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Understanding Horse Behaviour...

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Understanding the psychology of a horse is important in the care and training of the animal.  Horses are prey animals, and therefore react to stimuli such as a fly or unfamiliar object with flight responses, herd dynamics or territorial behaviour. Recognizing these responses is not only critical for safe handling but for creating effective training methods that align with their natural instincts. Body language is the primary method in which communication between a horse and human occurs, as we have the ability to develop a bond over time and utilise the trainability of the horse. By analysing behaviours such as direction of the ears, tension and stance of a horse, we can evaluate their responsiveness and mood, whether they are relaxed, anxious or defensive, meanwhile preventing possible dangerous interactions.  Addressing behavioural challenges su ch as spooking, biting and refusing fences is a complex process. Throughout my experience, I have learned that with the correct knowledge an
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My Personal Experiences...

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From early morning barn chores to competing at international events, the world of horses has been my greatest passion. But the journey isn’t always as glamorous as it seems. In this post, I’ll share some of the highs and lows that have shaped me as both a rider and trainer. There have been many significant moments over the past seven years that remain vivid in my mind throughout my experience. I will always remember the 13-year-old girl who was dragged to the stables by her mum, with my only interests being beauty and school friendships. Reflecting on my upbringing, I am grateful for the exposure this sport has brought me—the discipline, resilience, and confidence I have gained along the way. One of my most vivid memories is competing at the Blair International Horse Trials in 2023 and 2024. I had always dreamt of competing alongside high-level riders and Olympians, and even placing in classes at such a prestigious event was a dream come true. It was definitely a tick off my bucket
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Industry, Controversy & Social Media...

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 The equestrian world is evolving rapidly under the influence of social media. Platforms like Facebook and YouTube are reshaping the sport by providing transaprency and unpredicted visibiliy. Riders, trainers and equestrian brands are now able to reach vast audiences, sharing their journeys, tips, and even sponsorships. However, this rise of equestrian influencers brings its own set of challenges.  The pressure to perform while maintaining authenticity often leads to unrealistic portrayals of the sport, which can blur the line between genuine horsemanship and a curated image. Riders must carefully balance these expectations while staying true to their values. Significantly to those working within the equestrian industry, the feeling of constant pressure and fear remain apparent as brand image and reputation can be destroyed most significantly through negative word of mouth. I have previously worked in a horse riding role and also had the oppurtunity to become a brand ambasssador, howev
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The Bond between a Horse and Rider...

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The relationship between a horse and rider is built on a foundation of trust, respect, and care. Developing this bond takes time, patience and dedication, both in and out of the saddle, but the rewards are immense leading to better performance and a deeper emotional connection. Trust is the cornerstone of any relationship with a horse. Horses are naturally prey animals, meaning they rely on their instincts to assess situations for safety. For a rider to become a trusted partner, they must demonstrate patience and consistency. Groundwork, such as leading exercises and desensitization, can help establish mutual respect. Positive reinforcement is important as rewarding good behaviour with praise or treats will reinforce trust and positivity, build a lasting bond. From personal experience, I feel the time spent with my horse outside of riding is just as important. Feeding, grooming and stable management offer opportunities to strengthen our bond. Regular care also builds familiarity and m
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Challenges of Equestrian Life...

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Equestrian sport blends talent, athleticism and a deep bond between the horse and rider. However, this journey can be filled with various challenges along the way such as injuries, health setbacks and sometimes emergencies. Riders often face a range of injuries throughout their journey, particularly riding falls being the most common. Statistics show a significant percentage of riders will experience a fall at least once leading to injuries like fractures and muscle strains. I've had my personal share of countless tumbles; one resulted in a broken collarbone, teaching me the importance of rehabilitation and patience. To prevent injuries, it is important to prioritise strength training and understanding behaviours, focusing on core stability and confidence. Horses also face health challenges. Colic, lameness and respiratory issues are common amongst horses. Recognizing early signs, such as unbalancedness or coughing, can be crucial. I have faced a few scares when a horse has sho
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