Learning to Go Crooked Before Going Straight

One of the fundamental concepts in riding is achieving straightness and balance, both for the horse and the rider. Hosts Lauren Abbott, Publisher of The Horse Review and Robyn Miller, Trainer and Owner of Conceptual Horsemanship, discuss how this doesn't come easily. "What many riders don't understand is that you and your horse have to go a little crooked before you can truly go straight."

What does this mean? Every horse and rider has natural imbalances. A horse might naturally carry more weight on one side or struggle to bend equally both ways. Riders, too, often have asymmetries in their posture or strength. Tackling these imbalances means first acknowledging them and allowing some unevenness while working toward improvement.

"Straightness doesn't mean your horse has to move like a ruler or look perfect from day one. It means finding out where the imbalances lie (in horse and rider), and gradually creating symmetry through patient, consistent work."

Listen to this episode of Training Tips Tuesday, and kick off the New Year with foundations that will help you and your horse achieve balance and success in the New Year!