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7 Things We Learned from Gerd

5/25/2014

Dr. Gerd Heuschmann photobombs 22 year old Rhia. He loved this mare, and I think the feeling was mutual. Photo credit: Sara Yacoub, Myrewyn Equestrian.

Recently we attended a biomechanics clinic with Dr. Gerd Heuschmann at Rider's Edge Farm in Redmond, WA. We were fortunate to land two riding spots and took two of our full-time training horses, Rhia, a 22 year old Hanoverian mare, and Rosa, a 17 year old Hanoverian mare. While both mares did fabulously and we received lots of positive feedback, each mare offered a very different feel and learning opportunity. The changes were incredible, and everyone learned a ton. Here are my top seven takeaways from Gerd:

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7 top trail riding tips

4/24/2014

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As the weather warms up, many of us head outdoors and hit the trails as a welcome respite from the long winter of indoor riding. Regardless of discipline, trail riding offers a great cross-training opportunity for you and your horse. Here are seven trail tips to make sure you have a safe and enjoyable trail season!

Before you set out to enjoy a relaxing trail ride, make sure both you and your horse have mastered control at all gaits. You should be practicing your one-rein stops and yielding those hind quarters, as well as directing those feet with softness and accuracy.
Remember to always keep one horse length between horses. You should try to always be aware of other riders, watch your horse's expression as well as the expression of your trail buddies and respect each others personal space.
If you are riding with a group of different level riders, be sure to have an experienced rider in the lead and another at the end.
In case someone makes an unscheduled dismount, carry a cell phone on your body, rather than in a saddlebag, and make sure you have your ID with you with any important medical info. We recommend an arm band with blood type, emergency contact, and any allergies. Attach an ID tag somewhere on your horse's gear or mane as well.
Wear a helmet. Every time - every ride. For added sun protection wear one that has an extended visor.
If your ride should catch you out at dusk or dark - reflective tack and clothing is a must. Remember to wear dayglo orange in hunting territory.
To keep trails open and safe for all riders, be a good equestrian ambassador by sharing the trail and showing courtesy to hikers, bikers and others!

Enjoying a trail ride with your horse will mentally stimulate and emotionally refresh you, and you'll become a more balanced and confident team as you negotiate varied terrain and obstacles.

Happy trails!

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Goodbye Natural Horse Savvy. Hello Seven Hills Training!

4/12/2014

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For the last 10 years, I have operated my lesson and training business under the name of Natural Horse Savvy. Over the past several years, I have worked to learn and grow as a rider, instructor, and trainer. With the recent expansion of my training business to Monroe, it’s become apparent that I have reached the next stage in my evolution as a trainer and instructor. I'm excited to announce that as of today, I’m formally transitioning our brand, our services, our company name, and all of our efforts to Seven Hills Training.

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7 Things We Learned from Gerd

7 top trail riding tips

Goodbye Natural Horse Savvy. Hello Seven Hills Training!

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