As riders, we don’t get to choose the weather but we can choose how we prepare for it. Coaching outdoors means I’ve tested plenty of waterproofs, and I’ve found that Reincoat cons...
The bell will ring and soon you’ll be riding down the centre line.
Before you think about the judge or the movements ahead, think about how your horse is feeling.
Begin with your...
You finish your test and turn to the collective marks at the bottom of the sheet.
Your judge has given you a 6 — satisfactory — for impulsion.
What separated that 6 from a 7 — fa...
“Needs to be more through.”
It’s the kind of comment you might find on a dressage test sheet.
You may have an idea of what a more through horse looks like, but what does through ...
When we ride, the questions often continue after we've left the arena.
How can I help my horse understand?
What shall I do next time I ride?
How can I improve my position?
What...
There is something joyful about a canter that feels balanced and easy.
Perhaps you already know that feeling particularly well on one rein. The transition comes easily, you can ri...
The way you ride can influence how your horse moves and responds.
Rhythm, breathing, posture and the feel of the horse underneath you can tell you a lot. Your horse is responding ...
The way you sit influences the way your horse moves and responds.
Your balance affects your timing, the clarity of your aids and the way your horse is able to use their body.
Thi...
What Does a Rider Need to Know?
What would you like to develop in your schooling?
When we ride, we're always asking questions.
Why did my horse react like that?
What exercise w...
I’m delighted to share that Sarah Gairdner and I will be joining the speaker line-up at BETA International 2025, taking place 28–29 September at NEC Birmingham.
We’re presenting t...
The half-halt is one of those phrases riders hear throughout their training, but it can be surprisingly difficult to explain exactly what we mean by it.
We use a half-halt to prep...
I’ve coached hundreds of riders over the years, and no two sessions are ever quite the same. The horse and rider in front of me shape the conversation.
I may arrive with an exerci...
Author
The Equestrian Heroes Blog | Alison Kenward
From dressage training and rider confidence to competition, coaching, equestrian technology and life with horses, I write about the things that interest me as a rider and coach.
You’ll find exercises to try when you ride, insights into training and way of going, experiences from my life as a rider, and new ways to keep learning between rides.
I also share equestrian products and services that I use and enjoy. Some posts contain affiliate or referral links, which may earn me a commission when you buy through them at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products and brands I’m happy to put my name to.
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A place for riders to learn, think about the moments they share with their horses and explore between rides.
