re not giving up. You’re choosing growth. And sometimes, growth means inviting the right person to walk beside you.
🐴 Ready for More? If this message resonates with you and you’d like some personal support in your riding journey, there are a few ways to work with Lorna.
👣 From virtual coaching to guided riding plans, you’ll find support that matches your goals and your rhythm. 💬 Just email: lorna@stridesforsuccess.com to start the conversation.
📣 Let’s Keep the Conversation Going... Join the free Daily Strides Podcast Online Community on Facebook. This is where riders from all over the world can share their wins, ideas, and questions, and continue these Sunday Strides topics together. 👉 https://www.facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast
🎧 Love Sunday Strides? * ✅ Subscribe so you never miss a weekly pep talk * ⭐ Leave a review; it helps more riders discover the show * 📲 Share this episode with a riding friend who needs to hear it
Have you ever tried something during a lesson and nailed it. Only to fall flat the next time you rode on your own?!
In this episode, we’re revisiting a powerful conversation around confidence, communication, and the three essential elements of becoming a better rider: emotional, mental, and physical development.
Confidence isn’t something you magically have or don’t. It’s something you can build, and sometimes even borrow.
Whether you're retraining an OTTB, restarting after time out of the saddle, or simply trying to improve on your own, this episode will help you take stock of what’s really going on when things aren’t working.
Inside this episode: * What it means to "borrow confidence", and why it works * Why mental clarity must go beyond “knowing the thing” * The emotional patterns that block physical progress * How to check your beliefs before you check your aids * Why your outside leg might not be doing what you think it’s doing...
The full blog post with all of the links is at:- https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1185
Restart & Reschool: Private Coaching If you feel like you should be further along in your riding... But your confidence keeps stalling, or you’re not sure what to focus on, this is your invitation to start fresh...
Restart & Reschool is 13 weeks of personal coaching to rebuild trust, rhythm, and structure in your riding. We’ll fill the gaps in your riding, your horse’s training, and your mindset, step by step, together.
📩 Email me at lorna@stridesforsuccess.com and tell me what you’re stuck on. If the current round is full, I’ll personally let you know when the next one opens up.
Connection: Ride with Purpose Every Week Connection is the new evolution of Daily Strides Premium. It’s for riders who want a rhythm in their training that’s grounded, joyful, and focused.
Each quarter includes: ✅ Groundwork (Month 1) ✅ The Basics (Month 2) ✅ Training & Development (Month 3)
We meet weekly for live virtual group lessons, plus planning sessions and fresh audio guidance, so you always have a plan when you mount up.
🎧 If you want a coach in your ear and a clear direction for you and your horse... Join Connection https://stridesforsuccess.com/connection
🐴 Join the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community We’re talking about this episode and all things retraining, confidence, and partnership inside our FREE Facebook group. Pop in, say hi, and share your own story of “borrowing confidence.”
👉 Join the DSPodcast Online Community at:- https://www.facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast
💌 I'd Love to Hear from You What's one thing you're going to change after this episode? Did you spot a blind spot in your riding, or your mindset?
📩 Send me an email at lorna@stridesforsuccess.com and tell me. I read every email, and you might even get a short personal video back from me!
⭐️ Like the Podcast? Share It! If this episode helped you see your riding differently: 🔁 Share it with a horsey friend 🎧 Subscribe on your favourite app ⭐️ Leave a quick rating or review It’s the best way to help more riders just like you find the podcast! Thank you!
Want to Improve Your Riding… Without Even Mounting Up? Join the FREE 21-Day Equestrian Fitness Challenge – the 2024 edition is all about walking and yoga to help you build stamina, strength, and focus in and out of the saddle.
It’s perfect if you’re short on time, not riding consistently, or just want to finally feel fit to ride. You’ll get simple daily prompts that make a real difference, without needing a gym or special equipment.
👉 Join the Challenge for Free Here
Let’s build that riding rhythm, one step at a time 🚶♀️🧘♂️🐴
Ever feel like you’re working so hard in the saddle… but nothing’s changing?
In this episode of the Daily Strides Podcast for Equestrians, we’re exploring the key difference between training and retraining, and why understanding this shift can unlock your next breakthrough.
Whether you're working with an OTTB, returning to riding after a break, or helping your horse transition to a new job or discipline, this concept will help you see the real reason progress feels slow (or stuck).
We’ll cover:
- How to tell if you’re training or retraining (for both you and your horse)
- Why retraining is more emotionally charged and what that means in practice
- The 5 signs you're stuck in a retraining loop
- Why unlearning is just as important as learning in your riding journey
- Practical ways to move forward, including how to use video and coaching to shorten your progress path
This episode is your invitation to pause, reassess, and choose the right strategy, so you can move forward with clarity and confidence.
What You’ll Learn 🐴: * What makes retraining harder than training (and why that’s okay!) * How emotional habits in horses and riders impact progress * Why that recurring issue might be a retraining challenge, not a new training need * Real-life rider and horse examples you’ll probably recognize * How to use the 5-question “Training or Retraining” test to figure out your next steps
Read the full post and get all the links at:- https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1373-are-you-training-or-retraining/
🎯 Ready to Get Support? 🌟 Restart & Reschool Private Coaching If you’ve realised you're stuck in a retraining loop, whether it's you, your horse, or both, it’s time to stop second-guessing and get real support.
Restart & Reschool is a 13-week private coaching experience designed to help you confidently retrain, reschool, and move forward with a plan that works in real life. You’ll get:
- Private virtual lessons
- Video feedback between sessions
- A clear weekly structure
- Unlimited support via private message directly from Lorna
👉 Learn more here and grab one of the limited spots.
🎥 Free Guide: How to Use Video in Your Riding Video can completely change the way you train and retrain. But only if you know how to use it properly! Grab this free guide to start recording your rides, reviewing them like a coach, and spotting the patterns that are slowing you down.
Bonus: If you're using a Pivo, you’ll also get tips to set it up for solo training success! Download your free guide at https://stridesforsuccess.com/video
👯♀️ Join the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community Want to keep the conversation going with like-minded riders from around the world? Come and join the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community on Facebook. You’ll find support, encouragement, and conversations that keep you moving forward, plus weekly inspiration to keep your riding on track.
👉 Join here – it's free
❤️ Love the Episode? If this episode helped you think differently about your riding or your horse's training, I’d be so grateful if you could: * Subscribe so you never miss a new episode * Leave a rating or review to help more riders find it * Share it with a friend who might be stuck in the same retraining loop and needs a little boost!
This week’s Sunday Strides starts with a conversation Lorna had with one of her sons, and how that moment perfectly mirrors a challenge so many riders face...
Avoiding the parts of the ride that don’t feel good.
In this episode, Lorna shares why recognizing what’s “wrong” in your riding isn’t a setback. It’s actually the start of something better.
Because the truth is, you can’t fix what you’re not willing to see.
Whether it’s a messy transition, an avoided exercise, or a mindset that’s quietly holding you back, progress begins with honest reflection.
🐴 In This Episode, You’ll Hear: * Why riders often avoid the discomfort of noticing mistakes * The real cost of only focusing on the “good” parts of your ride * How emotional honesty in the saddle builds trust & progress * Why getting something “wrong” is actually a sign you’re growing * A small challenge to help you see clearly—and ride forward—this week
💥 Your Sunday Strides Challenge: Record your next ride. Watch it back with curiosity, not criticism! Then ask someone you trust for honest feedback :)
👉 What do you see that you’ve been avoiding? 👉 What’s one thing you can do differently this week to grow from it?
🌿 Want to Go Deeper? Join me inside Connection; my online coaching and support program for riders just like you. We combine structured riding plans, guided audio lessons, live calls, and mindset coaching so you can make consistent, meaningful progress.
Let this be the season you finally move from uncertain and inconsistent to confident and clear in your riding 🌟
🎯 Join Connection Here https://stridesforsuccess.com/join
💬 Let’s Keep the Conversation Going... What came up for you during this episode? Share your insights inside the Daily Strides Podcast for Equestrians Online Community on Facebook. It’s free to join and a great way to connect with other riders: 👉 Join the Group Here
💌 If This Episode Resonated... Please subscribe, rate & review the podcast wherever you're listening. And if you know a rider who’s been struggling to make progress, I would love if you can please share this episode with them :) Sometimes, a fresh perspective is the first step forward.
The circle: probably the most ridden shape in every arena session... And yet, how often do we actually ride it with intention?
In this Strides Revisited episode, we’re breathing fresh energy into the humble circle and showing you how to use it as a powerful tool for improving your horse’s balance, rhythm, and responsiveness.
You’ll learn 3 simple yet transformative exercises that you can ride today, no special equipment required. And these exercises will allow you to make more of the circles in your daily riding.
“So many riders lose the opportunity to improve both themselves and their horse… Simply because they’re not intentionally riding the circle.”
In This Episode, You’ll Discover: * ✅ Why most riders waste time on aimless circles * ✅ How to ride consistent, purposeful strides around the circle * ✅ The power of leg yielding on a circle to develop suppleness and straightness * ✅ How to master accurate transitions without losing balance or rhythm * ✅ Creative ways to mark out your circle (using poles, cones, even your jacket!)
Whether you're schooling at home, working solo, or just getting back into the rhythm of riding, these exercises will challenge you and your horse in all the right ways.
Read the full post and get all of the links at:- https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1220-3-exercises-to-ride-on-a-circle/
🐴 Want a Plan for Your Rides? If you're loving these bite-sized lessons, you'll love Connection (formerly Daily Strides Premium). It's my membership for riders who want a structured, supportive riding journey; on your own time, in your own arena, with your own horse.
Inside Connection, you'll get:
- Audio horse riding lessons via a private podcast feed
- Live group virtual riding lessons
- Live group review and planning sessions
- A clear plan to follow month-by-month
- A community of like-minded riders
👉 Doors are open: https://stridesforsuccess.com/join
💬 Let’s Keep the Conversation Going Join our free Facebook community: 🎉 Daily Strides Podcast for Equestrians – Online Community Ask questions, share your wins, and connect with other riders around the world. 👉 Join here
✨ Ready to Restart & Reschool? Applications are now open for the Restart & Reschool Q3 Coaching Cohort, beginning 8th July 2025. If you're retraining an OTTB, starting from scratch, getting back into regular riding, or just feeling stuck with your horse... This private coaching program will guide you every step of the way.
✔️ Private virtual lessons ✔️ Video feedback and reviews ✔️ Support from Lorna every week
🔗 Learn more & apply: https://stridesforsuccess.com/rr
🎙 Subscribe & Share Enjoying the show? Please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and share the podcast with your riding friends.
📱 Follow the podcast on your favorite app 💬 Leave a review to help other riders find us 📤 Share this episode with 1 other rider who you think will find value :)
Ever feel like you're doing everything right in the saddle… But your horse is still resistant, crooked, or just not quite “with” you? What if the real issue isn’t your horse, but something you're not seeing in yourself?
In this episode of the Daily Strides Podcast for Equestrians, we’re taking a fresh look at how video can help uncover the real reason things might feel off during your ride.
I’m sharing why so many riders miss critical asymmetries and habits that are actually holding their horses back. And how video can become your most honest, effective riding coach.
🐴 In this episode you’ll hear: * Why riding is truly a team sport between you and your horse * How common rider asymmetries show up and how they affect your horse’s balance and way of going * Why focusing on saddle fit for the rider is just as important as for the horse * Real-life examples of how video helped riders uncover imbalances they didn’t know existed * The mindset shift from blaming the horse to getting curious about your role in the ride * Practical ways to begin using video today to transform your awareness * Suggestions for bodywork professionals who can help get you back in balance
Read the full post and get all the links HERE
✨ Key Takeaway Video removes the guesswork. And once you see what's going on, you have the power to change it.
This episode is for you if you've been feeling stuck, frustrated, or like your horse is working against you. It’s time to look beyond your training plan and start exploring how your body might be contributing to the challenges you're experiencing.
🎥 Want to Start Reviewing Your Rides with Intention? I’ve created a free step-by-step guide to help you use video in a way that’s actually helpful, not overwhelming. You’ll learn how to film, what to look for, and how to use the footage to improve your riding going forward.
👉 Get the free guide at stridesforsuccess.com/video
🔁 Ready for Real Support? Join the Restart & Reschool Coaching Program Restart & Reschool is a private 13-week coaching experience designed for riders who are ready to uncover and overcome the real roadblocks in their training.
Together, we’ll build a plan tailored to you and your horse, use video to identify what’s working (and what’s not), and support you every step of the way as you transform your riding from the inside out.
🚀 Q3 Cohort is enrolling now! Only 5 spaces available. 👉 Apply now at stridesforsuccess.com/rr
💬 Join the Conversation with Other Riders Want to share your progress, ask questions, and connect with other riders who are also improving their riding? Join us inside the Daily Strides Podcast for Equestrians Online Community on Facebook.
✨ It’s totally free, and it’s where the podcast comes to life! 👉 Join the group here
🔗 Helpful Links from the Episode: * Free Guide: How to Use Video in Your Riding * Join Restart & Reschool Coaching * Connection (formerly Daily Strides Premium) Membership * Pivo Motion Tracking Software (10% off with code DailyStrides)
🎙️ Subscribe & Share If you enjoyed this episode, please:
- Subscribe to the Daily Strides Podcast for Equestrians so you never miss an episode
- Share this episode with a riding friend who might benefit from using video to unlock progress
- Leave a review; it helps other riders discover the show
Let’s grow this global community of thoughtful, intentional riders together 🌟
In this Strides Revisited episode, we’re revisiting one of those foundational exercises that truly shapes your riding journey: Turn on the Forehand.
Whether you’re working on opening gates, introducing collection, or improving your horse’s responsiveness, this simple movement has endless value for every rider at every level.
🔑 Key Highlights: ✅ What turn on the forehand actually is, and why it’s more than just a box-ticking exercise ✅ How thinking forward - even when standing still - builds rhythm, flow, and lightness ✅ Why this movement is one of the easiest ways to introduce collection and suppleness ✅ How to avoid forcing the movement and instead create a true partnership with your horse ✅ The role turn on the forehand plays in helping riders understand inside vs. outside aids
🎧 Inside Daily Strides Premium Want to take your riding to the next level? Inside Daily Strides Premium, we’re diving deeper into exercises like turn on the forehand, helping you transform your basics into brilliance, one ride at a time. 👉 Join us here and get a fresh 30-minute riding lesson every week, live group lessons, structured progress, and real support from riders just like you.
🌟 Join the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community Come hang out with other like-minded riders in our free Facebook community! Share your wins, ask questions, and get support as you build confidence in the saddle. Especially when tackling exercises like turn on the forehand. 👉 Join the community here
📹 New Freebie: Ride & Review Audio & Checklist for Video Ready to level up your training sessions?
Download our brand-new free guide today and get started :) 🎥 Learn how to video your rides, what to look for, and how to use the footage to improve... So you can finally ride smarter, not just more. 👉 Grab your freebie over at https://stridesforsuccess.com/video
💛 Subscribe, Rate & Review Love the podcast? Let’s spread the joy of better riding together! ✅ Subscribe on your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode ✅ Rate & review the show to help other riders discover it ✅ Share this episode with a friend who’s working on the basics, too!
Ever wondered how to get the most out of virtual riding lessons? Whether you’re brand new to remote coaching or already working with an instructor online, this episode is your essential roadmap to transforming your virtual sessions from “interesting” to transformational.
Join me as I walk you through: ✅ How to set clear, achievable goals for your riding—so you always know where you’re going ✅ Why finding the right instructor (for you) is the game-changer ✅ Proven Pivo tips & tricks to make sure your tech works with you, not against you ✅ How to keep the progress rolling between sessions - because growth happens in between
https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1371-virtual-riding-lessons-how-to-set-up-and-succeed-with-remote-coaching
📸 Featured: Pivo – Your Virtual Lesson Best Friend If you’re serious about making your virtual riding lessons easy and effective, Pivo is the way to go. This smart device uses your phone to track you around the arena, ensuring your coach never misses a stride.
🎁 Special Offer Just for You: When you buy your Pivo through my affiliate link, you’ll unlock exclusive bonuses: ✅ 10% off your Pivo with code DAILYSTRIDES ✅ My 6-week Returning to Riding Audio Program ✅ A personal video review of your first Pivo recording with me - so you’re set up for success from the start!
👉 https://stridesforsuccess.com/pivo
📝 Download Your Free Virtual Lesson Setup Guide Ready to supercharge your virtual riding journey?
My Virtual Lesson Setup Guide is packed with: ✅ Rider goal-setting journal prompts ✅ Coach alignment checklist ✅ Pivo setup & weather workarounds ✅ Progress trackers & reflection pages ✅ PLUS a free week of guided audio riding lessons to keep you motivated!
👉 https://stridesforsuccess.com/guide
🐴 Join the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community Want to keep the conversation going? Join our online community of riders who are committed to growth, support, and sharing the journey - no matter where you ride.
Get tips, inspiration, and connect with like-minded equestrians!
👉 https://www.facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast
❤️ Support the Show If you found this episode helpful, please: ✅ Follow or subscribe so you never miss an episode ✅ Leave a rating and review; your feedback keeps the show growing ✅ Share this episode with a fellow rider who could use a little virtual lesson inspiration
Together, we’re making progress in every arena - one stride at a time.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcastRight now, it’s tempting to turn to AI for everything, even in the saddle! Ask a question, get an instant answer. But when it comes to training horses and improving your riding, is that really helping you grow?
In this episode of Sunday Strides, Lorna shares a straight-talking perspective on how more riders are using AI as a shortcut, and how that shortcut can quietly take you off course.
If you’ve found yourself relying on AI-generated plans or “quick fixes” to solve riding problems, this is your reminder: riding isn’t about perfect answers - it’s about awareness, feel, and growth.
Lorna also shares 3 smart and intentional ways you can start using AI this week to support your riding journey, and why it’s all about asking better questions, not getting the perfect answers.
🧠 In This Episode You'll Learn: * How AI is showing up in riders’ daily routines, and where it’s quietly becoming a shortcut * Why copying and pasting training plans can lead you away from real progress * How to stop outsourcing your intuition and instead train your awareness * 3 intentional ways to use AI to grow as a rider, including:
+ Asking better self-reflection questions
+ Exploring alternative training perspectives
+ Getting clarity on your true goals
🐴 This Week’s Challenge: Pick one of the 3 strategies shared in this episode and try it this week with AI. Ask it to help you reflect, explore, or clarify your goals.
Then… take action. 🎯 Let Lorna know what came up for you in the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community » https://facebook.com/group
🎧 Want Real Support Without the Shortcuts? Inside Daily Strides Premium, you’ll receive:
- ✅ Weekly guided audio horse riding lessons
- ✅ Bi-weekly Review & Planning sessions (live)
- ✅ Step-by-step support that meets you in the saddle
- ✅ A library of Collections to match your goals: groundwork, confidence, canter, OTTBs & more
Perfect for riders training alone who want structure, progress, and confidence - without overwhelm.
👉 Join now at stridesforsuccess.com/dsp
📲 Subscribe, Share & Review If you found this episode helpful, please: ✅ Subscribe to the Daily Strides Podcast ✅ Leave a rating or review on your favorite platform ✅ Share this episode with a horsey friend who might be relying on shortcuts right now Let’s grow together - one stride at a time 🐎
🔗 Handy Links: * 💬 Join the DSPodcast Online Community on Facebook » https://www.facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast * 🧭 Join Daily Strides Premium » https://stridesforsuccess.com/dsp * 🐎 Grab the 15 Minutes or Less Freebie » https://stridesforsuccess.com/15
In this Strides Revisited episode, we’re returning to one of the most powerful mindset shifts in riding - the moment when you stop trying to control your horse's every move… and start asking with clarity instead.
This episode takes a fresh look at leg yielding; not just as a lateral movement, but as a powerful training tool to refine how you use your aids and communicate with your horse.
Whether you're rebuilding your confidence or looking to sharpen your lateral work, this is where the shift begins.
In this episode, you'll learn:
- Why pushing = resistance - and what to do instead
- How to create “open doors” with your seat and reins to show your horse where to go
- The importance of timing your aids with how your horse is actually moving
- How feedback builds a conversation (and trust) between you and your horse
💡 The key takeaway? You’re not there to move your horse; you’re there to ask, allow, and respond.
Read the full blog post at:- https://stridesforsuccess.com/epsiode1165/
🎁 FREE Ride & Review Kit Want to see where things are getting lost in translation with your horse? The Ride & Review Kit is a free resource to help you confidently review your riding videos. It includes:
- A simple checklist to use while watching your ride
- Key questions to ask yourself
- A short, guided audio lesson you can use before or during your ride
Perfect if you're riding alone and wondering, "Am I actually improving?"
https://stridesforsuccess.com/video
🎥 Using Pivo? Here’s Why It’s a Game Changer… If you're riding solo, Pivo is one of the best tools to level up your training. No more asking someone to film you. No more setting up your phone on a fence post. Just press record, using your handy remote, and ride! Your Pivo will follow you automatically.
📦 And here’s the best part: When you purchase any Pivo using this link, you'll receive an exclusive bonus from me:
➡️ Access to the Original Returning to Riding Program (valued at $97) ➡️ A personal video review and feedback from me (yes, I’ll watch your Pivo footage and give you insights!)
That’s over $200 in bonuses, just for using my affiliate link – grab your Pivo here 🎉
🎧 Want Support While You Ride? Join Daily Strides Premium Inside Daily Strides Premium, you'll receive a brand new 30-minute audio riding lesson every week – focused, strategic, and designed to help you consistently improve in the saddle.
Members also get access to: ✅ Guided Ride & Review sessions ✅ Live group coaching calls ✅ Structured Collections for every training goal (Confidence, Canter, Groundwork & more)
It's like having me ride along with you — whenever you want. 👉 Join here https://stridesforsuccess.com/dsp
❤️ Enjoying the Podcast? Let’s Grow This Together If this episode helped shift your thinking, please: ⭐ Rate & review The Daily Strides Podcast on your podcast app 📩 Share this episode with a rider friend who needs this reminder 🎧 Subscribe so you never miss an episode — we publish every week
Remember: When you ask with clarity and allow your horse to respond, riding becomes a partnership; not a power struggle.
🎧 Tune in now, and take the next step toward calmer, clearer communication in the saddle.
Have you ever felt like you’re doing “all the right things” in the saddle - yet not really making progress? Chances are, there might be a few riding shortcuts sneaking into your sessions. And if you're training without a regular instructor… those shortcuts can go unnoticed for weeks or even months.
That’s where Pivo comes in.
In this episode, I'm sharing three of the most common shortcuts riders take—and how using Pivo to film short clips of your rides can help you spot, fix, and finally move past them.
Whether you ride alone or just want to get more from your time in the saddle, this episode will show you how to turn video into your most trusted training partner.
🔍 In This Episode, You’ll Learn: ✅ Why rushing or zoning out during your warm-up is holding you back ✅ How to spot “helicopter riding” and give your horse space to learn ✅ The powerful (and overlooked) role transitions play in your training ✅ How to use Pivo to track your rides and train your eye as a rider ✅ Why video is the missing link for riders' training solo ✅ My favorite exercise using 3 short clips to review your ride effectively
🎥 Want to Try Pivo for Yourself? I've partnered with Pivo to offer you a special deal! Use my link and code to receive:
✔️ 10% off your Pivo ✔️ The Original Returning to Riding Audio Program sent directly to your inbox – FREE! 🎁
👉 stridesforsuccess.com/pivo Use the code DAILYSTRIDES at checkout 📩 Then just email me your receipt at lorna@stridesforsuccess.com to claim your bonus
Pivo is hands-down one of the easiest, most affordable ways to review your rides—and see what’s actually happening in the saddle. Whether you're training alone or riding with a coach, it’s the ultimate self-awareness tool.
🐴 Ready to Take Action? 🎯 This week, pick ONE of the three areas I talked about:
- Warm-Up Progression
- Letting Go of Micromanaging
- Transitions as Training Tools
📱 Then grab your Pivo (or any video device) and record 3 short clips.
Let Future You be the coach.
🎧 Need help reviewing your footage? Grab the FREE Ride & Review Kit here: 👉 stridesforsuccess.com/video
🧡 Love the Podcast? Here's How to Support It: 👍 Like this episode? 💬 Leave a review - it helps more riders find us 📲 Subscribe so you never miss a new one 📤 Share with a horsey friend who rides alone 👯♀️ Join the conversation inside the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community: 👉 https://stridesforsuccess.com/group
Have you ever wished you could fast-forward three rides ahead to see exactly what you’d do differently? In this week’s Sunday Strides, Lorna turns that fantasy into a practical tool: using short video reviews as your “time-travel” coach. Learn how to pause your ride, watch it “from the future,” then hop back in the saddle and apply those insights immediately—so every session becomes a step toward smarter, smoother progress.
🐎 In This Pep Talk You’ll Hear: * Why we all crave future-vision when making on-the-fly decisions in the arena * How a 60-second video review acts as your “future-you” vantage point * The simple “ride, review, re-ride” process to engineer smarter sessions * Why even groundwork or leading your horse on video counts - and how to set it up in 5 minutes * A challenge to record two mini-sessions this week and time-travel your own training
🎯 Action Challenge 1. Record two short clips (5–10 minutes) of your riding or groundwork this week. 2. Review each clip immediately after—jot down the one change you’d make if you could ride it again. 3. Re-ride (or your next session), applying that adjustment with clear intent.
📣 Ready to Level Up? Inside Daily Strides Premium, we run bi-weekly Review & Planning Sessions where we time-travel together; analyzing clips, co-working on solutions, and building a roadmap for your next ride.
👉 Join Daily Strides Premium and make every ride smarter.
🔗 Quick Links Recap * Free Guide “15 Minutes or Less”: https://stridesforsuccess.com/15 * Join the FB Community: facebook.com/groups/DailyStridesPodcast * Daily Strides Premium: https://stridesforsuccess.com/dsp
Struggling with unbalanced, rushed, or messy canter transitions? You’re not alone. And the good news is, it doesn’t have to stay this way.
In this episode of Strides Revisited (from 2020) of the Daily Strides Podcast for Equestrians, I’m sharing 3 practical steps you can implement on your very next ride to dramatically improve your canter transitions. Whether you’re riding alone in a back paddock or schooling in an arena, these simple mindset and position shifts will help you plan better, ride with more clarity, and finally allow your horse to move freely into the canter.
This is a must-listen for any rider who has ever felt like they were catapulted into canter… or worse, ended up rushing into it with no balance or connection.
🐴 What You’ll Learn in This Episode * Why rushed trot-to-canter transitions usually begin before the actual aid is given * How your body might be accidentally blocking your horse - and how to fix it * A simple posture trick that helps you stay centered (no more leaning forward!) * The role of the half-halt and when exactly to apply it * How to "get out of your horse’s way" - without losing connection or rhythm
🎁 Free Resource: Ride & Review Kit Want to assess your riding and training in a meaningful way - without overcomplicating it or feeling bad and judgemental?!
💬 Grab your FREE Ride & Review Kit here: 👉 https://stridesforsuccess.com/video It includes:
- A short guided audio lesson to listen to before or after your ride
- A printable video review checklist so you can spot what’s working and what to improve Perfect for reviewing your own riding videos—or a friend’s!
📣 Let’s Grow the Community Together Love this episode? Please take a moment to: ✅ Rate & Review the podcast on your favorite platform ✅ Subscribe so you never miss an episode ✅ Share with a horsey friend who’s been struggling with transitions lately
Every review, share, and subscribe helps other riders find this podcast - and helps me keep creating free, high-quality riding resources just like this one.
💬 Join the Free Daily Strides Podcast Online Community Want to continue the conversation and connect with like-minded riders around the world? Come join us inside the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community on Facebook. It’s 100% free and filled with encouragement, ideas, and support for riders who train alone. 👉 https://stridesforsuccess.com/group
🎥 Level Up with Pivo – Your Smart Riding Partner If you're training on your own, a smart video tool can change everything. I use and recommend the Pivo Pod. It follows you while you ride, making it easy to record and review your sessions without needing a second person.
Use my affiliate link to check out the latest Pivo options and grab your own: 👉 https://stridesforsuccess.com/pivo
Use the code DailyStrides at checkout to get a further 10% off 🌟
Whether you're tracking your canter transitions or analyzing your seat, Pivo + the Ride & Review Kit = a powerful feedback loop to help you progress with purpose.
🧠 Final Thought... You and your horse can enjoy smoother, more balanced canter transitions. These three simple steps - planning ahead, staying aligned, and allowing your horse to move - will not only improve your transitions but also deepen your overall connection and communication in the saddle.
🎧 Press play on the episode and give it a go in your next ride >>
https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1135/
Until next time, happy riding! Lorna
Ever feel like your riding instantly improves when someone’s watching? You sit up straighter, ride with more intention, and suddenly even your transitions are cleaner… But what if you don’t have anyone to watch you ride?
The good news? You do. Your camera and your future self are ready to become your new training partners - starting today.
In this episode of the Daily Strides Podcast, we're diving into the power of video, not just filming your rides, but reviewing them in a way that gives you clear, honest feedback and a clear next step. This isn't about judgment. It's about awareness, growth, and making your time in the saddle truly count, especially if you’re training alone without a regular instructor or coach.
🎧 In This Episode, You’ll Learn: * Why we naturally ride better when we feel observed - and how to recreate that effect when riding solo * How confirmation bias shows up in the saddle - and how video helps you move from assumption to accuracy * Why the uncomfortable, awkward moments on camera are often the most valuable * A simple, repeatable way to create a feedback loop with your video and improve every ride * How tools like Pivo can make videoing easier, smoother, and more consistent * Why even short 5-minute videos can lead to major mindset shifts (and better riding!) * Read the full post and get all the links at:- https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1369-video-to-improve-your-riding-training-when-working-alone
🐴 Ready to Try This for Yourself? 🎁 I’ve created a free Ride & Review Starter Kit to help you get started right away. Inside, you’ll get:
- A 10-minute guided audio lesson to follow while riding (and recording)
- A printable Ride & Review checklist to help you reflect on your video
- A simple, supportive system you can repeat every month to track your progress
👉 Grab yours here: stridesforsuccess.com/video
💡 Want More Rides Like This? If you loved this experience, you’ll love what’s waiting inside Daily Strides Premium:
- Weekly guided audio riding lessons
- Printable riding plans & workbooks
- Live group calls every second week
- A full library of topics—contact, transitions, rhythm, groundwork, mindset, and more!
📲 Learn more and join at: stridesforsuccess.com/dsp
📸 Curious About the Tech I Use? I highly recommend Pivo - a 360° auto-tracking camera system that makes filming your rides easy and hands-free. I personally love the remote to start recording, pause recording, and really make the most of the content you're recording!
🎥 Learn more + get 10% off with code DAILYSTRIDES at checkout: 👉 stridesforsuccess.com/pivo
🔗 Links & Resources Mentioned: * Free Ride & Review Kit: stridesforsuccess.com/video * Join Daily Strides Premium: stridesforsuccess.com/dsp * Get Your Pivo: stridesforsuccess.com/pivo * Join the Facebook Community: stridesforsuccess.com/group
💬 Let’s Keep the Conversation Going... Have you recorded your first Ride & Review session? What did you learn? I’d love to hear from you! Come share inside the Daily Strides Podcast Community on Facebook.
Or tag me on Instagram @stridesforsuccess with a photo or clip from your ride. Let’s inspire other solo riders to start filming and reviewing, too!
You don’t need a trainer in the arena every day to keep progressing. You just need a plan, a little structure, and a willingness to look honestly at what’s happening in the saddle.
🎙️ Press play. 🎥 Press record. And let’s make this your most focused ride yet.
This week’s Sunday Strides is a personal one.
Lorna reflects on how a smaller riding space at her new farm initially felt limiting but ultimately sparked creativity and growth in her training approach.
Whether you're dealing with time constraints, health issues, or limited resources, this episode encourages you to view these challenges as opportunities to explore new facets of your riding journey.
Because real riders aren’t the ones with perfect conditions - they’re the ones who adapt, innovate, and keep moving forward.
🐴 In This Pep Talk You'll Hear: * How limitations can inspire creativity and refine your riding skills * The benefits of embracing constraints to deepen your horse-rider connection * Strategies to turn perceived setbacks into opportunities for growth * Encouragement to experiment within your current circumstances
🎯 Want Support as You Grow? Inside Daily Strides Premium, we help riders just like you navigate learning, growing, and evolving—without the overwhelm.
✅ Weekly audio-guided riding plans ✅ Weekly virtual horse riding lessons (all recorded) ✅ Supportive structure you can access on your own schedule ✅ A private podcast feed + live Q&As & planning sessions
🎧 Join Daily Strides Premium at:- https://stridesforsuccess.com/dsp
⏱️ Short on Time? Download the "15 Minutes or Less" free guide—quick, effective exercises to help you get started today (even if your schedule is packed).
🎁 Get the Free Guide Here:- https://stridesforsuccess.com/15
💬 Join the Community Conversation What’s one thing you’ve been putting off learning, because it feels new or uncomfortable?
➡️ Join the Daily Strides Podcast Facebook Group and let us know your next step. We’ll cheer you on every step of the way.
📌 Quick Links Recap: * Daily Strides Premium: https://stridesforsuccess.com/dsp * Free 15-Minute Riding Plans: https://stridesforsuccess.com/15 * Facebook Group: facebook.com/groups/DailyStridesPodcast
When it comes to horses, riding, and training rhythm is often misunderstood and taken for granted. I think this is because horses are generally good at creating a pattern, but also, we tend to simply accept the first version of rhythm that's served up to us! And while that version will certainly be a pattern, it's the quality we need to begin paying attention to.
A good quality rhythm can dramatically transform a lot when it comes to riding and training your horse; it's well worth your time, attention, and effort to improve.
In this episode of the Daily Strides Podcast, I will help you to understand rhythm as it relates to your horse. How to know if you're simply accepting what's there, and how you can begin to improve it for you both as well.
Read More & Access Similar Resources HERE
https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1344-why-not-all-rhythm-is-equal-when-riding-horses
Private Virtual Coaching If you’re interested in more in-depth, personalized coaching on this and other key topics, consider my private virtual coaching program, Connection. Together, we can work to bring out the best in both you and your horse in the comfort of your own arena. Find out more at https://training.stridesforsuccess.com/connection
Online Training to Help Your Riding * + - * Daily Strides Premium * Connection – Private Online Coaching for Equestrians
Connect with Lorna online:- * + - * Connect in the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast * Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Want to create more consistency in your riding and make the most of each interaction with your horse? Join Daily Strides Premium today CLICK HERE
While many people associate driving a Ferrari with happy things, most riders know that ‘riding’ the Ferrari of the yard is not that enjoyable at all! Riding a horse who rushes and runs everywhere is usually frustrating and challenging!
And, assuming that you have ruled out physical issues, if your horse is rushing and racing, it’s time to focus on retraining. This will not be an easy process, it will take time and patience on your part while you go right back to basics. And it will require you to look at yourself and your horse.
Read More & All the Related Posts & Freebies HERE
-
- https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1343-a-retraining-plan-if-your-horse-rushes-and-runs
FREE Half Halt Audio Training
Get the free training here to use the very next time you ride HERE
-
- https://stridesforsuccess.com/halt
Online Training to Help Your Riding * + - * Daily Strides Premium * Connection – Private Online Coaching for Equestrians
Connect with Lorna online:- * + - * Connect in the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast * Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
You can get all of the details for the Connection Partnership Program HERE
https://stridesforsuccess.com/cpp
As a rider, I bet that part of what you love about being an equestrian is the bond that you have with your horse. However, this bond, for many riders, takes time to develop and strengthen.
This is because building a connection with your horse takes more than just time in the saddle. It requires attention. As well as understanding, patience, and a deep respect for the unique partnership you’re creating.
In this episode of the Daily Strides Podcast, I want to give you some practical steps you can use to strengthen the connection with your horse. I think that the beginning of building a connection with your horse starts with understanding your own expectations. From there, you can begin to create a clearer plan for deepening the bond.
Read the Full Article, Listen to Episode & Access Associated Links HERE
https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1342-building-a-connection-with-your-horse/
The Connection Partnership Program
The Connection Partnership Program will help you not only connect with your horse energetically but also begin working on basic training through simple groundwork practices and exercises.
It is perfect if you're a rider who wants to deepen your relationship and partnership with your horse :)
https://stridesforsuccess.com/cpp
Online Training to Help Your Riding * + - * Connection Partnership Program * Daily Strides Premium * Connection – Private Online Coaching for Equestrians
Connect with Lorna online:- * + - * Connect in the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast * Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Find out more about Daily Strides Premium HERE
https://stridesforsuccess.com/dsp
Being on a horse who is determined to run as fast as he possibly can towards every pole, fence, or jump that he sees is nerve-wracking! There are many reasons your horse might do this. And assuming that you have ruled out discomfort or pain, then retraining can begin.
Unfortunately, retraining a horse who has become practiced in rushing jumps is a long and slow process. It requires time and consistency. And often requires the rider to make some changes as well.
In this episode, plucked directly from Daily Strides Premium, we will focus on you, the rider. My goal here is to help you identify where you might just be 'enabling' or even encouraging your horse's tendency for rushing jumps! I know this sounds a little bananas, but it happens more often than you think!
This is an audio horse riding lesson and can be listened to as you ride your horse to help you become more aware of what you are doing in the saddle and how this may be influencing your horse.
Read the full post & get all links HERE
https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1341-retraining-rushing-jumps-working-on-the-rider-first/
Re-schooling Rushing Jumps on the Flat If you have been struggling with this challenge, the month of October 2024 in Daily Strides Premium is dedicated to working on this. This episode is the first lesson from a week of audio horse riding lessons titled "Re-Schooling the Basics for Both Horse & Rider on the Flat".
In this group of lessons, we begin working towards re-training a horse who is rushing fences by working on the basic aids, responsiveness and, equally as important, how the rider thinks.
Remember, re-shooling a horse usually also involves re-training the rider to think and act differently. The horse will respond better if the rider changes their approach and is consistently correct in what they are doing and asking…. These lessons will help you to develop better habits and responses.
Happy Riding Lorna
Online Training to Help Your Riding * + - * Daily Strides Premium * Connection – Private Online Coaching for Equestrians
Connect with Lorna online:- * + - * Connect in the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast * Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
What would happen if you went 'all in' on one specific area of training or developing with your horse for the next 90 or so days? If you laser focus every interaction to support and strengthen the thing you want to improve or make happen? As I'm writing this, there are about 90 days left in the year, which ties in nicely with goals, etc.
However, whenever you're reading or listening to this, I want to encourage you today to begin your own 90-day journey with your horse... Starting today.
Two things are absolutely essential for successfully training and developing horses and riders; time and consistency.
90 days is the timeframe for this particular focus or intention. Consistency is how you show up and the actions you take, over and over again. And if consistency is a challenge for you, remember that you are almost certain to be consistent with things. It's just the wrong things or actions that you're being consistent with!
Read More & All Links HERE https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1340-the-right-type-of-consistency-in-your-riding
Online Training to Help Your Riding * + - * Daily Strides Premium * Connection – Private Online Coaching for Equestrians
Connect with Lorna online:- * + - * Connect in the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast * Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Let's take a hack together today while you work with your horse on stride adjustment. So often, the energy that is available to us while out on a hack can be harnessed into new or 'challenging' work. This can help you and your horse when you get back into the arena.
As with all things in horse riding, the level of training you and your horse find yourself at when listening to this episode will dictate what you can reasonably expect to achieve. Take things slow and steady when it comes to introducing new things to your training program.
In this episode of the Daily Strides Podcast, I am encouraging you to listen while riding and immediately put the training into practice. We will be taking an imaginary ride 'together'...
So mount up and enjoy the lesson! And, as mentioned at the end, the following 4 audio horse riding lessons that accompany this one are available for you, right now, inside of Daily Strides Premium.
Happy Riding Lorna
Online Training to Help Your Riding * + - * Daily Strides Premium * Connection – Private Online Coaching for Equestrians
Connect with Lorna online:- * + - * Connect in the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast * Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
How often do you get out on the trail with your horse? There are no right or wrong answers to this question. However, I find it interesting how most riders fall into 2 categories when it comes to trail riding or hacking with their horse. They see it purely as a way to relax or unwind with their horse. And then you have a smaller 2nd group who understand that it's a great way to work with and train their horse.
You can use trail riding to relax 'or' train your horse. The key is to become intentional about which option you choose on any given day when out of the arena.
Today, I want to encourage you to begin getting more intentional about your time on the trails with your horse. And to encourage you to see this as an amazing opportunity to build the connection with your horse; regardless of your focus on any specific day...
So, let's first look at the benefits you can experience when you include more trail riding into your current training schedule or riding routine.
Read More and Get All Links HERE
https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1338-why-you-must-include-trail-riding-in-your-horses-training
Online Training to Help Your Riding * + - * Daily Strides Premium * Connection – Private Online Coaching for Equestrians
Connect with Lorna online:- * + - * Connect in the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast * Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Can you remember exactly how this date was last month for you and your horse? What about the month before? Didn't think so... And yet, maybe you're like so many other riders and have a complete aversion to writing things down! Why is that?!
I know that I love writing down 'things that have yet to happen'. You know, planning and creating 'to-do' lists. However, when it comes to taking the time to record what actually happened... Not so much! And this is less about being lazy and more about truly believing that I'll remember it all! Honestly! I don't and I bet you don't either, right?! Especially once you get past the two or three week mark.
Regularly reviewing your riding is one of the most powerful tools you have as a rider when it comes to getting feedback. Especially if you don't have a regular trainer or coach to work with.
Read More, Access Links & Listen to Episode HERE
https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1335-using-reviews-to-transform-your-riding
Online Training to Help Your Riding * + - * Daily Strides Premium * Connection - Private Online Coaching for Equestrians
Connect with Lorna online:- * + - * Connect in the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast * Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Are you happy with where you are right now in your riding journey? If you’ve been feeling a little stuck or ‘behind’ regarding progress for you and your horse, today is the day you can begin changing all of that; whether you make it to the yard right now, or not.
The key to feeling better about yourself as an equestrian is to take action and actually do something. However, you might find that you’re at this point where the action is the issue! It simply doesn’t feel fun, exciting, or interesting anymore!
One of the major reasons riders stop riding is due to their riding and interactions with their horse beginning to feel ‘same-old, same-old’. Becoming intentional in your riding is a surefire remedy for this :)
This is Your Responsibility As riders, we can often forget that horse riding, just like everything else in life, has a ‘honeymoon phase’ to it. The initial few weeks or months where it doesn’t really matter what happens, it’s all good and you love it! And calling it a ‘phase’ is very intentional because this season of your riding journey will come to an end. Sooner or later.
Are you guilty of getting caught up in the initial ‘novelty’ of riding or having a horse, only to begin wondering what’s gone wrong now that the ‘newness’ is fading?
No matter where you are as a rider, one of your top responsibilities is to keep the conversation and the work fresh for you and your horse. Looking for ways to weave intentional curiosity and challenges into each interaction. Finding methods and exercises that will keep you both learning and developing.
Becoming intentional in your riding is the most effective way of keeping you and your horse interested in the work – and in each other.
When the Novelty Begins to Wear Off So, in order for you to become intentional in your riding, you first need something to work towards. A goal or a specific outcome of sorts. This ‘something’ needs to be both achievable and realistic for you and your horse when combined with your current resources and seasons of life.
Read More & Access All Links HERE
https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1333-inspiring-you-to-become-intentional-in-your-riding-training/
Free Equestrian Walking Challenge
https://equestrianfitnesschallenge.com/24
Online Training to Help Your Riding * + - * Daily Strides Premium * Connection – Private Online Coaching for Equestrians
Connect with Lorna online:- * + - * Connect in the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast * Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Contact is something so many riders want to achieve when working with their horses. However, it’s always worthwhile remembering that your horse was not born knowing how to be ridden. This means that contact is something both of you must learn about and then refine through your work together.
For many horses, the challenge is made even more difficult when they have been taught something completely different about contact because they had a previous career. Especially if that career was racing.
When working with horses, especially ex-racehorses or OTTBs, we need to understand that there will be both training and re-training involved. And sometimes, the retraining can be a little more challenging than the training due to your horse wanting to ‘revert’, especially when they feel stressed or anxious.
This episode is the first episode in a week of audio horse riding lessons from Daily Strides Premium. You can get all of the episodes and work on this topic with your horse at https://stridesforsuccess.com/dsp
Read More HERE
https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1332-what-does-your-ottb-believe-about-contact-right-now/
FREE Equestrian Walking Challenge https://equestrianfitnesschallenge.com/24
Online Training to Help Your Riding * + - * Daily Strides Premium * Connection – Private Online Coaching for Equestrians
Connect with Lorna online:- * + - * Connect in the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast * Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Just like us, all horses are different. They all interact with the world in their unique way. Their reactions and their responses. What would happen if you tailored your interactions with your horse specifically so that your horse can best understand and follow along? If each 'horse conversation' was a special one? If you could tailor your aids to your horse?
When you can begin to become mindful about tailoring your communication to your horse, your training, partnership, and skills will improve much more quickly.
So it makes sense to begin studying your horse - and figuring out what he really listens to in your riding. Especially if you're noticing that your horse is not focused when working together. Or you're just not getting the results you want in your riding.
Read More & All The Links:- https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1331-tailoring-your-aids-to-your-horse
Groundwork that Works with Your Riding Webinar
Register HERE
https://stridesforsuccess.com/webinar
Get Going in Your Riding:-
Daily Strides Premium is back! The first and original audio horse riding lessons you can use to improve your riding, train your horse, keep things interesting, have fun... Even if you don't have a trainer or coach
Start today:- https://stridesforsuccess.com/dsp
Connect with Lorna online:- * + - * Connect in the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast * Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Whether you've just purchased a new horse, or the opportunity to regularly ride a different horse, the first few rides can feel a little daunting. Especially if you are coming back to riding after a break or you're used to riding another horse. One of the best things you can do is to begin assessing where you are both at in terms of training and communication.
This episode is the first in a week of 5 lessons called 'First Rides for Confidence on Your New Horse' which are available now inside of Daily Strides Premium.
Those first few rides have to happen and if done right, can set a positive tone for both of you as you work together going forward.
And these rides are the perfect time to really pay attention, assess where you both are in your training together and then build your relationship together. In this episode, I will walk you through an exercise you can do while in the saddle to begin figuring out where you both are in your training.
Read More & All the Links https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1330-confidently-assessing-walk-on-a-different-or-new-horse
Get Going in Your Riding:- Daily Strides Premium is back! You can use the first and original audio horse riding lessons to improve your riding, train your horse, keep things interesting, and have fun… Even if you don’t have a trainer or coach
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Connect with Lorna online:- * + - * Connect in the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast * Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Get Going in Your Riding:- Daily Strides Premium is back! You can use the first and original audio horse riding lessons to improve your riding, train your horse, keep things interesting, and have fun… Even if you don’t have a trainer or coach
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Deciding to work towards something specific in your riding is a good thing. And, usually, you will feel positive about that decision, and all the work involved to get there, initially. Until you realize you must 'do' the work - and the novelty starts to wear off a little!
Riding, just like most things, will involve effort. Especially when you are working to improve or reach a specific goal or outcome. And that 'effort' can often result in you quitting!
It's normal to experience all of the excitement at the beginning of something. A new hobby, project, or goal. And it's also 'normal' to notice that as you get further down the road, it can feel hard. This is to be expected and even planned for with your goals.
What's less 'normal' is to find the stamina to push on through that resistance you feel and cross the finish line. To see the goal or project to completion. That takes perseverance!
Read More & Get All the Links HERE https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1329-getting-through-tough-times-in-your-riding
Equestrian Fitness Challenge ’24 Let’s walk together for 21 days and have a chat about how you can do much more than you think you can as a rider and an equestrian… I am so excited to bring you along on this journey for the 100% FREE 2024 Equestrian Fitness Challenge There will be a daily walk, a 10 minute daily yoga practice, and lots of tips, ideas, exercises, and ways to improve so that you can show up as the best version of you – for you and your horse. Sign up today and let’s transform your riding – one stride at a time! 100% FREE 2024 Equestrian Fitness Challenge https://equestrianfitnesschallenge.com/24
Connect with Lorna online:- * + - * Connect in the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast * Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Get Going in Your Riding:- Daily Strides Premium is back! You can use the first and original audio horse riding lessons to improve your riding, train your horse, keep things interesting, and have fun… Even if you don’t have a trainer or coach
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Sign Up for the NEW & Free Groundwork Webinar HERE
https://stridesforsuccess.com/webinar/
Horses are herd animals by nature. They will always choose to be with 'their herd' when they feel uncomfortable or worried about something. And this can become a big problem for riders. This is partially due to training and development requiring both horse and rider to 'get out of their comfort zone'. Your horse's past training or experiences can also play a big role in how he responds or feels about leaving his 'herd'...
And whether you need to build your horse's confidence in himself and you, or focus on retraining him regarding his expectations and yours, it will require time, patience, and consistency to overcome.
And a 'herd' does not have to mean a whole field full of horses frolicking and running wild in open pastures. It can mean this, but it doesn't have to! Your horse's 'herd' can be him, his horse friend, and the donkey they share the field with. It can be the one horse he lives 'beside' most of the time, in the neighbouring stable or paddock. Or, your horse's 'herd' can also be the two goats he lives with full-time in the small paddock.
Horses, being social creatures, will 'bond' with whoever they spend most of their time with. And once your horse has bonded, it can become quite the performance when you try to separate him from his 'herd'...
Read Full Article and Access to All Mentioned Links HERE
https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1328-is-your-horse-herd-sour-or-buddy-bound
Equestrian Fitness Challenge ’24 Work on improving your overall strength, fitness, and stamina as a rider. The all-new and free 2024 Equestrian Fitness Challenge is a great place for you to do this. It is walking and yoga-based (no workouts), so it will ease you into becoming a better version of yourself in the saddle gently. You can sign up HERE or by visiting https://equestrianfitnesschallenge.com/24 There will be a daily walk, a 10 minute daily yoga practice, and lots of tips, ideas, exercises, and ways to improve so that you can show up as the best version of you – for you and your horse. Sign up today and let’s transform your riding – one stride at a time! 100% FREE 2024 Equestrian Fitness Challenge Connect with Lorna online:- * + - * Connect in the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast * Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Fancy taking a walk with me for 21 days and chat all things horse & riding related? If so, make sure you get signed up for the 2024 Equestrian Fitness Challenge
The link is here:- https://equestrianfitnesschallenge.com/24
Finding your perfect new horse, for many riders, can also mean having to ride a lot of horses in order to find ‘the one’. It is a decision that will have repercussions for years to come. This is true for you, the horse, and also everyone who has to work closely with the two of you!
So it makes sense that there can be quite a bit of pressure on riders to make the ‘right’ decision after trying out a new horse.
But for this episode, let's stick to a few good, old-fashioned rules of thumb when it comes to trying out a new horse for the first time...
Read More & Access Similar Content HERE https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1327-tips-when-trying-out-a-new-horse
A Simple Plan for Trying Out a New Horse This episode is the first, taken from a week of lessons inside Daily Strides Premium. They are all about what to do when trying a new horse. And while this is the first lesson, and a quick overview of the dos and don'ts of trying out a new horse, the following 4 audio horse riding lessons are the actual riding plan!
A selection of simple exercises and movements you can use when trying out a new horse. You will also learn what I suggest looking for at each stage of the ride.
These are all available right now inside of Daily Strides Premium. Audio horse riding lessons are delivered straight to your phone so that you can use your own time and your own arena to help you and your trusty steed. Daily Strides Premium is back! You can use the first and original audio riding lessons to improve your riding, train your horse, keep things interesting, and have fun… Even if you don’t have a trainer or coach
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Connect with Lorna online:- * + - * Connect in the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast * Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Join the all-new 100% free 2024 Equestrian Fitness Challenge HERE
That feeling. When you had the best of intentions about what a ride was going to be like for you and your horse. Only to realise, 15 to 20 minutes into the ride, that you are 'beat'! Your legs are just not doing what you want them to do. Your head and shoulders feel like they weigh a tonne and self-carriage on your part is just exhausting! And as for coordination and concentration; nope and nope!
If you are noticing a pattern where you're feeling physically 'done' 20 or so minutes into each of your riding sessions with your horse, you need to begin working on changing that for you and your horse.
Physical fitness is an essential part of improving as a rider. You don't have to be as fit as a flea, but there is a certain level of physical abilities that are essential if you are to improve as a rider - and as a trainer for your horse.
The good news is that there are a few simple key areas you can focus on in your next ride so that when you hit that point where you're feeling tired, you will have a few 'go to' exercises and practices to help you squeeze out a few more minutes of goodness in your training!
Read the Full Article and Access Related Links HERE
https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1326-feeling-tired-20-minutes-into-a-ride
Equestrian Fitness Challenge ’24 And in the meantime, work on improving your overall strength, fitness, and stamina as a rider. The all-new and free 2024 Equestrian Fitness Challenge is a great place for you to do this. It is walking and yoga-based (no workouts), so it will ease you into becoming a better version of yourself in the saddle gently. You can sign up HERE or by visiting https://equestrianfitnesschallenge.com/24 There will be a daily walk, a 10 minute daily yoga practice, and lots of tips, ideas, exercises, and ways to improve so that you can show up as the best version of you – for you and your horse. Sign up today and let’s transform your riding – one stride at a time! 100% FREE 2024 Equestrian Fitness Challenge Connect with Lorna online:- * + - * Connect in the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast * Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Get Going in Your Riding:- Daily Strides Premium is back! You can use the first and original audio horse riding lessons to improve your riding, train your horse, keep things interesting, and have fun… Even if you don’t have a trainer or coach
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Sign Up for the All New 2024 EQuestrian Fitness Challenge and take a walk with me for 21 days as you become a better version of yourself in the saddle HERE
https://equestrianfitnesschallenge.com/24
How many hours do you devote to training your horse each week? Have you ever considered that you might just be the 'team member' that needs more work...? That you might just be the 'cap' on your horse's progress in his training and his development?
Regardless of how much training your horse has, eventually your effectiveness as a rider will determine what your horse can actually do with all that training...
This week, I want you to begin thinking about, planning, and taking action on your own development. Your own conditioning, training, fitness, nutrition, social time, rest, and all of the things that you meticulously plan for your horse.
Read the Full Article & Access All Links & Related Topics HERE
https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1325-improving-your-effectiveness-as-a-rider
Equestrian Fitness Challenge ’24 Let’s walk together for 21 days and have a chat about how you can do much more than you think you can as a rider and an equestrian… I am so excited to bring you along on this journey for the 100% FREE 2024 Equestrian Fitness Challenge There will be a daily walk, a 10 minute daily yoga practice, and lots of tips, ideas, exercises, and ways to improve so that you can show up as the best version of you – for you and your horse. Sign up today and let’s transform your riding – one stride at a time! 100% FREE 2024 Equestrian Fitness Challenge Connect with Lorna online:- * + - * Connect in the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast * Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Get Going in Your Riding:- Daily Strides Premium is back! You can use the first and original audio horse riding lessons to improve your riding, train your horse, keep things interesting, and have fun… Even if you don’t have a trainer or coach
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Sign up for the 100% Free All New 2024 Equestrian Fitness Challenge HERE
Walk, yoga, and learning more about 'being' a rider as you join me on a 21-day journey... https://equestrianfitnesschallenge.com/24
What does the typical equestrian look like? Apparently not like a lot of the typical equestrians that I know! Let me explain; recently I asked riders to let me know what challenges they were having in their riding, in the hopes I could potentially help. And I received so many replies from riders all over the world. Great right?
Except for the line of text that so many of those emails contained... "I'm not a typical equestrian". And because of this, the rider feeling unworthy of having their question answered...
Now, there were of course different versions of this; "I'm not your average rider" or "I'm much older than other riders". And it was the tone of all of these similar statements that really got my attention. To me, it seemed as though because they didn't see themselves as a 'typical equestrian', their question was not worthy of being answered. Why is it that so many riders feel like this?
Read More & Access All the Related Links HERE
https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1324-not-feeling-like-a-typical-equestrian
Connect with Lorna online:- * + - * Connect in the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast * Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Get Going in Your Riding:- Daily Strides Premium is back! You can use the first and original audio horse riding lessons to improve your riding, train your horse, keep things interesting, and have fun… Even if you don’t have a trainer or coach
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Sign up for the all-new 2024 Equestrian Fitness Challenge HERE
Walk with me for 21 days and watch how it transforms your riding!
- https://equestrianfitnesschallenge.com/24
Do you find yourself huffing and puffing after a couple of rounds of canter with your horse? Or perhaps you feel exhausted after only 20 minutes into a lesson? You find yourself wanting to do or give more effort, but you just can’t...
My goal for this episode today is to inspire you to have even better communication with your horse by improving your overall fitness in the saddle. It really has absolutely nothing to do with your horse at all. This is all down to you, and what you can do to become a better team leader, for "Team You and Your Horse"!
Rider fitness is a topic that a lot of people seem to avoid or overlook its importance to the overall effectiveness of how the horse goes.
Many riders spend hours planning out fitness, feeding, and conditioning programs for their horse, but fail to pay attention to their own fitness.
Riding is a team sport, you and your horse. I believe it is unfair and irresponsible, for you as the rider not to try to be the best version of yourself in the saddle. The best version of you is one that can respond quickly and effectively and this comes down to your fitness levels.
Focusing on improving your riding fitness levels will have benefits in so many areas of your riding.
Read More HERE https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1028
Equestrian Fitness Challenge ’24 Let’s walk together for 21 days and have a chat about how you can do much more than you think you can as a rider and an equestrian… I am so excited to bring you along on this journey for the 100% FREE 2024 Equestrian Fitness Challenge There will be a daily walk, a 10 minute daily yoga practice, and lots of tips, ideas, exercises, and ways to improve so that you can show up as the best version of you – for you and your horse. Sign up today and let’s transform your riding – one stride at a time! 100% FREE 2024 Equestrian Fitness Challenge https://equestrianfitnesschallenge.com/24 Connect with Lorna online:- * + - * Connect in the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast * Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Get Going in Your Riding:- Daily Strides Premium is back! You can use the first and original audio horse riding lessons to improve your riding, train your horse, keep things interesting, and have fun… Even if you don’t have a trainer or coach
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Download Your Copy of the Groundpole Layout for This Episode HERE https://stridesforsuccess.com/1322-download
It is easy to become ‘stuck’, both physically and mentally, when riding in a smaller space. As riders, we tend to ‘slow things down’ to the point where we lose forwardness. Forwardness, both physical and mental, is essential to riding anything well…
This episode of the Daily Strides Podcast comes from the 1st lesson of 5 on the topic and is focused on how you can use groundpoles in a smaller space.
Go to the Episode's Page HERE
https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1322-a-groundpole-exercise-for-riding-in-a-smaller-space
Equestrian Fitness Challenge ’24 Let’s walk together for 21 days and have a chat about how you can do much more than you think you can as a rider and an equestrian… I am so excited to bring you along on this journey for the100% FREE 2024 Equestrian Fitness Challenge There will be a daily walk, a 10 minute daily yoga practice, and lots of tips, ideas, exercises, and ways to improve so that you can show up as the best version of you – for you and your horse. Sign up today and let’s transform your riding – one stride at a time!100% FREE 2024 Equestrian Fitness Challenge Have a super day Happy Riding Lorna Connect with Lorna online:- * + - * Connect in the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast * Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Get Going in Your Riding:- Daily Strides Premium is back! You can use the first and original audio horse riding lessons to improve your riding, train your horse, keep things interesting, and have fun… Even if you don’t have a trainer or coach
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- Start today:- https://stridesforsuccess.com/dsp
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Sign up for the all new 100% free 2024 Equestrian Fitness Challenge... It's walking and yoga based (no workouts) and packed full of tips, ideas, concepts, and ways to improve your self as a rider * https://stridesforsuccess.com/efc24
And share with a horsey friend... The more the merrier :) Ask any rider what they want to make happen when it comes to their riding aids and, hopefully, creating truly independent aids will be high up there on that list. Because, let's face it, your aids can only be as clear and useful in direct relation to how independent they are. But saying you want independent aids and working towards developing independent aids are two very different things. Especially when, as a whole, your aids are almost always used in conjunction with each other - not independently on their own... And yet, for each aid to become a useful member of your team of aids, I believe that you should first isolate each one and develop it intentionally and individually. Having one 'strong' independent aid when the rest are flapping about won't be enough to create clear conversations with your horse. Each aid must be strengthened in its own right and then be allowed to contribute to the overall team effort. Read More and access all links and resources HERE https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1321-developing-independent-aids-in-your-riding Connect with Lorna online:- * + - * Connect in the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast * Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Get Going Again in Your Riding:- Daily Strides Premium is back! You can use the first and original audio horse riding lessons to improve your riding, train your horse, keep things interesting, and have fun… Even if you don’t have a trainer or coach
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100% FREE 2024 Equestrian Fitness Challenge
The Equestrian Fitness Challenge is BACK! And 2024's Challenge is both brand spanking new - and completely different! 21 Days of walking & yoga... Let's GO!
Sign Up Today at https://stridesforsuccess.com/efc24
Whether you realize it or not, incorrect or bad posture is hurting your riding. And your horse's way of going. And this habit will usually continue unchecked for sometimes years. I don't believe that riders ever initially set out to ride in a way that will negatively impact things. Usually what happens is that riding a certain way either produces a certain outcome or solves a particular challenge at some point... And then turns into a habit!
But, what happens if you get stuck there? Stuck with thinking the thoughts that cause you to use or carry your body a certain way... Usually never good things!
There are lots of reasons why you might have developed less than great posture when in the saddle. Luckily, there are also lots of ways you can begin to both identify what's going on - and how to begin remedying it in your riding.
Symptoms of Poor Posture in Riding If you have started to 'slip' a little where posture is concerned in your riding, there will be signs! Definite and obvious signs. This is good because when you know what to look for, it makes it easier to begin to make those small tweaks that can make all the difference for you and your horse.
Read More & Access More Resources on the Topic
https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1320-breaking-the-habit-of-poor-posture-in-your-riding
Connect with Lorna online:- * + - * Connect in the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast * Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Get Going in Your Riding:- Daily Strides Premium is back! You can use the first and original audio horse riding lessons to improve your riding, train your horse, keep things interesting, and have fun… Even if you don’t have a trainer or coach
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Make sure that you're on my newsletter list to get more on this topic and so, so much more for riders who are working the majority of the time alone with their horse... https://stridesforsuccess.com/newsletter
Have you ever considered how different it could all be if you could open up more as a rider? Specifically around how, physically in the saddle, if you could expand yourself a little bit more, the difference it could have on your riding. And your mindset. Even your horse's way of going... Over the past few months, I have been running an in-person program on my farm South Africa based on Connection and Groundwork. It has been such an amazing experience working with all these different riders
We focused specifically on energy work, and becoming more aware of how we can intentionally use this to connect with our horses.
It was so much fun. And, it got me thinking about riding and how so many riders are blocking the kind of flow with the energy in their riding, especially with their physical body. So, in this week's episode of the Daily Strides Podcast, I would love to walk you through a few simple exercises you can do, from the saddle, to begin to identify where you are, potentially, contracting as a rider.
Read More HERE https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1319-opening-up-as-a-rider-practicing-expansion
Connect with Lorna online:- * + - * Connect in the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast * Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Get Going in Your Riding:- Daily Strides Premium is back! You can use the first and original audio horse riding lessons to improve your riding, train your horse, keep things interesting, and have fun... Even if you don't have a trainer or coach
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Join Daily Strides Premium TODAY and get all 4 exercises straight to your phone https://stridesforsuccess.com/dsp
If there is one place where the ‘endless circle’ reigns supreme, it is in the small arena… Or any smaller space riders find themselves having to make use of for prolonged periods. In fact, this was the very reason I began the Daily Strides Podcast way back when!
Saying a lasting, even final, 'Goodbye' to the endless circle should be a goal that all riders want to achieve... Especially if riding in a smaller space!
However, having a smaller area is not as limiting as many riders think it will be. In fact, riding in a smaller space can often help both you and your horse to become more focused and accurate. And these are always useful and helpful when you finally do move out and begin riding in a larger space.
This month I want to challenge you to look at those same ‘limitations’ as opportunities for you to develop and build your conversation with your horse instead.
Exercises for a Smaller Space This week's episode of the Daily Strides Podcast is the 'Monday Lesson' of a week of audio horse riding lessons from Daily Strides Premium. In this group of lessons, we work on 4 different exercises that you can ride to develop and train your horse when in a smaller space.
Read More... https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1318-beneficial-exercises-when-riding-in-a-smaller-space
Get Going in Your Riding:-
Daily Strides Premium is back! The first and original audio horse riding lessons you can use to improve your riding, train your horse, keep things interesting, have fun... Even if you don't have a trainer or coach
Start today:- https://stridesforsuccess.com/dsp
Connect with Lorna online:-
- Connect in the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast
- Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
So you’re back in the saddle. It feels amazing and you love how each ride is jam-packed with learning new things and rediscovering little things you’d forgotten. However, once the initial excitement begins to wear off, you’ll probably start thinking about how to improve your skills.
Self-assessment is a skill all riders can practice and improve. And it is essential if you want to improve your riding – and your horse’s overall way of going.
The challenge can be knowing what to look for. Being able to identify the root cause of an issue from a symptom of something else. This takes practice. Here are a few things to look out for in those initial rides to create a solid foundation for your comeback to riding.
Read the full post and listen to the podcast HERE
https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1317-self-assessment-and-your-riding-your-comeback-to-riding
Your Riding Comeback Your journey back to riding is as unique as you are. While you can draw inspiration from various plans and advice, remember to tailor them to fit your individual path and circumstances.
If you’re seeking assistance with your riding comeback, consider our program ‘Returning to Riding.‘ In just 9 weeks, we’ll help you solidify your basics and transition from passenger to confident rider alongside your horse.
With private 1 to 1 coaching, easy-to-follow audio lessons, and personalized weekly reviews, you’ll see yourself progress from feeling unbalanced to mastering clear communication and improving your horse’s performance.
Through 9 weeks of private coaching sessions, we’ll provide the support you need via secure video, voice, and text. Plus, our proven program can be revisited with your horse anytime to refine both your skills.
Explore Returning to Riding today for more details and start your journey back to the saddle!
- https://returningtoriding.com
Get Going Again in Your Riding:- Daily Strides Premium is back! The first and original audio horse riding lessons you can use to improve your riding, train your horse, keep things interesting, have fun… Even if you don’t have a trainer or coach
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- Start today:- https://stridesforsuccess.com/dsp
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Connect with Lorna online:- * + - Connect in the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast - Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
In order to make your riding comeback a lasting one, you will have to begin spending more time in the saddle than you have been recently. It makes sense, right?! And yet, while clocking up those minutes and hours in the saddle each week can initially 'seem' to be a win... They are likely working against you and your horse in the long run. This is because when we ride for the sake of just riding (clock-in riding), we tend to become a little too 'lax' about some of the things. The basic things that lay the foundation for everything else. And when you begin to allow the small things to slide, chances are the bigger things will follow suit pretty quickly. This usually holds true for you, the rider, and your horse, especially in your training and development. So, instead of just riding for the sake of riding, I'm challenging you to begin getting a little more strategic and intentional with each of your training sessions with your horse. Yes, not just 'rides', but training sessions. Read the full post HERE https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1316-your-riding-comeback-creating-something-you-love
I have spoken about the 3 essential elements on separate episodes of the Daily Strides Podcast which I will link to. Each post includes a list of activities you can use to help you spark ideas - and begin 'stringing' along to help you create an intentional riding plan. * + - * Planning Your Rides - Part 1:- Fun * Planning Your Rides - Part 2:- Partnership * Planning Your Rides - Part 3:- Training & Development
Your Comeback to Riding You are unique as a rider. So it makes sense that your journey back to regular riding will be yours and yours alone. Keep in mind that you can look to different plans and advice for inspiration. However, each should be then tweaked to suit your individual journey and circumstances.
If you would like help with your comeback to riding, make sure you check out Returning to Riding. 9 weeks to get your basics onto autopilot so that you can make the transition from passenger to ‘rider’ for you and your horse. We will work together, using easy-to-follow audio horse riding lessons and weekly video reviews to help you transform your riding.
Experience how you will go from feeling ‘floppy’, unbalanced, and lacking confidence in your abilities when in the saddle, to gaining control of your body and aids, practicing clear communication, and actually improving how your horse goes while being ridden.
With 9 weeks of private, 1 to 1 coaching with me over a secure video, voice, and text app, you will have all the support you need – and a proven program you can re-do with your horse time and again to polish both of your skills.
Make sure you check out Returning to Riding today for all of the information.
Happy Riding Lorna
Get Going Again in Your Riding:- Daily Strides Premium is back! The first and original audio horse riding lessons you can use to improve your riding, train your horse, keep things interesting, have fun… Even if you don’t have a trainer or coach
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- Start today:- https://stridesforsuccess.com/dsp
-
Connect with Lorna online:- * + - Connect in the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast - Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
So you've committed to get back into regular riding again. And, you're taking it a step further this year by focusing on specific outcomes or goals to work towards in your riding and with your horse. But the 'goal' and the 'first ride back' are MILES apart! In fact, very often the comeback to riding can feel a little overwhelming for many riders. How can you make those first 4 rides count for you and your horse - while still having fun, and feeling 'able'; especially after a long break from riding?
In this episode of the Daily Strides Podcast, I will lay out a 4 day plan for you to follow so that you can stop 'pondering' and start working again with your horse.
And, obviously, you will have to apply common sense to this and tweak it for you and your horse's specific circumstances. Two of the most important factors when customizing your plan are why you stopped riding in the first place and how long have each of you been out of regular work. Of course, there are a lot of other considerations, but these two tend to have the most impact on your overall decisions going forward.
I have a blog post HERE about some of the factors to consider when bringing your horse back to work after a long break that might be helpful for you.
Read the rest of this post and listen to the episode HERE
https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1315-your-comeback-to-riding-the-first-4-rides
Your Comeback to Riding You are unique as a rider. So it makes sense that your journey back to regular riding will be yours and yours alone. Keep in mind that you can look to different plans and advice for inspiration. However, each should be then tweaked to suit your individual journey and circumstances.
If you would like help with your comeback to riding, make sure you check out Returning to Riding. 9 weeks to get your basics onto autopilot so that you can make the transition from passenger to ‘rider’ for you and your horse. We will work together, using easy-to-follow audio horse riding lessons and weekly video reviews to help you transform your riding.
Experience how you will go from feeling ‘floppy’, unbalanced, and lacking confidence in your abilities when in the saddle, to gaining control of your body and aids, practicing clear communication, and actually improving how your horse goes while being ridden.
With 9 weeks of private, 1 to 1 coaching with me over a secure video, voice, and text app, you will have all the support you need – and a proven program you can re-do with your horse time and again to polish both of your skills.
Make sure you check out Returning to Riding today for all of the information.
Get Going Again in Your Riding:- Daily Strides Premium is back! The first and original audio horse riding lessons you can use to improve your riding, train your horse, keep things interesting, have fun… Even if you don’t have a trainer or coach
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- Start today:- https://stridesforsuccess.com/dsp
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Connect with Lorna online:- * + - Connect in the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast - Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
If horse riding has fallen down the priorities ladder in your life, you may - like many riders - want to push it back up the list. You know, get it back up somewhere near the top so that you can really feel like it is truly something that defines 'you' again...
Unfortunately, making horse riding a priority again can be one of those 'easier said than done' things for many lapsed riders. Especially when you consider what your 'mind' is telling you!
And, let's face it, if it is not a real priority, it won't last. Sure, you might have enough willpower to push through for a week or two, maybe even a month or two. But when the rubber hits the road and resistance begins to show up, you will continue to uphold the true priorities in your life. And everything else will, eventually, fall by the wayside. Which is why it's important to take the time and do this right.
You can read the full post & get all the links HERE
https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1314-how-to-make-horse-riding-a-priority-again-in-your-life
Returning to Riding 9 weeks to get your basics onto autopilot so that you can make the transition from passenger to 'rider' for you and your horse. We will work together, using easy-to-follow audio horse riding lessons and weekly video reviews to help you transform your riding.
Experience how you will go from feeling 'floppy', unbalanced, and lacking confidence in your abilities when in the saddle, to gaining control of your body and aids, practicing clear communication, and actually improving how your horse goes while being ridden.
With 9 weeks of private, 1 to 1 coaching with me over a secure video, voice, and text app, you will have all the support you need - and a proven program you can re-do with your horse time and again to polish both of your skills.
Make sure you check out Returning to Riding today for all of the information.
Get Going Again in Your Riding:- Daily Strides Premium is back! The first and original audio horse riding lessons you can use to improve your riding, train your horse, keep things interesting, have fun… Even if you don’t have a trainer or coach
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- Start today:- https://stridesforsuccess.com/dsp
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Connect with Lorna online:- * + - Connect in the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast - Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
So many riders 'say' they want to ride more. But making it happen is an entirely different matter altogether. Identifying why you are not riding more is key to overcoming this. And by 'identifying' I mean going deeper than those initial reasons or excuses that simply scratch the surface. This is Part 2 of exploring this topic for you and your riding. If you have not already, make sure you go back HERE and listen to Part 1, which is focused more on external factors. In today's episode, we will dive into more specific internal factors that may be causing you to complain that you're just not riding anymore... 1. Wrong Horse & Rider Combination This can be a tough one to admit to. And then, once you have admitted it, taking action can feel mentally and emotionally uncomfortable for many riders. I think we often become conditioned to believe that if we create a partnership with a specific horse, that partnership must last forever. We have all come across the term 'forever horse'. However, if we think about relationships, partnerships, and friendships that we have with other people in our lives, we will see that only the rare few will truly last a lifetime. The majority will work for a period of time until either one of the people or the circumstance changes. And we are, for the most part, okay with that happening. Often intentionally allowing a particular relationship to change and breakdown is a good thing as it creates space for someone new and more aligned with present-day you to enter the picture. If you have become aware of a lack of alignment between yourself and your horse, and it's begun to prevent you from getting into the saddle and riding, maybe it's time to reassess the partnership. This does not have to always mean 'selling' your horse. However, by acknowledging this and then actively looking for more suitable partners for both of you, things can begin to move forward for both of you again. Both in the training and simply riding as well. Read the Rest of this Post HERE https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1313-what-is-stopping-you-from-riding-more-part-2
Let's Work Together:-
- Returning to Riding Program
Get Going in Your Riding:-
Daily Strides Premium is back! The first and original audio horse riding lessons you can use to improve your riding, train your horse, keep things interesting, have fun... Even if you don't have a trainer or coach
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Now, if you answer this with 'because we're up to our eyeballs in snow'... Okay, fair enough! However, if you answer this with 'I don't know' or an answer that you, yourself, can quickly tear apart... This is for you! So many riders 'say' that they want to ride more. But the difference between the saying and the doing can be a big one. Which, when you think about how much enjoyment and connection we get from being with our horses, is a terrible pity. In this episode of the Daily Strides Podcast, we'll delve into five of the more common obstacles that can prevent more time in the saddle, and chat about how you can overcome them. Whether it's time management, inadequate facilities, or the pressure to please others, identifying the specific challenge you are facing is the first step toward a schedule that includes more riding time. Read the Full Post HERE https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1312-what-is-stopping-you-from-riding-more-part-1 Let's Work Together
- Returning to Riding Program
Get Going Again in Your Riding:-
Daily Strides Premium is back! The first and original audio horse riding lessons you can use to improve your riding, train your horse, keep things interesting, have fun... Even if you don't have a trainer or coach
Start today:- https://stridesforsuccess.com/dsp
Connect with Lorna online:-
- Connect in the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast
- Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
What happens when the initial novelty of riding your horse begins to wear off? Like it or not, this will happen at some point. And when it does, one of the best ways to find a 'spark' again, is to become curious. For many riders, the initially satisfying 'comfort zone' ends up becoming the very thing that sets them off down a path of 'same old, same old' in their riding. What was once the highlight of each day or week, becomes a mundane task or chore that needs to be crossed off a list. I've spoken before about how I've noticed that for most riders when they are starting out, it is simply the thrill or high of being around horses and being in the saddle that keeps them coming back for more. And, very often, an enormous amount of responsibility for the 'success' of each ride will fall on the horse and their behaviour during the ride. Which is fine... At the beginning. However, when riders fail to begin taking more of that responsiblity for themselves, especially as the initial novelty wears off... Cracks begin to show! And horseriding tumbles lower and lower down the priority list! This is why, the longer you have been calling yourself a 'rider', the more important it becomes to begin future pacing yourself and your goals with your horse. Read More & Access All Links HERE https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1311-becoming-curious-to-reignite-passion-and-progress-in-your-riding 80+ Ideas Based on Available Time to Do With Your Horse * + - Get it Free:- https://stridesforsuccess.com/time
Get Going in Your Riding:- Daily Strides Premium is back! The first and original audio horse riding lessons you can use to improve your riding, train your horse, keep things interesting, have fun… Even if you don’t have a trainer or coach
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Connect with Lorna online:- * + - Connect in the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast - Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
What if things could be more simple for you to upgrade your riding? So, instead of practicing for hours and hours in the saddle, you could begin doing more simple things that would have an enormous ripple effect. Quick and easy things, so that you are not left feeling overwhelmed...
All of these easy-to-implement tips can be done while you are busy with your existing 'riding routine'... All it will take is some intention and self-awareness from you
And while, in the long run, good correct practice coupled with sufficient knowledge and physical ability is what will really see you make progress in your riding, these 5 simple to do 'add ons' will actually help you to get there faster. And begin shifting your mindset as well. A very important requirement as a rider.
Read the Post HERE
https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1310-5-simple-ways-to-upgrade-your-riding-today
Finding More Time to Ride Workbook
It's 100% free, and it includes 80 ideas for you to do with your horse, even if you only have 15 minutes or less
https://stridesforsuccess.com/time
Get Going in Your Riding:-
Daily Strides Premium is back! The first and original audio horse riding lessons you can use to improve your riding, train your horse, keep things interesting, have fun... Even if you don't have a trainer or coach
Start today:- https://stridesforsuccess.com/dsp
Connect with Lorna online:-
- Connect in the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast
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I want to begin by reminding you that you can start this process at any time throughout the year. The date is not important. Planning out the upcoming year in your riding will help you to get really clear on what you and your horse are working towards together.
I also suggest taking the time to complete a review of the previous 12 months if this applies to you. This way, you can begin creating a plan that actually works for you and your horse. The previous episode details the process I recommend for doing this :)
Read the rest of this article HERE
https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1309-planning-the-upcoming-year-in-your-riding
Finding More Time to Ride Workbook It's 100% free and ready for you to use, whether you're getting back into the saddle after a break or you simply want to spend more time with your horse. And included in there are 80 different things to do with your horse - even if you only have 15 minutes or less...
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- https://stridesforsuccess.com/time
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Get Going in Your Riding:- Daily Strides Premium is back! The first and original audio horse riding lessons you can use to improve your riding, train your horse, keep things interesting, have fun... Even if you don't have a trainer or coach
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- Start today:- https://stridesforsuccess.com/dsp
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Connect with Lorna online:- * + - Connect in the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community at https://www.facebook.com/groups/SFS30DayRiderFitnessChallenge - Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Isn't it strange how, sometimes, when we look back over something 'big' or 'long' - like a year - we only remember 1 or 2 key events or things? And yet, when you truly sit down and begin reviewing your year in the saddle, there is so much more there to be mined!
Today, I want to give you a few simple ways you can look back over the past 12 months (or whatever time frame you choose), and see it for all that it was for you and your horse.
Reviewing Your Year I have been guilty of 'skipping' the whole reviewing process. Thinking about and planning for the 'new' definitely feels more exciting. Setting goals and beginning to play with the feelings of actually achieving those goals is a potent and powerful practice.
But, to truly make that work for you, I think it is just as important to go back over what has happened. To use the past as a guide for creating more in your future.
Identifying patterns is one of the best ways to either create or remove something from your riding. By going through the year, month by month, you can really see what works and what doesn't when it comes to you and your horse.
Read More HERE and get the list of questions... https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1308-reviewing-your-year-in-the-saddle
Get Going in Your Riding:-
Daily Strides Premium is back! The first and original audio horse riding lessons you can use to improve your riding, train your horse, keep things interesting, have fun... Even if you don't have a trainer or coach
Start today:- https://stridesforsuccess.com/dsp
Connect with Lorna online:-
- Connect in the Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/SFS30DayRiderFitnessChallenge
- Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Right now, more than ever before, we are spoiled for choice when it comes to who we can learn from in our riding and horsemanship training. The internet allows us to follow other equestrians from all walks of life, disciplines, and methods. And, for the most part, it is fantastic!
However, the internet can also create the possibility that the equestrians you see daily in your feed while you scroll might not be the best 'fit' for you and your present situation...
Because that method or that particular person is 'popular' with the algorithm, it is easy to become influenced by techniques, experiences, or people who may not be in the same geographical location or share similar values and resources as you. And this matters.
The trouble starts when you begin to see yourself or your horse as 'less than' or 'a failure' because you cannot replicate what you see online. But in truth, this is often because that particular method, technique, or person was never suited to you and your specific situation, to begin with...
As we hack on into 2024, the equestrian community is more connected than ever, with millions of trainers and fellow riders sharing their insights, techniques, and experiences online. However, I believe that there is one often ignored question for novice equestrians that needs to be answered... "Who will you follow in 2024?"
Read the Full Article HERE https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1307-who-will-you-follow-in-2024
Get Going in Your Riding:- Daily Strides Premium is back! The first and original audio horse riding lessons you can use to improve your riding, train your horse, keep things interesting, have fun... Even if you don't have a trainer or coach
Start today:- https://stridesforsuccess.com/dsp
Connect with Lorna online:- * Connect in the Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/SFS30DayRiderFitnessChallenge * Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
On the face of it, pairing a young horse and a beginner rider can seem like a great idea. Both get to learn and grow together. However, this is not a partnership I would intentionally advise anyone to get into. When you have both horse and rider in the same boat, lacking knowledge and experience, it can create some 'interesting' detours on the training journey!
I received an email from a listener of the Daily Strides Podcast asking for advice about this exact situation. 4-year-old gelding and a beginner/novice rider. I do think that every situation is different and, in this particular case, I feel that this can work - if the right approach is taken.
One of the biggest challenges riders come up against in this situation is loss of confidence. This is in themselves, their abilities, and in their horse as well
In this episode, I give my opinion on what to do in this particular situation. This rider is fortunate to have a trainer that they work with and this plays a big role in how I answered this question for this particular rider. However, if you find yourself as a beginner rider and working with a young or green horse, I do hope that you will find a nugget or two in this episode to help you as well.
Get Your Question Answered All horse and rider partnerships are unique. It is important to keep that in mind when seeking advice or following advice that is not tailor-made for you and your situation. If you have a question about your riding or your horse's training, send me an email, lorna [at] stridesforsucess [dot] com. And I will answer your question here on the Daily Strides Podcast as well.
Happy Riding Lorna
Other Resources to Help:- * Using Long Lining as a Tool in Your Riding * Starting with the Basics to Build Confidence * Groundwork for Riding * Lunging for Riding * Returning to Riding Program
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As riders, we know that training a horse involves a delicate balance of communication, trust-building, and physical conditioning. And, over the years, I have become more and more convinced of the power of simple ground pole exercises to help horses and riders. Whether they are 'fancy' poles or just straight-ish poles found in a forest or woods, these unassuming wooden bars can play a pivotal role in enhancing a horse's agility, balance, and overall performance. In this episode of the Daily Strides Podcast, we'll explore the reasons why ground poles are so important, maybe even indispensable when you are working with and training your horse. Read the Full Article HERE https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1305-transform-your-horses-training-with-ground-poles
Free Groundpole Exercise - 3 Poles; 7 Different Ways ;)
One Exercise; Multiple Ways...
Https://stridesforsuccess.com/1180
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The canter. It is often so wonderful - until it's not! And for this particular listener of the Daily Strides Podcast, the whole experience is being ruined by her knees. Specifically gripping with her knees in the canter. This can be a challenge for many riders, so today, I want to address it here in this episode of the podcast.
Gripping with My Knees in the Canter This particular rider also shared that, along with gripping with her knees, she is having challenges with keeping her heels down in the canter as well. And I think that this is pretty par for the course. In fact, I think that the heels are a symptom of the knees...
Read post and links to everything mentioned in the episode HERE
https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1304-question-how-to-stop-gripping-with-my-knees-in-the-canter
Let's Work Together:-
- Improve Your Canter
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It's all well and good being able to get into the canter; but what happens if you can't maintain the canter?! This is the challenge that one of the listeners to the Daily Strides Podcast is having with her horse. And she's not alone! I received this same question from a few riders.
So in this episode of the Daily Strides Podcast, I want to dive into what riders can do to help them stay in the canter for longer when riding their horses.
Why Can't I Maintain the Canter? I do feel that there are a few possible reasons for this happening in your riding. I am also answering this question knowing that the rider is not having challenges with getting into the canter. And is also able to maintain her posture, position, and seat while riding the canter. I do feel that if either of the above two scenarios are happening, my answer will be a little different...
So, my advice for this particular rider is the following:-
Read the rest of the post HERE and access all mentioned and relevant links
https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1303-question-why-cant-i-maintain-the-canter
Let's Work Together:-
- Improve Your Canter Program
- Returning to Riding Program
- Lunging for Riding Program
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What a great way to describe a horse! As I read this rider's email and plea for help, I could almost picture what was going on for them when working together. In this episode of the Daily Strides Podcast, I answer a listener's question:- My horse is too spicy; please help! I feel that many riders may be struggling with this particular issue, so let's dive into it.
My Horse Is Too Spicy In this particular situation, the horse is bucking, a lot! And this is both on the lunge, and while being ridden. The bucks are showing up in walk, trot, and canter. And, working alone with her horse, this rider is beginning to doubt her ability to really cope with this in the long run.
Read the full post HERE and access all of the mentioned links...
https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1302-question-my-horse-is-too-spicy-help
Let's Work Together:-
- Returning to Riding Program
- Homeschooling Your Horse Program
- Lunging for Riding
- Groundwork For Riding
Join Our Online Communities for Equestrians
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As riders, we all know that falls are part and parcel of the whole riding experience. However, getting back in the saddle after a fall can be a sticking point for many riders. This can be due to fear, a lack of understanding, or just the realization that falls can and will happen!
In this episode of the Daily Strides Podcast, I will lay out short actionable steps you can take to get you back in the saddle after a fall from your horse.
Why Did You Fall? Understanding why you fell in the first place is usually pretty important. And it can also be a moment of truth for many riders. Especially those who want to lay the blame squarely at their horse's hooves! Now, let's be honest, sometimes it can be something that the horse did that caused the fall, such as tripping or losing balance. However, even then, there are usually ways that you can improve your chances of staying on.
Read the full post HERE and access all the mentioned links.
https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1301-getting-back-in-the-saddle-after-a-fall
Let's Work Together:-
- Returning to Riding Program
- Groundwork For Riding
Join Our Online Communities for Equestrians
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This is a big question for many riders, especially at certain times of the year when the wind can play a bigger role in your riding and training. In this episode of the Daily Strides Podcast I answer the question; "Should I Train My Horse in the Wind?". Should I Train My Horse in the Wind? This is a great question and one that many riders ask themselves. In this episode of The Daily Strides Podcast, I give you my take on what you can factor into your decision when determining if you should indeed work your horse in the wind; or not! Read More & Access All Links HERE https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1300-question-should-i-train-my-horse-in-the-wind Finding More Time to Ride Free workbook for equestrians to help you create more time for riding
https://stridesforsuccess.com/time
Join Our Online Community of Equestrians * + - Join Connection today and transform your riding journey - Online community for the Daily Strides Podcast - Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorse
I think it's safe to say that all equestrians use artificial aids when working with and communicating with their horses at some point. And yet, for some reason, many riders see many of these things as being 'bad'. However, for the most part, this is simply not true; especially if they are used correctly. If you use a saddle, a bridle, a head collar, a leadrope, a stable, an arena, a round pen, etc. etc. etc. when working with or training your horse, you are using artificial aids. And when they are used correctly, they can really be a help when explaining things to your horse and also helping your horse to develop strength through his body. However, the keyword in that sentence is 'correctly'... Read More of This HERE https://stridesforsuccess.com/1299-using-artificial-aids-when-training-your-horse
List of Resources on This Topic:- * Worksheet to help plan your riding * Using Artificial Aids when Working with Your Horse * Essential Aids When Training Your Horse * Weaning Yourself from the Arena Markers
Join Our Online Community of Equestrians * + - Join Connection today and transform your riding journey - Join the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community for Equestrians - Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorses)
If you enjoy jumping with your horse, riding that clear round is all important. Luckily there are a few key areas you can work on in your training that will help you to begin seeing more of them. Adjusting the length of your horse's strides is just one of those. And it's also a pretty useful exercise for all horses and riders, jumping or not. If you can begin to intentionally help your horse to have either a shorter or a longer stride, it gives you both flexibility and adjustability in your riding In this episode of the Daily Strides Podcast, I want to help you to begin to understand just how versatile this exercise is to have in your toolkit when it comes to riding your horse. Read the Full Article HERE (it's a good one!) https://stridesforsuccess.com/1298-adjusting-the-length-of-your-horses-stride-for-jumping Resources:- Considerations When Creating a Jumping Schedule for Your Horse - Freebie! Connection; 10 audio horse riding lessons to use to help your jumping & Video Reviews Join Our Online Community of Equestrians * + - Join Connection today and transform your riding journey - Join the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community for Equestrians - Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorses)
As riders, we have all heard of the half halt. Many riders use it regularly to, let's be honest, varying levels of success! And while it can be easy to say that your horse is just not all that responsive, and just leave it at that. I think a better plan would be to tweak your approach and see if you can maybe get a better result.
And then commit to sprinkling half halts all over the arena when working with your horse; groundwork, lunging, and when riding.
You might be thinking "half halts during groundwork and lunging? Hardly!" But in today's episode, I want to literally 'sell' you on the idea of learning, practicing, and incorporating these into your day-to-day sessions with your horse. And then just allowing the results to speak for themselves :)
Read the Full Article HERE https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1296-sprinkling-half-halts-all-over-the-arena
More on This Topic:- * Your Aids to Ride the Half Halt * FREE Half Halt Training Audio * Groundwork For Riding
Join Our Online Community of Equestrians * + - Join Connection today and transform your riding journey - Join the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community - Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorse
Training your horse alone can feel like a big responsibility. And, let's be honest, for the most part, it is! And if you're anything like what I was like when I first began playing with this (with my saint of a pony), there's a good chance there are a couple of things 'missing' from your 'program'. You see, training a horse is a little like following a recipe. Change one or two things around and you will get a completely different result! Today, I want to help you identify what might be missing in your training 'program' so that you know where to begin working. I've 'crowd-sourced this a little by referring to some of the most common challenges I get asked about by riders from all over the world... Okay, let's go! Read the Full Article & All Related Links HERE https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1294-whats-missing-when-training-your-horse Seeking Founding Riders… If you are considering training your horse at home or alone (boarding at a barn, but don’t have a regular coach or trainer), make sure you check out the details of my upcoming brand-new program.
I’m looking for a limited number of riders to work in-depth with me and my team as we go through this program for the first time. Get on the waitlist to be the first to find out all of the information… We start in early September. Get All the Details HERE (no obligation to join the program, just be the first to know all of the details :) )
Is there a golden rule about how often a horse should be worked? I'm not so sure. However, when I have riders ask me how many days they should ride, I usually have a pretty standard answer... "It depends". And that is what I want to dive into today. Helping you to figure out how many days to ride your horse each week. Read the Full Article & Links to Everything Mentioned HERE Seeking Founding Riders… If you are considering training your horse at home or alone (boarding at a barn, but don’t have a regular coach or trainer), make sure you check out the details of my upcoming brand-new program.
I’m looking for a limited number of riders to work in-depth with me and my team as we go through this program for the first time. Get on the waitlist to be the first to find out all of the information… We start in early September. Get All the Details HERE (no obligation to join the program, just find out all of the details :) )
I remember the excitement I felt when I began working with my pony 'alone' at home in the fields when I was younger. The feeling that anything was possible if I was only willing to put in the consistent effort and work. And the feeling that there was just so much to do and so little time to do it! My mind was racing with thoughts of ground pole exercises, schooling movements, jumping grids, fitness training, etc., etc., etc. All of the 'exciting' stuff I had seen other riders get up to in the pony magazines I got as a treat a couple of times a year.
And after speaking with thousands of adult riders over the years, I think they also experience those same feelings. Except as an adult, when training your horse alone, those feelings of initial excitement can often turn into overwhelm pretty quickly!
In this episode of the Daily Strides Podcast, I want to chat about the very first concept I believe all horses and riders should work on in their training. And I want to help you begin to think of this as the absolute foundation of everything else you do with your horse. Especially if you are training your horse alone. Read the Full Article & Easily Find All of the Revelant Links HERE Seeking Founding Riders… If you are considering training your horse at home or alone (boarding at a barn, but don’t have a regular coach or trainer), make sure you check out the details of my upcoming brand-new program.
I’m looking for a limited number of riders to work in-depth with me and my team as we go through this program for the first time. Get on the waitlist to be the first to find out all of the information… We start in early September. Join the Waitlist HERE (no obligation to join the program, just be the first to know all of the details :) )
Have you ever begun following a recipe and it's all going great, until... You realize that you are missing an ingredient. And whether it is an absolutely key ingredient or a more 'supporting' ingredient, it matters. Because at the end of the process, what you've made is not exactly what you had in mind when you began...
Training your horse at home can sometimes feel like this. You get a few days or weeks into it, only to find your momentum grinds to a halt when you don't have access to a key piece of equipment.
Today, I want to help you identify what you will need (the basics) to get started and what you might like to add further down the line. After all, the equipment when training your horse is almost as important as the plan. Read the Full Article and All Relevant Links HERE Seeking Founding Riders... If you are considering training your horse at home or alone (boarding at a barn, but don't have a regular coach or trainer), make sure you check out the details of my upcoming brand-new program.
I'm looking for a limited number of riders to work in-depth with me and my team as we go through this program for the first time. Get on the waitlist to be the first to find out all of the information... We start in early September. Join the Waitlist HERE (no obligation to join the program, just be the first to know all of the details :) )
It's one of those things that, initially, can sound both amazing and terrifying at the same time. Training your own horse. And maybe you have been thinking about undertaking this journey yourself, yet feel a little apprehensive about what's required. Because let's face it, it can be a daunting goal to set. Not only do you have to be 'able' to do it. You also have to commit to following it through...
In this episode of the Daily Strides Podcast, I will lay out exactly what you need to be able and ready for if you do decide to train or retrain your horse. To decide if you truly have both the rider and trainer skills to make this work for you both.
Read the full article that includes relevant links HERE
Seeking Founding Riders... If you are considering training your horse at home or alone (boarding at a barn, but don't have a regular coach or trainer), make sure you check out the details of my upcoming brand-new program.
I'm looking for a limited number of riders to work in-depth with me and my team as we go through this program for the first time. Get on the waitlist to be the first to find out all of the information... We start in early September. Join the Waitlist HERE (no obligation to join the program, just be the first to know all of the details :) )
Your time or your money; it's an age-old toss-up! For the most part, most things can be improved, strengthened, corrected, or achieved when we invest either time or money towards it. And, for the most part, you can excel in the progression if you are able to invest both. And training your horse is no different.
And while many will argue that training a horse requires both time and money, for many riders it's possible, or necessary, to offset one with the other. It will simply depend on your unique situation.
Like everything else, there are pros and cons to consider with each approach. In this episode, I want to help you understand which choice may be better for you. Investing your time or investing your money when it comes to training your horse. Read the Full Article and all of the relevant links HERE... Seeking Founding Riders... If you are considering training your horse at home or alone (boarding at a barn, but don't have a regular coach or trainer), make sure you check out the details of my upcoming brand-new program.
I'm looking for a limited number of riders to work in-depth with me and my team as we go through this program for the first time. Get on the waitlist to be the first to find out all of the information... We start in early September. Join the Waitlist HERE (no obligation to join the program, just be the first to know all of the details :) )
When it comes to being ready for training your horse, you probably fall into one of two categories. The first one is filled with riders who genuinely believe they can do anything. And that they’ll probably be successful. The second is the riders who really weigh up every pros and cons before making a decision. And they often second guess themselves or lack confidence in their abilities.
This is especially true when it comes to actually working with their horse. And the fear is that they will somehow ‘ruin’ or ‘untrain’ their horse.
You Are Already Training Your Horse! However, I think that it is important to remember that you are ALWAYS training your horse. Which really makes the question of it you’re ready for it, redundant! Each time you interact together, there is either the acceptance of the behaviour, or correction of the behaviour. This is training. So, if we assume for a second that you are, right now, already training your horse, what can you begin doing today to help you get better results?
This is the exact reason why, in riding schools or yards working with more inexperienced riders, the horses and ponies often need to be ‘re-tuned’. Basically, more experienced and knowledgeable riders will regularly ride that horse and make sure that the basic fundamentals of the training are still in place and present.
And this might be the very challenge, you’re experiencing now – you don’t have anyone to do the ‘re-tuning’ for you. It’s just you and your horse – and you’re doing all of the training.
And that can seem very daunting. But it is ‘doable’; if you are willing to follow a few simple guidelines that will help transform you from just a ‘rider’ (or a passenger), into your horse’s trainer. And I believe that your attitude to this is what really decides if you’re ready for training your horse – or not!
You can Read the Full Article HERE
https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1288-are-you-ready-for-training-your-horse/
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What goes up, must come down; apparently. And this certainly applies to the gaits when you’re riding your horse. For many riders, successfully riding the transition into the canter and then staying with the movement in the canter itself is a great achievement. However, the next piece of the puzzle is returning to the trot.
For many riders, no matter how good the canter is and how well they can ride it; the bumpy, uneven, and unbalanced return to trot puts a damper on the whole experience.
And, yes, the transition from canter to trot can be tough to ride; but it is definitely ‘doable’. Here’s how you can improve this for you and your horse.
Read the Full Article HERE
https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1287-smoother-transitions-from-canter-to-trot/
Improve Your Canter The canter is a big topic for riders. There can be so much pleasure and joy found there. And, often, an equal amount of bumps, flatness, and non-starts! If you are keen on improving your canter in just 4 weeks, make sure you take a look at my program Improve Your Canter.
You will learn what is happening and how you can best time your aids so that your canter will go from being hit-and-miss to smooth and connected.
With audio horse riding lessons to listen to 4 days a week while you ride, all filled with different exercises for you to practice, Improve your Canter will help you finally ride the canter the way you want. Every single time.
https://stridesforsuccess.com/canter
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The challenge is real... And, unfortunately, the momentum is as well! For so many riders, cantering is all well and good until the point where you have to turn!
Cantering around corners can be so challenging for many riders for a lot of reasons.
Here are 3 points to focus on to help you maintain your alignment and balance.
Read the Full Article HERE
https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1286-stop-leaning-to-the-outside-round-corners-when-cantering/
Improve Your Canter https://stridesforsuccess.com/canter
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One of the fun things about canter is the 'moment of suspension'. Except when this 'moment' applies to the rider, not just the horse! Yes, there is a moment when the horse will be 'off' the ground; suspended in midair. However, we definitely don't want you to experience this bouncing in the canter.
Becoming airborne whenever your horse strides in the canter is no fun! And the 'land' when you connect with the saddle again brings little relief. Instead of being a safe and reassuring place to 'come back to earth'; it can feel like the saddle is trying to push you back into 'thin air' again. Never a good feeling!
In order to truly stop bouncing in the canter, I think you first have to understand the canter. And what your body needs to do in order to stay moving with the horse, rather than against it.
Read the Full Article HERE
https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1285-start-rolling-stop-bouncing-in-the-canter/
Improve Your Canter https://stridesforsuccess.com/canter
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Getting into the canter can be a challenge! For so many riders the transition into the canter can be a truly bumpy, hair-raising, rushed, and flat experience. There is none of the upward, poised, clean, and intentional 1 that leads to the 2, 3 for the canter stride. It is just a matter of creating enough momentum with a flat, running trot to finally, eventually, fall into the canter. Not good! But all is not lost...
I believe that by working on a few key elements in your riding and your training with your horse, you can literally transform your canter transition in a VERY short period of time.
The key to doing this is to first be very honest with yourself. Honest about both your abilities and what you are doing. And also, your horse's abilities. Is he actually 'able' to simply step from a trot into a canter, carrying you, at this level in his training? That there is a really good question and one that's worth getting clear on today.
Read the Full Article HERE
https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1284-creating-a-more-responsive-transition-into-the-canter/
Improve Your Canter Program https://stridesforsuccess.com/canter
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What stops riders from getting back in the saddle after a break? Returning to riding. I mean, if it was as easy as simply mounting up, everyone would do it, right? And yet, everyone doesn’t. In fact, so many riders sit on the sidelines of their proverbial horse-riding dream, forever wishing and waiting for the day to arrive when they will mount back up again. But that day, for many, never arrives. And for those who somehow do make it happen, the ‘return’ is often short-lived. A few initial rides. All motivation and inspiration. Rah rah excitement… Only for the whole dream to fizzle and burn out before it ever really got started. Getting back in the saddle after a break can seem daunting. However, understanding what’s blocking you and why can often highlight the way for riders to not only get started but to keep at it as well. Read the Full Article HERE https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1283-whats-stopping-you-getting-back-in-the-saddle-after-a-break/ Free 'Finding More Time to Ride' Workbook:- https://stridesforsuccess.com/time
Returning to Riding:- https://returningtoriding.com
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Horse riding is essentially about how we can communicate with our horses – while riding our horses. However, as riders, in order to be effective we need to first master some basic coordination. And therein lies the challenge! It is often this part of communication, the one between our brains and our bodies, that can cause the greatest issues when it comes to our effectiveness when in the saddle.
Resulting in our lack of effective coordination creating havoc with our communication when riding our horse!
The lack of coordination really has a knock-on effect on all of the other parts of riding a horse. From our balance to our confidence. How we ask questions of our horses. And how we can respond when they answer. If any one of these elements is negatively impacted by poor coordination, it will cause challenges for both the rider – and their horse.
Read the Full Article HERE
https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1282_identifying_why_youre_struggling-with-coordination-as-a-rider/
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Arena markers are a great tool when working on improving specific things in our riding. Whether it be rhythm and stride length. Or shapes of movements and shapes... Using strategically placed markers can really improve the overall quality of the work you do with your horse. However, just like all of the other artificial aids, we can sometimes become a little too dependent on arena markers in our riding.
Remember, arena markers, just like all other artificial aids, are there to 'back up' or 'strengthen your natural aids. Meaning it is essential you are looking to eventually work without them.
But working without arena markers can be very challenging for many riders! In this snippet of a Connection Bonus Live training from December 2021, I discuss how you can begin to slowly, but effectively, remove the arena markers from your circles. This is all without compromising the quality of the work and the training.
Once again, this is a previously recorded training. My voice is still quite hoarse. I really do appreciate your patience with this and I hope it serves you.
Happy Riding Lorna
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There is a tendency for riders to 'hold' a little too much during the downward transitions. And while the half halt is essential to the preparation and transition itself... Too much can lead to a very 'stuck' feeling when the horse actually makes it into the new gait! A little like 'stuck in the mud'.
In this episode, I am releasing a Connection Bonus Live Call from June 2021. This is due to my ongoing hoarse voice! I hope you enjoy the 'episode' and that it is useful for you in your riding.
The focus for the month inside of Connection was self-carriage through downward transitions. In this particular call, I discuss 'releasing the handbrake', especially through the seat and hands, while riding the transition. I do hope that you find this helpful for your downward transitions.
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A few months ago, I really felt the burden of guilt on my soul… And during that time, my ‘whine’ was fairly constant; “I don’t have time to ride!’ Now, it is not lost on me the fact that I created all of this guilt myself. You see, whenever I was doing one thing, I was feeling like I ‘should’ have been doing something else.
So, when I was with ‘The Boys’ (my children) I felt guilty because I ‘should‘ have been riding. And when I was at the stables and in the saddle, I felt guilty because I wasn’t ‘with‘ the children. When I was working, I seemed to be continually thinking “I need to ride today”. And, then when I was riding I berated myself over my lack of planning to bring a tripod, phone, and mic with me to create some videos for work.
Why is it that, as riders, we can often feel so guilty about riding – or about not riding? And why do so many of us struggle with finding ‘enough’ time to ride?
Read the Rest of the Article HERE
https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1279-i-dont-have-enough-time-to-ride-experiement/
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Can I tell you something funny? Years ago, before I had children, I was one of ‘those’ people. You know the ones that say “when I have children, I will have them at the stables with me all the time because nothing will change”. I usually followed it up with something offhand like “they will fit in with my schedule”. Ha, ha, ha!! Oh, how naive it was back then!
If you are trying to juggle horse riding and parenting, you will know all too well that they can often clash. The time, focus, and attention that is necessary to really improve as a rider can often leave us feeling like we’re stealing time from our children! Or that our children are stealing valuable ‘riding time’ from us!
Finding time to devote to your riding when you are a parent can truly be a challenge
However, by setting a few healthy boundaries, becoming more disciplined with your time, and a lot of luck, it can be done.
To Read the Full Article and All the Related Links CLICK HERE:- https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1278-horse-riding-as-a-parent-how-to-make-it-work/
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Have you ever fallen into the trap of trying to actually get your horse to canter? It’s a sneaky one that hides in plain sight. And it is an exhausting one as well. The good news is that you’re not alone! Over the years, I have seen so many riders make this mistake.
Because trying to make your horse canter, and asking your horse to canter are two completely different things…
And the latter, asking your horse, is so much easier, balanced, and enjoyable for all involved. It also has a much higher success rate as well ;)
Read the Full Article for this Episode HERE:- https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1277-tipping-forward-while-transitioning-into-the-canter/
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I bet that you still remember the day you made your first ‘big’ equestrian-related purchase. Whether that was a helmet, a saddle, a horse, or a property, it’s a special time for all riders. And of course, all of the ‘big ones’ that come after that are equally as memorable.
The same applies to your riding. That feeling when you ‘finally’ understood the canter and how to move with your horse – rather than bouncing against it! Or the first clear round you and your horse worked together to achieve.
Big moments that, just like physical things, usually lead you on the path to your next ‘big thing’.
And as riders, we also tend to collect a whole lorry load of smaller things as well. The amounts of which tend to correlate to the amount of time we’ve considered ourselves as ‘riders’. The daily essentials that, over time, we find we have 7 or 8 of each one (hands up who has a whole cupboard of brushes in the tack room!).
Read the Full Article for this Episode HERE:- https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1276-declutter-your-riding-and-watch-what-happens/
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A lack of patience is something that many riders feel shame about. I was one of those riders for many years, so I know full well how it feels. The initial frustration, the following swift judgment or potential explosion, and then the guilt that happens afterward. Let’s be honest, coming out the other side from losing your patience is rarely a good place to be! And yet, for years I simply believed that I was not a patient person. Like it was something that you are either born with – or not Now, I do think that some people have naturally more tolerance and more patience than others. However, I also now believe that patience can be developed – in all riders. It is simply a matter of believing you can, and then committing to doing the work required. Read the Full Article for this Episode HERE:- https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1275-developing-more-patience-as-a-rider/ Get Going in Your Riding:-
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Riding a nervous horse is one thing… Feeling less than confident about your own abilities while on your horse is quite another. Imagine it, up there, on your horse. He is beginning to get a little ‘jumpy’. Let’s be honest, so are you… Doubts are beginning to creep in and your thoughts are heading in a direction you would rather that they didn’t go… Building confidence in your abilities to both handle yourself and the horse when in this situation is often a long road. However, it can be done – with time and patience. Here are my suggestions for building your confidence in working with and riding a nervous horse. You Can Read the Full Article for This Episode HERE:- https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1274-building-confidence-when-riding-a-nervous-horse/ Get Going in Your Riding:-
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For many riders, posture is something that they rarely think a whole lot about. It’s a basic that you ‘set and forget’. Meaning, you figure out what it is and how it feels, and then you are diligent in putting it onto autopilot. Which then frees you up to focus on other things. And this works well; until it doesn’t… Transitions, particularly between gaits, have this special ability to shine a spotlight on any weaknesses either horse or rider has, and riders posture is often the focus of this attention However, transitions by their very nature can also be a really useful tool to help riders overcome any posture challenges. They require you to engage and carry yourself. And they also continually question you by requiring balance throughout the movement. Here are a few ideas to help you make the most of using transitions to improve your posture… Read the Full Article for this Episode HERE:- https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1273-using-transitions-to-improve-your-posture/ Get Going in Your Riding:-
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Connect with Lorna online:-
- Connect in the Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/SFS30DayRiderFitnessChallenge
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What is it about a swinging lower leg that makes it so annoying for riders, horses, and trainers the world over?! I mean, everyone has their specific ‘riding issues’ and deals with them accordingly. And yet, a swinging lower leg has the potential to have riders stuck on a plateau forever! I don’t need to tell you how important it is to have a secure lower leg when riding. It is vital for the safety, communication, and, maybe, mental health of all involved! If you have been struggling with a lower leg that prefers to play ‘hokey pokey’ swinging back and forth, rather than help you gain clarity with your horse, don’t lose faith. Here are a few ways to begin securing those legs, once and for all. Read the Full Article for this Episode HERE:- https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1272-how-to-secure-a-swinging-lower-leg/ Get Going in Your Riding:-
Daily Strides Premium is back! The first and original audio horse riding lessons you can use to improve your riding, train your horse, keep things interesting, have fun... Even if you don't have a trainer or coach
Start today:- https://stridesforsuccess.com/dsp
Daily Strides Podcast Calendar:-
https://stridesforsuccess.com/month
Connect with Lorna online:-
- Connect in the Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/SFS30DayRiderFitnessChallenge
- Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Your hands are an aid in your riding. So understanding why the way you hold your reins and how to judge the height of your hands when riding is important. And realizing how much your hand aids are impacting and affecting your riding can change everything. As riders, one of the first things we learn is how to ‘hold’ the reins. However, often the ‘why’ behind all of this is never really explained to us. Your Hands Connect So, it’s obvious that your hands are the connection between you and your horse’s mouth through the reins. And it would be an awful pity if that connection ended there! As riders, one of our greatest responsibilities is to refine communication. When you refine your hands and how you use them with your horse, you can truly help to enhance the whole conversation between you and your horse. So just like with all of your aids, a great place to begin when refining your hands is their position. Being in the ‘right place’ will allow you to give more precise aids to your horse. And when we can create more clarity in our communication, it shows in our riding. Read the Full Article for this Episode HERE:- https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1271_simple_tips_to_improve_your_hands_when_riding_and_fixes/ Get Going in Your Riding:-
Daily Strides Premium is back! The first and original audio horse riding lessons you can use to improve your riding, train your horse, keep things interesting, have fun... Even if you don't have a trainer or coach
Start today:- https://stridesforsuccess.com/dsp
Daily Strides Podcast Calendar
https://stridesforsuccess.com/month
Connect with Lorna online:-
- Connect in the Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/SFS30DayRiderFitnessChallenge
- Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Has fear or lack of confidence ever held you back in your riding? If so, you will know how debilitating this can be. Sometimes it’s caused by a past experience. Or it can be created when we think of all the things that ‘can’ potentially happen. Whatever the cause, I think that it is important to recognize that this particular challenge won’t simply vanish on its own. Sure, sometimes it can seem like it has shifted or even disappeared. But more often than not, it is simply buried and will rear its unwanted head again as soon as there is even a whiff of ‘danger’ or ‘warning’ in the air. I am a firm believer that confidence is something that we build over time. Couple time with consistent repetition, self-awareness, and taking the correct action and there’s a good chance that you can overcome the fear and begin thriving again in your horse riding. Read the Full Article for this Episode HERE:- https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1270-fear-and-horse-riding/ Get Going in Your Riding:-
Daily Strides Premium is back! The first and original audio horse riding lessons you can use to improve your riding, train your horse, keep things interesting, have fun... Even if you don't have a trainer or coach
Start today:- https://stridesforsuccess.com/dsp
Connect with Lorna online:-
- Connect in the Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/SFS30DayRiderFitnessChallenge
- Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
"So, what are you planning on doing today?". It's a question I ask at least 5 or 6 times a week to different riders. And, let's be honest here, so often the answer is not all that great! "I'm not sure. We'll see when we start working." If that's you right regarding your next ride with your horse, I am giving you 'the look'! The look I reserve for riders who say they want to achieve and do all of the things... But they continue to wing it when it comes to their training and their responsibilities as the trainer for their horse.
So, rather than just moan, I am going to give you a step-by-step riding plan today that you can follow so you can truly make the most of your next ride with your horse :)
You can read the full article along with the lists of suggested riding movements HERE
More Training & Support * + - FREE DAILY STRIDES PODCAST RIDING PLAN; CLICK HERE TO GET IT - Get Daily Strides Premium and Train TODAY! - Join Connection for Step by Step Audio Horse Riding Lessons - Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians - Virtual Stable Lounge for Riders Working Alone or with OTTBs
It's always the same. The same sentences are being spoken and written about the same things. And I've been thinking about why it is this way. Why do most riders make the same 'resolutions' year in and year out? Rather than growing, building, and developing so that they get to create something different each year they are together? How about this year, you try something different for you and your horse? Something that you can feel a sense of accomplishment about? Commit to 'Doing It'... Now, I get that 'doing it' is fairly vague! It's one of those phrases that can mean anything to anyone. And this is where the magic lives. It is as individual and unique as you and your horse are when working together. Which allows you to make it anything that you want it to be. I am going to suggest that from today, you begin to think about what 'doing it' is for you and your horse. Start with thinking about what 'being an equestrian' means for you. Does it mean a deeper connection with your horse? Perhaps it is with horses in general. Maybe it is riding skills and training skills that really define an equestrian for you. Or the number of hours spent with horses on a weekly basis... Read the rest of this article and links to other similar ones HERE Free Daily Strides Podcast Riding Calendar - Download it HERE More Training & Support * + - Get Daily Strides Premium and Start Training TODAY! - Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians - Virtual Stable Lounge for Riders Working Alone or with OTTBs
There are certain times of the year when circumstances mean you can find yourself with either more or less time with your horse. December, August, and April are just a few that pop into my mind. Some riders find they have more time, and other riders have significantly less! It just depends on your unique circumstances and situation.
What is key to remember is that whatever side of the time conundrum you find yourself on, making the time with your horse count is important. Especially if you hope to continue to move forward in your training together. Can you really afford to lose a month of training - and set your momentum back to zero?
So, to help you get this all figured out and continue to grow and develop your skills as a rider, here are a few ideas on how you can make the most of your time with your horse. However much time that happens to be for you.
You Can Read the Full Article and Get Free Training HERE More Training & Support * + - Free Planner & Exercises for Riders - Join Connection for Step by Step Audio Horse Riding Lessons - Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians - Virtual Stable Lounge for Riders Working Alone or with OTTBs
Whether you enjoy jumping or not, the fact of the matter remains... When approached correctly and consistently, jumping can significantly benefit horses and riders in a long-term training program even if there is no intention of actually 'jumping' competitively. And this is true regardless of discipline, training level, and experience.
When introduced the right way, and then strategically used jumping is a great way to add diversity to the training - and physically and mentally develop the team.
So, here are three simple ways you can get started and begin using jumping this week in your current training program with your horse. And, keep in mind, nothing has to be 'higher' or 'bigger' than 30cm (12 inches), deal? ;)
Read the Rest of This Article and Get More Resources HERE
More Training & Support * + - Free Planner & Exercises for Riders - Join Connection for Step by Step Audio Horse Riding Lessons - Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians - Virtual Stable Lounge for Riders Working Alone or with OTTBs
There are times each year when special offers are just an inevitable part of life. Right now is one of those times; I can only imagine how, right now, your inbox is full, full, full, with all of the things! And some of those things, online horse programs, are just so, well, darn good... Right?
Hmmm... Maybe too good?!
I think that most of us would agree that knowing how to discern 'all of the things' when it comes to online horse programs and courses can be a bit of a fine art. Particularly when you're not an expert on the topic of the course or program you're interested in, maybe, investing in. And this is true for most of us. After all, we are not going to spend time and money on knowledge or training on things we already are well versed in!
So, in the hope that I can help you a little with all of the decisions regarding what's 'right' for you and your horse... Here's a quick rundown of the 3 common mistakes I see riders make.
Read More of This Article HERE More On This Topic:- * + - Working with an Online Coach or Trainer - Accountability in Your Riding
Support in Your Riding Journey * + - Join Connection today and transform your riding journey - Lunging for Riding – 4-week step-by-step program to transform your lunging experience - Online community for equestrians working on their mindset & fitness - Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorse
As a rider, it is important to always look for ways to keep your schooling work interesting; for you and your horse. One of the ways you can do this is by working on different lunging exercises. And they don't have to be 'fancy' or complex.
In fact, there are a few basic exercises you can begin working on introducing, or refining today that will help you to really begin utilizing lunging as a training tool for you and your horse.
Now, just like riding, it is important that before you dive into 'working' your horse, you take the time to warm up correctly. I enjoy walking my horse (leading my horse) the 'long way round' to the arena I will be working in. I use the 5 or so minutes to do a little groundwork on the way.
And bonus points if the groundwork sets up, introduces, or relates to what you will actually be working on when lunging your horse. It is the perfect way to start the conversation.
Read the Rest of the Article and Explore other Resources HERE
More Resources:-
Free Training to Successfully Get Started with Lunging:-
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https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1264-3-lunging-exercises-to-train-your-horse/
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Join Connection today and transform your riding journey
- Lunging for Riding – 4-week step-by-step program to transform your lunging experience
- Online community for equestrians working on their mindset & fitness
- Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorse
As both a rider and trainer of your horse, one of your responsibilities is to help your horse build responsibility. In order for riders and their horses to take their training further, both sides of the team need to show up and work together.
This cannot happen if we, the riders, are trying to control all of the moving parts. And so, this can bring up a few questions for riders...
How can I begin to help my horse work 'with' me, rather than just 'for' me? And how can I develop his confidence so that he feels ready to take on some of the responsibility?
Now, I believe that the responsible way to do this is to be consistent and invest time. I also think that this part of the learning should be approached in a few different ways. In the saddle, on the ground, and on the lunge or long lines. This way we can both explain, allow, and respond to our horses from lots of different perspectives. And this, in turn, allows them more opportunities to develop their 'responsibility muscle'.
Recently I spoke about how to begin doing this while riding. You can read or listen to that article/episode HERE. However, today, I want to dive into a personal favorite of mine; lunging.
Read More & Get the PDF by CLICKING HERE... 3 Days to Success Full Lunging - Free Training Have you tried lunging before - and ended up with a horse running wildly in circles around you?! Or maybe you tried, and the outcome was a horse standing square to you, with no intention of EVER circling around you?! Or are you just a little nervous to start lunging at all? The struggle can be real, eh?!
I have a fantastic free training for you to 'Successfully Get Started with Lunging (whether it's your first time or your 121st time to try this) in 3 Days' and you can sign up (for free) BY CLICKING HERE or visiting https://stridesforsuccess.com/3days
More on This Topic:- * FREE TRAINING:- 3 Days to Successfully Getting Started on the Lunge * Train Your Horse in 20 Minutes or Less * 4 Essentials for Getting Started with Lunging for Riding * Handling Your Lunge Line to Avoid Tangles and Enhance Contact * 4 Things You’re Doing Wrong When Lunging * Improving Your Riding Coordination and Aids While Lunging
Get Support & Guidance in Your Riding * Join Connection today and transform your riding journey * Lunging for Riding – 4-week step-by-step program to transform your lunging experience * Online community for equestrians working on their mindset & fitness * Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorse
Just last week, I noticed a rider literally dragging their horse from the stables towards the arena. The rider was about a meter in front of the horse's head. Her face was red with effort! And her horse was literally going nowhere slowly.
It occurred to me that so many riders make things really difficult for themselves by not having a few ground rules in place when it comes to their horse and their expectations.
And what better place to work on ground rules than on the ground? Beside your horse. Groundwork is an essential part of training your horse. It is where you can set expectations, create boundaries, explain 'rules', and develop partnerships.
Groundwork exercises also help you to refine your own skills as a rider. By simply having to figure out a slightly different way to 'say' something to your horse, you get to explore your own knowledge of the subject.
So, all of that being said, here are 3 groundwork exercises you can use this week when working with your horse...
Read More...
A Step-by-Step Groundwork Exercise If you are keen to find out how you can begin using the "Increasing Suppleness Through Flexion Groundwork Exercise" to develop and train your horse today. Get the free guided audio training to use before or after your ride, to really begin introducing and increasing your horse's flexion. And you will also get a bonus audio horse riding lesson as well to use when in the saddle to ask put some of your work into practice while riding.
The"Increasing Suppleness Through Flexion Groundwork Exercise" to develop and train your horse is 100% free and you can get yours when you CLICK HERE https://stridesforsuccess.com/flex
Additional Links on Groundwork * Groundwork for Riding 4 Week Program * Groundwork for Horses and Rhythm in Training * Groundwork; The Bookends in Your Riding * 4 Ways to Work with Your Horse When Time is Short * Why Enforcing Your Boundaries on the Ground Will Improve Your Riding * Square Halt on the Ground * Your Half Halt on the Ground with Your Horse
Other Resources to Help Riders * Join Connection today and transform your riding journey * Improve Your Canter – 4-Week Program * Online community for equestrians working on their mindset & Fitness * Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorse
For years, I was all about control when it came to horses. I wanted to understand how to control them better, and how I could help riders do this… Until, one day, I realized I was working under a false pretense! You see, I figured something out. It was like an ‘oh wow’ moment.
There is no way to control a horse – or at least a way to do this that encourages the development and training of horse and rider.
And I really and truly believe that if more riders could understand this, they can make progress far more quickly. And enjoy the whole training journey a whole lot more as well… In this episode of the Daily Strides Podcast, I am diving into all of the reasons that trying to control your horse is actually holding you both back from doing more in your work together.
Read More...
Links to More Helpful Stuff:- * Free Training – Find the Gaps in Your Horses Training * Have More Success when Training Your Horse Alone * 5 Reasons You’re Stuck when Training or Retraining Your Horse * Connection – the Monthly Membership for Equestrians Riding & Training Alone * Groundwork for Riding * Lunging for Riding
Join My Online Communities for Equestrians * Online community for equestrians working on their mindset & Fitness * Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorse
Whether it comes down to circumstances, weather, or location, finding yourself without a flat, good-quality, horse arena to train in, can often derail everything. It can feel like every single exercise you see or hear about requires acres of space and dozens of poles!
And, maybe even more frustrating is when you begin to feel things coming together, only to slip or unbalance due to questionable footing or ground levels.
Let's be perfectly honest here; having a good quality suitable horse arena to work in is important if you have long-term goals with your horse... However, there are some short-term solutions you can use to keep training moving forward while you figure things out.
Read More...
Additional Resources:-
Links That May Help:- * Connection - the Monthly Membership for Equestrians Riding & Training Alone * Groundwork for Riding * Lunging for Riding * Making the Most of Riding in a Smaller Space * Using Pressure and Release in Groundwork * 3 Exercises to Use to Develop Your Horse While Out on the Trail
Online Communities for Equestrians * Online community for equestrians working on their mindset & Fitness * Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorse
Rhythm is genuinely one of those things that can seem so simple on the surface. And, don't get me wrong, rhythm is a fairly simple concept. However, when we begin applying it to horses and riding, it is truly eye-opening just how deep we can go with the idea. A little like groundwork for horses...
And, because rhythm is something we can approach from different perspectives and filters, the possibilities are pretty endless. So when we combine rhythm and groundwork for horses, we can really begin to develop and train. Both ourselves, and our horses.
When working with your horse using groundwork, you can actually begin to both 'see and feel' how important rhythm is.
Read More...
Free Groundwork Exercise
Download the "Suppleness through Flexion" exercise HERE
Groundwork for Riding
I have created a full 4-week self-study program for you to use to really begin achieving results in your riding - and all while on the ground. There are audio horse riding lessons for you to use each day to develop your horse and improve your skills as a rider.
And all are created with the intention to improve your riding as well. All of the details are HERE
More on Groundwork for Horses * Your Half Halt on the Ground with Your Horse * Why Enforcing Your Boundaries on the Ground Will Improve Your Riding
Join Our Online Community of Equestrians * Join Connection today and transform your riding journey * Improve Your Canter – 4-Week Program * Online community for equestrians working on their mindset & Fitness * Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorse
Contact can often look effortless for some horses and riders. And yet, for many other riders, consistent contact can seem like an enigma. Any efforts at consistency tend to lead to heaviness. Or a complete lack of any contact! So where is this fine line between consistent, quality contact and washing lines?
In order to develop contact with your horse, I feel that you must first understand what a 'good' contact is. This can often be confusing for many riders, so let's start there...
Read More... Creating Consistent Contact As you begin working on this with your horse the next time you ride, remember that contact must be developed over time. Both you and your horse must have the necessary strength and development physically and mentally in order to maintain true contact.
There are numerous audio horse riding lessons available to you inside of Connection that you can use to create this with your horse. Get started working on this today by joining HERE
More Training & Support * Free Half Halt Audio Horse Riding Lesson * Improve Your Canter 4-Week Program * Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians * Virtual Stable Lounge for Riders Working Alone or with OTTBs
So you are a place in your canter where you want to begin to do a little ‘more’. After a quick ‘google’ of all the different exercises, you see a canter to walk pop up a few times. Canter to walk?! Without a handbrake?! Yes, and even better, this will begin to prepare you and your horse for so much more to come.
The canter to walk transition can seem daunting when we begin to think about it first. However, once you and your horse have begun working successfully in a few key areas, it does not have to be as complicated as maybe you believe it is.
The First Few Canter to Walk Transitions So, before we go any further with this, I feel that it’s important to realize that the first few transitions probably won’t be your best work! It is completely normal for your horse to include a few, usually wobbly, steps of trot in before he reaches walk. This is okay.
Very often, the first few attempts at the canter to walk, even with all of the preparations, can look and feel a little like a child learning to walk! Hesitant, unbalanced, and looking for support.
Keep in mind that canter to walk is not something your horse will do a lot by himself. And going direct from canter to a balanced, rhythmic walk is definitely not something you will see happening among horses in a field!
This can mean that you will have to both explain and encourage your horse to perform this transition. And, depending on where you are in your training, that may take some time.
Read More...
Free Half Halt Riding Lesson If the canter to walk seems a little too daunting, I would love to help you begin seeing changes where you are right now in your riding. The half halt is the perfect place to begin this process. You can begin today by signing up for my free audio horse riding lesson on the topic.
Created so that you can listen while you ride; you and your horse together, this training will help both you and your horse become more responsive and ‘working together’.
Get your free audio horse riding lesson HERE
Or visit https://stridesforsuccess.com/halt
Get Support & Guidance in Your Riding * Join Connection today and transform your riding journey * Improve Your Canter – 4 Week Program * Online community for equestrians working on their mindset & Fitness * Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorse
This transition is a personal favorite of mine. To ride and to help other riders as well. I really do believe that the walk to canter transition can help you and your horse to connect more to each other. It can help you to have more clarity over your canter aids, and your horse to become more responsive. And you both to develop so that your training can progress forward.
In fact, the walk to canter can help horses and riders progress in ways that they don’t even realize they are. It introduces a certain level of collection to the ride. For many riders, this is one of the best introductions to this as it feels very natural and ‘in flow’.
You can begin introducing, or refining, the existing transition from the walk to canter today in your training by focusing on a few different elements.
All of the links to the other episodes are HERE, on the article to go with this episode
https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1256-step-up-your-riding-with-the-walk-to-canter-transition/
Find the Gaps in Your Horses Training using this free audio series available for you to listen to in a private podcast feed - so just as easy as listening to the Daily STrides Podcast :) You can sign up for free HERE or visit https://stridesforsuccess.com/free
Get the Walk to Canter & Flying Changes Audio Horse Riding Lessons Today! All are available for you on a Private Podcast Feed that delivers them straight to your phone, so you can listen as you ride your horse. Your own time, your own arena, your own horse... More Details HERE
Connection is an online membership for equestrians working alone to train their horse without a coach or trainer.
Get Support & Guidance in Your Riding * Online community for equestrians working on their mindset & Fitness * Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorse
The transition into canter is one that always gives us opportunities to develop and improve as riders. And it can do the same for our horses as well. And yet, for many riders, improvement is frustratingly slow! The good news is that it doesn’t have to be this way.
Canter and transitions into the canter are one aspect of horse riding that can improve quickly, often with just the smallest of tweaks applied.
The key is to be strategic about what you are tweaking. And be willing to look out for the effect it has on yourself, your horse, and the transition in general. One of the simplest ‘tweaks’ you can apply is around improving your posture when you ride. By simply ‘sitting differently’ you can transform the transition for the better.
Read More...
Start the Improve Your Canter 4-week program with your horse today HERE https://stridesforsuccess.com/canter
Find the Gaps in Your Horse's Training, starting today, with this free training for equestrians training their horses alone and without the help of a trainer or coach. CLICK HERE to join or visit https://stridesforsuccess.com/free
Get Support & Guidance in Your Riding * Join Connection today and transform your riding journey * Improve Your Canter – 4 Week Program * Online community for equestrians working on their mindset & Fitness * Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorse
Are all the months starting to look and feel the same for you and your horse? Especially if you have been training your horse alone! Have you been experiencing a case of ‘same ride again’ on repeat, over and over again?
If so, here are 5 tips to help you to achieve more when training your horse. Especially if you are working alone without a trainer or a coach to help.
More Success When Training Your Horse Alone Let’s be honest here, we all want ‘more’. We want to do things in as little time as possible, and in the easiest way possible as well. And while the following pointers will certainly help you to do this, it is also really important to remember 2 other key ingredients when training horses.
You must factor in time and consistency when working with your horse. If either one of those is missing, any results you achieve will most likely be short-term.
So, while you begin working and using the following formula for each training session, make sure you are coupling it with those two most important of important elements as well.
Read More...
Get the free training; Finding the Gaps in Your Horses Training HERE or visit https://stridesforsuccess.com/free
Get Support & Guidance in Your Riding * Join Connection today and transform your riding journey * Improve Your Canter – 4 Week Program * Online community for equestrians working on their mindset & fitness * Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorse
More on this Topic:- * Finding the Gaps in Your Horses Training * Strategically Using Your Time to Train Your Horse * Retraining Your Horse Versus Training Your Horse * Work Your Horse in 20 Minutes or Less
Getting into canter on an easygoing or lazy horse can be exhausting! And while we do love our laidback equines… Can we all be honest in admitting how, sometimes, just a little more enthusiasm would change everything? The good news is that you can quickly begin to change this in your horse.
You see, often, the trot to canter is often a symptom of a bigger issue – a lack of responsiveness.
Increasing your horse’s responsiveness is possible. It will take a consistent approach from you – and the transformation can be instant…
So, rather than scrubbing, pushing, and shoving into the canter each time, begin working on increasing overall responsiveness first. Be strict or disciplined with both yourself (it all starts with you) and your horse. Oh, and did I mention that you also need consistency ;)
Read More...
Get Support & Guidance in Your Riding * Join Connection today and transform your riding journey * Improve Your Canter – 4 Week Program * Online community for equestrians working on their mindset & fitness * Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorse
Riding, just like life, is about enjoying the journey rather than just the destination. However, when you're transitioning from the trot into the canter - and your horse seems determined to show you just how fast he can actually trot beforehand; well, the journey is not all that enjoyable!
I don't know of a single rider who enjoys the 'rush' of a horse running from trot to canter. It is bouncy, unbalancing, and, sometimes, scary. Also, it more often than not sets up a canter that feels like all of the above as well.
The good news is that there are a few things you can do, starting today, to begin re-schooling this behavior; for you and your horse.
Read More... Get Support & Guidance in Your Riding * + Join Connection today and transform your riding journey + Improve Your Canter - 4 Week Program + Online community for equestrians working on their mindset & fitness + Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorse
More on this Topic * + Syncing Your Seat in the Canter with Your Horse + Rhythm; Learning to Identify and Develop It In the Canter + Developing Your Seat in the Canter
Every time you interact with your horse, there is the possibility of improving your communication and understanding. However, planning and intention must be present for each ride to be an actual stepping stone. Having one without the other will not give you the outcome you are hoping for.
Creating the plan and setting the intention is key to each ride becoming a valuable link in the chain of progress as you train your horse.
And this begins with you deciding where you are going and how you want to get there...
Read More... Get Support & Guidance in Your Riding * Plan One Month of Riding – Free Planner * Join Connection today and transform your riding journey * Daily Strides Premium Newsletter * Online community for equestrians working on their mindset & Fitness * Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorse riders
There is a point in every rider's journey where balance becomes less about staying on and more about increasing overall effectiveness. However, in order to positively influence the horse, the rider needs to begin working on developing better balance.
I feel that one of the best ways to do this is by developing independent aids. Independent from both the influence of each other's movement. And independent from any potential 'speed wobbles' our horse might experience when working together.
So, all of that being said, becoming more independent through your body will encourage better balance overall; for you and your horse. For the month of August 2022 inside of Connection, we are focusing on "Developing Independent Aids While Riding". If you want step-by-step riding plans to help you achieve this, make sure you join Connection and check out August 2022's training.
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Get Support & Guidance in Your Riding * Plan One Month of Riding – Free Planner * Join Connection today and transform your riding journey * Daily Strides Premium Newsletter * Online community for equestrians working on their mindset & Fitness * Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorse riders)
Additional Links to Help You:- * Getting Started Without Stirrups in the Saddle * Your Independent Seat is a Result of Your Independent Aids * Your Independent Seat is Everything in Your Riding
We all have talents. Things that seem to come naturally to us and that we excel at. Your horse is the same. And, in my experience, when we approach training our horses with the idea that we are helping them develop their talents, everyone is happier.
Unfortunately, it is common practice for many people to focus on weaknesses. Both in the human and in the horse! And so many riders create training programs and riding plans based on what their horse is not so talented at doing.
Doing something over and over again that you struggle with is not a recipe for happiness or success!
Read More... Get Support & Guidance in Your Riding * Plan One Month of Riding - Free Planner * Join Connection today and transform your riding journey * Daily Strides Premium Newsletter * Online community for equestrians working on their mindset & Fitness * Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorse riders)
Additional Links to Help You:- * Planning Your Rides – Part 1 Fun * Planning Your Rides – Part 2 Partnership * Planning Your Rides - Part 3 Developing * Planning Your Month to Make Progress in Your Riding
I find it a little mind-boggling how, the longer we spend developing ourselves as riders, the more we need to unlearn. Especially when it comes to those first one or two initial horse riding lessons!
Using your hands and arms to 'steer' the horse is one of those things. And, flexion is often one of the best concepts to help riders become clearer on this. And more open to other possibilities when it comes to their aids, their riding, and steering their horse.
Read More... Get Support & Guidance in Your Riding * Free Audio Horse Riding Lesson on Flexion * Join Connection today and transform your riding journey * Daily Strides Premium Newsletter * Online community for equestrians working on their mindset & Fitness * Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorse riders)
More on this Topic * Understanding Inside and Outside in Your Riding * Turning Your Horse Versus Asking Your Horse to Turn * Creating Space for Better Canter Transitions * How to Ride a Circle with Your Horse * Riding Through a Bend; Understanding Your Role * Weight Aids and Seat Bones for Turning and Bending * Asking Your Horse to Bend
Have you noticed how, for many people, the longer they spend in the saddle, the less curious they become about a lot of things ‘riding related’? Now, other riders are the exact opposite, they want to go deeper and further in all aspects of riding. Which is fantastic.
If you have found yourself doing something for the sake of just doing something with your horse, I want to challenge you today.
I want to give you a simple, extremely powerful way to both gain clarity, and assess yourself while you ride.
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Get Support & Guidance in Your Riding * Join Connection today and transform your riding journey * Daily Strides Premium Newsletter * Online community for equestrians working on their mindset & Fitness * Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorse
More on this Topic * Your Mindset; What Do You Believe About Your Riding? * Top 4 Mindset Myths that Hold Rider’s Back * Reflecting and Moving Forward in Your Riding * Position Faults that are Potentially Holding You Back in Your Riding
Can changing one thing really help you to improve your riding? I think so, and the great news is that regardless of how well you ride, you can begin to implement this the very next time you’re in the saddle.
This exercise is suitable for you to ride in walk, trot, and canter. It is also something you can use for lateral work and even grids and jumping.
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Get Support & Guidance in Your Riding * Free Riding Plan for Equestrians * Join Connection today and transform your riding journey * Daily Strides Premium Newsletter * Online community for equestrians working on their mindset & fitness * Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorse
More, More, More… To Help You :) * The Training Scale for You And Your Horse * Training Scale Series; Intro – Putting the Pieces Together for You & Your Horse * Training Scale Series; Part 1 – Rhythm * Training Scale Series; Part 2 – Suppleness
Time, or the lack thereof, is often the number one thing that keeps riders from training their own horses. And while time is an essential part of the puzzle in order to develop and grow your horse successfully, often we overestimate how much of it we actually need.
In fact, one of the reasons riders often don’t have enough time to work with their horse has more to do with a lack of planning and less about a lack of time.
So, if you are currently in a season of your life where time seems to always be against you and your horse working together… I have a solution. Firstly, plan your sessions (more on that just now). And then begin looking for more ‘quality’ and fewer quantity ways to train.
Lunging is the perfect solution for riders who want to use the little time they have available to continue working with their horse.
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Get Support & Guidance in Your Riding * Free Audio Training - 3 Days to Simple Successful Lunging * Lunging Checklist for Equipment * Join Connection today and transform your riding journey * Lunging for Riding – 4-week step-by-step program to transform your lunging experience * Online community for equestrians working on their mindset & fitness * Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorse
More on this Topic * FREE TRAINING:- 3 Days to Successfully Getting Started on the Lunge * 4 Essentials for Getting Started with Lunging for Riding * Handling Your Lunge Line to Avoid Tangles and Enhance Contact * 4 Things You’re Doing Wrong when Lunging * Improving Your Riding Coordination and Aids While Lunging
I am all for intentional, relaxing hacks with your horse. And I also think that it’s worth remembering that not all hacks have to be for ‘doing nothing’. In fact, there are some things that may actually happen more easily when out of the arena. Working contact is, for some riders and horses, one of those things.
We are always working towards soft, intuitive, and responsive contact when we ride. Contact that can shift and adapt depending on what the specific focus is.
Developing that sort of contact takes time, diligence, consistency, and a foundational understanding of what true contact is and how it works… Today, I want to give you a few key points that you can put into action next time you’re riding on the trail.
Read More for the 4 Tips to Work on Next Time You're Out of the Arena.....
More Training & Support * FREE AUDIO TRAINING ON THE HALF HALT * Join Connection for Step by Step Audio Horse Riding Lessons for Equestrians Training Alone * Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians * Virtual Stable Lounge for Riders Working Alone or with OTTBs
More on This Topic * Training Scale Part 3 – Contact While Riding * Why Forward is Essential for Contact * Putting All the Pieces Together When Training Your Horse * Retraining Your Horse Versus Training Your Horse * 5 Reasons You May Be Stuck when Training or Retraining your Horse * The Training Scale for You and Your Horse
Why is it that, as equestrians, we often want to immediately have what we see others with? And I’m not just talking about saddles, boots, and gloves… But the actual ‘horse’, exercises, movements, training, and level of performance. We ‘know’ that time is required, but gosh, time can mean a lot of things to a lot of different riders!
When you are working alone riding and training your horse, strategically using your time is vitally important if you are to make progress.
Today, I want to suggest a few key areas you can begin to think about in order to do this… So to keep both you and your horse moving forward in your training, and your development while keeping everyone happy in interested.
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More Training & Support * FREE AUDIO TRAINING ON THE HALF HALT * Join Connection for Step by Step Audio Horse Riding Lessons for Equestrians Training Alone * Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians * Virtual Stable Lounge for Riders Working Alone or with OTTBs
More on This Topic * Putting All the Pieces Together When Training Your Horse * Retraining Your Horse Versus Training Your Horse * 5 Reasons You May Be Stuck when Training or Retraining your Horse * The Training Scale for You and Your Horse
It can be frustrating when you know exactly what you want to achieve when training or retraining your horse, but it seems to be taking ‘forever’! It seems that no matter how much you explain your horse, he’s not ‘getting it’.
Training or retraining your horse is something that takes time. And, sometimes, it is our own impatience or actions that actually keep things stuck where progress is concerned.
Today I want to cover the 4 most common causes that may cause you to become a little stuck when training or retaining your horse.
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More on This Topic * Putting All the Pieces Together When Training Your Horse * Retraining Your Horse Versus Training Your Horse * The Training Scale for You and Your Horse
More Training & Support * Free Planner for Training Your Horse * FREE AUDIO TRAINING ON THE HALF HALT * Join Connection for Step by Step Audio Horse Riding Lessons * Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians * Virtual Stable Lounge for Riders Working Alone or with OTTBs
Anyone who has ridden in an arena for a prolonged period knows how different the energy feels when they finally get out on the trail. What may have been feeling a little flat and, even, deflated, suddenly comes back to life. Both horse and rider seem to become more keenly self-aware. And more responsive to external elements.
Rather than being afraid of this energy or worried about it, you can rather begin to intentionally channel that energy to improving your training & riding.
By strategically channeling this energy, you can actually use your hacking or time out on the trail to actually improve things. Both you and your horse can positively influence your training and development. And, then return to the arena with a greater understanding of the different questions.
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More Training & Support * FREE AUDIO TRAINING ON THE HALF HALT * Join Connection for Step by Step Audio Horse Riding Lessons * Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians * Virtual Stable Lounge for Riders Working Alone or with OTTBs
More on This Topic * Your Aids to Ride the Half Halt * 3 Ways to Use the Half Halt In Your Riding * What Not to Do When Riding a Fresh Horse
Jumping is one of those things most riders love or hate. In my experience, their personal preferences depend on how well they can use the space between jumps. If every jumping track feels like a tug of war from start to finish, it’s easy to see how jumping itself won’t be all that enjoyable. The same applies if the rider feels like they are doing the work for both themselves and their very uninterested, laid-back, and uninspired horse!
One of the best ways to improve your jumping is to work on the space between jumps. This will improve the overall experience for both horse and rider…
But simply saying the space between jumps can sound a little overwhelming. After all, we really are only ‘jumping’ for a tiny amount of time. The rest is spent working inside of this ‘space’. I think there are a few key areas you can begin to improve, to help both you and your horse get more out of working over fences.
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More Training & Support * Free Half Halt Audio Training * Join Connection for Step by Step Audio Horse Riding Lessons * Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians * Virtual Stable Lounge for Riders Working Alone or with OTTBs
More On This Topic:- * Confidently Getting Started Over Jumps * Retraining a Horse that is Rushing Jumps * Staying With Your Horse Over Jumps * Learning to Wait for the Jump * Reforming a Horse with a Habit of Running Out * Riding a Horse with a ‘Chip In’ Habit at Take Off
Accuracy can seem like a dull and boring concept when riding horses. Sure, if you are going to compete in dressage or show jumping, accuracy can become really important. But what about if you are simply a rider, working alone with your horse, trying to improve your overall skills? Is accuracy still as important?
I'm going to say yes, accuracy is important. And it is an excellent way of actually establishing and building engagement with your horse.
Now, granted, accuracy and engagement might seem like they have nothing to do with each other initially. How could do something at a specific point in the arena or in the conversation help with engagement? And the answer is "more than you can even begin to realize".
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More on this Topic:- * No Arena; No Problem - Riding in Open Spaces * How to Use Your Arena Rail to Improve Your Riding * Making the Most of Riding in a Smaller Space * Free Planner & Exercises for Riders * Join Connection
Join Our Online Communities for Equestrians * Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians * Virtual Stable Lounge for Riders Working Alone or with OTTBs
It’s probably safe to assume that you want to improve as a rider, right? That, if becoming a better rider in 90 days was guaranteed, you’d probably follow the plan and do the work? Well, the good news is that, regardless of where you are in your riding right now, you can indeed improve over the coming 90 days (or 3 months). However, it will involve a little planning, preparation, and commitment in order to make it all happen.
Using the previous 90 days in your riding to create a plan to improve over the coming 90 days is a fantastic way to continue to make progress as a rider.
However, it will require a little work upfront in both reviewing and planning. Looking back at what happened and then using that information to make better decisions and take better actions going forward is where it all begins. So that being said… Let’s dive into your past 90 days and see what you can learn that will kickstart the coming 90 and help you become a better rider.
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Let's Work Together:-
- Connection; The Online Membership for Equestrians
- Lunging for Riding
- Groundwork For Riding
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Here’s a confession; for years I used to think of cantering while on the lunge as just something I did to ‘finish the session’. It was like something that I could check off a list. There was no intention behind it (only to get it done),
And with any cantering happening while on the lunge, there was definitely no thought put into using the time or gait to develop the horse.
Which, now, seems so bizarre! Why would I have even bothered with it when there was no set focus or intention?! It really does seem like madness; except for one thing…
Every week, I see so many riders making the same mistake. Cantering endless circles while on the lunge – without a single thought about why and what it might achieve or work towards…
Transitioning Into the Canter Let’s start at the beginning with this one. I love thinking about the similarities between what happens when riding and what happens when lunging. Meaning, if you were to ride a ‘good’ transition from trot to canter, what would you consider before ‘asking’?
The transition into canter will only be as good as the quality of the trot asking for it – and the quality of the preparations for the ‘ask’.
Meaning that the trot must be moving forwards, not running. And the rider (the lunger) must invest a little time, energy, and focus in preparation for the transition itself.
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Let's Work Together:-
- Free 'Getting Started with Lunging' Training
- Lunging for Riding
- Groundwork For Riding
Join Our Online Communities for Equestrians
- Connect in the Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/SFS30DayRiderFitnessChallenge
- Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
It can seem like something that only novice or beginner riders would worry themselves with; revisiting the basics. After all, surely there's a point where, as riders, we can 'set and forget' a couple of things in our riding? Basics like position and the aids. Or trotting and cantering...
And I think a lot of this stems from the fact that we see the basics as being, somehow, for beginners. For riders who are only just getting started on their journey. Surely not riders who have been hard at work for 5, 10, 40 years... Or riders who are competing at high levels.
And yet, if riders could begin to swap out the word 'basics' and replace it with the 'essential foundations for the current level of work or development', revisiting those old places, from this 'new level', wouldn't seem so bad after all, would it?
Read More... More on this Topic:- * Join Connection today and transform your riding journey * Putting 1 Basic on Autopilot This Month in Your Riding * Returning to Riding - Focusing on the Basics * What are the Basics when it Comes to Riding * The Importance of Correcting and Perfecting the Basics in Your Riding * Start with the Basics in Order to Build Confidence * Returning to Riding (Basics on Autopilot) Program * Online community for equestrians working on their mindset & fitness * Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorse
If you have even been at the other end of a lunge line to a horse who is adamant to show you exactly how fast he can go on a circle… You will know all about ‘that’ feeling! The one where every fiber of your being is screaming at you to ‘stop the horse’. And yet, it feels like there is absolutely nothing you can do!
Intentionally mixing cantering and lunging together is not for the faint of heart! It often requires nerves of steel – especially at the beginning of the journey…
The good news is that, for those who persist and persevere, the reward is being able to truly use lunging as a tool to develop the canter. And being able to do so from this wonderful, and unique, vantage point of ‘trainer’. Read More... More on this Topic:- * FREE TRAINING:- 3 Days to Successfully Getting Started on the Lunge * 4 Essentials for Getting Started with Lunging for Riding * Handling Your Lunge Line to Avoid Tangles and Enhance Contact * 4 Things You’re Doing Wrong when Lunging * Improving Your Riding Coordination and Aids While Lunging * Join Connection today and transform your riding journey * Lunging for Riding – 4-week step by step program to transform your lunging experience * Online community for equestrians working on their mindset & fitness * Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorse
Do you have days where, after you get home, sit down, and think over the day’s events, you think to yourself “Why did I react like that?!”? I know I do, even now. I find that if I allow my emotions to run things, the chances of everything turning out exactly as I would have two chances. Slim and none! This is why I began, a few years ago now, creating planned responses in my riding.
Simply put, I began thinking about what ‘could’ or ‘might’ happen… And how the ‘best version’ of me would respond in the moment to the situation.
Being able to think about what I would like any outcome to be and then plan, in advance, the best response to achieve this changed everything. It meant that I didn’t have to necessarily change ‘me’, I can still have the same emotional response. However, I also know what actions I want to take in order to deal with the situation.
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More on this Topic:- * Fit for Riding; Fit for Life 2022 Free Plan for Equestrians * Reacting Versus Responding in Your Riding * How Your Stories are Influencing Your Horse Riding * 5 Actions to Your ‘Better Person’ in Your Riding * Riding and Acting – The Relationship Between Them * Your Mindset; What Do You Believe About Your Riding * Connection; My Online Membership for Equestrians * Online community for equestrians working on their mindset & fitness * Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorses
There are some things that many of us simply accept in life. Rainy days. Horsehair is everywhere in Spring. The rhythm in the canter. And yet, while we cannot change the weather (okay, debatable) and we definitely cannot get around the necessary loss of the winter coat…
The Rhythm in the canter is definitely something we can have a more positive influence over when we ride – rather than simply accepting what is.
And yet, it can seem daunting! Many riders find that when they attempt to begin doing this, they tend to lose the canter altogether. They quickly find themselves back in the trot. Or the canter has lost its 3 beat sequence – so it’s technically no longer a canter!
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More Episodes on This Topic:- * Fit for Riding; Fit for Life 2022 Free Plan for Equestrians * Syncing Your Seat in the Canter with Your Horse * Rhythm; Learning to Identify and Develop It In the Canter * Developing Your Seat in the Canter * Connection; My Online Membership for Equestrians * Online community for equestrians working on their mindset & fitness * Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorses
Isn’t it amazing how so many riders just seem to ‘know’ what will happen each time they ride? They have certain expectations that, almost magically, seem to always come true for them. Unfortunately, the keywords in that sentence are ‘for them’.
I see time and again how riders, regardless of what is really happening, will define each ride based on their beliefs and expectations.
And, for most of these riders, these beliefs and expectations are simply untrue or unrealistic. Meaning that they are creating a cycle where they simply repeat the same ride, the same month, the same year, over and over again with their horse.
And all because they are unaware of how much their expectations are impacting their outcome.
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Additional Resources to Help Riders * Fit for Riding; Fit for Life 2022 Free Plan * 3 Things to Work on To Become a Better Rider * Transforming the Next 12 Weeks in Your Riding * Your Mindset; What Do You Believe About Your Riding * Connection; My Online Membership for Equestrians * Online community for equestrians working on their mindset & fitness * Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorses
All riders can be put into one of two categories when it comes to the canter… Those who can move their seat in the canter with their horse – and those who can’t. This is a bitter pill to swallow for those on the ‘can’t’ side of the fence. And yet, it is something that they would secretly love to be able to do.
Having the ability to control your seat in the canter completely changes how much influence you have in the gait – and it is a lot more comfortable.
So, if you’ve been stuck in the ‘can’t’ camp for longer than you would like, this is how to finally move forwards into the ‘can’ camp…
It’s All About Practice And not just any old practice. I am talking perfect practice. Doing the same, middle-of-the-road things over and over again, hoping for a different result is madness. Rather spend less time, but more intention and focus in order to make your practice work for you.
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More Help on This Topic:- * + - FREE Download:- 1 Exercise Multiple Ways - Fit for Riding; Fit for Life 2022 Free Plan - 4 Steps to a More Comfortable Canter - Developing Your Seat in the Canter - Timing Your Transition into Canter - Rhythm; Learning to Identify and Develop it in the Canter - Join Connection; The Online Membership for Equestrians - Online Community for Equestrian focusing on Planning and Mindset - Lunging for Riding
The canter and using groundpoles; as the song goes, these are a few of my favorite things! And I especially love how, with a few well-placed and simple groundpoles, the canter can begin to become more intentional, rhythmic, and balanced. The added bonus is that so does the rider… So, that being said, let’s improve the canter for you and your horse…
Today, I want to give you a few simple, easy to follow tips so you can begin effectively using groundpoles in your training program with your horse to improve the canter
You see, once you and your horse are comfortable cantering together ‘on the flat’ (no poles involved), groundpoles can really begin to help you both to develop on from here.
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Additional Resources for Equestrians:-
- Improving Your Riding with Your Light Seat
- One Groundpole Layout; Multiple Ways to Ride It – Free Riding Plan Inside
- Fixing Your Position for Less 'Bump' When Riding Over Groundpoles
- 3 Most Common Mistakes when It Comes ot Groundpoles
- Improving Your Riding with Your Light Seat
- 1 Simple Groundpole Exercise to Ride This Week with Your Horse
- Connection; My Online Membership for Equestrians
- Online community for equestrians working on their mindset & fitness
- Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorses
Hours and hours… This is how long most riders devote each week to developing and training their horse. And yet, many riders fail to realize that they are the ‘cap’ on their horse’s further progress.
Eventually, your effectiveness as a rider will determine what your horse can actually do with all the training you devote to him or her…
So it makes good sense to spend time each week thinking about, planning and then taking action on your own development. Your own conditioning, training, fitness, nutrition, social time, rest, and all of the other things that we plan for our horses.
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More Resources for Riders
- Fit for Riding; Fit for Life 2022 Plan
- 3 Things To Focus on To Improve Your Riding
- 6 Questions for When You’ve Stopped Improving as a Rider
- Connection; My Online Membership for Equestrians
- Online community for equestrians working on their mindset & fitness
- Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorses
Let’s be honest; many riders don’t really long for a ‘better trot’ in their riding. In fact, most are quite happy to simply work with what they already have right now and see the trot as a filler. A part of the ride that gets you from one thing to the next.
And trotting, by its very nature, doesn’t really help change this! The rhythm can often have a slightly hypnotic effect on riders. Lulling them into a contented 1,2,1,2,1,2,1,2, regardless of how good the trot is – or isn’t.
In this episode, I want to begin helping you to turn your mind towards a better trot. What would it look like for you and your horse? And how would it feel for you and your horse? Finally, how prepared are you to actually allow this better trot to happen underneath you? Will you be able to move with it? Or will you begin to block it with your seat?
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- Join Connection & work on improving your trot this month
- Sign up for the Fit for Riding; Fit for Life Plan
- Connect in the Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/SFS30DayRiderFitnessChallenge
- Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
It can seem like a strange topic for many OTTB riders and owners. One that, initially, may not seem all that important. And yet, for many OTTBs, the lack of boundaries is the number one frustration. And, it is something that can eventually undermine the whole relationship between horse and rider.
Setting boundaries requires that both you and your horse are part of a conversation about what is acceptable and what’s not.
And, it is important to consider all aspects of your relationship with your horse when setting your boundaries. From working together on the ground to lunging, and then to riding. All areas matter. Strong, well-thought-out boundaries are similar to having a great measuring stick to use when it comes to developing your partnership and relationship together.
Having strong boundaries allows both you and your horse to know what is ‘acceptable’ behavior and what is not.
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- FREE TRAINING – Helping Redefine Contact for Your OTTB
- OTTB; From Racetrack to Ready Program
- Free online community for OTTB riders and owners
It is easy to forget that, before coming to you, your OTTB has had many different expectations placed on him or her. A lot of their current behavior is a result of this early and consistent conditioning they received while in training on the track.
One of the greatest responsibilities we have when working with a retired racehorse is to help them understand that what’s now expected of them has changed.
I believe that there are 4 basic principles that you must work with your retired racehorse on, in order to set a foundation for everything else that follows.
Being intentional about covering these 4 topics with your horse, regardless of how long they have left the track, will allow you to set your horse up for a wonderful 2nd or 3rd career.
Read More...
- FREE TRAINING – Helping Redefine Contact for Your OTTB
- OTTB; From Racetrack to Ready Program
- Free online community for OTTB riders and owners
The key to a good quality trot is to remember that your horse must be moving forwards at all times. I call this forwardness in the trot. This is not to be mistaken for running, rushing, or jig-jogging. True forwardness requires that you, the rider and decision-maker, must be thinking forwards throughout your ride… And, in this case, in the trot itself.
And yet, forwardness in the trot is often one of those ‘easier said than done’ things – especially when we become stuck trying to improve that same trot!
This episode of the Daily Strides Podcast has been plucked from a week of lessons from Daily Strides Premium called “The Basics for Establishing a Good Quality Trot”. The full week of lessons are available right now when you join Connection
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- Free Planner & Exercises for Riders
- Join Connection
Join Our Online Communities for Equestrians
- Connect in the Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/SFS30DayRiderFitnessChallenge
- Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Planning. I love making plans. They are always so exciting to create, but often fail to deliver the necessary results when we try to act on them. This is usually because we are not planning correctly when it comes to our rides.
This is a system you can use to help you plan your months in your riding that will help you move things along…
This episode of the Daily Strides Podcast has been plucked from a week of lessons from Daily Strides Premium called “Planning for Progress in Your Riding”. The full week of lessons are available right now when you join Connection
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- Free Planner & Exercises for Riders
- Join Connection
Join Our Online Communities for Equestrians
- Connect in the Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/SFS30DayRiderFitnessChallenge
- Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
There are hundreds, even thousands, of different exercises we can ride when schooling our horses. Often riders think that they have to get more and more complicated with their exercises in order to make progress in their riding. However, I personally believe that, for the most part, simple works better.
In this episode of the Daily Strides Podcast, I want to show you how to work on the same exercise, using two different filters
This episode of the Daily Strides Podcast has been plucked from a week of lessons from Daily Strides Premium called “Examples of Different Filters to Vary Your Exercises”. The full week of lessons are available right now when you join Connection
The exercise we are going to work on for this example with be a simple three looped serpentine. I want to show you how you can use this exercise in lots of different ways.
Keeping your riding interesting doesn’t need to be complicated; a single exercise can have so many uses
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- Free Planner & Exercises for Riders
- Join Connection
Join Our Online Communities for Equestrians
- Connect in the Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/SFS30DayRiderFitnessChallenge
- Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
How could becoming more intentional and creative with your warming up transform your riding? After all, it is something that you do every time you ride, right?!
If you were to do one thing this month that has the potential to ripple into all the months hereafter where your riding is concerned; becoming intentional about your warming up might just be the thing.
This episode of the Daily Strides Podcast has been plucked from a week of lessons from Daily Strides Premium called “Increasing Suppleness with Your Warm-Up & Cool Down”. The full week of lessons are available right now when you join Connection
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Circles; for something that we spend so much time 'doing' with our horses, many riders are more than a little confused when it comes to how to ride a circle. And while the basic 'riding a circle' is fairly simple and most all riders can manage, the issue of riding a well-balanced, good quality, well-maintained, circle is what leaves many riders feeling more than a little stumped.
How to ride a circle may seem like one of the easier things to do while on a horse. However, riding a well-shaped circle while maintaining or improving the quality of the work you're doing; is a whole other ball game!
For many riders falling in, or falling out are common occurrences. Losing rhythm or relaxation. Maintaining bend and flexion also can be a challenge. And this is all assuming that you are actually riding a real circle at all. As opposed to a funny, non-descript shape with random straight lines, corners, and pointy bits!
So, the shape of the circle is a given. A ring with equal diameter, regardless of where measured, all the way around. And yet, as simple as this seems, riding one well can be a whole other story! For many riders keeping their horse on the track, they planned in their head seems close to impossible.
Read More... Free Resource for Equestrians
- One Exercise Mulitple Ways to Ride It
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It is probably the most ridden shape for most riders, the trusty circle. And yet, a lot of circles are uninteresting, uninspiring, and (if we're being completely honest here) a total waste of time for you and your horse.
When ridden with a little intention and purpose, the trusty circle can become one of the greatest ways to develop your horse and improve your skills.
Here are 3 exercises you can ride next time you're in the arena to help you make the most of your circles with your horse. Read More... Get the Free Months Plan for Your Rides:- * https://stridesforsuccess.com/planner/
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What does your average ride or training session with your horse look like? Do you have a riding routine that you follow? If yours is leaning towards, or if it already is, a little too predictable; maybe it's time for a change? While riding the same sequence often can sometimes be beneficial to your riding and training (more on that later), for the most part, it will only help habits to creep in. And usually not the greatest of habits.
Doing anything the same way, on repeat, almost always has the same effect. Your body (and your horse) will look for the easiest, most efficient way of doing it; which probably won't truly serve you!
This is because, usually, the 'easiest' or 'most energy saving' way is not the best way; particularly when we are focused on developing and training. So, why do we fall into the trap of riding 7 circles, 5 Serpentines, 4 figures of eight (or whatever your 'go to' routine? And why do we continue to repeat it over and over again?
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A Plan for Each Ride?
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Let's Work Together:-
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What goes up, must come down. For every upward transition you ride with your horse, you will follow it, at some point, with a downward transition. For many riders, these can prove a little more complex to balance.
Having to prepare and then guide both yourself and your horse 'downwards', while continuing to maintain forwardness, tension, and energy... It can feel more like falling into, rather than stepping into, the new gait!
However, as with all things riding-related, there are things you can do to really begin improving each downward transition that you ride. Implementing these changes can begin today, with the very next downward transition you ride with your horse.
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Get Your Free Riding Plan for the Month
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- Join Connection; My Online Membership for Equestrians
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How well do you ride upward transitions? For many riders, it can feel a little frustrating and ironic how many of them are anything but 'upward' as far as energy and lightness go! In fact, sometimes they can feel quite the opposite, flat.
Upward transitions are part and parcel of every single ride you do with your horse. From the 'halt to walk' one immediately after mounting up, to all of the others throughout the ride.
The quality of each upward transition you ride will directly impact where you find yourself with your horse immediately after the transition.
Meaning, if the transition from walk to the trot was not that well prepared and then performed, chances are that you will have to work at improving the trot itself once you get there. So, with all of this in mind, it makes sense to prepare and ride the best quality transitions you possibly can, in order to improve the whole ride.
Here are the 6 essential steps to begin riding better quality and more consistent upward transitions with your horse.
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Free Riding Plan
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Let's Work Together:-
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Many riders have a desire to school and develop their own horse. Yet, a lot of these riders don't actually know what horse riding skills they need in order to make this a reality. The fact of the matter is that you are always training your horse. Every single interaction.
Through your actions, intentional or not, you are always communicating to your horse. Telling him about what is allowed and what is not. What is 'acceptable' and what needs to change.
However, if your horse riding skills are not consistently improving and developing, it stands to reason that this will eventually impact your horse. Riders are often the cause of the plateau many horses reach in their training. Their own lack of development becomes their horse's glass ceiling.
So, in order to maintain the horse riding skills necessary to help your horse develop, you must revisit, upgrade, and develop certain skills regularly.
Read More... Get the Free Planner at https://stridesforsuccess.com/planner
Let's Work Together:-
- Daily Strides Premium Newsletter
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- Groundwork For Riding
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What would happen to your riding if you began to put a little more effort and intention into each warm up? Many riders are literally setting a timer for each warm up. 5 minutes of walking, followed by some trotting and maybe a canter or three...
Your warm up is a way to set the tone of the whole conversation with your horse. Whether that is a groundwork session, a lunging session, a ride in the arena, or a ride on the trail.
By setting an intention and then tweaking your actions based on the results, you can literally change the whole ride. Here is how I suggest getting started with creating a better warm-up in your riding.
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Get the Free Planner for Your Riding:-
- One Exercise Multiple Ways...
Let's Work Together:-
- Daily Strides Premium Newsletter
- Lunging for Riding
- Groundwork For Riding
Join Our Online Communities for Equestrians
- Connect in the Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/SFS30DayRiderFitnessChallenge
- Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Additional Resources:-
- Keeping a Horse Riding Journal
- Why You Need to Start Your Horse Riding Journal Today
There is an energy that we experience when we are out on the trail with our horses. It can feel like an added enthusiasm from both horse and rider. And, maybe, blended with the thought of unlimited possibilities.
Whatever the reason for it, as riders we can begin to use this energy to develop our horse's training and our own riding skills.
Things that were perhaps feeling flat, or sticky when working on them in the arena become more fluid. And points in the session when we were struggling to maintain flow, can be transformed when we work on them while out on the trail.
Here are 3 exercises you can try with your horse the next time you're out of the arena and on the trail.
Read More... Free Riding Plan
- One Exercise Multiple Ways
Let's Work Together:-
- Daily Strides Premium Newsletter
- Lunging for Riding
- Groundwork For Riding
Join Our Online Communities for Equestrians
- Connect in the Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/SFS30DayRiderFitnessChallenge
- Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Additional Resources:-
- When Halt Becomes More than Just Stopping Your Horse
- Conscious Transitions Between Walk and Trot
- Creating Space for Better Canter Transitions
- Turning Your Horse Versus Asking Your Horse to Turn
- Riding Through a Bend, Your Role in the Saddle
- Leg Yielding to Refine Your Asking Aids in the Saddle
- Turn on the Forehand; A Basic to Revisit This Week
- Simplifying the Shoulder In
- Riding Haunches In or Travers
Not having a designated space to ride in, like an arena, can often feel like a big disadvantage. If you have been riding in an open field or been confined to roads for any length of time, you'll probably know what I mean! However, while an arena does help with some aspects of riding, having no arena will also force you to think outside of the box.
And this literal 'out of the box' thinking when applied to your schooling can often be a big plus when it comes to riding your horse as well...
Arenas are wonderful to ride in, the surface is prepared for optimal performance, the rails and letters remove any guesswork when it comes to accuracy, shapes, and sizes. The centre line is exactly that - the centre line of the arena. X is always at the same place...
Having an arena allows you to focus entirely on the actual riding end of things - or does it?
While many riders see having no arena as a massive drawback and negative aspect of riding, there are a similar number of riders who will happily tell you the opposite. In fact, they often chat to anyone who will listen about how their riding improved tenfold once they got out of the arena; whether by choice or necessity.
Read More... Free Resource:-
- One Exercise Multiple Ways
Let's Work Together:-
- Daily Strides Premium Newsletter
- Lunging for Riding (20m x 20m arena)
- Groundwork for Riding (no arena required)
- Connection; The Online Membership for Equestrians
Join the Free Private Communities
- Connect in the Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/SFS30DayRiderFitnessChallenge
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Connect with Lorna
- Connect on Instagram @stridesforsuccess https://instagram.com/stridesforsuccess
- Connect on Facebook https://facebook.com/stridessuccess
Additional Resources:-
- Schooling on the Trail
- Stop Wasting and Start Investing Your Time with Your Horse
Do you want to improve your riding skills, and yet finding more time to spend in the saddle feels an impossible task right now. More time in the saddle means an even more 'busy' schedule!
Or, perhaps, you're experiencing the other side of this coin; you're riding all of the hours, but you're not actually seeing any improvement?
It is important to remember that riding alone won't improve your skills as rider... There are a lot of other factors involved as well.
Read More... Free Resource:-
- One Exercise Mulitple Ways Planner for Riders
Let's Work Together:-
- Daily Strides Premium Newsletter
- Lunging for Riding
- Connection; the Online Membership for Equestrians
Connect with Lorna
- Connect on Instagram @stridesforsuccess https://instagram.com/stridesforsuccess
- Connect on Facebook https://facebook.com/stridessuccess
Join the Free Private Communities
- Connect in the Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/SFS30DayRiderFitnessChallenge
- Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Additional Resources:-
- Identifying Causes Versus Symptoms in Your Riding
- Why Progress In Your Riding Can Often Feel Uncomfortable
- Responsibility is a Two Way Street for Horse & Rider
- Keeping a Horse Riding Journal
- How Are You Showing Up for Your Horse?
It's a big question, and it's a question that so many riders wonder about. "Can I train my horse, alone?". For many riders, they will answer this question with another one; "An I a 'good enough' rider?". There are millions of riders all over the world, all with different combinations of skills and talents; being a 'good' rider is relative!
However, if you want to begin truly working with and training your horse, I feel that there are a few simple questions that you can ask yourself to see if you are truly ready or not.
Read More...
Free Training & Resources:-
- Finding the Gaps in Your Horses Training
- 3 Days to Successful Lunging
Let's Work Together:-
- Daily Strides Premium Newsletter
- Lunging for Riding
Connect with Lorna
- Connect on Instagram @stridesforsuccess https://instagram.com/stridesforsuccess
- Connect on Facebook https://facebook.com/stridessuccess
Join the Free Private Communities
- Connect in the Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/SFS30DayRiderFitnessChallenge
- Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Additional Resources:-
- The Training Scale for You And Your Horse
- Training Scale Series; Intro – Putting the Pieces Together for You & Your Horse
- Training Scale Series; Part 1 – Rhythm
- Training Scale Series; Part 2 – Suppleness
- Training Scale Series Part 3 – Contact
- Training Scale Series Part 4 – Impulsion
- Training Scale Series Part 5 – Straightness
- Training Scale Series Part 6 - Collection
For many riders, collection can feel like an exotic and luxury destination that they can only dream about visiting. It can feel very much outside the realms of possibility when they consider their riding abilities and their horse's abilities as well.
Now, the flip side of this is that there are also a smaller group of riders who feel entitled to go there every day. No preparation, no visa requirements. Just click your heels three times and, voila! Collection. Hmmm... In this case, the collection they're visiting is unlikely to be the real thing; rather a cheap imitation!
And finally, we have the riders who visit collection often with their horses. They have put in the time, invested the effort, and now they can visit regularly for short trips.
For most riders, collection is not somewhere they want to stay forever... Just a place to visit in order to enhance the journey.
What is Collection? Read More...
Find the Gaps in Your Horses Training - Free Audio Training
- https://stridesforsuccess.com/free
Let's Work Together:-
- Daily Strides Premium Newsletter
- Lunging for Riding
- 'Back to School for Your Horse' Special
Connect with Lorna
- Connect on Instagram @stridesforsuccess https://instagram.com/stridesforsuccess
- Connect on Facebook https://facebook.com/stridessuccess
Join the Free Private Communities
- Connect in the Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/SFS30DayRiderFitnessChallenge
- Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Join the 2021 Equestrian Fitness Challenge:-
- Sign up for the free RIDING challenge
Additional Resources:-
- The Training Scale for You And Your Horse
- Training Scale Series; Intro – Putting the Pieces Together for You & Your Horse
- Training Scale Series; Part 1 – Rhythm
- Training Scale Series; Part 2 – Suppleness
- Training Scale Series Part 3 - Contact
- Training Scale Series Part 4 - Impulsion
- Training Scale Series Part 5 - Straightness
When I was first starting out as a rider, I thought that straightness was a simple and easy concept. I remember the first time someone told me that one of the hardest things to do on a horse was to ride a straight line. I didn't believe them! However, turns out they might just have been right...
Keep in mind that whenever you are working on the lower steps of the scale, you are doing so with an eye on the top steps. And when working on the top steps, you are doing so through the filters of the lower steps of the scale.
What is Straightness? It's a bit of a trick question; the simple answer is 'when I ride a straight line', right? Well, yes... And part of straightness is definitely being able to ride and work on a straight line. But what about riding a straight line through a bend?
Read More
Find the Gaps in Your Horses Training - Free Audio Training
- https://stridesforsuccess.com/free
Let's Work Together:-
- Daily Strides Premium Newsletter
- Lunging for Riding
- 'Back to School for Your Horse' Special
Connect with Lorna
- Connect on Instagram @stridesforsuccess https://instagram.com/stridesforsuccess
- Connect on Facebook https://facebook.com/stridessuccess
Join the Free Private Communities
- Connect in the Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/SFS30DayRiderFitnessChallenge
- Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Join the 2021 Equestrian Fitness Challenge:-
- Sign up for the free RIDING challenge
Additional Resources:-
- The Training Scale for You And Your Horse
- Training Scale Series; Intro – Putting the Pieces Together for You & Your Horse
- Training Scale Series; Part 1 – Rhythm
- Training Scale Series; Part 2 – Suppleness
- Training Scale Series Part 3 - Contact
- Training Scale Series Part 4 - Impulsion
How do you know if you have actually achieved true impulsion? What makes this 'real' impulsion different from simply running around the arena like the energizer bunny with your horse?
What is impulsion? Impulsion is the harnessing of the energy that your horse creates and that is inside of the 'container' that you and your horse create when working together. Working together is an important part of impulsion; it occurs when both horse and rider are working towards a shared outcome.
Make sure that you do not confuse impulsion with speed. It actually has nothing to do with speed, it is the energy and the focus. Like a laser beam!
Read More...
Find the Gaps in Your Horses Training - Free Audio Training
- https://stridesforsuccess.com/free
Let's Work Together:-
- Daily Strides Premium Newsletter
- Lunging for Riding
- 'Back to School for Your Horse' Special
Connect with Lorna
- Connect on Instagram @stridesforsuccess https://instagram.com/stridesforsuccess
- Connect on Facebook https://facebook.com/stridessuccess
Join the Free Private Communities
- Connect in the Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/SFS30DayRiderFitnessChallenge
- Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Join the 2021 Equestrian Fitness Challenge:-
- Sign up for the free RIDING challenge
Additional Resources:-
- The Training Scale for You And Your Horse
- Training Scale Series; Intro – Putting the Pieces Together for You & Your Horse
- Training Scale Series; Part 1 – Rhythm
- Training Scale Series; Part 2 – Suppleness
- Training Scale Series Part 3 - Contact
Contact and connection; hot topics for many riders. This is often because they can feel quite elusive. There is confusion regarding what needs to happen in order for contact to occur. And, how can you tell if the contact is correct and 'good'? What is Contact? This is a big question because many riders feel a lot of confusion around contact. And this confusion impacts most of their riding and lessons. The numerous different comments, suggestions, ideas, and methods can muddy the waters! “Soften your contact”, “Stop losing the contact”, "Be more consistent with your contact", "Ride into the contact", or “Pick up the contact” are just a few ways contact is discussed in relation to riding. So, what is contact? Read More... Find the Gaps in Your Horse's Training - Free Audio Training * https://stridesforsuccess.com/free/
Let's Work Together:-
- Daily Strides Premium Newsletter
- Lunging for Riding
Connect with Lorna
- Connect on Instagram @stridesforsuccess https://instagram.com/stridesforsuccess
- Connect on Facebook https://facebook.com/stridessuccess
Join the Free Private Communities
- Connect in the Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/SFS30DayRiderFitnessChallenge
- Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Join the 2021 Equestrian Fitness Challenge:-
- Sign up for the free RIDING challenge
Additional Resources:-
-
The Training Scale for You And Your Horse
-
Training Scale Series; Intro - Putting the Pieces Together for You & Your Horse
- Training Scale Series; Part 1 - Rhythm
- Training Scale Series; Part 2 - Suppleness
What if I was to say that suppleness is less about being 'bendy' and more about how energy flows in you and your horse... Would that challenge you a little? Or is this something which, if you think of yoga, makes sense?
If you sometimes struggle to maintain that lovely 'loosey gooseyness' in your horse, is it possible that you have been making it more about the bend, and less about the flow? Let's have this conversation...
In The Beginning, There Was Relaxation... True relaxation is present when the body is able to work exactly as it should at that moment. This applies to both horse and rider. The body is without any excess tension, which will 'block' or hold things back. True suppleness is when the body can move with the energy in a way that is fluid.
I think flowing water is one of the easiest ways to imagine suppleness. Imagine water flowing somewhere, it is fluid. It simply moves, moulds to, and fills up whatever is available for it to flow into.
Read More...
Free Training - Finding the Gaps in Your Horse's Training
- https://stridesforsuccess.com/free
Let's Work Together:-
- Daily Strides Premium Newsletter
- Lunging for Riding
Connect with Lorna
- Connect on Instagram @stridesforsuccess https://instagram.com/stridesforsuccess
- Connect on Facebook https://facebook.com/stridessuccess
Join the Free Private Communities
- Connect in the Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/SFS30DayRiderFitnessChallenge
- Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Join the 2021 Equestrian Fitness Challenge:-
- Sign up for the free RIDING challenge
Additional Resources:-
- Turning Your Horse Versus Asking Your Horse to Turn
- Why Forward is Essential for Contact
Rhythm is often a funny thing when riding. The reason for this is that rhythm, in the true sense of the word, is any beat that is on repeat... And, most horses tend to have a beat or two that they repeat. This leads many riders to struggle with rhythm. Their question is "if there already is a rhythm, why is it something to work and develop?". And that is a mighty fine question...
All rhythm is not made equal when it comes to horses, riding, and a general way of going. As riders, we need to find the correct rhythm that we want to repeat; and then make that happen regardless of what questions we ask...
Read More...
Free Audio Training - Find the Gaps in Your Horses Training
- https://stridesforsuccess.com/free/
Let's Work Together:-
- Daily Strides Premium Newsletter
- Lunging for Riding
Connect with Lorna
- Connect on Instagram @stridesforsuccess https://instagram.com/stridesforsuccess
- Connect on Facebook https://facebook.com/stridessuccess
Join the Free Private Communities
- Connect in the Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/SFS30DayRiderFitnessChallenge
- Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Join the 2021 Equestrian Fitness Challenge:-
- Sign up for the free RIDING challenge
Additional Resources:-
- The Training Scale for You And Your Horse
- Relaxation; Buiding It Before You Get Into the Saddle
- Relaxation when Riding a Hot Horse
- Rhythm; Learning to Identify and Develop it in the Canter
It can feel really overwhelming when we begin looking at all the different things you need to include when training your horse, right? All these 'steps' and 'principles' are big pieces of a puzzle in their own right; they also have to work together in order to get the full picture!
The training scale is a proven way for you to take these pieces and make them work, regardless of horse, discipline, schooling, or past experience.
And yet, if you just read 'training scale' and instantly decided that this is not the way for you where training your horse is concerned; hear me out. It is not just for dressage...
The training scale is as beneficial for trail horses as it is for dressage horses. For showjumpers, to riding school ponies. It is truly a system that helps all horses really harness their natural abilities and develop them.
Read More...
Find the Gaps in Your Horse's Training - Free Training
- https://stridesforsuccess.com/free/
Let's Work Together:-
- Daily Strides Premium Newsletter
- Lunging for Riding
Connect with Lorna
- Connect on Instagram @stridesforsuccess https://instagram.com/stridesforsuccess
- Connect on Facebook https://facebook.com/stridessuccess
Join the Free Private Communities
- Connect in the Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/SFS30DayRiderFitnessChallenge
- Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Additional Resources:-
- The Training Scale for You And Your Horse
- Relaxation; Buiding It Before You Get Into the Saddle
- Relaxation when Riding a Hot Horse
When does a halt become more than just stopping? When a rider begins to get intentional about it... I would love to help you begin to see the halt in a completely different light when working with your horse. You see, I believe that if you become a little more intentional and focused on this movement that you complete every single day you are with your horse, it truly can begin to change everything for you in your riding...
So many riders have fallen into the trap of seeing the halt as being just that; a stop. It is so much more; it is a movement that, when worked on with your horse, has the power to really move the conversation forward.
This is true whether you are on the ground, perhaps leading to and from the field, or leading your horse to the mounting block. It is also true if you are doing the real actual, and intentional, groundwork. And, I am also a little in love with the halt and how it can help your lunging... Both of which set the course for a good quality halt when riding.
Read More... Let's Work Together:-
- Daily Strides Premium Newsletter
- Lunging for Riding
- Returning to Riding Summer Special
Connect with Lorna
- Connect on Instagram @stridesforsuccess https://instagram.com/stridesforsuccess
- Connect on Facebook https://facebook.com/stridessuccess
Join the Free Private Communities
- Connect in the Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/SFS30DayRiderFitnessChallenge
- Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Join the 2021 Equestrian Fitness Challenge:-
- Sign up for the free RIDING challenge
Additional Resources:-
- A Square Halt on the Ground
- An Engaged Halt
- Your Half Halt on the Ground with Your Horse
Fun can mean lots of different things to lots of different riders. And your idea of what is really fun can change as you develop and grow as a rider. I always encourage my riders to be intentional about including fun stuff in their plan or schedule with their horses.
So, as you plan out your weekly riding, see where you can include one or two activities that you are including with the simple intention of having fun and enjoying the time with your horse.
Now, again, notice how what may have been fun when you rode horses as a teenager, might not be as much fun anymore. Pay attention to your day-to-day activities with your horse. Anywhere you notice you are really just 'having fun', go deeper and see where it takes you.
Read More...
Let's Work Together:-
- Daily Strides Premium Newsletter
- Lunging for Riding
- Returning to Riding Summer Special
Connect with Lorna
- Connect on Instagram @stridesforsuccess https://instagram.com/stridesforsuccess
- Connect on Facebook https://facebook.com/stridessuccess
Join the Free Private Communities
- Connect in the Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/SFS30DayRiderFitnessChallenge
- Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Join the 2021 Equestrian Fitness Challenge:-
- Sign up for the free RIDING challenge
Additional Resources:-
- 1 . Groundwork
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- Groundwork; Take a Walk with Your Horse * Groundwork for Riding * Groundwork; The Bookends to Your Riding2 . Natural Horsemanship
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- Combining Natural Horsemanship with Your Riding3 . Grooming
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- Communicate with Your Horse Through Groundwork; Part 1 Touch * Stop Wasting and Start Investing Time with Your Horse4 . Relaxing together
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- Relaxation; Building it Before You Get into the Saddle with Your Horse * Confidence; Building it From the Ground Up5 . Trails or Hacking
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- Schooling on the Trail * Socialising Your Horse to Riding in a Group
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Have you ever wondered how some riders seem to effortlessly connect with their horse when riding? It genuinely seems like they are doing nothing in particular, and there is clearly an ongoing conversation, or magic, happening.
The secret to seemingly effortless riding is to begin, one by one putting a basic on autopilot - and then revisiting and upgrading them regularly
The basics in riding are all the seemingly small, but vitally important, things that are essential to developing as a rider. They are like the foundations.
Choosing a 'Basic on Autopilot' This Month I think that there are a few key areas that you can begin looking at putting onto autopilot in your riding. Now, obviously, each of these topics is pretty sizeable and has many different facets to them; there are no 'quick wins' and 'one solution fit all' here.
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- Following & Allowing with Your Seat
- Your Position & Posture
- Your Basic Aids
- Bending & Turning
- Trotting (transitions and what you do while trotting)
- Cantering (transitions and what you do while cantering)
If you look at any rider who is having a great, connected conversation with their horse, they are not worrying about any of these things... They are not continuously 'fixing' their position. Or trying to turn their horse. They are certainly not still trying to figure out basic trotting and canter.
Read More... Let's Work Together:-
- Daily Strides Premium Newsletter
- Lunging for Riding
- Returning to Riding Summer Special
Connect with Lorna
- Connect on Instagram @stridesforsuccess https://instagram.com/stridesforsuccess
- Connect on Facebook https://facebook.com/stridessuccess
Join the Free Private Communities
- Connect in the Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/SFS30DayRiderFitnessChallenge
- Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Join the 2021 Equestrian Fitness Challenge:-
- Sign up for the free RIDING challenge
Additional Resources:-
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- Returning to Riding (Basics on Autopilot) Program - Are You Blocking with Your Seat While Riding - Part 1 - Following & Allowing in Your Riding
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Instant gratification. It is a very real thing in the world we live in. People see the thing they want and, without doing a whole of anything, expect to have the same thing. Equestrians often suffer from this same issue. Instead of being on a path to better riding, they are guilty of taking shortcuts... And then wonder why, after time goes by, they never really get anywhere.
The shortcuts are more like little circles. They feel like they're taking you forward initially, but then you will inevitably end up back in the same place all over again.
Following a tried and a trusted path takes time. Doing the work and putting in the effort also takes time. And yet, it is the riders who are willing to start slow and then, over time, speed up, that see the results.
What Shortcuts in Riding Look Like There are things that take time to develop and strengthen. Suppleness, straightness, impulsion, contact... Now, I realize that these are all steps on the training scale, but many shortcuts are based on trying to short circuit the results when it comes to one of the above.
The reality is that, when you take a shortcut, you begin crumbling the foundations...
I believe that the foundations of all horses and riders are relaxation and rhythm. Take a shortcut, and look for one or both of the above to disappear. Excess tension, choppy steps, increase in speed, heaviness, and so many other things are the symptoms of lack of rhythm and relaxation.
Commit to doing the work and taking the time when it comes to improving yourself and your horse
Read More...
Let's Work Together:- * Daily Strides Premium Newsletter * Lunging for Riding * Returning to Riding Summer Special
Connect with Lorna * Connect on Instagram @stridesforsuccess https://instagram.com/stridesforsuccess * Connect on Facebook https://facebook.com/stridessuccess
Join the Free Private Communities * Connect in the Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/SFS30DayRiderFitnessChallenge * Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Join the 2021 Equestrian Fitness Challenge:- * Sign up for the free RIDING challenge
Additional Resources:- * Turning Your Horse Versus Asking Your Horse to Turn * Why Forward is Essential for Contact * Assessing On the Bit when Riding * True Impulsion Versus Running in Your Riding * Developing Your Horses Hind Quarters
Timing is something we all understand. When it is working for us, it feels good. If it's a little off, things tend to feel rushed or stressed. I think our horses feel the same mixed bag of emotions and tension when the timing is off. In fact, bad timing often is the very thing that causes a 'hop, skip, and jump' into the canter.
So, if timing the ask of your canter transitions is so important, why can it often feel so hard?! And why, is it that what some people say is 'easy' to feel, seems like a mystery to most riders?
Excess Tension The first suggestion I am going to give you when it comes to timing your canter aids is to give your physical body a quick scan. There is one reoccurring theme I see with novice riders, the world over when it comes to the canter. Really; this one issue really trips so many riders up!
When they begin to think about canter, they allow excess tension to creep into their body as they overthink the upcoming transition.
It can be subtle or it can be more obvious, depending on the situation and the rider. However, it is very often there and present. My suggestion for you when beginning to prepare your transition into the canter is to pay attention to your body.
Tension is neither good nor bad. It just is. And, in fact, it is essential to keep you upright on the horse! It is when there is too much tension present for the task at hand, that the challenges show up.
One way to tell if this is happening to you is when your horse seems to either understand English (so when someone tells you to canter, he changes what he's doing). Or if he seems to read your mind. It's probably neither. He's simply responding to you...
Read More...
Let's Work Together:- * Daily Strides Premium Newsletter * Lunging for Riding * Returning to Riding Summer Special
Connect with Lorna * Connect on Instagram @stridesforsuccess https://instagram.com/stridesforsuccess * Connect on Facebook https://facebook.com/stridessuccess
Join the Free Private Communities * Connect in the Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/SFS30DayRiderFitnessChallenge * Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Join the 2021 Equestrian Fitness Challenge:- * Sign up for the free RIDING challenge
Additional Resources:- * What are You Willing to Do Differently As a Rider? * Stop Wasting and Start Investing Time with Your Horse * Reacting Versus Responding in Your Riding
A couple of weeks ago, I gave you an audio horse riding lesson on the Daily Strides Podcast. It was all about self-carriage and awareness in your body. A lot of riders reached out and asked for more... So today's episode is focused specifically on creating the space for better canter transitions with your horse.
Getting into canter can be a challenge for many riders. Okay, let's get a little more specific; transitioning into a good quality canter is a challenge! This is why I want to specifically chat about how creating space for better canter transitions is so important. I am a firm believer in putting the basics' onto autopilot. And your posture and position as you transition into the canter are just some of those basics.
Read More...
Let's Work Together:- * Daily Strides Premium Newsletter * Lunging for Riding * Returning to Riding Summer Special
Connect with Lorna * Connect on Instagram @stridesforsuccess https://instagram.com/stridesforsuccess * Connect on Facebook https://facebook.com/stridessuccess
Join the Free Private Communities * Connect in the Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/SFS30DayRiderFitnessChallenge * Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Join the 2021 Equestrian Fitness Challenge:- * Sign up for the free RIDING challenge
Additional Resources:- * 3 Steps to Better Canter Transitions * 3 Ways You Are Ruining Your Transitions from Trot to Canter * 3 Undeniable Effects of Bad Posture when You Ride
It seems pretty simple, navigating a corner or bend with your horse. And yet, for many riders, this becomes a complicated task really quickly. The issue is not the turn or the bend. No, the issue is that they are trying to turn their horse, rather than simply setting things up and allowing their horse to turn.
As the rider, you do not bend or turn your horse. You simply set things up and ask your horse to bend or turn...
In this episode, I want to dig a little deeper into how you can begin to make the transition from being the rider who is trying to control everything to the rider who is setting things up and allowing things to unfold naturally.
Read More...
Let's Work Together:- * Daily Strides Premium Newsletter * Lunging for Riding * Returning to Riding Summer Special
Connect with Lorna * Connect on Instagram @stridesforsuccess https://instagram.com/stridesforsuccess * Connect on Facebook https://facebook.com/stridessuccess
Join the Free Private Communities * Connect in the Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/SFS30DayRiderFitnessChallenge * Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Join the 2021 Equestrian Fitness Challenge:- * Sign up for the free RIDING challenge
Additional Resources:- * Riding Through a Bend; Understanding Your Role * Weight Aids and Seat Bones for Turning and Bending * Asking Your Horse to Bend
What are your plans for your riding this week? Specific plans... Not what you think you will do. Or what you 'might' do if you have time...
One of the biggest things that hold riders back, particularly riders who are working alone, is the lack of a plan.
And this does not have to be the case. Yes, I get that you're probably not a horse riding instructor or trainer. I also realize that you have no real experience in creating the plan. However, you know you best. And, you also know what you want.
So with those two things in mind, I am going to give you the step-by-step approach I advise my riders to use that will get you into the saddle with intention and purpose, week after week, going forward.
Get your journal out, pens at the ready... And let's go :)
Read More...
Let's Work Together:- * Daily Strides Premium Newsletter * Lunging for Riding * Returning to Riding Summer Special
Connect with Lorna * Connect on Instagram @stridesforsuccess https://instagram.com/stridesforsuccess * Connect on Facebook https://facebook.com/stridessuccess
Join the Free Private Communities * Connect in the Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/SFS30DayRiderFitnessChallenge * Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Join the 2021 Equestrian Fitness Challenge:- * Sign up for the free RIDING challenge
Additional Resources:- * Planning Your Rides Out - Part 1 Fun * Planning for Progress in Your Riding * Out of Planning and Into Action in Your Riding
You can feel it when your horse 'hollows', right? And I bet you can also feel it when your horse 'grows a hand' and begins to carry himself. There is either a feeling of contraction or expansion. Okay, so because we agree on that, it makes sense that your horse can probably feel the same thing... Right?
And yet, so many riders fail to consider the knock on effects that collapsing in the saddle cause. How, just like when your horse hollows, your collapsing affects the whole ride.
When No-One is Watching What I have noticed after working with thousands of riders is that how most ride when alone and how they ride when being watched or judged, are different. And yet, study any truly successful* rider and you will only see consistency. What they do in the ring before the crowd is the same as what they do back home in the arena on a bog-standard Tuesday.
*I personally believe success can mean something different to every rider. To me, success as a rider is to have a deep relationship with a horse built on trust, respect, quality-focused time, and intention.
So back to you... How do you ride when no one is watching? What do you do when you notice someone is paying attention. Or when you pay someone to judge, coach, train, or instruct you. Still not sure? Okay, imagine I'm going to stand in the arena with you on your next ride. What's the first thought that goes through your head? That is usually a good indicator of how you will 'change' based on who is watching.
Read More...
Let's Work Together:- * Daily Strides Premium Newsletter * Lunging for Riding * Returning to Riding Summer Special
Connect with Lorna * Connect on Instagram @stridesforsuccess https://instagram.com/stridesforsuccess * Connect on Facebook https://facebook.com/stridessuccess
Join the Free Private Communities * Connect in the Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/SFS30DayRiderFitnessChallenge * Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Join the 2021 Equestrian Fitness Challenge:- * Sign up for the free RIDING challenge
Additional Resources:- * 3 Steps to Better Canter Transitions * 3 Ways You Are Ruining Your Transitions from Trot to Canter * 3 Undeniable Effects of Bad Posture when You Ride * Are You Working on Your Self Carriage When You Ride? * Returning to Riding - Focusing on the Basics
Posture. It’s something that many people (equestrians or not) have memories of a parent or teacher correcting them on! And perhaps this is why many riders don’t want to hear about their posture when it comes to their riding.
However, no matter what way you approach your riding, or what discipline you choose to work with your horse on, posture counts.
I believe that bad posture in the saddle accounts for 3 big ‘sticking points’ for many riders in the saddle.
Read More...
Let's Work Together:- * Daily Strides Premium Newsletter * Lunging for Riding * Returning to Riding Summer Special
Connect with Lorna * Connect on Instagram @stridesforsuccess https://instagram.com/stridesforsuccess * Connect on Facebook https://facebook.com/stridessuccess
Join the Free Private Communities * Connect in the Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/SFS30DayRiderFitnessChallenge * Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Join the 2021 Equestrian Fitness Challenge:- * Sign up for the free RIDING challenge
Additional Resources:- * Are You Working on Your Self Carriage When You Ride? * Heels Down * Returning to Riding - Focusing on the Basics
Self-carriage is a pretty big topic when it comes to riding and riders in general. And it should be. It is an important aspect when it comes to training moving in the right direction. However - you knew there was a ‘however’ coming, right?!
Often we put the cart before the horse when it comes to self-carriage in riding. We focus on the horse's self-carriage - or lack thereof. When, in reality, we should first focus on the rider's ability to correctly carry themselves first.
Creating Space The reason this is true is pretty obvious when you actually spend time looking at horses and their riders. In order for the horse to truly begin to embrace the concept of self-carriage in their training, there must be space available for them to move into.
Self-carriage, in its simplest form, means that the upper (or front end if we are talking about your horse) of the body is being carried or supported by the lower (or back in, again in the case of your horse) part of the body.
In order for this to occur there needs to the necessary strength and engagement through the core of the body. And it is this ‘core engagement’ that is so often missing as riders work and train in the saddle with their horse.
Read More...
Let's Work Together:- * Daily Strides Premium Newsletter * Lunging for Riding * Returning to Riding Summer Special
Connect with Lorna * Connect on Instagram @stridesforsuccess https://instagram.com/stridesforsuccess * Connect on Facebook https://facebook.com/stridessuccess
Join the Free Private Communities * Connect in the Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/SFS30DayRiderFitnessChallenge * Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Join the 2021 Equestrian Fitness Challenge:- * Sign up for the free RIDING challenge
Additional Resources:- * Want to Get Back into Regular Riding? Read This First * Heels Down * Returning to Riding - Focusing on the Basics
Stories are a funny thing. They are usually part of an experience that was very real at some point. However, as a rider, it is important to always update and be aware of your stories. And this requires you to begin actively analyzing what you are saying to yourself on a moment-by-moment basis.
Your Stories on Autopilot This sounds relatively easy... However, when we are doing something which we have done often and regularly before, we can become a little complacent.
Our actions and our thoughts, so, therefore, our stories, tend to just repeat themselves. Without a whole lot of effort from you.
This is great when the story is causing a positive outcome. For example, "my horse really listens to me when we work together on the ground" might be something you say on a regular basis and, therefore, believe. However, these same stories can really work against us at other times. The story, maybe "I struggle to control my horse when he spooks" begins to negatively affect your riding.
The story itself is not that important. However, the actions that accompany this story can often cause us to become literally 'stuck' where our riding is concerned.
Read More...
Let's Work Together:-
- Daily Strides Premium Newsletter
- Lunging for Riding
- Returning to Riding Summer Special
Connect with Lorna
- Connect on Instagram @stridesforsuccess https://instagram.com/stridesforsuccess
- Connect on Facebook https://facebook.com/stridessuccess
Join the Free Private Communities
- Connect in the Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/SFS30DayRiderFitnessChallenge
- Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Join the 2021 Equestrian Fitness Challenge:-
- Sign up for the free RIDING challenge
Additional Resources:-
- What are You Willing to Do Differently As a Rider?
- Stop Wasting and Start Investing Time with Your Horse
- Reacting Versus Responding in Your Riding
Have you been using your lunging whip incorrectly? Have you decided not to use it at all?
Your lunging whip is one of the best aids you have to help you clarify your communication when it comes to lunging your horse. However, in order for it to be of benefit, it must be used correctly.
And, unfortunately, the lunging whip can often be misused, and often, therefore, misunderstood when it comes to aids in lunging and riding.
Lunging Whip; What’s in a Name? For many riders, their resistance to and incorrect use of the lunging whip is caused by the name we have given this piece of equipment. I have a feeling that if a lunging whip was called a pointer or a demonstrator, it would ‘feel’ different for many riders to incorporate it into their conversation with their horse.
Read more...
Connect with Lorna
- Connect on Instagram @stridesforsuccess https://instagram.com/stridesforsuccess
- Connect on Facebook https://facebook.com/stridessuccess
Join the Free Private Communities
- Connect in the Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/SFS30DayRiderFitnessChallenge
- Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Download Your Free Riding Plan:-
- FREE Download:- 1 Exercise Multiple Ways
Additional Resources:-
- Improving Your Riding Coordination & Aids While Lunging
- Loose Lunging Versus Lunging
- Lunging for Riding – 4-week step by step program to transform your lunging experience
Do you know that, contrary to popular belief, lunging is not ‘running in circles’? That, when done right, lunging is one of the most beneficial, easy to use, and low barrier to entry tools you can work with your horse to improve your riding.
True and good quality lunging improves both horse and rider; and can be used by all horses and riders, regardless of where they are in their riding journey.
Yes, it is that good… This is why I feel a little passionate when people confuse loose lunging for actual lunging! In fact, I don’t believe that loose lunging should even be called lunging. What it should e called depends on what you are using it for… But it is not lunging.
Read More...
Connect with Lorna
- Connect on Instagram @stridesforsuccess https://instagram.com/stridesforsuccess
- Connect on Facebook https://facebook.com/stridessuccess
Join the Free Private Communities
- Connect in the Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/SFS30DayRiderFitnessChallenge
- Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Download Your Free Riding Plan:-
- FREE Download:- 1 Exercise Multiple Ways
Additional Resources:-
- Improving Your Riding Coordination & Aids While Lunging
- Lunging for Riding – 4-week step by step program to transform your lunging experience
- Online community for equestrians working on their mindset & fitness
- Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorses)
Self carriage is something a lot of riders have on their ‘goals’ list for their horse. As though it is something that can be achieved once and ‘ticked off'. Done and dusted. If only…
I believe that self carriage is a sign of development and growth in both horse and rider. A start in the sharing of responsibilities that lead to the desired outcome. Each team member realizing that it truly does take a team effort in order to make real and lasting progress.
And yet, so often, the rider can get in the way and actually hinder the horse's training when it comes to self carriage.
Read More...
Connect with Lorna
- Connect on Instagram @stridesforsuccess https://instagram.com/stridesforsuccess
- Connect on Facebook https://facebook.com/stridessuccess
Join the Free Private Communities
- Connect in the Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/SFS30DayRiderFitnessChallenge
- Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Download Your Free Riding Plan:-
- FREE Download:- 1 Exercise Multiple Ways
Additional Resources:-
- Improving Your Riding Coordination & Aids While Lunging
- Lunging for Riding – 4-week step by step program to transform your lunging experience
- Online community for equestrians working on their mindset & fitness
- Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorses)
It is one of the most frustrating experiences as a rider when you notice that you’ve stopped improving. Progress has stalled! You’re doing ‘all the things’ but, seemingly, to no avail whatsoever.
This is a commonplace that all riders can find themselves in at some point or another. And the good news is that there are things you can begin doing today that will help you get moving and improving as a rider soon.
6 Questions For When You've Stopped Improving
Read More...
Connect with Lorna
- Connect on Instagram @stridesforsuccess https://instagram.com/stridesforsuccess
- Connect on Facebook https://facebook.com/stridessuccess
Join the Free Private Communities
- Connect in the Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/SFS30DayRiderFitnessChallenge
- Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Download Your Free Riding Plan:-
- FREE Download:- 1 Exercise Multiple Ways
Additional Resources:-
- Overcoming a Plateau in Your Horse Riding Progress
- A Map for Progress in Your Riding
It can feel bumpy, right? A little more space than what you’re used to feeling. And, if there are two or more poles, well, it can all get a little unbalanced! For you and your horse.
I preach all the time about the benefits of groundpoles when used correctly. And, one of those benefits comes from riders learning what to do when navigating them.
Groundpoles are, well, Poles! One of the first issues riders come up against when working over groundpoles is that they treat them like they’re not there. They are. And all of the bumpy, unbalanced, sometimes discomfort, you are feeling when you ride over them is evidence of that! Expecting to initially ride over groundpoles and not do a thing differently is simply setting both you and your horse up for an uncomfortable experience.
As your horse steps over the pole, he will use his body differently.
He has to lift his legs higher. Yes, 4 to 5 inches is still higher. He will also have to step under himself a little more to propel himself forward. This is especially true if there are two or more poles for him to navigate. He will engage his core. A little like ’tightening up his tummy’ as he moves over them. And he will stretch down and forward with his head and neck to see what he is doing, to balance, and to allow the freedom of movement the rest of his body needs.
All of the above is one of the reasons groundpoles are so beneficial for your horse, regardless of discipline or training level.
Read More...
Connect with Lorna
- Connect on Instagram @stridesforsuccess https://instagram.com/stridesforsuccess
- Connect on Facebook https://facebook.com/stridessuccess
Join the Free Private Communities
- Connect in the Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/SFS30DayRiderFitnessChallenge
- Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Download Your Free Riding Plan:-
- FREE Download:- 1 Exercise Multiple Ways
Additional Resources:-
- Improving Your Riding with Your Light Seat
- 1 Simple Groundpole Exercise to Ride This Week with Your Horse
- Top 3 Mistakes when It Comes to Groundpoles
Have you ever ridden in an open space, a large open space? A space with no boundaries, or fences, or hedges, or any natural 'this is the end of this space' obstacles. It takes a lot more focus to ride accurate shapes and straight lines. We tend to 'wander'...
So many of us forget how beneficial an artificial aid the boundary our arena rail creates. Not only does the arena rail or fence mark the 'end' of our riding space, but it also boosts our confidence; "He can't run away, there's nowhere to go"
And it also helps us as an artificial aid. Something that will help us to strengthen and become more focused with our natural aids.
Size Doesn’t Matter All That Much Last week I was working with a rider on another farm, and we didn't have the luxury of a demarcated arena. We were working in a large paddock, which was wonderful. However, the 'fence' was quite a bit away from us. The exercise was to ride a 20m square in the walk.
What became apparent, very quickly, was that without reference points, the square was not all that square!
The size was changing, there were curved lines. It definitely lacked right angles at the corners. And, rather than riding the exercise to work on what we actually wanted to work on, all of the rider's time was devoted to trying to actually visualize the square on the grass in this large paddock.
Riding straight lines is a difficult thing to do when there’s nothing guiding you and keeping you on track.
The good news is that the size of your arena is not what’s important here. A 20m x 20m space can be great when working on accuracy and suppleness. What is important is how you use the arena rail to being strengthening your natural aids. This is for those times when you find yourself without an arena rail to follow…
Read More... Connect with Lorna
- Connect on Instagram @stridesforsuccess https://instagram.com/stridesforsuccess
- Connect on Facebook https://facebook.com/stridessuccess
Join the Free Private Communities
- Connect in the Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/SFS30DayRiderFitnessChallenge
- Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Download Your Free Riding Plan:-
- FREE Download:- 1 Exercise Multiple Ways
Additional Resources:-
- Using Artificial Aids when Working with Horses
- Artificial Aids in Your Riding
You know that feeling when you try something new and you get it right. Maybe your trainer or instructor is with you. Or maybe you just prepared. But, for whatever reason, you got it right. You feel like a better rider. Good feeling, hey? Until the next time you try… Maybe on your own. A couple of days later. Aaaannnnndddd nothing!
Whatever it was that allowed you to create the perfect circumstances before is now missing and you’re back to square one. And a thirsty square one, because now you have tasted the potential of this new thing!
Leveling up in riding is a tough one for many riders. And I believe it is because they don’t take the 3 factors necessary to be upgraded into their approach. Emotional, mental, and physical.
Conversations of a Better Rider... I think as riders, we often underestimate the conversations going on in our heads. We don’t take into account the ongoing chatter that our mind creates when we do ‘the thing’. Which can have a serious impact on what is happening in the saddle.
You can upgrade the skills. Even upgrade the knowledge of what to do with these skills. But if you don’t upgrade what you think about it; nothing will change
It is a harsh fact and one that holds so many riders back. However, mindset is just one element that can hold you back from becoming a better rider… And, as I said, if all 3 are not being developed together, it creates a ceiling for you and your riding.
Read More...
Connect with Lorna
- Connect on Instagram @stridesforsuccess https://instagram.com/stridesforsuccess
- Connect on Facebook https://facebook.com/stridessuccess
Join Connection; The Online Membership for Equestrians
- Connection; Success has a Rhythm - Make Every Ride Great starting Today!
Join the Free Private Communities
- Connect in the Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/SFS30DayRiderFitnessChallenge
- Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Download Your Free Riding Plan:-
- FREE Download:- 1 Exercise Multiple Ways
Additional Resources:-
- Developing and Celebrating Your Unique Style as a Rider
- Riding & Acting; The Connection
- Developing a Rhythm for Your Progress in the Saddle
- What’s Your Riding Number?
- Connection; My Online Membership for Equestrians
Timing... It's an important element of great conversations. You can give all the correct responses, but if the timing is off - they are not as meaningful. And this affects the connection and flow. Horse riding is the same.
After all, horse riding is just a word we use to describe the conversation between the rider and the horse.
As a rider, it takes time to learn how to move one part of our body while having minimal influence on other parts. Part of improving your ability to do this is to work on developing your aids independently of each other. And the other part is to become very aware of what you are saying and when. It takes time to develop your independent aids and, as a result, your independent seat.
However, while you are working on doing these, you can also start to become more aware of when you are communicating. You can work on the timing of your seat aids.
In this episode, I want to focus on the 'when' part of your conversation. And specifically, the aid that we tend to get most muddled up about - your seat.
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Additional Resources:- * + - Conscious Transitions Between Walk & Trot - Connection in Your Riding; Seat and Legs - FREE Download:- 1 Exercise Multiple Ways - Join Connection Today - Online Community for Equestrian focusing on Planning and Mindset - Lunging for Riding
Landing on the correct diagonal can be hit and miss for many riders. Let’s face it, there’s a chance you’ll get it right 50% of the time! And while most riders are pretty well versed on their diagonals in the trot… It’s ‘feeling’ the diagonal that causes confusion.
Trotting has a two-time beat. The 1,2,1,2,1,2,1,2,1,2 that you experience and feel when you’re in the saddle. If you do sitting trot, it will result in a sit,sit,sit,sit,sit,sit,sit,sit rhythm. However, most riders can ‘tire’ a little when it comes to riding a constant sitting trot! And so, we learn to post or rise in the trot.
The 1,2,1,2,1,2 is matched with an up,down,up,down,up,down of the riders backside. The rhythm of up-downs and the rhythm of the trot are a perfect match.
The Correct Diagonal The reason your horse creates the 1,2, rhythm in the trot is because of how he moves his legs while he is trotting. The right-back foot moves with the front left foot. This is the ‘1’ part of the rhythm. Then the left-back foot moves with the right front foot. This is the ‘2’ part of the rhythm.
The trot is very ‘even’ with regards to what is moving where… This is also the reason it can be hard to ‘feel’ what diagonal you are on at any given point!
The correct diagonal is when you are moving with the inside hind leg - and, by association, outside front leg - of your horse. There is a little rhyme, ‘rise and fall with the shoulder by the wall’. That about sums it up. As your horse's outside shoulder is forward, you want to be ‘up’. As this shoulder moves back, you want to be down.
I have a post and an episode HERE about how to identify the correct diagonal through sight and voice...
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Connect with Lorna
- Connect on Instagram @stridesforsuccess https://instagram.com/stridesforsuccess
- Connect on Facebook https://facebook.com/stridessuccess
Join the Free Private Communities
- Connect in the Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/SFS30DayRiderFitnessChallenge
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Download Your Free Riding Plan:-
- FREE Download:- 1 Exercise Multiple Ways
Additional Resources:-
- The Correct Diagonal in Trot
- Conscious Transitions Between Walk & Trot
- Rising or Posting in Trot
- 3 Mistakes Riders Makes when Riding the Sitting Trot
- Avoiding the Trampoline Effect in the Sitting Trot
- Join Connection Today
- Lunging for Riding
It can often sound like a jackhammer... Rrrrrrrrrrrrrr. Instead of the 1,2,3...1,2,3...1,2,3... that the canter should produce when you listen for the rhythm. And once either a horse or a rider has become 'used' to a different way, it can be a real challenge to get things back on track. Or on beat, as the case is when the rhythm is lost in the canter.
Some things are taken for granted when we ride horses. Rhythm is very often one of those things. And many riders think that, if there is a regular enough repeating sound, rhythm is good. But sometimes, the rhythm itself is not right. And when this happens, no further development can happen within the gait until this is corrected.
The Rhythm in Canter I am sure that you are well aware of the fact that your canter should have a 3 beat rhythm. I am going to also assume here that you understand what causes this gait to have 3 beats (as opposed to 4 or 2 like walk or trot).
However, what many riders fail to realize is that rhythm in the canter can be lost without your horse becoming disunited behind! I mention the disunited behind because this is one of the most talked-about and common ways for the canter to develop a 4-time beat. However, let's assume here that your horse is indeed united in the canter.
All feet are moving where they should be. And yet, you're just not hearing that distinctive 3-time beat... Now what?
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Connect with Lorna * Connect on Instagram @stridesforsuccess https://instagram.com/stridesforsuccess * Connect on Facebook https://facebook.com/stridessuccess
Join the Free Private Communities * Connect in the Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/SFS30DayRiderFitnessChallenge * Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Download Your Free Riding Plan:- * FREE Download:- 1 Exercise Multiple Ways
Additional Resources:- * Your Aids to Ride the Half Halt * Using Your Body to Effectively Influence the Canter * Learning to Stop Blocking with Your Seat – Part 1 * Learning to Stop Block with Your Seat - Part 2 * Learn to Stop Driving with Your Seat * Connection in Your Riding; Seat and Legs * Your Independent Seat is a Result of Your Independent Aids * 4 Steps to a More Comfortable Canter * Join Connection; The Online Membership for Equestrians * Lunging for Riding
What has changed for you in your riding? If you are not intentionally making a small (or the odd large) tweak here and there, I’m willing to guess that your answer is ‘Not a whole lot’…
Albert Einstein said it and there’s a reason it is repeated by people who try to help others. “Insanity; doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result”. But it seems that there are a lot of riders out there who think this doesn’t apply to them.
They're riding the same exercises, the same way. The same thoughts running the show - and then complain when nothing changes!
If you want to change something in your riding, you are going to have to do just that… Change something. Be intentional about doing something differently.
Choosing 1 Thing to Do Differently Now, if you have just had an ah-ha moment, or I’ve hit a bit of a nerve, hold on… Many riders, when they realize that they are the very thing holding themselves back, throw themselves headfirst into change. New saddle, new exercises, new routine, and schedule. New instructor, new yard, or, maybe, new horse!
Whoa there… If you change everything at once, how will you know what has worked?
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Additional Links to Help You:- * + - FREE Download:- 1 Exercise Multiple Ways - 1. Planning Your Rides - Part 1 Fun - 2. Planning Your Rides - Part 2 Partnership - 3. Planning Your Rides - Part 3 Training - 4. Planning Your Rides - Part 4 One Exercise Multiple Ways - Lunging for Riding - Online Community for Equestrian focusing on Planning and Mindset - Stop Wasting and Start Investing Time with Your Horse - What’s Your Number in Your Riding? - A Plan for 7 Days in Your Riding - Plan Your Ride with These Simple Steps - Transform the Next 12 Weeks in Your Riding - Connection; the Online Membership for Equestrians
Have you been feeling a little overwhelmed when it comes to finding exercises to ride with your horse in the arena? Have you found yourself creating more and more complex grids, and then struggling to make them work for you and your horse? If so, here is a simple exercise you can use this month to help minimize the overwhelm and get you in the saddle and making progress.
All you need are 3 or 5 ground poles and a fairly flat piece of land to ride on if you don’t have access to an arena.
The key to this exercise is intention regarding what you are doing and attention to how well things are going. Attention to detail is important when working on simple. It is what makes simple really work and help propel you and your horse forward in your training.
Lay Out the Poles for the Exercise To get set up, find the quarter line of your arena. If you are working in an open space, such as a paddock or field, simply find a flat area with enough space to lay the poles out in a straight line.
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Additional Links to Help You:- * + - FREE Download:- 1 Exercise Multiple Ways - Planning Your Rides - Part 1 Fun - Planning Your Rides - Part 2 Partnership - Planning Your Rides - Part 3 Training - Lunging for Riding - Online Community for Equestrian focusing on Planning and Mindset - Stop Wasting and Start Investing Time with Your Horse - What’s Your Number in Your Riding? - A Plan for 7 Days in Your Riding - Plan Your Ride with These Simple Steps - Transform the Next 12 Weeks in Your Riding - Connection; the Online Membership for Equestrians
Is every 30-minute ride starting to look and feel the same for you? Even the ones that you painstakingly chose exercises to work on? Annoying, isn’t it? Especially because actually ‘moving forward' in your riding is the reason you are riding!
If this is the case, firstly, take heart that you’re not alone! Remaining focused throughout the day to day riding can really begin to wear on most well-intentioned riders after a while. And can even cause riding to begin dropping off your list of priorities…!
This is why I suggest a 3 pronged approach to developing your weekly riding plan in a way that keeps things interesting and moving forward...
A plan that will take you, clearly, on a path to your goals. Part 1 is to introduce regular intentional Fun to your riding. From there, Part 2 is working on deepening your Partnership with your horse. Which leads us to...
Part 3 - Developing Doing the work. This is part that most riders are good at talking about, planning about, and even trying in the arena. You have probably found yourself on more than one occasion in the arena, exercise all mapped out in your head. And yet realizing, in absolute dismay, that it is just not coming together for you.
The key is to begin making ‘the work’ actually work for you and your horse!
Developing is another name for training. I personally believe that both horse and rider need training in order to move forward in their relationship. Often, most horse and rider combinations begin with one team member not being as advanced as the other. In this case, the more advanced or developed team members will help to ‘lift’ the other to their level. The schoolmaster horse or the more experienced rider.
However, at some point, most horse and rider partnerships will reach a level where they are now matching in their skills and abilities. And this can be where so many begin to plateau.
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Additional Links to Help You:- * + - Planning Your Rides - Part 1 Fun - Planning Your Rides - Part 2 Partnership - Lunging for Riding - Online Community for Equestrian focusing on Planning and Mindset - Stop Wasting and Start Investing Time with Your Horse - What’s Your Number in Your Riding? - A Plan for 7 Days in Your Riding - Plan Your Ride with These Simple Steps - Transform the Next 12 Weeks in Your Riding - Connection; the Online Membership for Equestrians
How many days will you ride this week? What will you do on each of those days? Are all of these things moving you and your horse closer to your goals? Big questions… And ones that I think not enough riders are taking responsibility for in their riding.
This is part 2 of a 3 part series to help you really become intentional about your riding plan.
Each part is an important element that, I believe, is absolutely essential for you in your riding. It is when you combine these three elements on a weekly basis, weaving them throughout your rides, that you will begin to see true success in your riding.
Part 1 was Fun. The reason most people show up for their second-ever ride. And the reason most riders actually stop riding as much as they like. It just isn’t as much fun anymore. Find out how and why you can make Fun an intentional part of your riding plan HERE
Part 2 - Partnership It seems so, well, obvious. Partnership. However, because it is so obvious, like fun, many riders forget to actually be intentional about developing this in their riding and relationship with their horse. Partnership is trust. It is the relationship.
A partnership is the ‘liking each other’ part that will be essential to get you both over any sticky situations that show up.
It is intentionally developing the understanding between horse and rider. This allows you not only to trust each other more but also to build confidence in your own abilities as well. Ever noticed how you feel more confident about something you must-do if you have someone who supports you there beside you? That is a partnership.
Read More... Additional Resources for Riders:- * + - Planning Your Rides - Part 1 Fun - Online Community for Equestrian focusing on Planning and Mindset - Stop Wasting and Start Investing Time with Your Horse - What’s Your Number in Your Riding? - A Plan for 7 Days in Your Riding - Plan Your Ride with These Simple Steps - Transform the Next 12 Weeks in Your Riding - Connection; the Online Membership for Equestrians
All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy… Or so the saying goes. I tend to believe this is true. Especially when it comes to riders and their horses. Yes, ‘working’ is important. But, if you are only riding to ride… Well, maybe that is what is actually holding you back in your riding?
I think that in order to really get the most from your riding plan to help you reach your goals, there are 3 key components. Not just work! Fun is just as important. And if you have been riding for any length of time, you will know that fun begins to wane after a while.
One of the biggest reasons that riders don’t ride as much as they say they want to - is down to riding simply not being as much fun as it once was!
Creating a plan for your riding is not just about the days you ride. It is also about finding a balance between 3 key elements that, I believe, are essential. Including these 3 elements will allow you to work towards your riding goals, while keeping things inspired, focused and interesting for all involved. Because, after all, that’s what Team Leaders do, right?!
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Additional Resources to Help Equestrians:- * + - Free 4 Day Workshop in my Equestrian Mindset Fb Group - Stop Wasting and Start Investing Time with Your Horse - What's Your Number in Your Riding? - A Plan for 7 Days in Your Riding - Plan Your Ride with These Simple Steps - Transform the Next 12 Weeks in Your Riding - Connection; the Online Membership for Equestrians
We are all guilty of wasting time at some point or another in our day to day lives. However, I want to challenge you for 1 month to NOT waste any more of your time with your horse. Riding for the sake of saying you rode is a waste of time. Clocking in the hours is not the same as being productive with those hours.
And if you have stopped riding or you’re not riding as much as you ‘want’… Could it be that the riding you were doing was ‘wasting time’ rather than working towards something that really inspired you?
Change is Okay & Maybe Necessary As I write this we are getting ready to begin the final month of 2020. The official year of the curveball. December is always a time when most people do a little review of what was, and begin planning goals for the new year.
I personally don’t think you have to wait until the official end of a calendar year to do this, meaning if you are reading this in July 2021, apply this now!
The world as a whole has changed so much recently, is it possible that the goals you set for yourself and your horse in December 2019 might need to be tweaked? Or even scrapped? Has this year benefited you regarding focus and identifying what is a priority? Or has it left you feeling uncertain about anything?
I want you to read or listen to this with an open mind. A clean slate. And I would love it if you could set some goals with that same openness and readiness to start new and fresh if necessary.
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Additional Resources on This Topic * + - Free 4 Day Workshop in my Equestrian Mindset Fb Group - A Plan for 7 Days in Your Riding - What's Your Number in Your Riding? - Plan Your Ride with These Simple Steps - Transform the Next 12 Weeks in Your Riding - Connection; the Online Membership for Equestrians
How do some riders seem to simply handle ‘speed wobbles’ when they are riding? It seems as though nothing phases them. They simply effectively and efficiently get things back on track with minimum effort and drama… Their secret? They have swapped reacting versus responding when they ride.
If you are the sort of rider who gets ‘triggered’ by certain things in your riding, you have possibly looked at those ‘other’ riders with a mixture of awe and jealously!
Today I want to tell you exactly how you can begin riding like them; and begin responding rather than reacting when riding, and working with, your horse.
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Additional Resources for Equestrians * Connection; My Online Membership for Equestrians * Your FREE half halt training * The Direct Relationship Between Your Fitness & Your Riding * Dealing with a Horse who Spooks and Spins * Diffusing a Difficult or Dangerous Situation * Online community for equestrians working on their mindset & fitness * Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorses)
Sprinkled, like confetti. This is how I think the half halt should be applied to your ride. Little ones that are really everywhere. None of them too big. Or ‘stand out’. Yet all of them working together to give the desired effect or result.
For many riders, the half halt, rather than being like confetti, becomes more like broadsheet newspapers scattered randomly around the arena. Not too many, some altogether. And not really having any use other than to make things look messy and unorganized.
Size Matters How do you get your broadsheet size half halts to resemble a piece of confetti? You refine. And refine… The energy that you are putting into that one ‘big’ half halt (your standard broadsheet), divided up and divided amongst a whole lot of smaller, more refined half halt (your ‘confetti').
Yes, I realize I am really oversimplifying something that so many riders struggle with, the trusty half halt. And yet, it really is that simple. It is riders ‘wanting’ to make it harder than it really is... That is the real struggle with the half halt. And they want to make it harder because, although it is simple, it is usually not that easy to grasp when actually riding.
I have spoken about the half halt a lot… It really and truly is a sticking point for so many riders. I won’t get into too much of the what and why (you can read about that HERE and HERE and HERE if you’re interested). Instead, I want to give you some practical tips you can use while riding to help you work on turning your half halt from a broadsheet to a tiny piece of confetti.
Light, lovely, and a feel-good sign for all who experience it.
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Additional Resources for Equestrians:- * + - FREE Half Halt Training Audio - 3 Ways to Use the Half Halt in Your Riding - Harnessing the Power of the Half Halt - Improving Your Ride with the Half Halt - Understanding and Refining Your Half Halt - Your Half Halt on the Ground with Your Horse - Connection in Your Riding; Your Seat and Legs - Connection; My Online Membership for Equestrians - Online community for equestrians working on their mindset & fitness - Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorses
Can you put into words what the half halt is? Let’s say you are speaking with your friend, who is not a horsey person, and you’re telling her all about the half halt. What would you say? This week I had two eye-opening conversations. One with a rider and one with my sister… I drew a similar conclusion from both conversations.
My conclusion? There are a whole lot of riders out there who don’t really know what the half halt is, or why everyone goes on and on about it…
So, back to you and your version of the half halt… It might be easier to start with what it is not. A half of a halt! But, you knew that, didn’t you. And yet, there are many riders who are surprised at that. “It’s kind of slowing down, but not actually letting the horse stop…, I think…” No, that’s not quite it.
What is the Half Halt The half halt is a few things in riding. However, we can simplify things by dividing the purpose of the half halt into three simple categories
- An effective ‘intercom’ system between you and your horse
- A little ‘fixer-upper'
- An effective way to help you and your horse maintain balance, focus, and forwardness
I am a firm believer that most riders can take the number of current half halts they ride every time they're in the saddle and double or triple that number. And that is just to get started with! We are simply not doing enough half halts. And the irony is, that when you are getting started with it, the more you do, the less you will have to do it later.
The half halt is really one of those things that you can do a lot of the work up front and reap the benefits later.
Additional Resources for Equestrians:- * + - FREE Half Halt Training Audio - The Aids to Ride the Half Halt - Harnessing the Power of the Half Halt - Improving Your Ride with the Half Halt - Understanding and Refining Your Half Halt - Your Half Halt on the Ground with Your Horse - Connection in Your Riding; Your Seat and Legs - Connection; My Online Membership for Equestrians - Online community for equestrians working on their mindset & fitness - Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorses
What would happen to you and your riding if you began embracing your unique style as a rider? If instead of trying to ride like someone else, you began to really understand and know what it is to ride like you?
I think that many riders are trying to ride like or act like someone else in their riding. Maybe it’s the rider at the barn who has been at this a few years longer than you. Or the rider who is 10, 20, or 30 years younger than you. It could be the rider who has never had their own horse, meaning they have ridden any horse they had the opportunity to ride for the past 10 years. Or the rider who is quiet, reserved, and calm under pressure…
As equestrians, we all have riders we admire. Riders we would like to become 'more like’ in our own riding. But they are not you.
The key is to really begin to understand your own unique style as a rider, and from that place, begin blending complementary techniques and styles into your mix.
Additional Resources for Equestrians * + - Riding & Acting; The Connection - What Does an Equestrian Look Like? Diversity in Our Sport - What's Your Riding Number? - Connection; My Online Membership for Equestrians - Online community for equestrians working on their mindset & fitness - Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorses
What will you be doing with your horse this week? Seem’s like an innocent enough question… ‘Ah, a bit of this and a dash of that’...
And there is the problem. If you committed to actually planning out the answer to this question for the coming 4 weeks in your riding, you can, potentially, change everything.
The Same Thing = The Same Result
So many riders are doing the same thing, day in and day out, and then feeling frustrated by the lack of results.
They go out there, day after day. Clock in their respective rides. For some, it might be 4 a week. Others might be happy with 2 a week. There is a feeling of accomplishment having ‘gotten in’ the two or four rides for that week. But what has really changed? What was intentional? Focused?
And are your results merely reflecting your lack of doing anything different?
Is it possible that you are, in fact, seeing results? You are failing to see them because they are simply the same ones you’ve been seeing for quite a while now… Doing the same thing over and over will achieve one result. The same one! Expecting anything different is wishful thinking!
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Additional Resources for Equestrians * + - Join Connection today (cancel anytime) - Out of Planning and Into Action - Planning for Progress in Your Riding - What's Your Riding Number - Lunging for Riding - Groundwork for Riding - My free online community
How many times have you been working with your horse on the lunge, only to have your line end up a tangled mess? Or perhaps your horse did something unexpected. Maybe he turned in or went from 0 to 60 in .5 of a second, and you couldn’t respond quickly enough because of a loopy, knotted, or twisted lunge line?
Your lunge line is an important artificial aid that you can use to actively encourage contact and connection with your horse. However, that is pretty much impossible if it is a tangled up mess! The good news is that with a little practice, you can begin making your lunge line work for you and your horse, rather than against you in your lunging.
The Type of Lunge Line Not all lunge lines are made equal. Before we even begin here, I want you to consider the quality of your current lunge line. Ideally, you want one that has a little weight to it, rather than a flimsy, flappy about one.
That being said, you also don’t want one that is so heavy, gravity is having a greater influence than you in the conversation! There is a happy medium, play with what you like and what works best.
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Additional Resources for Equestrians:- * + - Developing Contact on the Lunge using Your Lunge Line - Improving Your Riding Coordination & Aids While Lunging - Join Connection today and transform your riding journey - Lunging for Riding – 4-week step by step program to transform your lunging experience - Online community for equestrians working on their mindset & fitness - Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorses)
Have you ever considered that, if something is not ‘working’ in your riding, the reason might just be a lack of forward? We spend a lot of our focus on making sure we have established relaxation and rhythm. Yet, working forward is actually essential for either of those two to be present and working for you in your riding.
Here are 4 simple actions you can take every time you ride to help you begin to both establish and maintain forward in your riding.
What Is Forward? Forward is when you and your horse are going somewhere with a sense of purpose. It is the opposite of going nowhere slowly! It is the energy, the intention, and the momentum that must be present in order for anything else to work.
You must think forward. You must feel confident moving forward and you must then take action on the forward. It is mental, emotional, and physical.
I believe that forward must be present and established before relaxation and rhythm. And yet, forward is not rushing and racing. It is not frantic or chaotic. Nor is it excessive tension. It is mental, emotional, and physical.
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Additional Resources for Equestrians:- * Join Connection today * Learning to Stop Blocking with Your Seat - Part 1 * Learning to Stop Blocking with Your Seat - Part 2 * Online coaching and audio horse riding lessons for equestrians * Groundwork for Riding * Online community for equestrians working on their mindset & fitness * Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorses)
Your lunge line is not there to keep your horse on the circle while lunging. I would love for you to take a moment just to consider this statement. Is it at all possible that you have been using your lunge line, in some shape way or form to do this for you? If lunging is not enjoyable, a tug of war, or just too darn difficult, this could be why.
Have you been using your lunge line to keep your horse on the circle, rather than to develop contact and connection with your horse?
Here is my step by step system to turn that around for you in your lunging...
Embrace Artificial Aids Your lunge line is an artificial aid. And artificial aids are fantastic if used correctly. The keyword is "correctly". Many riders have allowed themselves to be led down a path where the use of artificial aids, such as lunge lines, lunge whips, or lunging arenas, is frowned upon.
Artificial aids are there to back up or support your natural aids.
And, you can always refine your natural aids, over time, to the point where artificial aids are no longer needed or used all the time. In fact, this is one of your responsibilities as a rider. Doing the work to refine your aids.
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Additional Resources for Equestrians:-
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- Improving Your Riding Coordination & Aids While Lunging - Join Connection today and transform your riding journey - Lunging for Riding - 4-week step by step program to transform your lunging experience - Online community for equestrians working on their mindset & fitness - Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorses)
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Are you guilty of saying one thing to your horse, when you actually mean another? You're not alone! This is the second part of a 2 part series all about blocking with your seat, and how to stop doing it! Part 1 is HERE
Before we dive into the actual riding exercises you can do to discover if you have been blocking. And then, using those same exercises to actually begin allowing. Let's get clear on what we mean when we say 'blocking'.
Blocking is when you mean to say ‘carry on’, but instead you say ‘whoa’. It is applying the resisting force of your seat when you actually want to simply allow your horse to really move your seat.
Exercise 1:- Allowing in the Walk A lot can be learned about your influence on your horse in the walk. Slight changes and tweaks to what you are doing can have a big and, very important, noticeable impact on your horse's way of going. Use this to your advantage and test yourself…
In halt, take both feet out of your stirrups. From here, ask your horse to walk forward. Your goal is to simply follow your horse with your seat. Like dancing. Your horse is the lead partner. You are literally a split second ‘behind’ your horse's movement and yet moving with him - not being dragged!
As your horse walks, pay close attention to the rhythm of the walk and how much ground he is covering with each stride.
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Additional Resources on This Topic
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- Learning to Stop Blocking with Your Seat - Part 1 - Learn to Stop Driving with Your Seat - Connection in Your Riding; Seat and Legs - Your Independent Seat is a Result of Your Independent Aids - Your Independent Seat is Everything in Your Riding - Improving Your Feel in the Saddle - DEVELOP YOUR AIDS THROUGH LUNGING – UPCOMING FREE ONLINE LIVE TRAINING - Online coaching and audio horse riding lessons for equestrians - Groundwork for Riding - Online community for equestrians working on their mindset & fitness - Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorses)
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So you say go. But immediately follow it up with whoa. And all because you’re blocking with your seat. It’s like trying to drive a car with the handbrake on! And you continue to blame the car for not going forward…
For many riders, the even more frustrating part of it is that it can be hard to notice. If you are blocking with your seat, you probably don’t even realize you’re doing it. I have 2 exercises for you to ride that will help you feel if you are indeed blocking with your seat or not…
But before you begin riding, I first want to make sure we are on the same page with regards to your seat...
Understanding Your Seat There are basically 3 basic ways your seat can be used to influence your horse. Go, whoa, and neutral. Driving, resisting, and allowing. It is the ‘allowing’ part that so many riders struggle with. Go or driving is when you use your seat to ask for forward or more. Resistance is how you ask your horse to steady, slow down or stop using your seat
Allowing is the equivalent of telling your horse to 'carry on’. It means that the energy can move underneath you, through your horse's body, on its path from the backend to the frontend.
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Additional Resources:-
- Learn to Stop Driving with Your Seat
- Connection in Your Riding; Seat and Legs
- Your Independent Seat is a Result of Your Independent Aids
- Online coaching and audio horse riding lessons for equestrians
- Groundwork for Riding
- Online community for equestrians working on their mindset & fitness
- Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorses)
Have you ever considered that, when riding, you have been thinking about things all wrong? You have been trying to move your horse; rather than asking your horse to move. One of the areas I see riders trying to move their horse is when working laterally. Leg yielding is a great example. Riders will try to push and shove their horse across the arena.
You don’t move the horse. You ask your horse to move. If you began to actually implement this in your riding, it has the power to change everything.
Efforting does not equal results. Especially where lateral work is concerned. The key is to have built responsiveness to a point that you can ask a question of your horse, and your horse will simply respond.
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Additional Resources:- * Solving Leg Yielding Problems * Lateral Movement - Leg Yielding * Using Lateral Work to Improve Your Walk * FREE Weeks Riding Plan * Online community for equestrians working on their mindset & fitness * Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorses)
Are you a pushover? So many riders describe themselves this way. And this is unfortunate because what’s happening between you and your horse on the ground, is a good reflection of whats going on in the saddle.
Groundwork is so important. Every single conversation you have with your horse starts and ends on the ground. Failing to pay attention to what is happening there is simply setting you both up for frustration and maybe even anxiety.
What Are Boundaries Boundaries are the rule book between you and your horse. They are where you define what’s ‘okay’ and what’s not. And it is the lack of a boundary that causes issues when the arise between horses and their riders.
Often you won’t even recognize you have a boundary until your horse has overstepped it.
Think back to the last time you felt a ‘negative’ or less than desirable emotion when working with your horse. I can bet it was because he either did something or didn’t do something, you expected of him. You see, you had a rule. A boundary. And your horse broke it.
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Additional Links on This Topic:-
- Boundaries; How They Work for You In Your Riding
- Online coaching and audio horse riding lessons for equestrians
- Groundwork for Riding
- Online community for equestrians working on their mindset & fitness
- Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorses)
Think about the last time you were with your horse. How many times did you ask him to halt while working with him on the ground? Before you mounted up? Was it 4? Maybe 10? And what about after you dismounted?
When interacting and working with our horses, so much of it happens on the ground. Beside your horse. Here is how you can begin using this in a way that will help you when you do mount up in the saddle.
All conversations with your horse start and end on the ground. Before you mount up and when you dismount after each ride. So it makes sense to use this daily interaction to intentionally help your riding.
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Additional Resources on This Topic:- * Your Half Halt on the Ground with Your Horse * An Engaged Halt * Online coaching and audio horse riding lessons for equestrians * Groundwork for Riding * FREE Weeks Riding Plan * Online community for equestrians working on their mindset & fitness * Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorses)
Forward and sideways. And yet, without leaving the spot you’re in… It can feel so contradictory and, maybe even asking for the impossible! But no, It is all possible. And pretty simple to get started with. You’re simply beginning to really work on turn on the forehand with your horse. So many riders fail to include the ‘forward’ part of the equation when working on this basic movement.
And the power really does lie in the ‘forward’ aspect of this, especially when you take the time to revisit it from a more developed and more progressed place in your riding journey.
If you are at a loose end with your horse this week, I am going to suggest incorporating turn on the forehand into your training somewhere. Whether it is on the ground, in groundwork. Or on the trail at a gate or fence. Maybe you’ll go the traditional route and practice in the arena. Whatever you decide, this versatile movement can help you and your horse at all stages in your development and work together.
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Additional Resources for Equestrians:- * Turn on the Forehand - How to Ride a Balanced One * Plan 1 Month of Riding in 1 Hour Live Workshop * Out Of Planning and Into Action * Having Realistic Expectations for Your Riding * FREE Weeks Riding Plan * Online community for equestrians working on their mindset & fitness * Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorses)
I recommend 16 to most of my riders. However, maybe your’s is 12. Or 20… The number is not really that important. What is important is that you choose one and then stick to it. And what does this number represent?
Your number is the number of interactions you are committing to this month with your horse. Riding, lunging, groundwork or anything else in between!
Your number must work with your current schedule and lifestyle in order for you to really use this method. So if you can only manage 3 rides a week, perfect. 12 is your number. If you can fit 5 in, go you! 20 is your number. Having your number is important. What you then do with that number has the power to change everything…
Knowing your number in step 1. Creating a clear focus and intention for each of those numbers is step 2.
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Additional Resources:- * Plan 1 Month of Riding in 1 Hour Live Workshop * Out Of Planning and Into Action * Having Realistic Expectations for Your Riding * FREE Weeks Riding Plan * Online community for equestrians working on their mindset & fitness * Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorses
Have you ever tried natural horsemanship? The name is a bit of a misnomer; is anything natural about horses and humans interacting and becoming partners? It’s debatable. However, misleading name aside, natural horsemanship can really help to build your partnership with your horse.
If - and this is a REALLY giant-sized if - it is done correctly and complements what you are trying to achieve in the saddle.
I personally use natural horsemanship in some shape way or form each and every day when interacting with horses. I can almost bet you are too. This is partly due to there being a fairly large shared area that almost all disciplines and methods of working with horses occupy. Horses are horses after all.
However, I also use specific methods on an almost daily basis which have their roots in natural horsemanship
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Additional Resources:-
- Plan 1 Month of Riding in 1 Hour Live Workshop
- Boundaries; How They Work for You In Your Riding
- Out Of Planning and Into Action
- FREE Weeks Riding Plan
- Online community for equestrians working on their mindset & fitness
- Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorses)
- Lunging for Riding
- Groundwork for Riding
I have a little ‘test’ for you… Can you describe, in full detail, each interaction you had with your horse 4 weeks ago? Yes, go back 4 weeks and each of the lunging or riding sessions you had with your horse, describe what happened. How was your mood? What did you focus on and how did that go?
Now, I’m going to bet that you can probably give some information about those rides. However, can you see how all of the rides begin blending together with the passing of time? Specific details become blurred and more difficult to pinpoint.
A riding journal is a simple way to ensure you have all the details in one place so that you can use them to help you develop your riding and your horse.
And yet, why do we so often equate simple to worthless? We rather look for complicated because we think it guarantees better results. I don’t know the answer to this. But I’m asking you to try using a simple journal for your riding. And I’m making a bold statement that has the power to change everything…
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Additional Resources:- * Keeping a Riding Journal * Plan 1 Month of Riding in 1 Hour Live Workshop * Out Of Planning and Into Action * Having Realistic Expectations for Your Riding * FREE Weeks Riding Plan * Online community for equestrians working on their mindset & fitness * Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorses
You have a unique language as a rider. A unique way that you do things when you are with your horse, both on the ground and in the saddle. In fact, every single other rider in the world also has their own unique language. Which is great; special snowflakes and all that.
The trouble starts when your horse learns someone’s unique language; someone other than you…
Once a horse has learned to do something or to associate a specific action with a specific response, it requires consistent diligent attention from the rider to retrain the horse. Retrain the horse to their way of doing things. And this is important. Failing to retrain your horse will result in mixed results, frustration, and eventual resentment for both horse and rider.
You have your own unique way of doing things. It is not your horse's fault when he does not understand your unique way. It is your responsibility to teach him how to understand your unique way.
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Additional Information:- * Re-Training Your Horse Using Lunging * 4 Essentials for Getting Started with Lunging * Where is the Beginning with Your OTTB or Ex-Racehorse? * Creating a Re-Training Program for Your OTTB or Ex-Racehorse * Lunging for Riding * Daily Strides Podcast * Free Online Community for Equestrians focusing on Mindset * Free Online Community for Equestrians re-schooling or re-training horses
How often do you dismount and honestly have no clue what you just spent the previous 30 minutes working on? If this is happening more often than you want to admit, you’re not alone. The good news is that planning can help completely change this.
The conversation between you and your horse begins with the conversation already ongoing in your head. Your conversation with yourself. Tapping into that conversation - and maybe guiding it in a different direction - can help you transform your riding.
Consistently doing this on an ongoing basis for 3 months has the potential to change everything in your riding.
It all starts with sit-in down and beginning to create ‘the plan’…
Before You Begin... Enthusiasm is great. In fact, it is one of my top values in life. However, sometimes it can backfire on us as riders. You see, often we want to achieve everything in a single day. And, when we are thinking about things from this positive and enthusiastic frame of mind, sure why not do it all in a day?!
Instead, I think you should start smaller with your ‘1-day goals’, and then set the bar a little higher for your ’12 week goals’.
Overwhelm is a real thing. And thinking too big in the short term is one of the top ways riders tend to bring this on themselves. Ironically enough, thinking this same way in the long term has the same effect. The whole ‘this is going to take forever’. It really doesn’t have to. Think bigger long term.
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Additional Resources:- * Plan 1 Month of Riding in 1 Hour Live Workshop * Out Of Planning and Into Action * Having Realistic Expectations for Your Riding * FREE Weeks Riding Plan * Online community for equestrians working on their mindset & fitness * Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorses)
Did you know that almost anything you can do from the saddle, with your horse, you can do from the end of the lunge line? And the words lunge line there are important. I often chat with riders who believe in free lunging or loose lunging. They are not lunging! Lunging is when you are using your aids, both natural and artificial, to actively improve your conversation with your horse through your aids.
And correct lunging is one of the best ways to begin re-training or re-schooling your horse, regardless of your abilities (or lack of abilities) when in the saddle.
So many riders struggle with re-training because their aids lack consistency when riding. They ‘think’ they are saying one thing to their horse, but meanwhile, their horse is hearing something completely different! Lunging removes this challenge.
When you lunging, you can clearly see - in real-time - how your horse responds to your aids. Not how you think he is responding. You take on the perspective of a trainer.
And you can do this in a few simple steps...
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Additional Resources:- * Planning 1 Month of Riding in 1 Hour Workshop * 4 Essentials for Getting Started with Lunging * Where is the Beginning with Your OTTB or Ex-Racehorse? * Creating a Re-Training Program for Your OTTB or Ex-Racehorse * Lunging for Riding * Daily Strides Podcast * Free Online Community for Equestrians focusing on Mindset * Free Online Community for Equestrians re-schooling or re-training horses
There is an opportunity right now, as an equestrian, to choose again for you and your horse. To become really intentional about what you want your riding to look like and feel like for you both. Because everything has changed, you are at this unique place where you can change your riding. You can decide what is working for you and what is not, and then build out the coming 6 months to reflect this ‘new you’ as a rider.
One of the positives of 2020 is that most people have greater clarity about what they actually want. What is really a priority and what was simply a habit?
You can choose your better. Maybe this is better scores or results. Or it could be a better partnership and conversations with your horse. Whatever your better is, I am urging you today to identify it and then go for it.
Give yourself a 12-week window and make this happen for you and your horse.
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Additional Resources
- Plan 1 Month of Riding in 1 Hour Live Workshop
- Out Of Planning and Into Action
- Having Realistic Expectations for Your Riding
- FREE Weeks Riding Plan
- Online community for equestrians working on their mindset & fitness
- Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorses)
Do you have 5 or 6 poles that you can use in the arena? They don’t have to be the same length or width. In fact, the more variations you have, the better. If so, I am going to encourage you to ride this exercise a few times this week and begin noticing the differences.
It is one of the most simple and effective ways to develop your skills as a rider. And it will help develop your horse as well…
There are two ways to approach this. The first is to just place the poles randomly around the arena. No set layout. No set ‘track’. Just random poles, at random angles and intervals, sprinkled around your arena. Obviously, apply common sense and don’t place the poles too close to the track or at tight angles to the corners, etc.
If in doubt, think ‘sweeping’ bends and corners.
The second is to get out a pen and paper and scribble a bit! A few squiggles, circles, loops, and twists. Then just draw the poles on this wonderfully creative ‘track’ you have just created. Take your ‘plan’ and create it in the arena.
Whichever way you decide, what is key is that the poles are random. No straight lines, no related distances, no doglegs or anything at all, expect pure random.
Then, simply mount up and off you go.. Read More... Additional Resources on This Topic * Top 3 Mistakes when it Comes to Groundpoles * Improving Your Riding with Your Light Seat * Basic Exercises Using Groundpoles * Learning to Measure Distance the Easy Way * Free Online Community for Equestrians * Daily Strides Podcast
As a rider, it can be easy to think that the only way you can improve your skills is to ride. And yes, riding is important; obviously! However, you can also use lunging as a way to develop your coordination and aids. And not just on the ground, but also to benefit you and your horse when you’re in the saddle as well. Lunging gives you a different perspective when you ride. And often, this one simple change can be enough to burst through limitations in your riding. You see, when you are riding, it is easy to believe that things are happening a certain way. That things ‘look’ a certain way. However, if you have ever watched a video of yourself riding, you will know that this is often not true.
Lunging gives you second by second feedback on how your horse is actually responding to your aids; not how you ‘think’ your horse is responding to your aids.
And it is so easy to get started with, even if you have never lunged before. I have a step by step system HERE you can use. Read More... Additional Resources & Information:- * 4 Essentials for Getting Started with Lunging * The Balance of Aids in Riding * Lunging for Riding * Daily Strides Podcast * Free Online Community for Equestrians
For some reason, many riders have a negative story around artificial aids. And yet, most riders use artificial ads on a daily basis, whether riding or on the ground with their hose.
What is important to remember is that artificial aids are neither positive nor negative.
They just are what they are. And you can use them to create a positive or negative reinforcement with your horse. And, let’s be honest here, you as well. So in light of all that, I want you to begin being a little more mindful when using artificial aids with your horse. This will allow you to begin the process of figuring out when and how you can begin moving away from that aid and towards a more natural aid instead. Read More... Additional Resources on This Topic * + - The Balance of Aids - Using Artificial Aids in Your Riding - Boundaries How They Work for You in Your Riding - Riding a Horse Who ‘Won’t Listen’ - Join my Free Online Community
Both you and I have a voice. I think it is important to begin using our voice right now to help our sport diversify. To change the status quo of what an ‘equestrian’ looks like.
As I write this, early June 2020, it has been a difficult few weeks. So much hurt has been and is being felt by so many people all over the world. It is still being felt right now. And, importantly, it was being felt before now for so many equestrians. It is just that now, it is being spoken about.
This hurt has been and still is, the predominant feeling for so many equestrians. The simple truth is that riders are being treated differently based on how they look.
Equestrian sport has the ability to change. It has done it before. And yet, there is so much still to be done. Now is the time to begin doing this work.
It starts with us. You and I are equestrians. And I believe that our sport needs our input right now.
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Sprinkled liberally all over the arena and every ride. That is how important the half halt is to your riding. However, it is also an important aid on the ground with your horse. And, it consciously practicing it on the ground can really help to clarify the aid for you, as a rider.
So many riders think that the half halt is only for the saddle. It is an aid that exclusively happens when communication is coming from above with regards to their horse.
However, I am a huge believer in groundwork and in how practicing the half halt on the ground will help your overall riding efforts going forward on your journey as an equestrian.
The Half Halt Helps You Working on the half halt ion the ground is a great place to begin being more mindful about how you are showing up for the overall conversation with your horse. Be honest, how much of your interactions with your horse on a daily basis are just routine? Autopilot? No thought, you just do it?
Autopilot is great for certain aspects of your riding. The conversation with your horse is not one of those things!
Noticing and working on improving the half halt on the ground is a great way to begin taking the ‘day to day’ off of autopilot. Doing this has the potential to change the whole conversation, as you will see where the boundaries truly are. You will also see where you might just be allowing a lack of consistency to be the only thing that is truly consistent in your riding!
- Groundwork Webinar
- Understanding the Balance of Your AIds
- Groundwork; The Bookends to Your Riding
- Groundwork for Riding
- Communicate with Your Horse through Groundwork – Part 1 Touch
- Communicate with Your Horse Through Groundwork – Part 2 Pressure & Release
It’s probably one of the first things you were told on your first ride. It is also, for many riders, a misunderstood concept. The truth of ‘heels down’ is that once you can correctly master it, it is an absolute game-changer for everything else in your riding. It is that important.
How much your heel is down will depend on what you are doing at any given time. What doesn’t change is that the weight is dropped into the heel. Always.
It is a pretty easy thing to do. Heels down. And it is also one of the first things you should work on putting onto autopilot in your riding. Meaning that you don’t have to think about it. It just happens by itself.
Having heels down on autopilot will allow you to focus on your actual communication with your horse.
The Weight Drops into Your Heel Heels down are easily visualized. If someone tells you to put your heels down, you know what they are talking about and what they want you to do. Compare this with ‘allow the weight to drop into your heels’. Come again?! And this is why riding instructors use the term ‘heels down’ when working with novice riders.
However, I want you to begin to understand that it is the weight dropping into your heel that is important. Your heels down is a result of you allowing weight to drop into your heels.
But again, when you are initially starting out on the riding journey, ‘sitting’ in your saddle. Foot firmly in your stirrup due to the level of mental comfort it provides; the question is often "what weight?! I’m sitting down in the saddle!”. As you dive more into your position and posture as a rider, you begin to understand that there is carrying and a draping that happens through your body. A balance between elongating and simply allowing.
The degree of heels down can certainly change. In fact, I can bet that it will depend on the set of circumstances you find yourself in at any given time.
What shouldn’t change is the fact that the weight is dropped into your heels.
Additional Resources on this Topic:- * Free Online Webinar; 7 Days to Confidently & Regularly Riding Again * Applying the ‘Click Your Fingers Rule’ to Your Riding * Position Faults that Are Potentially Holding You Back In Your Riding * Identifying Causes Versus Symptoms in Your Riding * Join the free Facebook group HERE
Have you ever thought about what you can feel, in the saddle as you ride your horse? The physical connection points you have with your horse each time you’re in the saddle.
Often we can become so caught up with our aids and what we ‘should’ be doing, that we forget to focus on the actual points of physical connection between you and your horse. And the impact these connection points are having on each ride.
The first thing I am going to suggest is to actually mount up and simply allow your horse to walk. It is amazing how often we forget to allow this to happen. We think that because we are in the saddle and the horse is moving underneath us, we are allowing the walk.
And yet, so often we are blocking or working against our horse doing this simplest of tasks. Walking freely while we are in the saddle.
How many times have you been in the saddle and focus on ‘getting the horse to walk’? This versus sitting back and actually just allowing the horse to walk.
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Additional Resources to Help * + - Your Independent Seat is a Result of Your Independent Aids - Your Independent Seat is Everything in Your Riding - Improving Your Feel in the Saddle - Learning to Stop Driving with Your Seat - The Original Returning to Riding Plan - The Full Returning to Riding Program - Free Equestrian Fitness Challenge - Daily Strides Podcast
So, you’ve been out of the saddle? And now - you’re ready to get back on the horse. Firstly, congratulations! Whether your time on the ground was due to the pandemic or due to some other life circumstance, returning to riding is a great feeling and time in your life. I personally felt a buzz of anticipation when I got back into the saddle after both of my boys were born. I made the decision not to ride during each pregnancy, so finally getting back felt great. But there were a few challenges along the way. It definitely was not ‘plain sailing’. Today I want to help you navigate a few of these potential sticking points so that you can make this transition back to regular riding as enjoyable and resistance-free as possible. Read More... Additional Resources to Help with this Topic:- * Great Expectations - Returning to Riding series * Step by Step - Returning to Riding Series * Choosing Your Mindset - Returning to Riding Series * Focusing on the Basics - Returning to Riding Series * The Original Returning to Riding Plan * The Full Returning to Riding Program * Free Equestrian Fitness Challenge * Daily Strides Podcast
The canter to trot transition is the one transition that so many riders don’t ever think about until they are in the midst of it. So much focus and attention are put into getting into the canter, and yet the ‘getting out of the canter’ is just left to chance. Today I want to give you a few ideas to work on, in the saddle, before you get into the canter that will help you begin riding a smoother and more ‘put together’ canter to trot transition. For so many riders, the canter to trot transition is filled with bounce and general bumpiness. And usually in a way that is not benefiting the rider or the horse. I personally think that this is often due to the fact that the canter can and will improve the trot.
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Additional Resources to Help
- Setting Up Better Canter Transitions
- Straightness in the Canter
- Using Your Body to Effectively Influence The Canter
- The Original Returning to Riding Program
- Equestrian Fitness Challenge
The ‘New Normal’. I feel as though we have reached a point where we must begin looking at how we can settle into this period in our lives, rather than wishing for the way things were. You may have to become the trainer for you and your horse. I know that many riders are having to now begin, maybe for the first time, be the trainer, the instructor, the chief planner, as well as the rider. Progress doesn’t just happen. There are a few essentials that must be consistently visited in order to maintain consistent progress. Progress, I believe, is deepening the understanding and the relationship between horse and rider. What you do with this progress is up to you. However, I feel that all riders should be looking to at least try and build a conversation with their horse. Here are the 5 essentials you must regularly visit if you are to make this a consistent reality for you and your horse… Read More... * Join Connection HERE * Free Weeks Riding Plan HERE * Free 2020 Equestrian Fitness Challenge * My free online Facebook Community * The Daily Strides Podcast
As equestrians, we may be at the point where we need to face up an uncomfortable truth; ‘normal’ may not be returning for quite a while. Harsh, but true. Simply put, I feel that this means that this is as good a time as any to begin settling in and making yourself comfortable with this 'new normal'. For now, anyway.
The lives of so many riders have changed dramatically over the course of the past 90 or so days. Things we took for granted have become coveted luxuries.
Time in the saddle is one of these things for many riders. For others, it is being able to work with a trainer or instructor in order to keep developing and moving forward.
However, even in the midst of all this uncertainty, there are ways of making it work. There are resources out there that, up until now, maybe you would have never considered. You simply didn't have to!
But, in this 'new normal', these once unconventional resources are the very thing that will help you continue to improve and develop your skills as an equestrian. And, help you to continue to develop your horse as well.
My Experience as an Online Equestrian Coach I have been training and coaching riders online for seven years now. Long before Zoom was a household name! In that time I have discovered a few key areas that determine whether or not someone will benefit from online coaching. That is what I want to share with you today.
If you are considering working with an online equestrian coach or trainer, see the following points as a checklist... Check that you are ready to show up in all the areas mentioned and then make your decision based on that.
Read More... Other Resources and Links on this topic...
- Past Episode - Accountability in Your Riding
- Connection - my monthly online membership for equestrians
- Horse Riding Through COVID-19
- Free Weeks Riding Plan
- Free 2020 Equestrian Fitness Challenge
- Lunging for Riding
- Groundwork for Riding
- My free online Facebook Community
- The Daily Strides Podcast
Confidence is trusting yourself and your abilities to handle the situation you find yourself in. Right now, we are all finding ourselves in a situation that we have never before found ourselves in. The COVID-19 outbreak has changed the landscape for most equestrians. Many riders are no longer able to ride. Many riders are having to go it alone. Some for the first time. All of this is leading to a lot of riders experiencing a crisis of confidence.
However, you can do this. With a few simple ‘step by step’ actions, you can come through this, especially if you are lacking confidence in your abilities to navigate this alone.
Read More HERE...
The treadmill that you were on regarding your riding has stopped. You need to consciously make the decision to step off of it!
Other Resources to Help:-
- Horse Riding Through COVID-19
- Gratitude Practice for Equestrians
- Free Weeks Riding Plan
- Free 2020 Equestrian Fitness Challenge
- ALL the Equestrian Fitness Challenges (2016 – 2020)
- Lunging for Riding
- Groundwork for Riding
- Returning to Riding
- The Clarity & Confidence Riding Program
- My free online Facebook Community
- The Daily Strides Podcast
This is probably the first time in history that all equestrians find themselves grappling with the same thing. Something has changed for just about everyone. Ironically it has nothing to do with horses and yet it is directly or indirectly impacting almost every rider...
Lockdowns, socially isolating, quarantine and social distancing have become terms that we all not only understand, but most of us have experience of implementing over the past weeks.
Today, I want to specifically address riders who, right now, cannot get to visit or ride their horses. As frustrating and sad as this may be, all is not lost.
I believe that there are ways that you can use this time to really invest in your foundations as a rider. And all of this in order to come out the other side an even ‘better version’ of yourself. Time is something you probably have an abundance of right now, so why not fill it with one of these activities?
Read More...
Additional Resources:- * + - Free Weeks Riding Plan - Free 2020 Equestrian Fitness Challenge - ALL the Equestrian Fitness Challenges (2016 – 2020) - Lunging for Riding - Groundwork for Riding - Returning to Riding - The Clarity & Confidence Riding Program - My free online Facebook Community - The Daily Strides Podcast
For many riders, part leasing, renting or sharing a horse is an affordable way to make horse riding possible. With the current turn of events around the globe, I think that many more riders will turn to this method of ‘horse ownership’ over the coming weeks and months.
However, having two or more people sharing a horse has its challenges. This is amplified even more if the riders are at different levels, have different styles or just different goals.
In this episode of the Daily Strides Podcast, you will learn a few simple processes you can use to make ‘part-leasing' not only feel good for you. But also, use it in a way that allows you, the other rider and the horse to continue to develop and make progress in your riding.
Read More...
Other Resources:-
- Free Full Weeks Riding Plan
- The FREE 2020 Equestrian Fitness Challenge
- Simplifying Your Plan when Working Two Horses (adapt to two riders!)
- ALL the Equestrian Fitness Challenges (2016 - 2020)
- Lunging for Riding
- Groundwork for Riding
- Returning to Riding
- The Clarity & Confidence Riding Program
- My free online Facebook Community
- The Daily Strides Podcast
Things are moving fast. There is an energy that seems blended with so much of what is happening right now, and it is not beneficial energy. So, what can you, as an equestrian, do to get through this with grace and compassion? Quite a few things actually. Here are a few suggestions you can try over the coming weeks… Read More... Other resources to help in your riding:- * Free Full Weeks Riding Plan * The FREE 2020 Equestrian Fitness Challenge * ALL the Equestrian Fitness Challenges (2016 - 2020) * Lunging for Riding * Groundwork for Riding * Returning to Riding * The Clarity & Confidence Riding Program * My free online Facebook Community
The canter can be confusing for many riders. Especially what to do with your seat in the canter. You’re told to ride the horse forward with your seat. But you’re then told to be ‘quiet’ with your seat… So which is it? And how can you begin to develop a more effective seat in the canter?
I think that canter is the gait that separates ‘fit’ riders from ‘unfit’ riders. It is definitely more difficult to fake strength and suppleness in the canter, hence a lot of riders having trouble with their seat to begin with in the gait. In order to really begin developing your seat, you need to first take responsibility for carrying your own body.
Read More HERE
More resources to help on this topic:-
- The Returning to Riding Program – Getting the Basics on Autopilot in Your Riding
- Equestrian Fitness Challenge
- Subscribe to the Daily Strides Podcast
- Join the free Strides for Success Online Community
Success has a rhythm. And, as an equestrian, I know that you know a fair bit about rhythm already. As riders, we spend a lot of our time, whether mindful or not, focusing on rhythm. It is one of the most basic principles when it comes to riding.
The ‘up downs’ in trot. Or the ‘1.2.3. Roll' in canter. Rhythm while on the ground. And the rhythm when working through different movements. Yes, rhythm is something we literally ride by every time we are in the saddle.
So it makes good sense to begin tapping into this same principle in order to develop your skills as a rider. To make progress in your training development when it comes to your horse.
READ MORE...
Additional resources to help with this topic:-
- Lunging for Riding
- Groundwork for Riding
- My free online community
- The Daily Strides Podcast
As I was creating my notes for this episode, it struck me that there is a strong probability that this sounds a lot like Goldilocks! Too much, too little and ‘just right’ will come up repeatedly as I begin talking about your hands when you are riding. Obviously, we are aiming to achieve ‘Goldilocks’ hands; just right! But seriously, the reason I recorded this episode is due to so many riders struggling with their hands. They are trying to improve contact and connection. However, they are actually missing some of the basics of the hand aids. And I think that making sure your hands are being useful, rather than confusing, is a really important basic that many riders are missing. So, that all being said, let's dive into the 4 things that you may be doing with your hands while riding that is negatively influencing your conversation with your horse. Read More... * The Returning to Riding Program * Understanding the Balance of Aids * Controlling Your Hands While Riding * Your Independent Seat is a Result of Your Independent Aids * Why 'Forward' is Essential for Contact * Subscribe to the free Daily Strides Podcast * The Free Strides for Success Online Community
Have you ever begun sorting something out, a room or a wardrobe perhaps? Halfway through, you find yourself in the middle of a bigger mess than when you began the process. In fact, it is usually at this point that you begin asking yourself why, in the name of all that is good in the world, did you begin in the first place!
Your riding is similar. Often, as riders, we need to actually realize that things are going to get messier, sometimes quite a bit messier before they begin turning into what actually wants to see in our riding.
When I am working with riders, I often see them cling onto certain elements in their riding. Things that they feel they have ‘mastered’ already. Unfortunately, often when we find ourselves overly attached to a certain thing or way of doing something, that is the very reason we need to let it go. Read More... Resources that Will Help with This Topic * + - * The Free Equestrian Fitness Challenge * Groundwork for Riding -a 4-week program to improve your conversation on the ground * Lunging for Riding - a 4-week program that will allow you to use lunging as a powerful tool in your riding and training * My free Strides for Success Online Community * Subscribe to the Daily Strides Podcast
Have you ever felt that feeling? The feeling you get when you're trotting and you ask for the canter. Rather than your horse simply striking cleanly from the trot to the canter, you experience this extremely uncomfortable and unbalanced trot. A trot that gets faster and faster until finally you almost fall into a canter. Not a great feeling, eh?! Or perhaps, your experience of getting into canter is a little different. Maybe you feel like you are getting thrown forward every time your horse transitions to canter? Different, but equally as unpleasant! In this episode of the Daily Strides Podcast, I want to cover a topic that I feel so many riders struggle with. Successful canter transitions. I'm going to give you 3 simple yet effective actions that you can implement today, which I guarantee you will improve your canter transitions. Read More... Other Resources to Help with This Topic:- 3 Ways You Are Ruining Your Transitions from Trot to Canter Asking for the Correct Canter Lead when on the Straight Straightness in the Canter Using Your Body to Effectively Influence the Canter The Returning to Riding Program - Getting the Basics on Autopilot in Your Riding Equestrian Fitness Challenge Join the free Strides for Success Online Community
So, are you still on track? As I write this we're officially one month into the new year, the new decade, and I am wondering if you are still on track with any goals you set for yourself four or five weeks ago. If you are, give yourself a pat on the back! I’m impressed. However, if you’re not, don’t panic. Firstly you’re not alone and secondly, my goal is to inspire you to take some action in the coming 48 hours that will get you moving where your riding journey is concerned. In my experience, so many people get caught up in all the energy surrounding the new year. They plan and create goals. They choose new habits they want to form and get specific on the ones they want to change or let go of. Read More... Additional Resouces for You:- * + - Lunging for Riding - Groundwork for Riding - My free online community - The Daily Strides Podcast
Quick question… If you were to guess, how many times did you halt throughout your last ride on your horse? Was it a ‘one time only’ event? Or perhaps you halted two or three times throughout the ride? Or was it into the double digits? Once you have that number, here’s another question. How many of those halts was the actual ‘end’ of the ride? So many riders treat all halts the same. They see the halt as being the end of a moment or a sequence of movements, however, it rarely is. In fact, there is only one lat that actually signals the end, the last one. All the others are part of the ride and should be seen as an important exercise. Yep, every single halt. in today's episode of the Daily Strides Podcast, we are diving into all things ‘halt’. But not just any old halt; I want you to use this information, starting on your very next ride, to begin working on developing a more engaged halt for you and your horse. Read More... Join Lunging for Riding and learn more about how you can begin making the halt work for you and your horse both on the ground and in the saddle. Join Groundwork for Riding and begin taking your conversation with your horse on the ground to the next level; while improving your aids for when you do ride. Join the free Strides for Success online community HERE
Are you open to having a little fun together today in your riding? If so, I have created this episode of the Daily Strides Podcast for you to listen to as you ride your horse.
I have also linked to other past episodes that will help you with your trot and trotting over HERE
Happy riding and enjoy!
You’ve decided to refocus your attention on your riding. You’re back in the saddle and rearing to go (well, maybe not quite rearing!). But knowing what to do and where to focus your attention can seem a little daunting. In fact, maybe it's feeling like there is just too much to do and too little time to do it in… If we were working together, either online or in-person, there are a few essentials that I would begin asking you to give your full attention to. Now, obviously this would vary depending on your unique situation. However, there is a foundation that you build in your riding which is centered on a few specific principles. Today I want to share those with you… Read More...
More Resources on this Topic:-
- The Returning to Riding Program - More Information
- Lunging for Riding -success in just 10 minutes or less each day
- Groundwork for Riding - Successfully Take the Conversation from the Ground into the Saddle
- The Daily Strides Podcast
- The Free Group filled with other like-minded riders
- 2020 Equestrian Fitness Challenge
Have you ever had a horse step on your heel while you were leading them? Or maybe it was your toe while tacking up or grooming? These are pretty memorable experiences due to the amount of pain they cause! Horses are great at being really transparent around the consequences of doing something, or not doing something. And if you have experienced some version of the above, it is due to ‘not’ doing something… Laying down boundaries with your horse. Boundaries are so important when it comes to making progress as a rider. In fact, I have seen a marked difference between the results riders get in the saddle boil down to whether or not they have, and then actively enforce their boundaries. Read More HERE... Other resources that relate to this topic.. * Groundwork for Riding - Successfully Take the Conversation from the Ground into the Saddle * Lunging for Riding - The Program * Groundwork - Pressure & Release * The Daily Strides Podcast * The Free Group filled with other like-minded riders * 2020 Equestrian Fitness Challenge
Can we sit down and have a quick and honest conversation? If you’re game, let’s go! As I write this, we are on the brink of a new year and a new decade. The timing seems ripe for making some serious changes in your riding and your approach to riding. I would love you to be honest with yourself here… I know that you know the answers to these questions. Being honest will truly be the key to making progress with your riding moving forwards; regardless of when you are reading this. Read More HERE Join the free Equestrian Fitness Challenge HERE
Have you ever considered all the different ways you communicate with your horse, every day? All of the aids you have at your disposal to ask your horse to do things the way you want him to do things. Imagine if you could become a little more mindful about what you are doing and how you are doing it… When you are with your horse, there are so many different aids you can use, such as:- * + - * Thoughts * Body Language * Position * Voice * Seat * Legs * Hands * Artificial aids
Each time you begin working on a new aid, it has to learn how to blend with all of the aids you have been previously using. You have to learn how to blend it, and your horse has to learn how to understand it. Read More HERE.... Other Episodes, Posts, and Resources on This Topic * + - Groundwork for Riding - Successfully Take the Conversation from the Ground into the Saddle - The Daily Strides Podcast - The Free Group filled with other like-minded riders - 2020 Equestrian Fitness Challenge
I am fascinated by how our minds work. I love seeing the co-relation between our beliefs and thoughts play out in our physical day to day lives. Meeting and chatting with riders for the first time is one of my favorite things to do. I pay close attention. I love listening to the stories they tell me about themselves and their riding. So many riders have themselves convinced they cannot do something, and therefore take action from that place or that perspective. The place where the thing they want won’t work. This versus riders who believe they can do something. They will take action based on their beliefs, and usually prove themselves right. Your Beliefs = Your Results What we believe is crucial to the results we get in our riding. This, of course, is not just limited to riding. It can be applied to any area of our lives. I personally believe (there is that word, again!) that this is due to how we ‘show up’. Read More... Resources to help you with this topic:- * + Equestrian Fitness Challenge + Daily Strides Podcast + Free group for equestrians focusing on mindset and fitness + Lunging for Riding Digital Course
Weight aids are often overlooked and underused by many riders. I want to help you begin to see how powerful your weight aids have the potential to be in your riding. I also want to use your weight aids to see demonstrate how power intention and focus have on your goals as well.
Less is more where your weight aids are concerned. Unfortunately, many riders seem to throw everything they have behind a weigh aid when they think they should apply one. All this serves to do is unbalance both horse and rider.
Your goals are similar. If you put all your focus and attention on a single goal, you will soon find that life, in general, will become unbalanced. And this can go against how many of us feel when we set goals. We get all caught up in the initial enthusiasm of the potential outcome, often to our own detriment. Finding Balance Balance means that you have a center point where you feel happy. As everything is moving and you are moving with it, you will make continuous small adjustments to make sure that you return to ‘balanced’ all the time. Small little ‘course corrects’ that helps everything work together.
In riding, I call this the ‘balance of aids’. Yes, there may be a ‘leading aid’, however, all the other aids have supporting roles in order to keep the balance.
Life is the same. If you choose a single goal and decide to just focus all of your intention and energy on it, the rest of your life will suffer. It may be able to sustain for a while, but sooner or later, things will begin to show the strain of this unbalance. Read More... Join the FREE Equestrian Fitness Challenge HERE
Have you ever considered how much you are either helping or hindering your horse when you’re riding? Do you wonder what you could do, today, to begin improving your influence in the saddle? Well, I am going to give you something fun to do in the saddle that will improve your riding - and put a smile on your face as well. I want you to begin figuring out how independent you are in the saddle when riding. You are going to do this by riding the light seat or two-point seat. Your bum out of the saddle as you ride. Some lovely daylight between the arse of your trousers and the seat of your saddle. I already know that many riders will have clicked away by now, but if you are still here; good on you! This exercise is for ALL riders. Improving your balance will always improve the overall conversation with your horse, regardless of the discipline that conversation occurs in. What Is the Light Seat? The light seat happens when you are riding. It involves you actually ‘standing’ on your own two feet while working your horse. It requires you to balance yourself. This means no leaning, holding on or crouching down on your horse's neck, a neck strap or breastplate, or the pommel of the saddle. Also, no holding onto the mane... Read More... Other resources for you to help with your conversation with your horse:- * FREE Equestrian Fitness Challenge * Daily Strides Podcast * Free group for equestrians focusing on mindset and fitness * Lunging for Riding Digital Course
I believe that every rider or equestrian can be put into one of two categories. I know, a pretty big generalization! However, from working with thousands of riders, I have yet to meet someone who does not fall into one or the other.
Knowing which category you fall into will help you to get clear on what your ‘next step’ is when it comes to developing your skills as a rider. I have named the two different types of riders as being either:-
- Passengers
- Influencers
You see it all comes down to your focus when you’re in the saddle. You can easily figure out which of the above you are by noticing where you are focusing your attention in the saddle for the majority of each ride. Is the focus on you or is it on your horse?
Read More... Other episodes & resources to help you with your riding:- * + Free Map for Progress in Your Riding + Equestrian Fitness Challenge + Daily Strides Podcast + Free group for equestrians focusing on mindset and fitness + Lunging for Riding Digital Course
Learning is great. As a rider or equestrian, there is a never-ending stream of knowledge out there just waiting for you to dive into and begin exploring. However, learning can sometimes be the very thing that holds riders back from making progress in their riding.
You see, learning is only really useful if you go and then implement what you learn. And it is the implementation that riders fall short. They fail to take action on what they learn. All their newly gained knowledge just remains in their heads, never to be acted upon in the arena.
I create a lot of free training for riders to use to help them make shifts and progress in their riding. Things like the 5 Days to Clarity Mini-Course or the Equestrian Fitness Challenge. What I see, over and over, is riders watching, listening or reading the training but then failing to take the next step.
The vitally important step of implementing what they have learned.
It’s a bit like the story about the dog lying on the nail; the nail is uncomfortable, but not enough for the dog to actually get up and move. He will rather lie on the nail and simply complain about how uncomfortable it is to lie there!
I also see this happening with my paid programs. People invest money and then fail to take the required action… Lunging to Riding and the Clarity & Confidence Riding Program are just two examples of this.
The What, When, How and Why of Riding… When you are learning to ride, knowing the above will make your life easier. it will also, usually, make your horse's life more pleasant as well! I am not saying not the learn the above. In fact, I believe that all of the above are vitally important, especially the ‘Why’ behind whatever it is you are learning to do.
Time and again, I see riders know what, when and how, but they completely miss the bit about the why. The 'why' is what allows you to take your knowledge and apply it to different situations.
Read More
It is inevitable. All riders find themselves there at some point in their riding journey. The point where progress stalls and the comfort of the plateau is no longer what they are looking for. Recognizing that you are feeling a little stuck is the key to making the necessary changes to ‘unsticking’ yourself. The key to starting working towards progress again.
Before we dive into this topic, I just want to point out that this happens to all riders. It is absolutely inevitable. If you were never to reach a plateau, you would burn yourself out and become exhausted with the constant ‘effort’. However, remaining there leads to feelings of boredom and ‘same old, same old’.
A Plateau is Often Necessary I love hiking. I especially enjoy it when there is a sizeable hill or mountain involved. One of the reasons is because I feel that it ‘tests’ me a little. There is a climb. The discomfort and effort involved in actually moving up to where I want to go. And then there is the feeling of relief and accomplishment when I reach the next plateau. The plateau almost compliments the climb necessary to get there.
Horse riding is very much the same. There are feelings of discomfort when you’re learning something new. The feelings of ‘gosh, maybe I should just turn around and go back to where I was comfortable’. The doubting. The necessary focus and concentration. Your ability to ‘dig deep’.
Having a map often simplifies the journey. It helps plan a clear route from A to B. Riding is a journey. And so many riders want a map or a plan to follow for progress in their riding. Well, hold your horses! What if I was to tell you that there is a map available for equestrians. Oh yes, and it is loosely called the training scale or the traditional training scale. So many riders discount this because they think that they have to be riding at a certain level in order to use it. Or that the training scale is only for riders of a certain discipline, usually dressage.
Many riders also believe that the training scale is only for the horse. And a certain 'type' of a horse at that. This couldn’t be further from the truth.
Horse riding is a team sport. Your horse's long term success depends on your abilities in the saddle. Improve your riding skills and you will have improved conversations with your horse. It is as simple as that. What is the training scale and how can you use it as a map in your riding? The training scale is a basic system many trainers use when working with horses. There are certain principles or ‘steps’ which, when followed, ensure that the horse and rider have the mental, emotional and physical ability to progress in their training and riding. Read More...
Free Resources over at:- * https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1121/
Sign up for the free mini-course at
- https://stridesforsuccess.com/free/
As I write this, it is that time of the year. The clocks have just gone back here in Ireland. It is dark by 5:30 pm each evening. It is still dark at 7:45 am each morning… And we have close to two months left until the official shortest day of the year. Meaning things are only going to get darker between now and then.
In the top half of the world, Winter has come! And with it, a complete lack of daylight, warmth and ‘perfect riding weather’. This means that riders have to begin changing their approach slightly if they are to still keep moving forward with their riding.
Couple this with upcoming holidays and the Christmas season, flexibility is the name of the game for riders this time of year.
So how do you keep your riding moving forwards when your riding times are shorter? And when your actual number of days in the saddle each week possibly changing week on week? Taking a different approach is the answer. I am going to give you 4 different options you can use to work with your horse, that take either lack of time or bad weather into account…
1 . Lunging I personally believe that every rider in the world can benefit from learning to lunge correctly and well. It is something that is so easy to get started with. And, even better, your riding skills do not have a whole lot of sway over your lunging skills.
Meaning you don’t have to be a ‘great’ rider in order to have a huge positive impact with lunging.
This is a topic that we have covered many times here on the podcast and I am going to give you links to all the relevant episodes and resources I have created for you.
Visit https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1120 for all links to mentioned content & resources
2 . Groundwork The true bookends to every ride you will ever have. Groundwork is worth investing time into improving as it is something you do every single time you interact with your horse. It is also great for when the weather is less than ideal for riding. When you are confined to a smaller space, even if that space is a stable or barn.
I am going to suggest starting with something you do every time you’re in the saddle; halt.
The quality of your halt can be dramatically improved before you ever get into the saddle. Work on the pressure and release concept on the ground. This then allows you to refine something that is the foundation of how you apply your aids in the saddle.
I have spoken about groundwork a lot in previous episodes. Here are the links to those episodes and other resources I have created for you about groundwork.
Visit https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1120 for all links to mentioned content & resources
3 . Massage or Desensitising Wet, cold weather often makes us want to settle in. Get nice and cozy and leave the weather outside! Well, you can do this with your horse as well, kind of! Massage is a great way to really bond or connect with your horse. It helps to build trust in your relationship with each other.
Massage is also a great way of using rhythm as you prepare to ride to improve the ride itself.
It promotes relaxation. You get to really learn what every inch of your horse's body feels like. And, your horse gets to do something with you that doesn’t require any effort from him. He truly gets to enjoy the interaction between the two of you with little to no demands on him.
Here are some resources I have created to help you get started with this.
Visit https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1120 for all links to mentioned content & resources
4 . Long Lining or Long Reining This one is probably the most challenging to get started with if you have never done it before. The reason is that two lunge lines double the chances of you becoming knotted up! However, I also feel that if you are confident on the lunge with your horse, you can potentially begin looking at long reining or long lining your horse.
Long lining is great as you see things from a completely different perspective. It allows you to really see if there are issues with straightness, over or underdevelopment and suppleness.
The other great thing about long lining is that you don’t need a huge amount of space. And, assuming you’re not into running, it is all done from a walk. This cuts down on the chances of having a slip in wet weather and heavy impact on legs in dry, hot weather.
Again, you can find a ‘getting started’ guide for long lining at this link:-
Visit https://stridesforsuccess.com/episode1120 for all links to mentioned content & resources
Lack of Time can be an Opportunity The change in season and scheduled does not have to spell the end to work with your horse. It is simply a matter of becoming a little more strategic with regard to what you are doing in the yard. Use this as an opportunity to try something you have not tried before.
Remember, a change is often as good as a rest when it comes to routine. It is up to you to make that happen.
Happy Riding
Lorna
Resources to help you with your riding journey:- * + Free Equestrian Fitness Challenge + Lunging for Riding online course + Join the free Facebook group HERE
Lunging is one of those rare things to do with horses that has a pretty low ‘barrier to entry’. Getting started is pretty easy and ‘do-able’ for most riders. All that is needed is a few essentials and most riders can get started and off to the races with their horse.
This is fantastic news because lunging, in my opinion, is something most horse and rider combinations can only benefit from including in their training routine. This is regardless of experience, training, age, discipline, goals, etc. It is also something that many riders can use to build their own confidence more...
And, make sure you're kicking off the new decade the right way by joining us on the free 2020 Equestrian Fitness Challenge. All the details are at https://equestrianfitnesschallenge.com
Happy riding,
Lorna
So how do you know if your horse is really engaged? For many riders, we know that it is important, however, we struggle to make it happen consistently. When your horse’s core is engaged, it means that energy is able to flow through your horse’s body. Through the container that is you and your horse when you are riding. Your horse’s core strength will determine how much energy can flow through the channel or container at any given point more...
Have you joined our free community yet? Connect with other like minded equestrians and get some free trainings on mindset, riding and everything in between over at https://www.facebook.com/groups/SFS30DayRiderFitnessChallenge/
And, make sure you're kicking off the new decade the right way by joining us on the free 2020 Equestrian Fitness Challenge. All the details are at https://equestrianfitnesschallenge.com
Happy riding,
Lorna
Setting goals and making plans can feel like a waste of time when your horse is continuously tossing or throwing his head about. If you have a horse who reacts this way when being ridden, you will agree with me. It seems that no matter what you do, this issue is going to taint everything else in your riding.
And it will. Horse riding his about the conversation between horse and rider. A big part of that conversation is the contact and the connection. Tossing or throwing of the head makes consistency in both of these things pretty impossible. more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
Improve your riding today by join us here.
Does your horse go from 0 to 120 in half a stride whenever he sets his sights on a jump? If so, you will probably agree with me that jumping is definitely not the thing you find most enjoyable to do with your horse! In fact, very often it can feel terrifying! And I agree. Jumping with a horse who is rushing at the fences is not just scary, but also dangerous and frustrating more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
Improve your riding today by joining us here join
So how do you become a ‘better’ rider? What should you be focusing on in order to make progress regarding your communication skills in the saddle? I believe there are three specific areas that, if you work on, you can really begin to see a difference in your riding. more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
Improve your riding today by joinng us here http://stridesforsuccess/join/
The conversations with your horse begin with the conversation going on in your head. Your conversation with yourself. So many riders create stories to explain why things are the way they are. We do this with all the elements of our lives. The unfortunate fact is that a lot of these conversations can be really limiting. more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
Improve your riding today by joinng us here http://stridesforsuccess/join/
It is possibly one of the first things you heard when you initially took up the reins. Yet, it is one of the most enduring struggles riders have in the saddle. And even when it is mastered on the flat, it seems to crop back up again when a jump is required! Heels down is one of the most important things to ‘do’ when riding a horse. There are a lot of reasons why mastering this seemingly simple thing is vital to developing as a rider. I say ‘seemingly’ because more...
Lorna
Improve your riding today by joinng us here http://stridesforsuccess/join/
Where should I start? Have you ever found yourself wondering about this with your horse? The beginning is the obvious answer. However, sometimes the beginning is not as simple to pin-point. This is especially true with it comes to your ex-racehorse or OTTB. Your retired racehorses beginning when he gets to you is not the same as the beginning with other horses. They have already ‘begun’. However, now we are asking them to perform a ‘re-do’. To re-start. At a new beginning… more...
Lorna
Improve your riding today by joinng us here http://stridesforsuccess/join/
Do you have an OTTB or ex-racehorse that has just made the transition from the racetrack? Or maybe your thoroughbred has been with you for a while, but you’re just struggling to make progress and move forwards in your training together… Ex-racehorses or thoroughbreds are wonderful horses. They are so versatile, intelligent and sensitive. They can literally turn their hooves to almost anything equestrian related. However, often those same qualities more...
Lorna
Improve your riding today by joinng us here http://stridesforsuccess/join/
Some days does it feel like a mammoth task just to get your horse to put one foot in front of the other? He has no motivation whatsoever to do anything with any hint of enthusiasm or energy… But first, I want to be clear; the term ‘lazy’ is not one that I enjoy using when it comes to horses. I believe that there are horses out there who are just more laid back than others. Lazy always sounds so derogatory. And often, those ‘lazy’ horses are actually wonderful trusty steeds. more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
Improve your riding today by joinng us here http://stridesforsuccess/join/
The opportunity to work with a young or green horse comes with great responsibility. You have the potential to place a lasting imprint on this horses riding career; and his opinion of being ridden in general. In order to produce a well rounded riding horse, there are a few basic principles that you should pay attention to. Things that, when your horse understands and develops in each element, will lay a solid foundation for him going forwards more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
Improve your riding today by joinng us here http://stridesforsuccess/join/
Do you have an OTTB or ex-racehorse that has just made the transition from the racetrack? Or maybe your thoroughbred has been with you for a while, but you're just struggling to make progress and move forwards in your training together. more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
Improve your riding today by joinng us here http://stridesforsuccess/join/
Have you ever considered how, in order to be a good rider, you must be a good actor? Don't worry too much if you haven't, you're not alone... Many riders fail to see the connection between these two things. more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
Improve your riding today by joinng us here http://stridesforsuccess/join/
What this episode is all about & how it can help you:-
What this episode is all about and how it can help you:-
- Realise what true balance is when riding
- See that both you and your horse are responsible for balance
- Begin working on establishing balance
- See how maintaining balance is a long term goal
It is a pretty important element of riding; if only from a 'staying on' point of view. However, as you well know, balance is so much more than keeping the horse between yourself and the ground. more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
Improve your riding today by joinng us here http://stridesforsuccess/join/
What this episode is all about & how it can help you:-
What this episode is all about and how it can help you:-
- Get clear on what an independent aid isn't!
- Understand what an independent aid is...
- Get started developing your independent seat
- Realise that it will take time to achieve
Your independent seat. Are you, like so many other riders around the world, trying to achieve yours right now? If so, understanding what is really required to develop it will make it much easier for you to successfully work towards it. more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
Improve your riding today by joinng us here http://stridesforsuccess/join/
What this episode is all about & how it can help you:-
* Realise that contact is a result of other things
* Understand what 'forwardness' is and why it is so important
* See the role you play in the forward and the contact
* See how it should be present in every element of the ride, even halt
Becoming a trainer. It can feel uncomfortable to think of yourself as this for your horse. Yet, if you are expecting your horse to do what you are asking him to do, well this is essentially what you are. The discomfort often stems from the realisation that being a 'trainer' comes with a lot of responsibility. You are now responsible for how well you communicate your wishes to your horse more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
Improve your riding today by joinng us here http://stridesforsuccess/join/
What this episode is all about & how it can help you:-
* Realise that contact is a result of other things
* Understand what 'forwardness' is and why it is so important
* See the role you play in the forward and the contact
* See how it should be present in every element of the ride, even halt
Contact. You know how important it is to your overall conversation with your horse. However, for many riders, contact can be elusive! It comes and goes without any real impact being made from it. Time and again I see riders in the arena, sawing the mouth off their poor horse in a desperate misguided attempt to achieve 'on the bit'. However, if 'on the bit' is the goal, it is important that we go back to the drawing board first. more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
Improve your riding today by joinng us here http://stridesforsuccess/join/
What this episode is all about & how it can help you:-
* Understand what inside and outside are when it comes to your aids
* Take the confusion out of applying your aids correctly
* Get started reframing how you think and apply your aids
* Think and ride with your horse...
Do you often find yourself in the arena, ready for action... But without much of a plan for what that action will look like?! Don't worry, you're not alone. In fact, this is the single biggest challenge faced by equestrians - and one that many don't even realise they have to begin with. Riding for the sake of riding is great initially. However, as time went on, you will inevitably find yourself wanting 'more' from your time in the saddle. That 'more' can be achieved by developing your relationship, both ridden and on the ground, with your horse. more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
Improve your riding today by joinng us here http://stridesforsuccess/join/
What this episode is all about & how it can help you:-
* Understand what inside and outside are when it comes to your aids
* Take the confusion out of applying your aids correctly
* Get started reframing how you think and apply your aids
* Think and ride with your horse...
There is one thing that I notice time and again when working with riders in the arena... The confusion that shows up regarding left and right. Now, bear with me here; of course these riders understand and know their left from their right. Most riders over the age of 6 can do that. However, the confusion seems to occur when coupling left and right with a specific aid. Such as left leg, or right hand. Even 'track right' or 'ask for flexion to the left' seems to throw many riders off their game. more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
Improve your riding today by joinng us here http://stridesforsuccess/join/
What this episode is all about & how it can help you:-
* Understand why you need to remain relaxed
* Make sure you have a plan before you begin
* Refrain from the one thing most riders do which actually makes things worse...!
* Consider why 'out' is often better than 'in' where energy is concerned
If you ride horses for long enough and you will, without fail, experience 'that' feeling. The one where you're in the saddle and you just know there is an inevitable explosion building underneath you! The energy levels are high. However, usually, your enthusiasm for that same energy is not quite as high at all. There are all sorts of reasons your horse may be fresh. The weather can often play a big part. more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
Improve your riding today by joinng us here http://stridesforsuccess/join/
What this episode is all about & how it can help you:-
* Get clear on your goals & your resources before starting your search
* Realise how important it is to do your 'groundwork' first, before riding
* Overcome resistance to riding a 'new horse'
* Make a better decision that both you & your new horse will be happy with
One of the most exciting, and yet nerve wreaking times for riders; finding your 'new horse'. Most riders, at some point in their riding journey, will eventually find themselves making an appointment to go see a new horse. It might be to lease or to buy. What is important to remember here is that whatever decision you make, it will have an impact on your riding for years to come. It will also impact the life of the horse. more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
Improve your riding today by joinng us here http://stridesforsuccess/join/
What this episode is all about & how it can help you:-
* Recognise what a 'stuck' walk looks and feels like
* Understand why the walk can so easily deteriorate in horses
* See the benefit of using lateral work to begin improving the walk
* Start to become more aware of how you are asking questions of your horse
Funny how, sometimes, it is the more basic things that cause us to become 'stuck'. The walk is a good example of this! It is probably the first thing most of us do on a horse, and yet, it often becomes a real 'sticking point' for horse and rider. Here is how lateral work can help get you and your horse unstuck. more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
Improve your riding today by joinng us here http://stridesforsuccess/join/
What this episode is all about & how it can help you:-
* Know how you are riding the centre line at the moment
* Realise that you and your horse are one 'container'
* Understand what a channel is in your riding
* Use your centre line to develop your overall riding skills
Do you see the centre line as being a means to an end? Somewhere you have to travel in order to take you to somewhere else? Imagine if you began getting a little more strategic about each journey down the centre line... Every time you ride your horse in an arena, there is a good chance that one of the most 'worn' paths is the one down the middle of that arena. more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
Improve your riding today by joinng us here http://stridesforsuccess/join/
What this episode is all about & how it can help you:-
* Understand why your voice works, regardless of discipline
* Begin using tone to help convey your message
* Use your voice to reward your horse
* Understand how to 'wean' your horse off of your voice
Imagine if you could use your voice as an effective, accurate aid when communicating to your horse from the saddle... I'm going to assume that you, just like most other riders in the world, talk to your horse regularly. Actual words. And that is great... But there is a big difference between just babbling on and your voice becoming an actual effective aid in your riding communication. more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
Improve your riding today by joinng us here http://stridesforsuccess/join/
What this episode is all about & how it can help you:-
* Get clear on the actual size of your riding space
* Improve your accuracy when riding
* Realise why markers are so important when working within a limited space
* Use riding in a smaller space as a way to build and develop your training
Do you find yourself regularly moaning about having to ride in a smaller space? Are you looking at this specific circumstance as a roadblock or challenge to your progress in the saddle? If this sounds like you, I want show you how simply changing your mindset about working in a smaller space can be enough to help you begin making that space really work for you and your horse. more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
Improve your riding today by joinng us here http://stridesforsuccess/join/
What this episode is all about & how it can help you:-
* Recognise how confusing the two can lead to you becoming 'stuck'
* Understand what a symptom is
* Realise that this confusion can impact both horse and rider
* Use the 'Because' line of thought to identify the root cause
Is there something in your riding that, no matter what you do, just does not improve or change? Maybe you've tried different exercises both in and out of the saddle, but the result is the same. The 'problem' frustratingly either remains the same, or gets worse! If this sounds familiar to you, I want to offer a slightly different approach to whatever it is that you are trying to 'fix' or improve.... more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
Improve your riding today by joinng us here http://stridesforsuccess/join/
What this episode is all about & how it can help you:-
* Become clearer on what you are responsible for when riding
* Learn what your horses responsibilities are when being ridden
* Realise that correcting and controlling are two very different things
* Begin working towards the 'ideal situation' in your riding
Do you like when there is someone always looking over your shoulder? Initially it may help to get you doing something correctly. However, over time you will begin to resent the other persons 'watching' and 'interfering'. more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
Improve your riding today by joinng us here http://stridesforsuccess/join/
What this episode is all about & how it can help you:-
* Understand why napping can become a learned 'go to' behaviour for your horse
* See how seemingly 'little things' can quickly escalate to 'bigger things'
* Use your horses short concentration span to your benefit here
* Become clear on how to make your horse 'want' to do what you ask
Napping... Whoever decided that this was a good word to describe what is literally the equine equivalent of a two-year old throwing a tantrum? When we speak of napping outside of equestrian circles, we think of peaceful 'cat naps'. However, when we think of napping as it relates to horses; it is almost the opposite scenario that springs to mind!. more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
Improve your riding today by joinng us here http://stridesforsuccess/join/
What this episode is all about & how it can help you:-
* Become clearer on what you are responsible for when riding
* Learn what your horses responsibilities are when being ridden
* Realise that correcting and controlling are two very different things
* Begin working towards the 'ideal situation' in your riding
Do you like when there is someone always looking over your shoulder? Initially it may help to get you doing something correctly. However, overtime you will begin to resent the other persons 'watching' and 'interfering'. more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
Improve your riding today by joinng us here http://stridesforsuccess/join/
What this episode is all about & how it can help you:-
* Understand why a good transition means a better canter all round
* Begin working on better timing of the 'ask'
* Realise how gripping with your legs is negatively impacting the transition
* Ride smoother, more responsive trot to canter transitions
Cantering; maybe one of the most enjoyable things to do on a horse. However, for many riders the transition from trot to canter is one that rarely goes smoothly!. more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
What this episode is all about & how it can help you:-
- Understand why groundwork is essential when working with your horse
- Begin thinking about the importance of your position when on the ground
- Realise that your horse might not know what you are asking or saying
- Start becoming more mindful of your aids on the ground
Here's a question for you... Where do all of your conversations with your horse begin and end? And where do you spend most time interacting with your horse on a daily basis? The answer to both of these questions is 'on the ground'. more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
What this episode is all about & how it can help you:- * Figure out how to choose a theme or topic * Be specific about what you are going to do with each of the two horses * Align your schooling with the goals for each of the two horses * Understand that adjustments are often essential
Planning what to work on with your horse is often a task that many riders neglect. Often this is due to having failed at making it simple enough that you can follow. This 'threat' doubles when you add a second horse into the mix. more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
What this episode is all about & how it can help you:- * Understand what long lining is * Be clear on the necessary 'prerequisites' * The benefits of having a competent 'helper' * Get started with the basics in long lining
Have you ever tried your hand at long lining? Many riders feel that the 'barrier to entry' is just a little too high for them to be successful with it. After all, there are now two ropes to get tangled up in...!. more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
What this episode is all about & how it can help you:- * Recognise that new can often mean uncomfortable * Think differently about 'upgrading' your riding * Begin to make room for improvement * Have appreciation for what has got you this far in your riding
Have you ever noticed how, when you begin working on improving something, things can feel a little like they are falling apart initially. Getting worse rather than better! You become all worried that you have ‘broken’ something which, perhaps wasn’t exactly as you wanted it to be, but it worked! In this episode of the Daily Strides Podcast we are going to find out why this happens and what you can do to actually let this benefit you and move you forward in your riding. more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
What this episode is all about & how it can help you:- * Use this simple 'rule' in your day-to-day riding * Know 'when' to apply this rule in your riding * Begin to take responsibilities for your own balance in the saddle * Make the necessary transition in your riding, from passenger to rider
Imagine if there was something you could actively ‘do’ every moment you’re in the saddle that would almost guarantee that you’re in the ‘right place at the right time’.. There is. And it involves abiding by a non written ‘rule’ regarding your position. This episode of the Daily Strides Podcast is all about that rule and how you can use it, beginning today, in your riding. Your position is so important more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
What this episode is all about & how it can help you:- * Realise that you do not 'turn the horse' * Set up circumstances that will help make each bend successful * Understand that you have to 'allow' your horse to actually ride through the bend * 'Support' your horse rather than 'control' your horse
Have you ever considered how many times you ride a bend, corner or circle on each single ride? The fact is that every ride at some point after you get into a saddle, you are going to have to turn around. more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
Other Posts and Episodes that Relate to This Topic:-
What this episode is all about & how it can help you:- * Understand the importance of a solid position to begin with * Realise that timing is everything when it comes to jumping with your horse * Feel motivated to learn 'how' your horse jumps * Get started improving your skills over fences today
Do you find that your jumping is a little 'touch and go'? Some days you are great at staying with your horse over the fence. However those other days are showing up a little too often for you to be truly confident and positive about your jumping. more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
Links mentioned in the episode:-
What this episode is all about & how it can help you:- * Understand how to become more 'quiet' in the saddle * See the link between independent aids and an independent seat * Begin being more mindful about your aids and how you are communicating with your horse * Start working on increasing your coordination in the saddle
In this episode of the Daily Strides Podcast we are going to look at the relationship between your coordination and your independent aids. Improving them will lead to a more responsive conversation between rider and horse. more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
Links mentioned in the episode:-
What this episode is all about & how it can help you:- * Review each month so that you can make adjustments for the next * Use past experiences to build a plan that you can implement and make work in your riding * Track some key metrics with regards to your riding to help you improve * Help set up your plan for the upcoming month in your riding
In this episode of the Daily Strides Podcast I give you a framework for your monthly review with regards to your horse riding. I give you a few ideas with regards to what to track and how to use this information to create an even better plan for the upcoming month. more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
What this episode is all about & how it can help you:- * Recognise some of the red flags that it may be time to make a decision * See that holding on to something that is not working is not fair on you or your horse
In this episode of the Daily Strides Podcast I chat about how you can more easily recognise when it is time to move on, where your partnership with your horse is concerned. more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
What this episode is all about & how it can help you:- * Learn how to practice remaining balanced on the transition * Understand the importance of a good lower leg position * Make small adjustments to help with allowing the canter to happen * Figure out how to get started the very next time you are in the saddle
One of the most thrilling and exciting experiences we can have on horse back can be cantering in open spaces. There is a feeling of freedom, of 'two hearts', of just pure unbridled joy... Except when it's not... For many riders, cantering in open spaces conjures up feelings of anxiety, fear and just all round lack of confidence and control. However, I believe all riders can work towards having an enjoyable canter in the great outdoors - in a safe and, dare I say, controlled manner. In this episode of the Daily Strides Podcast I will give you a few simple exercises that you can begin working on today, to fulfil your dream of that open field canter in the near future more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
What this episode is all about & how it can help you:- * Realise how important it is to choose your friends wisely * Figure out how to initially 'practice' with your horse * Not worry about 'where' you are in the group * Keep things slow and steady initially
Most things in life are better when shared with friends. Riding on the trail or hacking out is no different. However, for many riders, the uncertainty of how their horse will respond 'out in the world' with other horses can be enough to stop them from experiencing this. In this episode of the Daily Strides Podcast I want to chat about how you can begin to prepare yourself and your horse for hacking out in company. A few simple 'dos' and 'don'ts' will make all the difference when it comes to enjoying your time out of the arena more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
What this episode is all about & how it can help you:- * Goal - especially that is it 'do-able' * Calendar - figuring out what days you actually can ride this month * Themes - the stepping stones that will take you to your goal * Exercises - what you will actually be doing each and every ride
I want you to be honest with me here... If I was to compare the picture that is you and your horse from this day last year, to todays picture, would there be a positive change? Is it evident that you have both made progress in your training and your relationship? In this episode of the Daily Strides Podcast I give the actual step by step process I take riders through when creating a plan for their progress on a month by month basis. If we were to work together, actually in the arena with me as your trainer / coach / instructor, there will be a plan we are working on more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
What this episode is all about & how it can help you:- * Spread some positive energy around your equestrian network * Identify small and easy to do yet meaningful ideas you can use
It's Christmas...! In this episode of the Daily Strides Podcast I want to give you some quick and simple ideas that will help you spread Christmas cheer now in your equestrian network. more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
What this episode is all about & how it can help you:- * The problem with assuming your horse knows how to lunge * Understand why not using your lunging whip can stall your progress * Realise that you might just be blocking or stopping your horse * See that consistency is essential to successful lunging
Have you been struggling to make lunging 'work' for you and your horse? You're not alone! What if I was to tell you that, maybe, if you just changed a couple of key things you're potentially doing wrong, it might all change for you and your horse where lunging is concerned. In this episode of the Daily Strides Podcast I give you the run down of the top 4 mistakes I see riders (or 'lungers') make all the time when in the lunge arena with their horse. They might seem like little things, however, they have to potential to derail the best of intentions where lunging is concerned more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
Links mentioned in the episode:- * Getting Started with Lunging for a Young or Green Horse * Lunging for You and Your Horse * Why Your Position While Lunging is Everything * Understanding the Balance of Your Aids
What this episode is all about & how it can help you:- * To understand where the conversation begins * How you can influence each ride before you get into the saddle * Start thinking about creating different rhythms for different routines * Begin 'checking yourself at the gate'!
In this episode of the Daily Strides Podcast I want to remind you of how it is your responsibility as a rider to try to show up as the best version of yourself in the saddle. more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
What this episode is all about & how it can help you:- * Understand the relationship between your position on the ground & in the saddle * Identify the difference between 'Neutral', 'Driving' and 'Resisting' * Know when to move into the 'driving' position * Know when to move into the 'resisting' position
In this episode of the Daily Strides Podcast we are chatting about one of the biggest mistakes riders make when they are working their horse on the lunge Namely, not paying enough attention to where they are positioned in relation to their horse as they lunge. more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
What this episode is all about & how it can help you:- * Think different words which will help you to move differently * Stop holding on in the sitting trot * Understand how to balance rather than 'grip' with your legs
The sitting trot can be a challenge for many riders. Being told how to 'absorb the movement' which can leave you scratching your head. Or just move 'with the horse'. Another confusing term, especially when you have never managed it before. This is going to be a little different... Have you ever noticed how it is often easier if you're told what not to do, rather than what to do. Sometimes the 'don't do this' are easier to follow along with. You can identify yourself better in those more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
What this episode is all about & how it can help you:- * Understand how you are sitting in the saddle might be affecting everything * Realise the disastrous effects this can have on your overall position * Focus on ‘feeling’ what your leg is doing in order to improve things * Work in walk, then trot and then transitions
Be honest... Are you finding yourself doing the hokey pokey in the saddle more than you would like? Your right leg is in. Your right leg is out. In out, in out, shaking all about... Swinging legs are a huge issue for so many riders and what makes it all the more frustrating is that as soon as you begin to 'fix' your legs, well they seem to lose all effectiveness as well. In this episode of the Daily Strides Podcast we will chat about how you can begin to 'quiet' your legs by making some changes that actually have very little to do with your legs themselves more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
What this episode is all about & how it can help you:- * Understand what resistance is in your horse * Start with taking steps back to simple * Realise the importance of rewarding every little positive element * Know how far to take each ride
Most riders have been there, some more regularly than others... You are mounted up, in the arena with your horse. Your plans are all laid out in your head for the upcoming schooling session or ride. And you are feeling positive and ready to get it done. However, you sense that your horse is, well, not feeling the same way. In fact, you get the distinct feeling that he would much rather be somewhere else, doing something else. It's not that he is being naughty, but rather uninterested and there is definitely resistance to what you are asking. In this episode of the Daily Strides Podcast I want to chat about how, very often, when this happens 'pushing on through' is not the best way of approaching your horse. I want to give you some other ideas that can get you both back on the same page with your focus and your more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
What this episode is all about & how it can help you:- * Understand the influence of your weight on the approach * Learn how to 'open a door' for your horse * Begin shifting your weight over the fence * Effectively school on this to practice it
Are you struggling with your correct canter lead when landing from a fence? Perhaps you approach the fence on the one rein, however, the track or exercise requires a change of rein after the fence. You find that you often need to come back to trot in order to change lead. Or perform a flying change. In this episode of the Daily Strides Podcast we focus on your correct canter lead on landing from a jump. I will give you some practical tips you can implement the next time you ride. However, like all things in horse riding, it will take mindfulness and effort on your part. But the results are well worth it. more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
What this episode is all about & how it can help you:- * Have a plan for what you are going to do * Get as much ready as you can in advance * Create and stick to a routine that works * Learn to say no to distractions…!
Many riders find that, from time to time due to other responsibilities, they have shorter riding times to spend in the saddle. If you are feeling like this right now, this is the episode for you. Today we are chatting about making the most of your time. In this episode of the Daily Strides Podcast I want to give you a few ideas on how to make the most of your riding time, when time is not on your side! In these situations, it is often easier to leave riding. However, this can lead to a bad habit setting in more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
What this episode is all about & how it can help you:- * Understanding the conversation is always happening * Your position * Your Aids * Understanding how your horse 'goes'
The 'basics in riding'... It sounds like a bit of a list for riders to master before they move on. And I suppose in a way, they are. Like most things, there are a few foundational pieces that, once you understand how they work, can be used to create a foundation for you & your horse going forward. In this episode of the Daily Strides Podcast we will chat about 4 of those 'basics' and also, where you will transition to after the basics have truly been mastered more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
What this episode is all about & how it can help you:- * Understand the influence of your weight on the approach * Learn how to 'open a door' for your horse * Begin shifting your weight over the fence * Effectively school on this to practice it
Are you struggling with your correct canter lead when landing from a fence? Perhaps you approach the fence on the one rein, however, the track or exercise requires a change of rein after the fence. You find that you often need to come back to trot in order to change lead. Or perform a flying change. In this episode of the Daily Strides Podcast we focus on your correct canter lead on landing from a jump. I will give you some practical tips you can implement the next time you ride. However, like all things in horse riding, it will take mindfulness and effort on your part. But the results are well worth it. more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
What this episode is all about & how it can help you:- * Understand what strength is * Figure out how it relates to suppleness * Work on straightness to strengthen your horse * Notice when things begin to develop
Have you found yourself wondering or wishing about your horses top line or frame? You probably have heard that they are related to how your horse is working, but struggle to really connect the pieces together in the saddle. This episode of the Daily Strides Podcast is all about specifically the hindquarters and building strength in the hindquarters in your horse, which will lead to overall development. more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
What this episode is all about & how it can help you:- * Understand why correct flexion is everything * Get clear on the role of your seat * Use your legs to ‘ask’ the question * Actually allowing the horse to actually canter
Do you find that canter leads end up getting you and your horse in a bit of a muddle sometimes? You've perhaps noticed that if you ask in the corner you are usually okay... But, if and when you ask on the straight, well, it seems to be down to chance! A fifty / fifty chance, but a chance all the same! In this episode of the Daily Strides Podcast I am focusing about cantering, and the correct leads in canter. I want to help you to strike the correct canter lead 100% of the time, regardless of if you are on a bend or on the straight. more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
What this episode is all about & how it can help you:- * Sitting straight in the saddle * Allowing your legs to ‘drape’ * Understanding an active aid versus an inactive one * Supporting your horse when he needs support
Remember back to when you were first learning to ride. You possibly saw your legs as being a 'go button' of sorts. Go forward or go sideways. However, as you began to improve the conversation, by refining your aids, you realised that your legs have started to also become a channel of sorts...
A channel for the energy that is created inside of the 'container' that is you and your horse together.
In this episode of the Daily Strides Podcast you will learn all about creating that channel with your legs and how it will improve your overall riding. more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
What this episode is all about & how it can help you:- * Understand what strength is * Figure out how it relates to suppleness * Work on straightness to strengthen your horse * Notice when things begin to develop
Have you found yourself wondering or wishing about your horses top line or frame? You probably have heard that they are related to how your horse is working, but struggle to really connect the pieces together in the saddle. This episode of the Daily Strides Podcast is all about specifically the hindquarters and building strength in the hindquarters in your horse, which will lead to overall development. more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
This episode will explain how:- * Looks can be deceiving this type of a horse * And why I suggest bringing the whole conversation back to basics * To create a channel for the 'forwardness' * You can identify any 'weak spots' in your channel
We all know one... The horse who makes you question everything about your riding abilities and knowledge. The horse who, when you get on, just seems to invite you to ride as though you began yesterday! It can be such a frustrating place to be for any riders trying to improve themselves. It can cause a confidence crises. However, rather than just giving up and accepting it, I want to give you a few ideas on how to begin making this more positive. Positive for you and positive for the horse as well. This episode of the Daily Strides Podcast is about how you can begin reframing the conversation with this horse, so you can both walk away feeling good afterwards. more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
This episode is all about helping you to use and make the most of:- * Crosspoles * Uprights * Ascending oxers * Square oxers
Have you found yourself, like many riders, initially thinking about all jumps as being equal? Simply obstacles that are in your way when moving from A to B with your horse? It is common to feel this way initially when you begin working over fences. However, once you can safely navigate a jump or ten, it is important to begin understanding how different jumps ask different questions of both you and your horse. When you begin recognising the difference, you can really begin using small, but different, types of jumps in your schooling to move you both forward more...
Also, if you are a little bewildered as to what to do, exercise wise, I have an excellent resource for you. We have a whole collection of premium trainings on jumping and grid work waiting for you inside of Daily Strides Premium. They will take you step by step through setting up specific schooling exercises to get results with your horse. You can find out more here Happy Riding,
Lorna
What this episode is all about & how it can help you:- * Identify the types of artificial aids * Know when you need to back up your natural aids * Understand the relationship between your inside leg and inside hand when using a whip * Follow through and allow your horse to respond
Hands up if your communication with your horse, using your natural aids, leaves you feeling like there's quite a bit being lost along the way? Your hand is one of a sea of hands, so don't feel too alone! Many riders become frustrated over time due to the lack of effectiveness of their aids. Luckily it is something that can be worked on, starting with the next time you are in the saddle. In this episode I want to focus on the artificial aids available to you in your riding, ones you can use in the saddle to back up your natural aids. Specifically whips or crops. I feel that spurs are the next level up when it comes to artificial aids and should only be used by competent, 'quiet' riders who have already refined their aids.
*There are two types of whips, a jumping whip or crop which is shorter and a schooling or dressage whip which is longer. The lengths will vary, but are around 60cm and 90cm respectively. more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna*
What this episode is all about & how it can help you:- * Become more respectful with your legs & how it will help the overall conversation * Understand why how you apply the aid is so important * The difference between 'loud aids' and 'quiet aids' * Develop your leg aids as a guide - not a crutch
Your legs make up such a huge part of the active conversation that happens between you and your horse when you're in the saddle. You can use them to ask questions. They can be used to guide or direct your horse. Yet, so many riders fail to recognise how important their legs are to the whole conversation; and how improving your overall control of your legs, can have a huge positive effect on everything else. In this episode of the Daily Strides Podcast I will give you some ideas on how you can begin improving your leg aids, starting the very next time you are in the saddle. more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
What this episode is all about:- * Mistake 1:- Overestimating the amount of poles and complexity of exercise * Mistake 2:- Incorrectly mapping the distance or adjustments * Mistake 3:- Not realising how much influence you have over your horse
If you have been riding for any length of time, you are probably well versed on the benefits of groundpoles. In fact, I would bet that you have tried them a few times...However, there are a few basic mistakes riders make when it comes to groundpoles in their riding and I want to address them today. This episode of the Daily Strides Podcast is specifically about the top three mistakes that riders make when it comes to groundpoles. These are the things that show up time and again when schooling horses using poles. more...
Happy Riding,
Lorna
What this episode is all about & how it can help you:- * What is impulsion * What is necessary for you to maintain impulsion * How to know if the energy is "falling out" * Working towards consistent impulsion
We have all been there... In the saddle and wanting to do something. You ask for 'more' but instead of being able to harness that energy, it tends to just fall out the front end! This episode of the Daily Strides Podcast is all about what impulsion is, and how you can use it in your riding. more...
Happy Riding Lorna
Groundpoles... So many riders work with them on a regular basis with their horses. However many riders struggle to work on specific areas in their training while using the groundpoles. more... Happy Riding
Lorna
What this episode is all about & how it can help you:-
- Myth No. 1:- Riders are either natural or they're not
- Myth No. 2:- 'Feel' takes years to learn
- Myth No. 3:- I need to have...
- Myth No. 4:- I'll ruin my horse if...
Myths and legends... Most things have few surrounding them. Horse riding is no different and I often find that simple mindset 'white lies' (or myths) are the very thing applying the brakes to any progress in riding. In this episode of the Daily Strides Podcast we are going to dig in to the 4 top mindset myths that I see, day in and day out in the saddle. What they are and, if they do seem a little all too familiar to you, how to over come them. more... Happy Riding
Lorna
Links mentioned in the episode:-
What this episode is all about & how it can help you:-
- Begin noticing where the ups and downs are happening
- Take responsibility, rather than looking for a quick fix
- Learn to Balance Your Aids Correctly
- Using a Split Second to Smooth Out Your Riding
Do things feel a little 'touch and go' when it comes to your riding? You touch on how you want it to feel, but that feeling is all too brief. It's there for a few strides and then it is gone again. Would you like to maintain that feeling for longer? Smooth out your riding?This episode is focused on learning how to influence your horse more to create a more balanced, smoother ride for both of you. A more polished finished to your riding. Horse Riding is Never ‘Done’
I want to begin by warning you of a trap that so many riders make the mistake of falling into. They finally ‘get’ something in their riding; and they then think that their work regarding that topic is done.
Horse riding, by its very nature, is never ‘done’. It is ever evolving. There are challenges at every level that will lead to us having to re-navigate past topics from your new perspective or where you are now.
Very often the key to overcoming new challenges in horse riding is going back to the basics - and applying those to the new challenge. Begin by Noticing Where the Ups and Downs are Happening
You can do this by paying close attention to your rhythm and tempo. Notice where they are lacking. Can you maintain both consistently through a movement? more... This month on Daily Strides Premium we are talking Relaxation for the whole month. If you are interested in working on your relaxation, you can join us over there at http://stridesforsuccess/join/
Happy Riding
Lorna
Links mentioned in the episode:-
- http://stridesforsuccess.com/join/
- Relaxation in Your Riding Live Workshop
- Understanding the Balance of Your Aids
- Relaxation when Riding a Hot Horse
What this episode is all about & how it can help you:-
- Starting from the beginning
- Relaxation is worth taking the time to nurture
- Sometimes it is better to 'allow'
- Developing your leg and seat aids
Are you part of a special group of riders, which includes me, from around the world who have taken on the of helping a OTTB, a retired racehorse, get started on their new career?. more... This month on Daily Strides Premium we are talking Relaxation for the whole month. If you are interested in working on your relaxation, you can join us over there at http://stridesforsuccess/join/
Happy Riding
Lorna
What this episode is all about & how it can help you:-
- Understand the difference between being influenced and doing the influencing
- Being able to 'roll' with the canter first
- How feeling the reach of your seat is the start of understanding your influence
- The part your legs and hands play
What happens when you get into canter with your horse? Do you find that you are more of a passenger than a rider? Simply put, are you influencing the canter, or are you allowing the canter to influence you?. more...
Happy Riding
Lorna
You are cantering towards the jump... 3... 2... 1... But instead of the 'Jump' that should have followed the 1; you get a chip in. A moment where your usually trusty horse decides to test both of you by inserting a little 'half stride' in there before takeoff!
The result is you do a great Thelwell impression and your horse does his best helicopter move; straight up and straight down... Not a good feeling for anyone!
Riding a horse that chips in or adds an extra half stride in before a jump is not enjoyable for anyone; the rider, the person watching, or the horse. Of course, it can happen to anyone, we call have days where we get the stride to the fence wrong. However, for some horses, it becomes a habit that can seem almost impossible to break.
This habit is uncomfortable and does little for building confidence to clear a course of fences safely. However, before we look at how to begin working with a horse who adds a little stride here and there, it is important to first realize what this is and why it might be happening.
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You have spent the past few months diligently improving your young horse's standard of education. A lot of time invested on the basics of moving forward in a balanced rhythmic way. He is happy, you are happy and the next natural progression is to ask for the canter.
However, it seems all those carefully cultivated hours in the arena fly out the door as soon as you ask for the upward transition.
Your horse begins running on his forehand, each trot stride becoming longer and faster... He eventually breaks into a canter of sorts, but nothing like what you imagined it to be! Unbalanced, uncoordinated, and no rhythm whatsoever!
Introducing 'New' To Your Young Horse Often it seems that no matter how much preparation we put into preparing our young horse for his first departure from a trot into a canter, the canter falls a little flat and well below our expectations. But rather than becoming frustrated and demoralized with your horse's apparent lack of understanding, see this as being the next step of the ladder with regards to your horse's education. And one that, if he graduates from, will see him in a great position to really begin working from.
Just like when you first began riding your young horse in walk and trot, your horse is going to feel very unbalanced and unsure of himself when you do ask for the canter when in the saddle.
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Additional Resources for Equestrians * + - Exercises for Starting Your Young Horse - Starting a Young or Green Horse - Part 1 - The Basics when Working a Young Or Green Horse - FREE OTTB Checklist & Healthcare Journal - Training:- The Starting Series - Join the free Facebook group HERE - Join Connection; The Online Membership for Equestrians
So, we've all been there, riding around the arena on our horse, desperately seeking the elusive 'On the Bit'. Pumping with our legs, 'sponging' with our hands; doing our level best to achieve what is beginning to feel like the holy grail of riding a horse!
All the while hoping, praying, wishing (hey, when you are desperate you will resort to anything!) that a lightning bolt will just shoot out of the sky and, Poof, your horse is 'on the bit'!
The sad part is that the more we pump with our legs, push with our seat and plead with the Good Lord to show us mercy and deliver us from this agony that is our desperation... The less and less likely we actually are of achieving our goal!
For many trainers, it can feel like there is a fine line when explaining this concept. I am taking the brave (or stupid, depending on where you see the line) step of trying to decipher this massive mystery. A feat by which so many riders define themselves.
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Free Riding Plan to Use in Your Riding
- One Exercise Multiple Ways
Let's Work Together:-
- Daily Strides Premium Newsletter
- Lunging for Riding
- Groundwork For Riding
Join Our Online Communities for Equestrians
- Connect in the Mindset & Fitness for Equestrians Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/SFS30DayRiderFitnessChallenge
- Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
Connect with Lorna
- Connect on Instagram @stridesforsuccess https://instagram.com/stridesforsuccess
- Connect on Facebook https://facebook.com/stridessuccess
Join the 2021 Equestrian Fitness Challenge:-
- Sign up for the free RIDING challenge
Additional Resources:-
- Why Forward is Essential for Contact
- Training Scale Series Part 3 - Contact in Your Riding
- Assessing on the Bit in Your Riding
- Retraining a Horse that Evades Your Contact
- Developing Your Horse's Self Carriage
We all have something, right? That thing we do that every time we catch ourselves doing it, we feel a tinge of guilt... But without fail, regardless of all the beating ourselves up, we will be back doing it again soon.
Now, I could have been talking about anything there... any number of bad habits that you have cultivated (yes... cultivated) over the years, however today I am referring specifically to the habits we form in the saddle that are less than helpful to us as riders.
As with anything in life, the more time you spend riding, the more opportunities you have to become complacent about the little things. Things which, initially might not count for much but that compounding effect can be a real nightmare once it gets going in the wrong direction!
Consistency will bring you results, regardless of what you are being consistent with. Meaning that the old saying that practice makes perfect is definitely not always the case. Rather 'perfect practice makes perfect' when it comes to consistently improving your riding skills.
However, where do we begin? What do we start with?
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How many times have you asked your horse to leg yield, moving forward yet sideways, only for it to become frustratingly obvious a few steps into the moment that what is happening underneath you is definitely not what you had in mind?!
Asking our horses to leg yield is one of the first introductions they will have to lateral movement. It introduces our horse to the concept of not just going in straight lines and moving forward, but also adding in some lateral or sideways movement as well.
It is a wonderful exercise for supplying our horses and has the added benefit of being easy enough to introduce to younger or less schooled and developed horses who have not yet achieved collection in their gaits.
A true and correct leg yield happens when your horse moves forward and sideways, along a diagonal line, keeping their back straight with a slight flexion of the poll away from the direction you are travelling.
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Additional Resources on this Topic * + - Leg Yielding to Refine Your Asking Aids in the Saddle - Lateral Movement – Leg Yielding - Using Lateral Work to Improve Your Walk - FREE Weeks Riding Plan - Online community for equestrians working on their mindset & fitness - Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorses)
There you are, happily trotting around the arena, delighted at the fact that you can ‘post’ correctly; until someone goes and bursts your bubble by pointing out that you are on the wrong diagonal… “Sit for two” they shout your way… And you’re thinking ‘Come again?’!
What is the Diagonal in the Trot? Being on the correct diagonal is to do with rising or posting to the trot. We know that when our horse trots, his legs move in diagonal pairs, the front inside with the back outside and the front outside with the back inside.
Your horse's way of traveling, in diagonal pairs, is what creates the two-time beat that we experience in trot. The 1,2,1,2,1,2… or, when we rise or post to the trot, the up, down, up, down, up, down.
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So often when we are riding, relaxation for both ourselves and our horse is one of the goals for the ride. This being so, you may have tried working him long and low, whether it be during warming up or cooling off. However, you may also have noticed that asking your horse to work long and low can be pretty hit and miss... He might get faster and faster as he becomes really unbalanced and begins falling onto his forehand...
Working your horse long and low involves stretching and elongating his topline, from the tail to the poll.
It helps to build his topline, strengthening the 'suspension' muscles underneath you and also, create more longitudinal suppleness, which will benefit your horse greatly while being ridden.
So often when riding we think of suppleness as bending and flexing from left to right and while this is true, this is lateral suppleness.
Working your horse long and low helps with his elasticity and flexibility from tail to poll, along his back, which is essential to his correct development.
When riding your horse in a long and low frame, you will feel his hindquarters swinging underneath you. This is due to the muscles in his back becoming more supple and loosening up. This can only happen when your horse relaxes enough through his back, allowing the energy to flow and connect. This results in your horse developing an increased range of flexion and movement in his joints, which will allow for a bigger, more flowing, step or stride, and a more sound horse.
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Additional Resources to Help with This Topic * + - * Connection; The Online Membership for Equestrians * The Returning to Riding Program – Getting the Basics on Autopilot in Your Riding * Equestrian Fitness Challenge * Join the free Strides for Success Online Community
Think back to the last time you were cantering along on your horse and a change of rein was coming up. You began the task of preparing to drop back a gear into a trot to change the canter lead. "Better than losing rhythm and balance through a flying change..." However before you even got there, your horse (being the clever guy that he is) decided to take matters into his own hands. And with what felt like a skip, Voila, he had performed the flying change all by himself...
The flying change is one of those things that we tend to, as riders, overthink in our heads.
However, the simple truth of the matter is that flawless flying changes happen when we focus on the preparation and then allow our horse to perform the change without interference from us in the saddle.
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Do you find yourself becoming confused and frustrated about how you are supposed to be using your rein aids while riding? Do terms such as soften your rein, fill up your rein, hold with the rein, lighten the rein leave you baffled, not to mention how much pressure is good and how much is too much?!
I want you to take a quick trip down memory lane and back to your first ride on a horse... Chances are that back then, before you knew any different, you thought of your reins as the means to steer and stop your horse. However, you soon began to realize that while your reins make up part of the system to do this, in order to really have a happy contact with your horse, you needed to reframe how you think of your reins and what you use them for.
Your reins are, first and foremost, the way that you collect the energy your horse creates in his hindquarters and back, so you can then channel it where you want it to go.
This is done through you have a consistent contact on the rein, which allows your horse to build trust in you that you won't catch him or drop him while he is working into that contact.
However, before you can even begin thinking about this, we must first discuss how your hand will come to meet the rein and the effect this has on you and your horse.
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Additional Resources for Equestrians:- * + - * Why Forward is Essential for Contact * Improving Your Riding Coordination & Aids While Lunging * Join Connection today and transform your riding journey * Lunging for Riding – 4-week step by step program to transform your lunging experience * Online community for equestrians working on their mindset & fitness * Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorses)
When we first learn to ride, turning is often explained to us as merely a 'tug' or pull on one rein or the other to turn our horse's head. There is a general consensus being that where his head turns, his body will go..
However, anyone who has ridden a determined pony or horse will know that this is very often not the case... You can point the head where you 'want' to go, but often your horse will crab along sideways, almost following his hindquarters, in the opposite direction; which 90% of the time is the same direction as the stable!
Later as we become more accomplished in the saddle, what started out as a simple instruction in our first lesson, has become an ingrained habit and something that we often feel nervous or anxious giving up control over!
So why are we thought to turn this way if it is indeed incorrect and, why later when we get into the nitty-gritty details of riding are we constantly hearing about softening or lightening our inside rein?
I think the reason that we are thought this initially is threefold... Firstly, we get a quick win under our belts which then leaves us wanting more (translate into booking more riding lessons!).
Secondly, even the best-coordinated person struggles when they first get into the saddle to use their different limbs and body parts in different ways all at the same time to produce the desired result!
And lastly, it's a control thing and one that we need to learn to let go of!
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Additional Resources for Equestrians * Inside Rein to Outside Leg * Applying the Rein Aids in Your Riding * Why Forward is Essential for Contact * Online community for equestrians working on their mindset & fitness * Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorses) * Join Connection; The Online Membership for Equestrians
Do you find that when you ask your horse to perform haunches in or travers, the forward movement tends to get a little 'stuck'?
It feels as though he is on his tippy toes, pottering along with no inclination to get to the other end of the arena?!
Haunches in is a lateral movement that is fantastic for suppling your horse. It also opens the door to performing a half pass later in training.
It requires an engagement of the hindquarters, due to the outside hind leg having to move over and almost in front of the inside hind leg, and so incorporating this movement into your schooling will, in turn, help strengthen your horses' hindquarters.
I find that haunches in is also a great exercise to improve the rider's coordination, both physically and in their head, and also to help take the confusion out of riding lateral movements on their horses.
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Additional Resources for Equestrians * Following & Allowing in Your Riding * Turn on the Forehand * Lateral Movement; Leg Yielding * Simplifying Shoulder In * Online community for equestrians working on their mindset & fitness * Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorses) * Join Connection
Funny how, as riders, we put so much time and planning into building our horse's fitness correctly and to where he can perform best, but we completely neglect our own! Riding is a team sport, so it makes sense that your ‘team’ is only as good as the sum total of all the players involved…
Do you find yourself huffing and puffing after a few strides of canter? Have you been riding less recently and find that now your back in the saddle, your less effective than before? Are you spending hours schooling your horse but seeing little to no difference in his way of going...
It often amazes me how much time, effort, planning and work riders put into conditioning and increasing the fitness levels of their horses and yet completely fail to invest even a little of that towards their own fitness levels.
Contrary to popular belief, riding is a team sport... You and your horse! So it leads us to the fact that, as with any team sports, it is essential that all members of the team are doing their best to contribute to the team's success.
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Additional Resources for Equestrians * + - Improving Your Riding with Your Light Seat - The Direct Relationship Between Your Fitness and Your Riding - [Blog Post] Exercises in the Saddle to Improve Your Coordination - Equestrian Fitness Challenge - Lunging for Riding Digital Course - Online community for equestrians working on their mindset & fitness - Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorses)
Does the thoughts of riding shoulder in leave you feeling less than confident in your riding abilities. Are you a little unsure about the angle, the bend, and the degree of collection required in order to successfully ride the movement? Shoulder in is super for encouraging suppleness and collection in your horse. However, if ridden incorrectly, things can quickly begin going the opposite way of your desired results...
Shoulder in is a great movement to begin really flexing and strenghtening your horse. However, for many riders it seems far too complicated to even consider riding.
Shoulder in is a lateral movement and when ridden correctly, will entail your horse bending around your inside leg, with the shoulders at an approximately 30-degree angle to the side of the track or arena. With the shoulders in, you will then ask your horse to move forward on the line, moving away from the direction he is bent. It is also important to mention that the bend should be consistent from head to tail, not broken or over-bent in places.
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Additional Resources for Equestrians * 1 Exercise Mulitple Ways - Free Plan * Increasing Your Horses Suppleness * A Simple Exercise for Straightness * Leg Yielding to Refine Your Asking Aids in the Saddle * Solving Leg Yielding Problems * Using Lateral Work to Improve Your Walk * Online community for equestrians working on their mindset & fitness * Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorses)
The half-halt is one of the most useful aids you have in your toolkit as a rider. However, many riders are not utilizing this subtle yet powerful communication to its full potential.
The half-halt should be one of the earliest things that riders learn to master when learning to ride their horse. It is a vital part of riding well and being able to perform accurate, balanced movements with your horse.
However, while many riders understand the concept of the half-halt in theory, unfortunately, the carrying out of the actual movement leaves a lot of room for improvement.
The half-halt is essentially a rein check or a postponement. You are asking your horse for his undivided attention and letting him know that something is about to happen.
When ridden correctly, the half-halt can be used to re-balance your horse, to ask him for his attention, prepare him for an upcoming movement, to ask for more self-carriage or collection, to steady or slow him down, to set up transitions and, in fact, should be sprinkled generously throughout your ride from start to finish.
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Additional Resources for Equestrians:- * Free Half halt training * Your Aids to Ride the Half Halt * 3 Ways to Use the Half Halt in Your Riding * Harnessing the Power of the Half Halt * Improving Your Ride with the Half Halt * Understanding and Refining Your Half Halt * Your Half Halt on the Ground with Your Horse * Connection in Your Riding; Your Seat and Legs * Connection; My Online Membership for Equestrians * Online community for equestrians working on their mindset & fitness * Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorses
Does your normally relaxed, sane, and rhythmic horse turn into his version of a racehorse each time he rounds a corner and spots anything that resembles a jump when you are riding? Your quiet calm ride turns into a flat-out gallop, resembling the rush for the finish post on the final furlong of Aintree... (minus the cheering crowds!)
Unfortunately, horses rushing or racing over fences is a common problem for riders. And one that, once all pain or discomfort has been ruled out as the cause, only patience, time, and consistent correct schooling can help remedy and slow down your jumping experience.
Why Do Horses Rush? Rushing over jumps may begin to become a habit because of lots of varied triggers for different horses and riders. One of the more common ways is due to a lot of riders becoming anxious over fences. This is also true for the horses. They pick up on this anxiety and become a little tenser themselves.
This feeds the rider's anxiety, which in turn feeds the horses. A vicious cycle is created between horse and rider every time a fence appears on the horizon
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Additional Resources to Help with This Topic * Retraining a Horse that is Rushing Jumps * Relaxation with Riding a Hot or Sensitive Horse * Riding a Hot Horse * Confidently Getting Started Over Jumps * Learning to Wait for the Jump * Free Equestrian Fitness Challenge * Join the free Facebook group HERE * The Daily Strides Podcast on iTunes * Daily Strides Podcast on Google Play * The Daily Strides Podcast on Stitcher Radio * Join Connection; The Online Membership for Equestrians
Does the thought of any sort of prolonged periods of sitting trot fill both you, your bum, and your horse’s back with a sense of dread?! Perhaps the find the more you try not to bounce; the higher you appear to go?!
Sitting trot is probably one of the most confounding things to master when you first begin riding. And often enough time is not invested at the beginning of your training to understanding the sitting trot. This leaves riders to their own devices, of which there are many, in trying to stay in the saddle and not bounce around like a gummy bear!
Ideally, the sitting trot should be thought before the rising or posting to the trot, however, because sitting trot has gotten a bad name over the past few years, this is rarely the case.
This leads most novice riders to think of it as difficult or hard, which does not have to be the case.
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Additional Resources for Equestrians * + Avoiding the Trampoline Effect in the Sitting Trot + 3 Mistakes Riders Make when Riding the Sitting Trot + Position Faults that are Potentially Holding You Back in Your Riding + What are the Basics when It Comes to Riding + Are You Working on Developing Your Leg Aids + Lunging for Riding + Online Community for Equestrian focusing on Planning and Mindset + Connection; the Online Membership for Equestrians
Feel... A hugely important component of successful horsemanship and something that is often considered as a talent that you are either gifted at birth with or your not!
From years spent helping and watching people ride, I do agree that some people seem to have a more natural feel than others. However, I have also found that, often, riders who seemingly lack natural feel can learn it. They can develop it with consistent effort and diligence.
What Is Feel? So what is feel? My explanation of feel is the ability to know the right time to ask a question of your horse without having to consciously think about it. It is also the skill of reacting correctly, in a timely fashion, to almost all situations without, again, having to think too long or hard about it.
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Additional Resources for Equestrians * Online Community for Equestrian focusing on Planning and Mindset * Great Expectations – Returning to Riding series * Step by Step – Returning to Riding Series * Choosing Your Mindset – Returning to Riding Series * Focusing on the Basics – Returning to Riding Series * The Original Returning to Riding Plan * The Full Returning to Riding Program * Free Equestrian Fitness Challenge * Connection; The Online Membership for Equestrians
Have you tried it? For many riders, the mention of riding bareback is enough to see them running to the tack room for a saddle! However, for those that pluck up the courage - it can change so much...
Bareback riding is a super way to improve your posture and position as well as balance, skills, and feel. However often the greatest challenge we must first overcome in order to achieve these benefits is our minds telling us we cannot possibly do it!
Riding bareback is not as difficult as you may think and this week I challenge you to push the boundaries of your comfort zone and try it, if only for a few minutes initially. Then gradually build your confidence and time spend 'sans' saddle!
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Additional Resources for Equestrians * + - Learning to Stop Blocking with Your Seat – Part 1 - Learn to Stop Driving with Your Seat - Connection in Your Riding; Seat and Legs - Your Independent Seat is a Result of Your Independent Aids - Your Independent Seat is Everything in Your Riding - Online coaching and audio horse riding lessons for equestrians - Groundwork for Riding - Online community for equestrians working on their mindset & fitness - Online Community for equestrians focusing on re-schooling horses (and ex-racehorses)
There's always a desire among riders to develop their seat in the saddle. Most riders understand that developing this one aid is a key part of improving as a rider. But what does it really mean? And how can you start to do it?
Developing your riding seat begins with understanding that your seat must be used to signal to your horse, not interfere or disrupt his natural movement.
In order for you to utilize this aid successfully, it is imperative that you be relaxed first. Relaxation is not floppiness, it is just an awareness of your body and how you are using it without any excess tension or resistance through your muscles.
The confusion over developing your riding seat often begins right at the beginning when we first learn to ride. We hear certain phrases repeated continuously, such as "sit up straight, shoulders back, heels down, look up, bend elbows". The list goes on and on however all those commands, while each in their own way is correct and coming from a good place, can very often have the negative effect of making us stiff and resembling a poker!
Developing your riding seat essentially the ability to control your core muscles, both when you need to use them and when they should remain passive or neutral.
Many riders think that this is such a foreign thing for them to do; using their core to influence something else. But cast your mind back to when you were small and enjoying the sensation of the wind in your hair as you swung back and forth on a simple swing. Yes, the ones with two ropes hanging from a branch or beam and a plank in the middle for you to sit on.
Now, think how you were more than able, on your own steam and without touching the ground, to make each swing go higher than the last... You were essentially using your 'driving seat' to do that. Likewise, think about when you wanted to get off the swing; you used your body to slow the momentum down and bring the swing to a halt; your resisting seat.
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Additional Resources on This Topic:- * Learning to Stop Blocking with Your Seat – Part 1 * Learning to Stop Blocking with Your Seat - Part 2 * Learn to Stop Driving with Your Seat * Connection in Your Riding; Seat and Legs * Your Independent Seat is a Result of Your Independent Aids * Your Independent Seat is Everything in Your Riding * Improving Your Feel in the Saddle * Online coaching and audio horse riding lessons
Why is your horse falling in? More importantly, how do you know if your horse is falling in?
The quickest and easiest way I can explain this is to imagine you are riding a circle that you have planned out beautifully in your head, but as your horse travels around it you seem to be getting more and more off track with each passing stride. In fact what started out as a 20m circle is soon resembling a 10m triangle, drawn by a three-year-old...
Another area where this problem can tend to rear its ugly head is when traveling around a corner and, again, just like before you have set the course. You half halt, but your horse's actual path and the one you envisioned in your head are worlds apart.
The initial problem is then compounded by the frustration that it is happening so regularly, there being 4 corners in every arena and all.
Welcome to the world of falling in... Which is almost exactly what it sounds like. You set a course, and instead of following it, your horse 'falls in' on the shape.
Now while we may initially blame ourselves for bad planning or awful usage of basic shapes and, very often, after we reach for our markers to help guide us along, we begin to realize that far from this being our inability to correctly execute a circle, this issue stems more from our horse's inability to balance himself while being ridden on the said circle.
This is a frustrating and annoying problem that may represent a fundamental flaw in a horse's basic training and what is actually happening is your horse cannot balance himself correctly.
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Additional Resources to Help with This Topic * + - Your Independent Seat is Everything in Your Riding - The Evolution of Your Aids in the Saddle - Improving Rider Coordination - The Direct Relationship Between Your Fitness & Your Riding - Lunging for Riding - Online Community for Equestrian focusing on Planning and Mindset - Connection; the Online Membership for Equestrians
Have you ever sat down (no pun intended) and thought about how correct your rising or posting in trot actually is?
Rising or posting in trot is one of the first aspects we learn when starting out riding a horse… We happily spend hours trotting around the arena or along the trail, up-down, up-down, up-down, without ever stopping to consider if the movement we are performing is helping or hindering our horse, or our own performance as a rider.
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I've often wondered what it is about the canter that makes riders almost seem to ignore it when schooling in the arena. I see riders put so much time, care, and attention into the trot and to a lesser degree, the walk... But the canter is more often than not relegated to a few 'laps' of the arena and then back to more of the same with walking and trotting...
This week on the Daily Strides Podcast, we are focusing on some ways you can incorporate more canter work into your schooling sessions.
Canter can require some serious work from both you and your horse. It is easy to become tired while we are cantering and with tiredness comes a sense of complacency with the quality of the gait.
During this episode of the Daily Strides Podcast, we are covering four main points that will help keep you on track with your cantering and allowing you and your horse to perform at your best.
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Additional Resources to Help with This Topic * + - * Developing Your Seat in the Canter * 3 Steps to Better Canter Transitions * 3 Ways You Are Ruining Your Transitions from Trot to Canter * Asking for the Correct Canter Lead when on the Straight * Straightness in the Canter * Using Your Body to Effectively Influence the Canter * The Returning to Riding Program – Getting the Basics on Autopilot in Your Riding * Equestrian Fitness Challenge * Subscribe to the Daily Strides Podcast * Join the free Strides for Success Online Community
Do you find that when you ask your horse for a more expressive trot, he just seems to begin running onto his forehand with you, becoming heavier and heavier with each stride? You're not alone!
Many riders set out looking to achieve an active, working trot... But due to lots of different factors, this can end up just 'running' around the arena. The horse resembling an arrow of sorts!
The front end getting lower and lower with each passing stride, while the back end is getting completely left behind!
Unfortunately, what usually happens next is the one thing that exasperates this 'effect' even further and that is hauling on the reins; dropping an anchor if you will.
The reason this just makes the whole situation worse is by doing this, you and your horse begin to engage in a 'tug of war' of sorts. And, quite frankly, being involved in such a game with a 600 kg animal is an exhausting endeavor!
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Additional Links to Help You:- * + - Planning Your Rides – Part 1 Fun - Planning Your Rides – Part 2 Partnership - Planning Your Rides – Part 3 Training - Planning Your Rides - Part 4 Free Exercise to Use - Lunging for Riding - Online Community for Equestrian focusing on Planning and Mindset - Stop Wasting and Start Investing Time with Your Horse - What’s Your Number in Your Riding? - A Plan for 7 Days in Your Riding - Plan Your Ride with These Simple Steps - Transform the Next 12 Weeks in Your Riding - Connection; the Online Membership for Equestrians
Your outside rein is a vital part when it comes to the balance of your aids. It is the ‘endpoint’ with regards to the physical cycle of our aids when creating energy in the saddle.
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Additional Links to Help You:- * Planning Your Rides – Part 1 Fun * Planning Your Rides – Part 2 Partnership * Planning Your Rides - Part 3 Training & Developing * Planning Your Rides - Part 4 FREE Exercise & Plan * Stop Wasting and Start Investing Time with Your Horse * What’s Your Number in Your Riding? * Lunging for Riding * Online Community for Equestrian focusing on Planning and Mindset * Connection; the Online Membership for Equestrians