08/26/2025
We have a lot of new horses here, several whom are rehabs.
It’s a good reminder that horse training goes so much deeper than saddle work; that the mind, body, and understanding also need to be so much of the equation.
That the final “tests “ are just that - the exam to make sure you understand the chapter homework. You must show your step by step work. There must bea systematic process .
There are no shortcuts.
If the mind doesn’t comprehend, harmony cannot be achieved. If the athlete does not have someone looking out for and developing correct biomechanics, not just under saddle but even in preparation or maintenance of that activity, they will not feel or perform their best.
If they are not fueled by appropriate nutrition, have their social or free-movement needs met, or their tack doesn’t feel comfortable, etc, etc, then there can be no true harmony in the work.
All needs must be met. Cross training must exist. Preparing for tests without full understanding of the material will not yield long-term, sustainable success. Eventually, and abruptly, you will hit a brick wall.
At that point, the only choice you have is to go back to basics, go back to the fundamental needs of the horse, start over, and rebuild. — at Willow Ridge - Sport & Performance Horses.
