First Do No Harm

In this episode we cover foundational training principles that need to layer on top of each other to describe bend to a horse so that improves their balance on turns and allows you to do tighter turns with more balance and speed. We go into the training theory of it and how that will influence the horses ability to execute the ask or create resistance.

Join us in this episode as we unpack a training problem that came up with one of our students recently with one of our school horses. In this episode we dig into the different elements that I worked through with the student for her to gain the confidence to manage the problem.

Curious about how traditional methods of horse training might affect the welfare of these magnificent animals?

Many riders and trainers, driven by the desire to impress judges and win competitions, often resort to training techniques that prioritize aesthetics over the well-being of the horse.

But what if I told you that these practices could be harming the horses, leading to physical and mental distress? Join us as we delve into the world of equitation science with Andrew McLean to explore how modern training principles can revolutionize the way we interact with and train horses for the better.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL LEARN:

👉 The detrimental effects of traditional training methods on horse welfare

👉 The importance of prioritizing soundness and comfort over aesthetic preferences

👉 How equitation science principles can improve the training process for both horses and riders

👉 Practical strategies for implementing ethical and effective training techniques

Join us on this enlightening journey as we uncover the secrets to building a stronger, healthier bond between humans and horses.

Connect with Andrew:

Ever wondered about the secrets behind successful horse training?

If you've ever found yourself frustrated by your horse's seeming inability to grasp certain concepts or behaviors, you're not alone.

In today's episode, we're joined by Andrew, an esteemed equestrian trainer with years of experience in understanding and harnessing the power of equine memory and learning. Andrew will shed light on the intricacies of associative learning in horses and provide valuable insights into optimizing your training techniques for maximum effectiveness.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL LEARN:

👉 How context-specific memory influences horse training and why it's essential to consider when working with equines.

👉 Practical strategies for recognizing and managing stress responses in horses to foster a positive learning environment.

👉 The importance of foundational training in establishing clear communication and building trust between rider and horse.

👉 Insights into the neurological processes behind long-term memory formation in equines and its implications for training methodologies.

Prepare to embark on a journey of discovery as we uncover the keys to unlocking your horse's full learning potential with the guidance of our expert guest, Andrew.

Connect with Andrew:

Have you ever wondered why some horse training methods seem to work like magic while others leave you feeling frustrated and confused?

If you're struggling to understand the intricacies of horse training or find yourself facing a lot of fear and experiencing a lot of injuries in your interactions with horses, you're not alone. Many equestrians face these challenges and wonder if there's a better way.

But what if I told you there's a proven approach to horse training that prioritizes safety, effectiveness, and animal welfare? Imagine being able to work with horses confidently, knowing that you're not only achieving your goals but also fostering a deeper connection with your equine partners.

In this episode, we're honored to have Andrew, a highly respected equestrian, trainer, instructor and researcher, join us. With his wealth of experience in comprehending and utilizing the memory and learning capabilities of horses, Andrew will explore the complexities of associative learning in equines and offer invaluable tips for refining your training methods to achieve optimal results.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL LEARN:

👉 The fundamental principles of modern horse training that prioritize safety and welfare.

👉 How horses excel in associative learning and how you can leverage it to your advantage.

👉 The importance of timing and consistency in training, and how it impacts your horse's understanding.

👉 Why understanding compound aids and signals is crucial for effective communication with your horse.

Connect with Andrew:

Join us in this episode as we go through some of the things I am looking at with the horses to gauge their happy, willing participation in their work.

In this episode we go into a question we had recently with one of our students horses having resistance to mounting. In this episode I will share with you the experiences that I have had with problems with mounting and a couple of things I had to learn to have a horse that invited me in to the saddle.

Join up with us (lol see what I did there ;)) in this episode where I share my experiences with using join up. I introduced join up to my breaking process and while we can have it as a handy tool up our sleeve it can leave a nasty mark on our horses when not implemented with compassion.

In this episode I share how a stallion picked me up by the throat and threw me to the ground while doing join up and it made me start to question everything I was doing.

Ever wondered why horses seem to reflect our inner struggles so accurately?

Are you finding yourself frustrated with your horse's behavior, only to realize the root cause lies within you?

Discover how facing your internal conflicts can revolutionize your approach to horse training and foster deeper connections with your equine companions.

Today, we are honored to have Kate, a seasoned horse trainer and founder of Smiling Horse LLC, joining us. With years of experience in the field, Kate brings a wealth of knowledge and insight into the profound connections between horse training and personal growth. Her dedication to fostering understanding and compassion in equine relationships has earned her widespread acclaim in the equestrian community.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL LEARN:

👉 The profound connection between horse training and facing our own truths.

👉 Why horses often mirror our internal conflicts back to us.

👉 The importance of emotional maturity and ego management in equine relationships.

👉 How proper management and understanding of horse welfare can enhance training outcomes.

👉 Sage wisdom for both horse trainers and individuals seeking personal growth.

Join us on this transformative journey of self-discovery through the eyes of our equine partners.

Find out more about Katie and her work on her:

Have you ever wondered why some riders seem to effortlessly connect with their horses, while others struggle with communication and control?

If you've experienced frustration in your riding journey, feeling stuck, or relying solely on mechanical aids like bits to control your horse, you're not alone. Many riders face challenges in developing a true connection with their equine partners.

But what if the key to successful horsemanship lies in understanding the horse's perspective, fostering a genuine connection, and addressing the internal struggles within ourselves as riders? In today's episode, Kate McGauly from Smiling Horse LLC shares valuable insights on developing a consent-based, willing partnership with your horse and how to overcome common pitfalls in riding schools and training methods.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL LEARN:

👉 The importance of approaching horsemanship from a consent-based perspective.

👉 How rushing through the development process can hinder your progress.

👉 The impact of focusing on control rather than connection in horse training.

👉 The significance of facing internal struggles and trauma for effective horsemanship.

Join us on this journey as we explore the profound connection between horse and rider, unlocking the secrets to true partnership and transformative horsemanship.

Find out more about Katie and her work on her:

Ever wondered how you can address pain-related behavior in your horse without resorting to forceful methods?

Are you unintentionally pushing your horse through pain-related behaviors without realizing the long-term consequences?

In today's episode, Katie from Equestrian Movement dives deep into a conversation with Kate McGauly, a PEMF Certified Trained Practitioner, shedding light on the often-overlooked world of Pulse Electromagnetic Field (PEMF) therapy for horses. Discover how PEMF therapy can be a game-changer, addressing pain, discomfort, and promoting overall well-being in your equine companion.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL LEARN:

👉 The powerful benefits of PEMF therapy for horses, from reducing pain and inflammation to addressing ulcers and promoting natural recovery.

👉 How trauma and pain can affect a horse's behavior and the importance of recognizing individual needs.

👉 The delicate balance between positive reinforcement and traditional training methods, especially when dealing with horses that have experienced trauma.

👉 The significance of being your horse's advocate and navigating the minefield of opinions and treatments within the equine industry.

Tune in to gain valuable insights into holistic horse care, learn about Kate McGauly’s experiences with PEMF therapy, and discover effective approaches to build trust and confidence in your horse. Don't miss out – your equine companion deserves the best care possible.

Find out more about Katie and her work on her:

Respect has become a bit of a dirty word in the industry. In this episode I talk about how we perceive the word respect and plot twist, it doesn't mean submission based, dominance and power over training! Oh the shock horror of it all!!

Check out this episode for where I see respect most commonly misinterpreted as submission based power over training.

Are you reacting or responding to your horse? Are you giving your horse the space they need to process their internal experience of you, their environment and their training? As we learn more about the brain and the nervous system we can start to understand that even though we are doing everything "right" in training, because we are working with a living, emotive being, how we are in relationship to each other plays a critical role to our success with our horse.

Some things are physical skills required to develop: balance, coordination, cuing of aids and application of the body in movement. And some of the things are who we are and who our horse is in relationship to us. We could do a physical skill perfectly and our horse can choose to say no. We can fudge and muddle our way through the application of an ask and our horse can say yes.

Timing is about knowing when to ask. When is the nervous system up and receptive to the ask. And when to back off. The nervous system has blocked us out or deemed us as a threat and the horse needs space to process and navigate this internal response to us.

School starts this week and I am sharing what considerations come in to play bringing the horses back into work after a 5 week holiday. Want support with conditioning your horse? Email me on katie@equestrianmovement.com

Being the most adult adult in the room can mean that the nervous system state we take in to our training session with our horses is not the most conducive to connection and a positive training experience. Body awareness for tension holding is a key skill for communicating to our horses it is safe to relax. However, it is not always a comfortable experience! Especially when we have a lot of stress and responsibilities.

If this brings anything up for you you might want to see a psychologist.

In our holistic horse handling program, relaxation and who we are being in relationship to our horses are foundational to training and where we start from.

Ready to become a holistic horse rider? Check out our free webinar: say yes to a happy, willing horse.

Have you ever felt disconnected from reality, stuck in limiting beliefs, or struggled to rewire your nervous system?

In this episode, we explore a personal journey of navigating belief systems, nervous system rewiring, and the profound impact it can have on personal and professional growth.

Melissa shares a pivotal experience in her early 20s, realizing that her beliefs didn't align with reality, leading to a challenging period of self-discovery. The absence of guidance made the journey harder, emphasizing the struggle of rewiring the nervous system without support.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL LEARN:

👉 The power of reframing limiting beliefs and rewiring the nervous system for personal and professional growth.

👉 The impact of early experiences on belief systems and the importance of addressing them for a fulfilling life.

👉 The role of horses in understanding and regulating the vagus nerve, offering insights into the speaker's personal journey with equine therapy.

👉 The connection between neural pathways, muscle conditioning, and the importance of taking time to build a strong foundation in horse riding.

In this insightful episode, we've explored the transformative journey of rewiring the nervous system, finding solace in equine therapy, and the profound impact horses can have on our well-being. Remember, the key lies in embracing discomfort, feeling the emotions, and allowing the nervous system to shift. 

LET’S CONNECT!

Ever wondered how the magic between horses and humans in therapeutic settings unfolds? How can our emotional states impact a horse's movement and, in turn, influence the well-being of both?

Often, we overlook the profound connection between our emotional states and the movements of horses, especially in therapeutic settings. Horses are intuitive beings, but our lack of awareness or misinterpretation can lead to missed opportunities for healing and growth.

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of hippotherapy and equine-assisted activities with Melissa Jean, PT, a seasoned professional with 19 years of experience. Discover how horses can be powerful agents of change for individuals with various needs and how our emotional states play a crucial role in the success of these therapeutic interactions.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL LEARN:

👉 The transformative power of hippotherapy in enhancing physical, emotional, and mental well-being.

👉 The importance of emotional coherence between humans and horses for successful therapeutic outcomes.

👉 Strategies for maintaining equine welfare while providing therapeutic services.

👉 The surprising capabilities of Arabian horses in therapeutic settings and the significance of building a strong rapport with them.

Get ready to explore the intricate dance between humans and horses in the realm of therapy and discover the untapped potential for healing and connection. Melissa's insights will leave you with a new appreciation for the profound impact our emotional states can have on these magnificent creatures. Tune in for a journey into the heart of equine-assisted therapy.

LET’S CONNECT!

You likely hear a lot about how personal development is part of being an equestrian and how amazing equine therapy is. If you've listened to a lot of our catalogue of podcasts you will hear how we inevitably end up on a personal development topic. In this episode I will share how I see it relates to being an equestrian. If this brings anything up for you, please make sure to reach out to a professional for support

Books I'm enjoying and that are influencing my training at the moment:

Sensitising your horse to your aids is foundational to an easy ride that flows. Check out this episode for some tips and tricks on how to improve your horses responsitivity to aids.

Acceptance of contact and submission to the bit are not the same thing. Check out this episode where we tease apart the differences that allow the horse to move more functionally to build long term soundness.

How can we improve our communication with horses and develop a deeper understanding of their movement and behavior?

Many riders overlook the importance of mastering the walk and fail to recognize their own imbalances and limitations, which can significantly impact their horse's performance and well-being.

By focusing on mastering the walk, understanding the horse's body language, and acknowledging our own physical limitations, we can establish a more effective and harmonious partnership with our equine companions.

In this episode, Ainsley sheds light on a fundamental yet often overlooked aspect of horse riding: the art of mastering the walk. Our conversation delves into the intricacies of equine communication, emphasizing the critical role the walk plays in building a strong foundation for both the horse and the rider.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL LEARN:

👉The significance of mastering the walk in horse riding and training.

👉How imbalances and limitations in the rider's body affect the horse's movement.

👉The importance of recognizing and addressing imbalances for both rider and horse.

👉Strategies for improving communication and developing a deeper connection with horses.

Join us in our commitment to becoming better listeners, both to our horses and to our own bodies. By embracing the transformative power of the walk, we pave the way for a fulfilling and respectful partnership with these magnificent animals.

LET’S CONNECT!

Have you ever wondered if the traditional training methods we use with horses are really as effective as they seem, or are we missing something crucial?

Many horse owners and riders often resort to forceful training techniques and equipment, believing they are helping their horses improve. However, these methods might be causing more harm than good, leading to behavioral issues, injuries, and long-term discomfort for the horse.

In this episode, we dive deep into the misconceptions surrounding horse training. We explore the common mistakes horse enthusiasts make, like using draw reins and other restrictive aids, believing they are enhancing the horse's performance. We unravel the truth behind these practices and offer alternative approaches that prioritize the horse's well-being, understanding, and partnership.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL LEARN:

👉 The hidden consequences of forceful training methods and restrictive aids on horses' physical and mental well-being.

👉 How to recognize signs of discomfort and pain in your horse, preventing potential injuries and behavioral issues.

👉 Alternative training approaches that focus on communication, trust, and mutual respect, leading to a harmonious partnership with your equine companion.

👉 Practical tips for assessing your horse's individual needs, tailoring your training methods to ensure their comfort and willingness to work with you.

Join us as we challenge the conventional wisdom surrounding horse training, empowering you to create a positive, respectful, and effective relationship with your horse. It's time to reshape our approach and prioritize the well-being of our equine partners.

LET’S CONNECT!

Have you ever wondered why your horse exhibits certain behaviors, even after addressing their physical issues?

Many horse owners struggle with understanding their horse's behavior beyond physical symptoms. Ignoring these signs can lead to persistent problems and a lack of progress in their training and overall well-being.

It can be frustrating when you've tried various treatments and therapies, yet your horse continues to show signs of discomfort, resistance, or behavioral issues. The missing piece of the puzzle often lies in addressing the psychological aspects of their behavior. By recognizing and working on these aspects, you can create a more harmonious relationship with your horse and unlock their true potential.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL LEARN:

👉 Understanding the importance of addressing both physical and psychological aspects of your horse's behavior.

👉 Practical techniques to identify and decode your horse's behavior to enhance your training methods.

👉 Strategies for building trust and confidence in your horse, leading to improved behavior and performance.

👉 Real-life examples and expert insights to help you navigate common behavioral challenges in horses.

Join us in this episode as we delve into the intricate world of equine behavior, unraveling the mystery behind your horse's actions and emotions. By gaining a deeper understanding, you can forge a stronger bond with your equine companion and pave the way for a more fulfilling partnership.

LET’S CONNECT!

Our biggest take-home lesson for 2023.

We are getting to that time of the year when schooling is about to wrap up, and the ponies at the Equestrian Spirit School of Holistic Riding are about to go on a well deserved vacation. Which of course has me mulling, “where did the year go, what did we do well, and what can we do better next year”.

And not just for my horses, but for you as well! So in this episode of the First Do No Harm Podcast, I share some of my favourite trainings and exercises from our podcast guests and how we have used them in the school.

Ready to join the movement? Jump on the link below for our masterclass as we dig in to the elements of working with our horses for emotional resilience.

It can't be denied dominance theory is still going strong in the wider population of horse trainers and coaches under the guise of creating safe horses. It also can't be denied that approach lacks the development of a felt sense of safety for horses and doesn't incorporate the beauty that we see when trust and confidence in relationship is cultivated. Join us on this episode as we cover this topic and how we address it in our school today.

Ready to join the movement? Jump on the link below for our masterclass as we dig in to the elements of working with our horses for emotional resilience.

Join us on this episode as I unpack how learning some lessons can simultaneously improve your skills for working with horses and make horses more antagonised and less cooperative. In this episode I will share a couple of big mistakes I have made in training which you might also be making.

Ready to join the movement? Jump on the link for our masterclass as we dig in to the elements of working with our horses for emotional resilience.

Join us on this episode as I discuss how to work with our horses to make dressage easier.

Ready to join the movement? Jump on the link for our free masterclass as we dig in to the elements of working with our horses for emotional resilience.

Have you ever struggled with understanding and adapting to the unique rhythm of each horse you ride?

Many riders, both beginners and experienced, often overlook the importance of recognizing and working with their horse's individual rhythm.

In this episode, we'll delve into the critical role rhythm plays in your horse's soundness and your riding success. Discover how failing to understand and adapt to your horse's rhythm can lead to discomfort, injury, and stalled progress. We'll also explore practical ways to connect with your horse's rhythm and how this can transform your riding experience.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL LEARN:

👉 The significance of recognizing and adapting to your horse's unique rhythm.

👉 How neglecting your horse's rhythm can affect their soundness and performance.

👉 Practical strategies for connecting with your horse's rhythm and improving your riding.

Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of how rhythm can be your secret weapon in achieving harmony with your horse. Don't miss this insightful episode that can help you become a better, more empathetic rider.

LET’S CONNECT!

How can we truly understand and address the root causes of horse behavior issues?

Many horse owners struggle with behavior problems in their horses, often overlooking the physical aspects that contribute to these issues.

In this episode, we dive deep into the physical and behavioral aspects of horse training with Amy Skinner, an expert in postural and behavioral rehabilitation for horses. Discover the keys to unlocking your horse's potential.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL LEARN:

👉 The common physical problems horses face that lead to behavioral issues.

👉 How proper turnout and socialization can improve a horse's mental and physical well-being.

👉 The importance of stability and balance in horse training.

👉 How rider actions can hinder a horse's response and balance during training.

Don't miss the second part of this enlightening series with Amy Skinner, where we delve further into the world of horse behavior and rehabilitation. Stay tuned for more valuable insights to enhance your relationship with your equine partner.

LET’S CONNECT!

We are in relationship to everything. Whether you believe in it or not doesnt matter. In this episode we discuss training our horses as a holistic approach incorporating their emotional and intellectual response to us and not just their behaviours or did they do the thing we asked or not. 

Respect in regards to working with horses is a loaded topic. Join us in this episode as we unpack how we discuss respect in terms of horse behaviour in our school of holistic horse handling.  

Join us in this podcast as we dig in to willingness and submission and how we implement our holistic horse handling skills in training

Have you lost your nerve or feel scared around your horse? You're not alone. I've been there many times before and I have no doubt I will go there again. In this episode I will share with you multiple times I've lost my nerve with my horse and how I've over come it.

Are you wanting to work on your connection and relationship with your horse? Make sure you've signed up to our stronger bond workshop. 

Why does my horse jack up, get stubborn and refuse to move?

Join me in this episode as I share some of the foundational position work our #HolisticRiders at the school practice for establishing a balanced working canter, and how we impact this with the development of our position. 

A rider's job is to absorb the natural movement of the horse, and to give aids through their seat to control and enhance this movement. The rider's pelvis and hips are the interface between the partnership yet most rider specific exercise programmes seem to only target the abdominals.

Join us in this episode as we dig in to the little and big tweaks that can transform your riding.

A rider's job is to absorb the natural movement of the horse, and to give aids through their seat to control and enhance this movement. The rider's pelvis and hips are the interface between the partnership yet most rider specific exercise programmes seem to only target the abdominals.

Join us in this episode as we dig in to the little and big tweaks that can transform your riding.