As the world still reels from the impact of a pandemic and global protests, it would be ignorant of me not to acknowledge that we are in still in unique and difficult times. Our horses are as ever our comfort, therapists, and teachers. Now that some lockdown restrictions have eased, I hope you are all spending more time with your equine family and keeping safe.
In this issue, we have regular author Linda Parelli tell us about the mighty Remmer, and how he taught her the power of motivation with reverse psychology. Ross Cooper talks to us about loading pitfalls and how to avoid them, and Hanna Walton brings us the first part of her young horse series.
We welcome Equi-Ability who talk to us in this issue about the importance of finding zero. Justin Colquhoun is back, reminding us that consistency is the name of the game, and Bev Walton shares her personal journey of how she came to work with horses.
So enjoy, stay safe, and happy trails!
Cover Stories
Regulars
Features
4. LINDA PARELLI
How Remmer taught her the power of reverse psychology
8. JUSTIN COLQUHOUN
How having a good routine can help you and your horse
Horsemanship is an ancient skill that has been passed down through generations for centuries. Horsemanship can be used to describe any equestrian sport and refers to the process of training and caring for horses and riding them. There are many horsemanship principles that you might want to know about to increase your understanding of this fascinating world!
Linda Parellidiscusses what to do when our horses argue with us. In the second of his 3-part series, renowned horseman and our HJ cover star, Jason Webb, talks about how bend is actually your friend, and Hanna Walton is back to explore winter connection with our horses.
This issue has great in-depth reads this issue. If you’re stuck on something in your training, then turn to Philippa Christie's article on page 10 and consider some new techniques. Jason Webb explores the meaning of some of his favourite quotes, starting with ‘Nurture the Natural Instinct’. Ross Cooper considers how the intricacies of fit can affect behaviour, performance and communication.
We are delighted to introduce Anna Blake, her article this issue explores the power of the walk, a largely underutilised gait.
I recognised how much less I hear or take in when I am absorbed in trying to do an exercise with my horse and how much more I understand from observing the exercise repeated, corrected and explained in different ways as students practise and are corrected.
Ever ridden in a western saddle that felt just right? That fit your horse, and you like it was custom made for you?
Chances are, that saddle was made by a professional western saddle maker. These skilled craftsmen create some of the most comfortable, well-fitting saddles for riders of all levels. If you're curious about the process of crafting a custom western saddle, or if you're thinking about commissioning one yourself, read on for more information.
We cannot avoid every nerve on the horse's face, but we can increase our awareness, be mindful of the bridle we select and its placement, and educate ourselves on the correct fit for enhanced comfort. With no consideration of this, the horses' welfare will indeed be compromised.