The Successful Horse & Rider Team: 3 Key Areas of Focus

Depending on what you are trying to accomplish at any given time, it's easy to place all of your focus solely on either you or your horse. Picture this, you are trying to perform a leg yield down the long side of the ring. You can feel that your horse is crooked, and not moving away from your leg with impulsion on two tracks. It feels all wrong so you assume that your horse is just being stubborn. But your trainer has a keen eye and can easily see that the aids you are giving your horse are incorrect and causing your horse to become just as confused as you!

We have all been there, and we know as riders that successful performance relies on effective communication, trust, and cooperation between horse and rider. But that can be easier said than done. It can be hard to focus on the partnership as a team as you wade through all of the information your trainer is telling you about what you are specifically doing wrong!

By making a small mindset shift to view yourself and your horse as true teammates, you will see drastic improvements in your performance. In this blog post, we break down 3 areas of focus to strengthen the team relationship and achieve your best results yet.

1. Trust & Training

Building trust is essential when it comes to building successful horse and rider teams. Horses are extremely sensitive and emotional, and the trust between the two allows for better cooperation and a more enjoyable experience for both. Trust goes far beyond riding. In fact, some of the best activities to build trust between horse and rider happen on the ground. Grooming, liberty work, playtime, treats, and shared experiences together (trail rides, beach rides, grazing, or just hanging out in the paddock together) are considered enrichment activities and can bring the two of you closer than any amount of time spent in the saddle.

Positive reinforcement training methods are as simple as they sound. When the trainee (the horse) does something good, they get a reward. The trainer adds something wonderful to the experience. Through repetition of the behaviour/reward cycle, the horse will learn to link command signals to just about any behaviour. You can easily implement scientifically-backed positive reinforcement techniques to encourage desired behaviours and strengthen the bond between you and your horse. Check out this short blog post on NF from Chelsea Canedy on the topic of positive reinforcement training (or r+). 

Consistency in care, training, and interactions fosters a sense of security and reliability.You can implement stress reduction techniques, such as controlled breathing exercises and calming signals, to create a relaxed environment and minimise stress for both you and your horse.

Remember, each horse is unique, and applying these scientific principles in a personalised manner can contribute to a stronger and more harmonious partnership with your equine teammate. The bond between a horse and rider is special and incredibly rewarding - but it has to go both ways. At Illuminate Equine, we believe it’s critical to look beyond the technical aspects of riding to form a deep connection built on mutual respect and understanding.

If you are looking for a customised plan to train your horse and build a solid foundation of trust, our team specialises in Equine Biomechanics and Behaviour. By working with the Illuminate Team, you will have access to deep knowledge and years of experience in this field.

2. Physical Fitness

Obviously both you and your horse will benefit from being physically fit, however as riders we tend to focus most of our energy on our horse’s conditioning and neglect our own. Fitness contributes to improved performance, reduces the risk of injury, and enhances the overall well-being of both partners in the team. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and proper care are essential components of maintaining physical fitness for both partners. There has recently been an influx in research and resources available to assist riders in achieving optimal performance out of the saddle that translates into increased strength in the saddle. Check out Natalie Alexander at NMA fitness (@nmariderfitness on Instagram)- she creates tailored programs for riders across all disciplines no matter what your area of focus is.

3. Understand Horse Behavior

Learn about the science of horse behaviour to better comprehend your horse's instincts, communication signals, and social structure. In recent years, research on equine behaviour and intelligence has uncovered some very interesting insights, such as horses have excellent memories, learn by association, and have very well-developed emotions (to name a few). There is a wealth of knowledge available to you if you are interested in learning more about Equine Behavior, drop us a line and we’d be happy to share our favourite resources.

About Us

Combining expertise in rider psychology, equine learning and behaviour, and equine biomechanics, our work is tailored to you and your horse’s unique needs and is designed to illuminate your potential and optimize your process as a team. ​We specialize in helping horse and rider teams break through mental barriers, build strength and confidence, and perform at their very best. We offer clinics and seminars all over the world, virtual consulting, and in-person intensive training sessions.

Check out our new website and blog, and follow along our journey on Instagram @IlluminateEquine. On our page, we will be offering tips, tricks, inspiration, events and workshop dates and registration links, and helpful resources. 

If you’re interested in how we can work together, drop us a line here. We also offer a free 30 minute consultation!

-Emma & Annika