Training - Good Horse

Ridden work for building topline

October 21, 2017October 23, 2017 combinationhorsetraining, topline

Building topline is all about exercising the right muscles. Here are a few ridden activities to help your horse’s physical development.

The hanging cheek bit: does it apply poll pressure?

October 21, 2017October 27, 2017 combinationhorsetraining, bits, misconceptions

Hanging cheek bits are sometimes confused with leverage bits. In reality, they relieve poll pressure and can be a good choice for sensitive horses.

Choosing a first horse: Avoiding behavioural problems

August 6, 2017October 20, 2017 combinationhorsetraining, equestrian, horse sports, new horse

Everyone has ideas about what they want their first horse to be like… Prioritise what is most important to set yourself up for a successful partnership.

horse throwing head up in air while galloping at liberty

My horse won’t put his head down. Should I force him?

April 30, 2017October 20, 2017 combinationhorselunging, training, outline, topline

Does your horse do giraffe impersonations and refuse to lower their head? Find out why ‘shortcuts’ to solving this problem can easily backfire.

Help! My horse thinks he’s a giraffe!

April 28, 2017October 23, 2017 combinationhorsetraining, horse sports, outline, dressage

Does your horse go around looking like a giraffe wannabe? Do you struggle to get your horse ‘in an outline’? Find out what we can learn from zebras – and giraffes – to help tackle this very common problem.

Introduction to Evolution – Part 3: How understanding evolution can help your horsemanship

February 23, 2017October 20, 2017 adminhealth, communication, lunging, training

Once you understand evolution you can apply it to many different aspects of horsemanship. Here are some examples, from lunging and stomach ulcers, to getting your horse to go in an ‘outline’.

Cave with umbrella hiding in it with red evil eyes

Loading doesn’t have to be scary

January 21, 2017October 20, 2017 combinationhorsefear, training, treats, empathy

Why don’t horses like loading? Can you do anything about it? How a positive approach can help your horse overcome their fear and learn to love loading.

Two horses looking relaxed wearing bridles with snaffle bits and cavesson nosebands.

Introduction to: Types of Bit

January 21, 2017April 27, 2017 combinationhorsetraining, riding, bits, equipment

There are so many different bits available – how do you choose the right one? Learn the main differences between common bit designs and how they work.

The Three Principles: Empathy, Patience & Persistence

January 20, 2017October 13, 2017 combinationhorsehorse psychology, training

Learn about the three key principles of Combination Horsemanship that come into play time and time again: Empathy, Patience, and Persistence

Introduction to: Lunging

January 16, 2017October 20, 2017 combinationhorselunging, training, exercises

Lunging is a powerful training tool that can be used to work on a variety of behavioural issues as well as preparation for ridden work. Here are the basics.