Contemporary Equitation

19/03/2025

Empowering Horses Through Self-Management

A truly confident horse isn’t one that relies on its rider for every decision—it’s one that can think, assess, and manage itself in different situations. Too often, we focus on controlling the horse’s body without teaching the mind, leading to a cycle where the horse waits for instruction instead of learning to regulate its own emotions.

Self-management starts with awareness. By exposing horses to challenges in a structured way, we help them develop the tools to problem-solve rather than react. This isn’t about desensitisation in the traditional sense—it’s about teaching the horse how to process and adapt. A horse that understands how to release tension, redirect its own energy, and find balance is one that can handle the unexpected with confidence.

When we create horses that think, we also create safer partnerships. A horse that can independently manage its emotions won’t bolt, freeze, or panic when faced with something new. Instead, it will pause, assess, and make a decision based on what it has learned. This not only reduces stress for the horse but also deepens trust between horse and rider.

Horses are not robots, but so often they are treated as such —they are intelligent, thinking beings. By shifting our approach from control to communication, we give them the freedom to take responsibility for themselves. The result? A calm, engaged, and truly connected partner who won't ditch you when encountering new or scary things (like planes 🤣).

17/03/2025

I frequently work with clients who feel that because they follow a gentler approach, they can't set firm boundaries with their horses. This simply isn't true—and it isn't safe either. Horses are large animals, and a lack of clear training can lead to accidents.

I'm a huge advocate for using the softest, lightest approach possible. This works well for horses with a solid foundation or those that are naturally sharp or fearful. But what about horses that haven't been taught boundaries? The ones that drag us toward a clump of grass, barge into us when being led, or jump on us when scared? (I'll be posting soon about self-management for horses like this!) In these cases, the boundary needs to be clear and effective.

If a horse has always been allowed to drag you across the yard to greet a field mate, it's not being "naughty"—it's simply a gap in training somewhere along the way. The boundary needs to be firm enough to be understood but not so abrupt that it overwhelms the horse. You alone decide what behaviors you're comfortable with, but consistency is crucial—horses don’t always grasp the contextual differences that humans do.

Consistency is key. It's one of the biggest factors I focus on when working with horses that exhibit problem behaviors, have picked up bad habits, or need reassurance and confidence 🌱

13/03/2025

Competition Isn't the Only Measure of Success

I've had a lot of conversations recently with clients who don’t have competitive goals or feel like they’re failing because they aren’t competing. But that simply isn’t true. Your goals are yours to define—they shouldn’t be based on what others see as a measure of success.

If you want to compete, that’s amazing, and I’m here to support you. But if you don’t, that’s okay too. Your horse isn’t "wasted" just because they aren’t out winning rosettes. They’re a horse—their primary need is to feel safe and secure.

I enjoy competing, but many of my personal goals with my own horses have nothing to do with competition. The real measure of success is how you and your horse feel—calmness, confidence, and connection always win. What you choose to do with that foundation is up to you.

I don't take my little rescue gypsy cob out competing...for me, success with her is having taught her all her lateral work and a Spanish walk to rival any Iberian horse despite a tricky start in life and her not being a typical dressage pony! 🫶

11/03/2025

An incredibly eloquent way of putting this point across from Emotional Horsemanship by Lockie Phillips. If you don't already, I would very much recommend following Lockie's page 🥰

In your effort to teach your horse that they have freedom to come and go, be careful you do not teach them to go, as a default.

It is very easy, to train a horse to Say No.

It is hard to earn a horses Yes.

Piggy backing on the most recent post about showing up for horses in our ability to allow them to disagree, I wish to add a very important element of nuance here. A nuance I think many modern horse people, almost wholesale, trip up on and have no idea.

Every single new thing we encounter causes discomfort. Discomfort is not distress. So if the term discomfort makes you distressed, I would like to gently affirm, that your understanding of discomfort may require some reflection and growth.

Present a horse a new thing. Something they have never seen before or done before. A horse who is confident in their handler will likely approach the new thing, while also being wary of the new thing. This is discomfort.

Discomfort is DRASTICALLY important to the brain. Without it, the brain actually atrophies. Discomfort is when the brain exits their comfort zone (things the brain knows and is familiar with) and begins to quickly lay down new connections. Like pouring concrete to make strong foundations. The more regular the neurological discomfort, the stronger the brain builds its wiring. You actually get smarter.

This comes up in horse training anytime we show a horse a new skill.

Let's take the mounting block for example. I am a big believer in raising green and inexperienced horses around trained horses. So that they can watch their buddies sidle up to a mounting block without drama or concern, and receive a rider, (of course if riding is appropriate). So when that horses turn comes to learn about the mounting block, they at least have seen it done before.

But imagine a horse who has never seen a mounting block, or never seen a horse mounted before. You are essentially introducing a totally alien procedure.

I would like you to imagine you have never seen a car before, or didn't know cars existed. And one day, someone puts you in the drivers seat. You don't have ANY CONCEPT about what comes next.

I want us to remember, that many horses HAVE NO CONCEPT about what is the next step in their training, even when you do.

So, we need to,

1. Introduce each new element in baby steps.
2. Offer plenty of processing time (but not too much, more on that in a moment).
3. Have a solid base the horse is comfortable with, and never hesitate to return to it if discomfort becomes distress.

The problem is, many horses, most horses, will reject new concepts. The more naturally embodied they are, the more likely their first answer- to everything -will be NO.

This is especially true for horses whom their first contact with people was violent.

They will say No to most if not ALL new concepts we introduce as a general rule.

If you take their No, and always say, OK. You teach them that No is the answer. Always. Yes, never becomes a concept. Ever.

And then we tell a story about consent.

Consent means: (Old French- Middle English) Con- together. Sentire- Feel. Together Feel.

So long as the horse is feeling together of and with you, and you are feeling together of and with the horse... proceed.

Horses absolutely will give us a No, often as an invitation to continue with more clarity. Often horses say NO to our trepidation and lack of confidence or our emotional blockages. And because we are not aware, we think they said NO to the task we asked them to try. They are likely willing to try the task, but would like it without second helpings of their handlers emotional projections.

I want people to know that consent in horsemanship is a nuanced field of study with many moving parts and complexities.

And for very good reasons, many of us have muddied the Consent-Based waters with Human-Centric issues of consent. Which are much more cut and dried. No is No. As a survivor myself of SA, I take human-world consent issues very seriously and unambiguously.

But a domestic horse is not a wild horse. They are not free to leave, entirely.

They are held to us for food.
Shelter.
Care.

They are held to us as stewards tasked with answering the on-going questions our horses have about domesticity.

And many elements of living in domesticity require the horses co-operation, even if they do not like doing the thing. This is an uncomfortable truth for many people today. A "Duh!" moment for many others, others who have no issue saying to a horse...

"My love, the decision has been made for you. We have to do this now. Let us feel-together with each other as we get this over and done with please".

The next level of nuance, WHAT is it, that we are asking them to do, is ACTUALLY a necessity?

You get to decide whats a necessity for your case.

And each concept you present to your horse may require different spectrums of consent conversations where differing levels of objection are taken into account. How much objection from the horse would be enough to de-rail the training and bring it to a halt? How much of the horses perceived objection, is not because they don't want to do it or don't like it, rather because they simply do not know it.

Remember: A horse that "Does Not Know The Thing", will behave in almost identical fashion to the horse that "Knows The Thing And Has Declined To Do The Thing".

And the horse in a declination state, can often be stuck there, until a trainer skilled enough in earning trust comes along, and has the confidence and staying power and horse-sense, to actually ask them to try it again, even in spite of themselves. To discover that they actually CAN do it. And DO like it... now. Even if they didn't like it before.

Remember folks, it is not simplistic stuff. Beware of simplistic notions around these subjects, it leads us to dead-end streets with Horsemanship labelled "Kind", when it is actually just a dysfunctional non-starter. Misguided and Idealistic notions from folks at sea on the realities at play.

11/03/2025

I'll be down near Stoke in April & May for some days of groundwork at Emily Watts Equestrian & 3.5 Tonne Self-Drive Horsebox Hire 😊

Everyone welcome, you don't need any prior experience! Please message Emily to book ✨

10/03/2025

New clients Jenny and Blaze doing really well in their first lesson at their new yard together last week! 🩷

07/03/2025

I had a lovely time last week back where my love for classical dressage, and later teaching, began at Pen Llyn Lusitanos. Nearly 20 years ago I had my first lesson with the woman herself, Pen-llyn Lusitanos-Janine Pendlebury Lee , on Litri, an ex bullfighter who is still going at the grand age of 33! Catching up with great friends and a few requests for lessons too which was an absolute pleasure 🥰 felt very honored for Kim Smith and Dalario to trust me to get their first bridless canters, Kim Goss and Buzz with some liberty leg yields and it was a joy to visit Julie and Kieth with Imelda and Marley who I've not seen since they were youngsters 🫶🌱☀️

24/02/2025

When we train our horses through dominance, looking for submission...what does it really mean?

The uncomfortable truth about this kind of training is that it is always based around fear. I spent years being appalled at this type of training and feeling that it was based on ego and dominance alone. Something triggered a thought process recently which reframes it as fear. People that train like this might not even be aware of it but it is an indication of fear and emotional disregulation in the owner to a point where they feel out of control or quite simply, frightened of the horse that they are training. 

What is incredibly difficult is admitting to, feeling and processing this fear. You shouldn't be ashamed if this resonates. You can always change. We are ALL always growing, evolving and changing. 

When we stop learning, stagnate and become resistant to change then we can succumb to having problems involving ego, confidence or fear which can work against us and our relationship with our horse.

Embracing this journey of self growth and realisation on a deeper level can make a huge difference to how you work with your horse and the relationship that you have with them 🌱✨💚

19/02/2025

A little bit of a reintroduction to how I work and what I can support with now we are moving into spring and thinking of new beginnings 🌱

All of my methods follow a horse-first and research led approach. I am here to support the transition towards a kinder way of working with your horse or just helping to de-muddy the water if you don't know where to start. I am also always learning. Every single horse and human combination I work with has something to teach me and I am constantly looking for ways to develop both personally and professionally 🫶

My background is in classical dressage and I pride myself in taking a very broad view, having done courses and CPD in saddle fit, horse & rider biomechanics, equine bodywork, barefoot hoof care, nutrition, NLP, mental health first aid and I also recently completed my reiki Masters level and take a huge interest in healing work, especially with people. I often find that the clients I attract are on their own journey too, which is quite often, consciously or not, why they are looking for a different approach with their horses.

I have also spent time with a vet in Sweden and volunteering with a UK laminitis charity based in France (The Laminitis Site for anyone struggling or that knows anyone struggling, Andrea also taught me a huge amount about diet and how to trim - I have trimmed my own horses for the past 5 years as a result!).

I offer a completely non judgemental approach whatever your background or starting point to helping you and your horse work more cohesively together. I have had clients who have traumatised horses who want to gain trust on the ground while staying safe right through to clients who want to learn to ride tackless and everything in between. I am here to support your journey whatever your goals might be - nothing is too big or, more importantly, too small!

This is the photograph that inspired my logo and the first time I rode my own horse, Luca, completely tackless on a beach ✨🪶

If you are feeling the call please get in contact to have a chat about how we might me able to work together 🥰✨

05/02/2025

I am rubbish at taking progress pictures—but luckily, this client really isn't!

This lovely mare is 23 years old, currently not in ridden work, and has only been doing in-hand exercises between these two pictures. We’ve worked together to find movements that help her stretch and activate the right muscles, and the results speak for themselves! The bottom picture was taken in November and the top picture was taken just over a week ago.

I’m so proud of this pair for keeping up with their exercises, even through all the awful weather we’ve had lately.

These pictures really highlight what can be achieved with non-ridden horses, as well as with youngsters before backing. There’s a common misconception that ridden work is the best way to develop topline and muscle tone—but that just isn’t the case. There are always options for horses that can’t do much under saddle or need gentle rehab before returning to ridden work.

10/01/2025

While the ice can make things tricky I love this weather. It's so pretty and not being able to do so much exercise with my two means I take more time noticing the little things - the robin following Luca as he digs up the grass, the pretty sunrises and the gorgeous ice crystals on the trees.

Embrace the time to be mindful with your horse, why not try teaching your horse to smile, try some simple massage techniques or give them a really thorough groom. We love in a society of always 'doing' and sometimes it is hard to step away from this when we are with our horses but it's so important for both our and their mental well-being 💚✨

07/01/2025

If you are sick of the snow like me… ❄️🐴

Why not make this the year you and your horse try something new? Whether you’re looking to build trust, improve your connection, or add some fun to your training, I’m here to help!

What you can explore with me:

Groundwork to improve manners, flexibility, and focus.

Liberty work to deepen your bond and communication.

Ridden exercises like shoulder-in and leg yield for suppleness and balance.

Tackless riding for those looking to truly connect on a whole new level.

Confidence-building for both horse and rider, so you can tackle challenges together.

My approach is holistic and tailored to each horse and rider, focusing on creating a partnership based on trust, understanding, and mutual respect. No matter where you’re starting from, there’s always something new to learn and enjoy together 🫶🌱

If you feel ready to explore new things, don't hesitate to get in contact. No prior experience necessary and I work with any age and any breed. All horses and owners are able to achieve great things, it's often mindset that can get in our way. Send me a message to book a session or learn more ☺️

19/12/2024

Wishing all my wonderful clients and their horses a fabulous Christmas!

I am grateful to each and every one of you for the trust and opportunity to work with you and your unicorns to progress towards your goals while building a better relationship 🦄

2025 is set to be a very exciting year, stay tuned as I am going to try to post a little more in the way of training videos, hints, tips and also have some very exciting plans in the pipeline...🎉

📷 By

25/11/2024

I now have very limited availability before Christmas (though do have a few sporadic weeknight slots available locally, including for reiki!). I am taking bookings for the new year so please get in contact in advance to book to avoid disappointment as most of my regular slots remain held 🥰 not long until this grey weather starts to turn to spring and the nights get lighter...hang on in there equestrias! ☔🐴

28/10/2024

🐴🌿 Why Shoulder-In and Shoulder-Fore are Fantastic Exercises for Suppleness and Calm 🐴🌿

When it comes to building flexibility, strength and focus in your horse, shoulder-in and shoulder-fore are some of the most powerful exercises you can use, both on the ground and in the saddle. These movements not only enhance suppleness but also have a calming effect on anxious or unfocused horses. A few key benefits include:

1. Improve Suppleness & Flexibility
Research shows that exercises involving lateral flexion, such as shoulder-in, can improve a horse's range of motion, targeting important muscle groups to build suppleness and core strength (De Cocq et al., 2009). Shoulder-in helps develop shoulder flexibility and hip engagement, allowing for greater ease in movement.

2. Builds Core Strength and Balance
Studies by Clayton and Hobbs (2017) highlight that shoulder-in encourages a horse to balance more effectively over its hindquarters, increasing stability. This focus on balance improves the horse’s overall movement and helps to prevent injuries that might arise from uneven weight distribution.

3. Creates Calmness Through Engagement
A study on equine behavior and relaxation (Visser et al., 2008) found that horses performing rhythmic, engaged movements like shoulder-in experience a decrease in stress levels. When horses focus on these movements, they become more centered and responsive, reducing anxiety and increasing their connection with the rider or handler.

4. Sharpens Focus & Mental Engagement
In a 2015 study on training techniques, McGreevy et al. showed that exercises requiring mental and physical coordination help improve a horse’s focus. Shoulder-fore encourages them to concentrate, which can calm an easily distracted horse and improve their responsiveness to cues.

Incorporating shoulder-in and shoulder-fore into your routine, whether in-hand or under saddle, is not only beneficial for your horse’s physical development but is also an excellent tool for building calmness and focus. (Refs in comments)



Refer

14/10/2024

🌿💪 Supporting Suppleness & Strength Through In-Hand Lateral Work 💪🌿

🐴 Want to help your horse build strength, balance, and flexibility while deepening your connection? In-hand lateral work is a powerful tool for both physical and mental development! It's also great for older horses that may be stepping down from as much ridden work but would benefit from being kept supple.

🫶 How I can help:

🎯 Precision & Technique: I’ll guide you through proper techniques for lateral movements like shoulder-in, leg yield, and haunches-in—helping your horse become more supple and engaged.

🌱 Building Strength: These movements encourage your horse to use their core muscles, improving balance and overall strength without the pressure of a rider.

🧠 Mind-Body Connection: Lateral work helps your horse become more aware of their body, leading to better coordination and responsiveness.

🔄 Flexibility & Suppleness: Through careful guidance, we’ll work on improving your horse’s range of motion and flexibility, helping them move more freely and comfortably.

💖 Bonding Through Groundwork: In-hand work offers a great opportunity to bond and communicate with your horse from the ground, strengthening trust and connection.

🌟 Let’s work together to enhance your horse’s athleticism while deepening your partnership!

03/10/2024

✨🌿 Energy & Intention Matter 🌿✨

💫 Did you know your horse feels your energy long before you even touch them?

⚡️ Energy speaks volumes, whether you're calm or stressed, your horse picks up on it. They mirror our emotions and moods.

🎯 Set clear intentions. When working with your horse, approach them with calmness, confidence, and purpose. They can sense if you’re scattered or focused.

💖 Connection over control. Horses respond best when we’re present and intentional, not just physically but emotionally too.

🌱 Cultivate positive energy. Before approaching your horse, take a moment to center yourself, align your energy, and be in the moment with them.

⚖️ Remember, what you bring into the relationship is just as important as what you ask for.