Equine Psychology Lessons and Groundwork Sessions

The more we learn about horses and how they think, behave and learn, the better horsemen we become. Horses are sensitive, expressive animals. A 'naughty' horse is actually communicating with us. It may be saying 'something hurts', 'I think I'm the leader, I'm not sure you know what you're doing...', 'I'm scared', 'I've got very high energy levels today' or simply 'I don't want to do that today'...Whatever it is telling us, we need to listen and respond. After treating or ruling out any physical problems, behavioural issues should be addressed calmly, intelligently, consistently and with an understanding of what we are doing and why.

Communication is key.

Often behavioural or ridden problems are due to a simple miscommunication between horse and rider. Understanding how your horse thinks, being consistent in your approach and honing your timing and application of aids (ridden and on the ground) will help you to work together with your horse in an effective and enjoyable way. Equine Psychology Lessons and Groundwork Sessions can help you to achieve this and can be fun ways to spend some time together, strengthening your bond and communication.

Equine psychology lessons and groundwork sessions may be helpful:

  • If after ruling out the physical, you are still experiencing problems either whilst riding or on the ground.
  • Improving rider and handler confidence.
  • Improving communication and understanding between horse and rider.
  • As part of an integrated approach to riding lessons. When horse and rider have learnt something new via groundwork they can take this through to their ridden work more easily.
  • Helping a rider to cope with a 'spooky' or 'bolshy' horse.
  • Improving training results by understanding the principles of equine psychology and behavioural science.
  • Improving handling skills.
  • Improving the partnership of horse and rider.

I am a fully insured, first aid trained and CRB-checked instructor.

Prices

Private tuition is charged at £20 per hour.
As a freelance instructor I teach you on your horse at your yard.

A nominal mileage fee will be applied for locations more than 10 miles from Walmer.