Too cold/wet/snowy to ride? Callie Rae King shares some ideas for getting a leg up on spring without stepping foot in a stirrup.
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#HOW TO
Talk to your horse with images
You know when your horse looks at you, and you just know they're trying to say something? What if you could learn to figure them out? According to Heather Bristol, a Florida-based hunter/jumper trainer and animal communicator, you can. (more…)
#TBT: How to Stay on Your Barn Owner’s Nice List
All the boarders out there–are you on the naughty or nice list this year? (more…)
7 Ways to Get Your Parents to Buy You a Pony for Christmas
Disclaimer: Horse Nation is not liable for the severe grounding that may or may not result from following these tips.
Collection Demystified, Part II
Biz Stamm shares some exercises designed to help your horse shift its center of gravity backwards, thus lightening the front end. (more…)
3 Holiday Horse Treats for the Cooking-Challenged
Because let’s face it — horses don’t care if their holiday treats look Betty Crocker perfect. (more…)
5 Things Your Riding Instructor Wishes You Knew
Ever wondered what your instructor REALLY wishes you would do in lessons? (Aside from moving your leg one way and your hip another way and your elbows another way… at once?) (more…)
Training: How to get on a young horse for the first time
Lila Gendal shares some strategies for making that first under-saddle experience a safe and positive one. (more…)
How to Defeat Barn Drama in 6 Easy(ish) Steps
Danger. Talent. Competition. No, it's not a new reality TV show, just your average day at the barn. (more…)
How to Handle the Unexpected
When everything’s going well, it feels like the sun is shining and the birds are singing and all is right with the world. But when things go wrong… Lila Gendal shares some advice on getting past the rough patches. (more…)
How to Drag Your Significant Other to a Horse Show
Things your boyfriend/husband could do instead of accompanying you to a horse show: lay on couch in underpants, watch football, eat Cheetos, etc. Lila Gendal gives the hard sell. (more…)
10 Quarter Marks Plus a Smartpak How-To!
Want your horse to channel his or her inner My Little Pony? Quarter marks are a classy way to do it! (more…)
5 Steps to Recovery After You Make a Complete Fool of Yourself
Ever had one of those rides where your horse makes SURE you don’t get too big for your britches? We’ve all been there–so here are some handy tips. (more…)
How Well Do You Handle Criticism?
If your answer is “not well,” riding lessons may be an exercise in exasperation. Lila Gendal shares some tips for getting over yourself. (more…)
Horseflies: Why they’re the worst and what you can do about it
Why do their bites hurt so bad? Why won’t they just die when you smack the crap out of them? Today we answer your most burning horsefly questions. (more…)
Does Your Horse Suffer From ‘Cowphobia’?
To you, it’s just a cow, but to your horse, it’s… I DUNNO, BUT WE GOTTA GET OUTTA HERE AND FAST!!! Lila Gendal explains how to help your horse overcome its bovine fears. (more…)
How to Get Over Ditches (Literally & Figuratively)
Don’t let a little hole in the ground ruin your day. Lila Gendal shares some tips for successfully navigating this common cross-country obstacle. (more…)
How To Keep Your Farrier Happy
If the farrier ain't happy, ain't nobody happy. Lila Gendal explains how to stay on your farrier's good side. (more…)
12 Jumps You Can Paint at Home
Not everyone can afford fancy filler and standards that look straight out of Downton Abbey — but it doesn't cost much to spruce up jumps with an awesome paint job. (more…)
Mental Game: Learn to focus on the positive
Are you constantly smack-talking your own riding? Lila Gendal explains why this is destructive and shares strategies for gaining confidence. (more…)
How to Warm Up At A Show, Part II
Last week Lila Gendal discussed warm-up etiquette and safety. This week she's back to talk strategy. (more…)
How to Warm Up at a Competition
Horse shows are already stressful enough without the added fear that you’re going to feel rushed or get mowed over in the warm-up. Lila Gendal shares some tips for a safe, effective warm-up. (more…)
How to Walk Your Cross-country Course
When you walk your cross-country course, do you have a strategy? Lila Gendal offers some tips for getting the most out of your walk. (more…)
How To: Avoid getting ‘rider’s block’
Do you ever get the feeling that your riding has hit a wall? Jessica Fox offers some tips for busting through. (more…)