Mandy Gardner equestrian

31/03/2024

Had an amazing week with some equally amazing clients that have achieved great results, it’s so nice to see people happy again with their horses x

31/03/2024

Let’s talk about the lack of quality coaching and lack of standards in the equine industry. For example, kids learning with someone who claims to be an "coach" and all they learned is how to see-saw a horse's head down and chuck their body over a fence like a champion. All coaching is not equal.

But what happens when you have a good coach? One that opens their program to you, takes you under his/her wing? Becomes invested in your success? When you essentially become part of the "family"...

Eventually, something will happen...

Coach tells you that you are not Karen O'Connor 2.0, and not ready to make the move up to the next level.
Coach says you need to go back and fix some holes in your training.
Coach says you have developed a bad habit, and it needs to be fixed before you can accomplish your goals.
Coach says you need to make sure that your horse is being ridden (not just hanging out at the barn).
Coach says you need to dedicate more time to studying the sport, not just riding.
Coach says it isn't a "horse" problem, it is a "you" problem.

People have become increasingly more reactionary. More easily offended. In lieu of everyone getting a trophy, it is so hard to hear these words from people you admire. Some of the best coaches will be the toughest. Not ones that tear you apart constantly, but coaches that aren't afraid to have the tough conversations with you. Or conversations that you may not have wanted to have.

But remember, a good coach is in YOUR corner. They want YOU to achieve success. They dedicate so much more than an hour of time to your growth not only as a rider but as a horseman. Maybe you are burning the candle at both ends (and in the middle), and you need a reality check that this sport requires more of your time and focus.

These conversations can hurt, but while it may sting at first.... take a second. Think about why your coach is against you moving up right now, why your coach is saying to wait until the summer to be a working student, why your coach is saying that you should not enter the show until the homework and flat work is done.

Surround yourself with coaches that aren't afraid to have these tough conversations with you. You don't want or need a "cheerleader" coach. You are paying you for your coach’s expertise... the positives and the criticism. Let them help make the best decisions for your horse, and for your program. The lessons on the horse and the lessons off of the horse. Are you ready? Are you doing what is best by your horse? You owe it to yourself and your horse....

*** Copied and modified from Courtney Sendak

11/03/2024

Cheeky little ride this morning x

23/02/2024

Great day today, used this exercise twice both ridden and in hand, poles set at 12,3,6 and 9 o’clock, can be ridden or walked on the inside over the centre of the poles or around the outside, we also came down the centre line and did figures of eight through the middle, when circling on the inside it’s great for encouraging more activity of the hind legs

09/02/2024

29/01/2024

This pony is an absolute super star, well ridden Jess you make a great team x

Great day for Gypsy yesterday being thrown massively in the deep end to jump the bluechip sapphire and she qualified. 🥳

Very excited to get more mileage under her belt and now time to train for the final! ❤️❤️
Big thanks to Katy Ewing

L.C.D Equine Bodywork
Brookhurst Risk Solutions
Quantum Bridle
The RUG WORKS
Mandy Gardner equestrian

17/01/2024

Not too cold today, lots of transitions type of day x

15/01/2024

🚨2024 Body Protector Update🚨

A body protector is mandatory in all cross-country competitions/training (where fixed fences are used).
A BETA Level 3 displaying a Blue 2018 Label must be worn where a body protector is mandatory. From 1 Jan 2024, the BETA 2009 Purple Label will no longer be accepted. The ONLY exception to this requirement is that the Exo Body Cages will continue to be accepted, provided they have a BETA Level 3 Purple 2000 Label.
If a rider chooses to wear an airbag style body protector for cross-country it must be worn over a BETA Level 3 2018 Blue Label body protector. Hybrid Air-jackets and air jackets incorporated into a blouson style jacket are permitted.
Where body protectors are not mandatory i.e. dressage/show jumping the rider may wear any level/standard body protector.

05/01/2024

Welcome to my new page!

Many of you will know I am a BHS qualified freelance coach. I offer lessons to children and adults alike but specialise in supporting and building confidence in rusty and nervous riders.

To book call 07866 085153