What to Expect
What can you expect from a lesson with me? That is an
excellent question, and I will try and answer it here.
What you can expect form me is someone that will listen to
you. I believe learning happens in the dialogue, not the
soliloquy. I want to hear from you about what you think, what you
are feeling, if you have clarity on what I am talking about or
not. I am interested in your process, not just mine.
If you read or hear something in conflict to what I am teaching, ask
me about it! I am always interested in new ideas, or I can tell
you why I don't use that technique or idea. I encourage my
students to look at other ideas, try other trainers, go to clinics and
read, read, read! It is through this exploration that critical
thinking is developed, and a greater understanding of the essence of
horse is developed.
Riding isn't merely a collection of techniques, it is driven by core
principals that guide us in our choices. Since the horse is a
sentient being, he is capable of new and unique behavior that may not
have been covered in your last lesson. It is through these core
principals that a systematic approach is formed, giving consistency in
the face of the novel behavior.
I fundamentally believe in teaching both the horse and the
rider. Lots of equipment is not part of my program. I like
a fairly stiff rope halter, a yacht braid lead, and a snaffle bridle
(French link for most horses). A well fitting saddle of any type
the rider likes is fine. Western, English, dressage, hunt seat,
aside, it doesn't matter, the core principals are the same for all.
Ultimately, I believe that clarity in the mind of both the horse and
the rider leads to the partnership we all want with our horses.
