Riding into the Future
by Lydia Fairchok Fit for Fun by Shya Beth
Autumn 2024
This issue is dedicated to Charlotte Brailey Kneeland
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ARICP Advisory Board
Debi DeTurk Peloso
Denny Emerson
Julie I. Fershtman, Esq.
Charlotte Brailey Kneeland * Founder Gayle Lampe
Sarah Sliva, MD
Linda Tellington-Jones
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5 Charlotte Brailey Kneeland, Founder of Riding Instructor Magazine and American Riding Instructors Association, Has Passed Away
8 Riding into the Future: How Horses Prepare Graduates for Life Beyond the Barn By Lydia Fairchok
15 Pet Peeves in the Saddle: How to Handle Everyday Irritations as a Riding Instructor By Didi Arias
18 Legal focus Common Equine Industry Legal Disputes and Ideas for Avoiding Them by Julie I. Fershtman, Attorney at Law
21 Fit for Fun: Creating an Exercise Plan to get in Shape for the Saddle Written by Shya Beth
23 Sport psychology Bouncing Back: How Athletes Can Overcome Setbacks and Come Back Stronger Laura King CHt, NLP, Life & Performance Coach
26 Business matters Key Considerations for Establishing a Successful Equine Boarding Facility By Karen Cole
28 Cameo’s cauldron JUDGING By Cameo Miller
30 Reflections on a Lifetime of Watching Falls By Jack Marston
The equestrian world mourns the loss of Charlotte Brailey Kneeland, a pioneering force in equestrian education, who passed away on August 26th. Charlotte, best known as the founder of Riding Instructor magazine and the American Riding Instructors Association (ARIA), was a passionate advocate for riding instructors and the horse industry. Her influence spanned decades, and her legacy continues to shape the future of equestrian sports.
Charlotte’s love for horses extended far beyond her enjoyment; she was committed to enhancing the quality of riding instruction and horse welfare. Her work with ARIA and the American Riding Instructors Certification Program (ARICP) helped elevate the professionalism of riding instructors, creating standards of excellence in safety, teaching practices, and integrity.
“Charlotte wasn’t just an educator or magazine founder; she was a visionary leader,” said William, Director. “Through her dedication to ARIA and the certification programs, she changed the lives of countless instructors and, in turn, countless students. Her influence is felt in every corner of the equestrian world, and her legacy will live on for generations.”
With heavy hearts, we share the passing of Charlotte Brailey Kneeland, cherished founder of Riding Instructor magazine and the American Riding Instructors Association. Her vision and passion will continue to guide and inspire us all.
“ Charlotte had an unmatched ability to make everyone feel seen and valued.
Jessica P. ”
Throughout her career, Charlotte built lasting relationships with equestrian greats, including George H. Morris, Denny Emerson, and Sally Swift. Her national conventions became a gathering place for Olympians, industry leaders, and instructors alike, fostering a community of learning and mentorship. Charlotte’s work was recognized with numerous accolades, including the New Jersey Horse Person of the Year and inclusion in Practical Horseman magazine’s
“The PracHorse 100.”
In 2009, Charlotte was awarded the prestigious Equine Industry Vision Award by Pfizer Animal Health and American Horse Publications. This honor recognized her exceptional vision and ingenuity in creating a certification program for riding instructors across the United States. “Her insight to start an organization for riding instructors has helped raise the bar in safety, education, and integrity across all equestrian sports.”
Her tireless dedication and pioneering spirit will live on through the lives she touched and the future generations of riding instructors she inspired.
Tributes for Charlotte
Charlotte had a special gift of empowering others to pursue their dreams. Ten years ago, I contacted her asking about a topic I was interested in seeing covered in Riding Instructor Magazine. I hoped she would know an “expert” who could write about it. To my surprise, Charlotte asked if I would write the piece. What Charlotte didn’t know at the time was that writing has always been one of my passions. I had never written for a publication before, though, so the assignment was just as daunting as it was exciting.
Charlotte’s affirming words about my first article — and her invitation to continue writing for the magazine — was a powerful wind in my sails and a tremendous honor. She gave me the opportunity to see my writing alongside names I have looked up to since adolescence, and helped me believe I had something worthwhile to say. Charlotte continued to be an encouragement for me even after she retired. She always had time to celebrate my successes and ask how my students were doing. Her kind, thoughtful remarks have often prompted me to keep
“ Charlotte’s legacy is not just in what she built, but in the countless lives she touched.
Marina R. ”
writing, keep instructing, and keep investing in people.
In the law enforcement world, when we lay an officer to rest we often say “We’ll take it from here.” This phrase is a symbol of carrying on the mission we once shared. Charlotte contributed so much to the mission of professionalism in riding instruction, the horse industry as a whole, and the individual lives and dreams of those who knew her. Rest easy, Charlotte; we’ll take it from here.
Lydia Fairchok
Charlotte was a friend, an inspiration, a businesswoman, and a catalyst. In 1994, she reached out to me after spotting an article I wrote on Equine Law and invited me to speak at what was then the annual riding instructor convention. She believed in me, even when I was unsure that I was capable of delivering a speech to a large, national convention. Walking into the room each year was awe-inspiring. Olympians attended such as Anne Kursinski and Michael Page, along with industry icons including Sally Swift, Denny Emerson, and Sue Harris. Late in the day, after the seminars ended, attendees typically broke into small discussion groups led by these giants. Charlotte invited me back to speak several more years (you couldn’t say “no” to Charlotte). Her vision and efforts helped elevate professionalism in the industry. She encouraged safe and ethical practices. She encouraged giving back and mentoring. I owe so much to Charlotte – but so does the equine industry.
Julie I. Fershtman
In every generation there are the greats. Those we look up to and try to emulate. They are usually the ones with the spotlight shining on them so that they are easy for all to see. There are also the greats that only a few get to see and recognize. Charlotte
Photo of some of the instructors from 1994 - 1995 American Riding Instructors Convention in Cherry Hill, New Jersey
Kneeland was one of the latter ones. Each of us has our own strengths and gifts. Charlotte’s was to forge and nurture the greatness in the current and the next generation of horse women and men. She did this first with ISSO, which she started and ran for many years, and then with ARIA which expanded her influence to all disciplines of the equestrian world. It was her vision and tireless effort that caused both organizations to become pinnacles of excellence and integrity, which created ways for riding in-
structors to become more than they could on their own.
The conferences she ran allowed those of us who, for whatever reason, would never have had the chance to interact with the greats from multiple disciplines so that they could pass on their wisdom to us, and we had the privilege of learning from them. Most will never know the extreme effort she went to to make these conferences all that they were for us. But all who met her met a gracious, kind, and giving person who commanded not just admiration, but respect.
Charlotte’s great contribution to the equestrian world was to make available to all of us the tools we needed to follow our dreams. She helped us to learn and we, in turn, help those we work with to learn. We pass on the knowledge we have learned from her organizations and conferences. All of us become her legacy.
The equestrian world of our generation is a better place because she was in it. The world, in general, is a dimmer place because she is now gone from it.
Cameo Miller
I started working for Charlotte about 23 years ago. My daughter had started riding and I was at a local tack shop and picked up a copy of Riding Instructor magazine to read. There was a help wanted ad for someone to help with advertising and I applied hoping to learn more about the world of horseback riding and to maybe make some side money to contribute toward equine expenses! Charlotte was such an inspiration to me – she encouraged and challenged me personally and professionally. She had quiet (usually- ha ha) determination and an unwavering loyalty to the high standards of the American Riding Instructors Association and the American Riding Instructors Association Certification Program. Working with advertisers and sponsors could be challenging and sometimes she would say we would not pursue a certain lead because they did not align with the standards of ARIA. Charlotte had an unwavering faith in ARIA and its members as well as a love for horses and all animals – I will truly miss her.
Donna Hartshorn
Riding into the Future How Horses Prepare Graduates for Life Beyond the Barn
By Lydia Fairchok
Do you love the changing of the seasons? While I look forward to the colors of fall, I must admit I’m sorry to see summer go. I love the warm nights and long days, but mostly I hate saying goodbye to my college-bound high school graduates who are bravely transitioning into the next stage of their lives. If you have watched a long-time student reach this milestone, you know well the bittersweet excitement of watching them get ready to launch. You know the vacancy they leave behind, and the anticipation of their visits home to reconnect with their horse friends. Whether college marks the end of their riding involvement or merely a change in how they manage their horse life, it is never the end of the significant life lessons they have had the opportunity to gain through our very best teachers: the horses.
In honor of that impact, I have asked three graduates to weigh in on the role horses have played in their lives. Madelyn Evans is a freshman at Purdue University and is pursuing veterinary science. Isabella Lawson is a freshman at Ball State and is majoring in political science and legal studies. Jaci Zook is a 2020 graduate of the Kelly School of Business through Indiana University.
How long have you been involved with horses, and what does your current horse life look like?
How do you think this will change when you go to college, or how did this change?
JACI: As a homeschooled kid, most of my life enrichment happened through extra-curricular activities - my absolute favorite being time at the barn. At age twelve, I started taking lessons for the first time. I continued with weekly lessons until I graduated high school and moved away for college. I divided my time between two barns:
From left to right: Madelyn, Lydia & Isabella. Photo by Sonya Evans
my lesson barn with Lydia and a therapeutic riding stable where I worked as a part-time stable assistant for the last two years of high school. My college campus was less than an hour from home, so I still managed to make it back to the barn several times a semester and during breaks. I focused less on learning new skills and more on just having fun and enjoying time with my instructor, the horses, barn cats, and the next generation of horse girls. My last big hurrah in the horse world was the summer after my freshman year of college, when I interned in the office and continued my stable work at the therapeutic riding center. My horse contact went from 3-5 times a week that summer to 3-5 times a semester throughout the next three years of college. Although I, like many little girls who grow up loving horses, considered a career in the equine world, I decided to pursue a degree in business and ultimately moved a thousand miles away from “my” horse, my barns, and my equine community. Since then, I’ve managed to find a trail ride here or there with friends, but am forced to live vicariously through photos of my fuzzy four-legged friends working with their new horse-crazy youths and the annual barn trip during visits back to see family.
IZZY: I’ve been involved with horses since I was very young. My mom first put me on a horse when I was about 6 months old (the horse’s name was Percy Pie Pony). I can’t really remember a time when they weren’t a part of my life. Right now, I have my own horse, Diva, and my family owns two other horses – a pony named Journey and a miniature horse named Trigger. My mom and I share the responsibilities for these horses, so I’m out there a lot to ride and muck stalls. I also go to Lydia’s barn often; I meet up with her and Madelyn and we do barn chores and ride. I definitely won’t have as much time to do that when I go to college. I expect to only be home on the weekend, and probably won’t come home every weekend. I’ll definitely ride on the weekends when I come home, though. I’m so blessed that my family is involved with horses too. My mom
“ My confidence levels have definitely been positively affected by work with horses, and it’s bled into other areas of my life. ”
will be sure to work with Diva so that she doesn’t get lonely while I’m away.
MADELYN: I have been involved with horses since I was about 7 years old. Right now, I go and spend time with the pony I lease, Maggie, as much as I can when I’m not working. Normally this is anywhere from 2-4 times a week. I will be moving an hour away from home when I go to college, so this will make it a bit harder for me to get to the barn as often. Luckily, it is only an hour away so I do hope to have a weekend here and there where I’ll be able to come home and hug my pony. But I will definitely have less time to be at my barn on a regular basis.
How have horses impacted you as a young person? What life lessons did you learn from horses and how has that affected your life outside the barn?
IZZY: Working with horses helped me develop independence and self-confidence. Regarding confidence, if you can’t take charge of your horse, you’ll lose control and the entire situation will just devolve from there. And when you’re the lead in the relationship, the horse looks to you for direction. For example, when riding you need to communicate when to turn, when to halt, what direction you want to go, what gait
you want to take, and many other things. My confidence levels have definitely been positively affected by work with horses, and it’s bled into other areas of my life. For example, I always tell myself when driving that if I can ride a horse I can drive a car. It’s much easier in a lot of ways – cars don’t have minds of their own. I feel that my work with horses has made me a lot more independent too. When I was younger I was always supervised and aided by my mom, Lydia, or another adult. As I grew up, that oversight lessened because I had the skill and confidence necessary to do things by myself. Now I can do everything by myself. In that way, I really benefited from the independence the horses gave me; I don’t know where else I would have learned it.
MADELYN: Horses have impacted me in many ways as a person, but I think the main example that comes to mind is they have taught me the value of the human animal bond. As I have grown, I have developed a very deep relationship with my pony. She’s there for me when I need to cry, there for me when I want to celebrate. She cheers me up and helps calm me down by just being there through the mountains and valleys. I have felt loved and understand what loving another being feels like, how powerful that is. I have developed a lot of compassion for relationships shared between horse and owner. This has transferred greatly to my outside life. I am going to college with the goal of becoming a veterinarian, and one of the reasons I chose this career is because I know how strong the bond between human and animal is. In my opinion, it’s one of the greatest things a person can experience in life because of the indescribable dedication and love it has. I want to help protect and nourish that bond by removing any health barriers that try to get in the way. Without horses to show me this, my life would be totally different.
JACI: As a homeschooled kid, most of my life enrichment happened through extra-curricular activities - my absolute favorite being
time at the barn. My family didn’t come from money and I was never under the illusion I’d be able to lease a horse. Instead, my parents worked out a deal with Lydia where I’d spend an hour working at the barn and the “money” I earned mucking stalls, cleaning water buckets, and doing other barn maintenance would contribute to keeping my weekly lessons economical. My first unofficial job taught me responsibility, hard work, and perseverance. Anyone who has or works with outdoor animals knows it’s not for the weak - you don’t get to stay warm inside when the temperatures are in the negatives or the snow is up to your knees. You don’t get to stay dry when it’s raining all week. And you certainly don’t get to stay in the nice AC when it’s 95 degrees and hu-
mid. The animals come first! This was only compounded when I picked up my first actual job at a second barn when I was sixteen, where I had as many as fifteen horses, five miniature horses, and a few chickens under my care - which nearly quadrupled my workload. The tenacity I developed to slog through the monotonous chores in the often less-than-ideal environments translated to an ability to do hard things in other aspects of my life, whether than be accomplishing chores, studying for exams, or applying for scholarships and universities when I wanted to be doing literally anything else. There’s a level of toughness and fortitude many horse people develop in the barn that continues throughout the rest of their lives, through school and work and at home.
Tell me about a horse or horse moment that has made a lasting impact on you.
MADELYN: My pony, Maggie, is definitely the one who has made a lasting impact on me. I have been riding Maggie since I was seven. I am now eighteen, and it’s crazy to know she’s been with me more than half my life. I have a very deep relationship with her, and she knows me in and out. It makes for some funny lesson moments: When I ride, she can pick up very quickly when I am thinking about speeding up, which she also loves to do. It is not a surprise for us to slip in a couple of unintentional trotting steps into a walk-only lesson. One can also tell pretty easily when I am nervous about doing something, as she will often become fidgety when I tense up even slightly. I have had to learn to control the effects of emotions such as fear and anxiety. While riding her, I have learned various tools like tapping into my senses to help break up my nervous symptoms. This has been something that I use a lot now when I am in stressful situations outside of the barn. I am a lot calmer because of it and have learned how to channel my excess adrenaline to work for me instead of against me, something that was very difficult for me to do previously. I also really enjoy other parts of our relationship that aren’t riding. I love working with her on the ground. I’ve taught her tricks like how to give me a “fist bump” with her nose, and it’s quite relaxing to spend a lazy summer day talking her ear off while attempting to brush off the endless coat of dust she keeps. She’s filled my years at the barn with laughter and light by being her loving, spunky self.
JACI: Obviously I could never pick a favorite horse, having worked with so many wonderful ones over the decades. But if I HAD to… it would definitely be Orion. I met Orion when we were both kids, and we learned a lot about riding and life together. He was forgiving when I made mistakes and challenging enough to make me work hard to teach him skills and manners. Lessons
Photo of Jaci by: Hope Stretch Photography
Lydia taught Orion and me through trial and error morphed into lessons I then taught others in my life, who then sometimes taught yet another person. There were horses that came before Orion (some of them special enough to be enshrined in childhood usernames and email addresses) that hold a special place in my heart. There were horses that came after Orion with flawless flying lead changes and the comfiest gaits for bareback riding. But there has been no other horse who always felt like coming home. Even now when I only manage one or two visits a year to my childhood home and I have to rotate through all my friends and family each trip to make time for everyone, Orion and Lydia get first pick of my few available days. Our time together has morphed from diligently working on shaping our circles or smoothing out our canter transitions to simply just enjoying breathing the same air again, hanging out in the crossties for a long grooming session without ever even hopping in the saddle. There’s a comfort, a familiarity, in having such a long-lasting and trusting relationship. “He’s just a horse,” but he’s so much more. He’s been there for some of my biggest milestones, my triumphs, and my tribulations. He’ll hold a special corner of my heart for the rest of my life.
IZZY: One of Lydia’s horses, Sadie, has made a significant impact on my life. I’ve been working with Sadie since I was little, and we’ve formed a strong bond. She’s such a sweet, gentle horse and always took care of me when I rode her. Sadie has a lot of hoof issues though that cause her to be frequently lame, so working with Sadie helped me learn how to be mindful of my horse’s needs and read their body language in order to figure out what those needs might be. Because of her hoof issues she has a lot of limitations I need to keep in mind while working with her, and I need to know how to read her body language to determine if she needs a break or if the exercise we’re doing is making her uncomfortable. There are days when Sadie can’t be ridden because of her pain issues,
and on those days we do groundwork together, or I just groom her. I don’t mind though, because sometimes it’s good to just slow down and be present with a horse.
What challenges did you/do you expect to face in college?
How did/do you think your horse experiences will benefit you in this new stage of life?
JACI: Even though I only moved forty-five minutes away from home and maintained a lot of my same community, I still faced a lot of challenges in college. Becoming fully responsible for making my own schedule, shopping for groceries, cooking, doing laundry, finding time to study and maintain good grades, balancing some semblance of social life, and doing everything else in between felt overwhelming at times. It reminded me a little bit of walking into the barn early on a Monday morning, after a weekend worth of manure had piled up
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and the buckets hadn’t been scrubbed in a week and not a soul was in sight to help me yet. In both situations, all I could do was take it one step at a time. First, flip on the lights. Second, check the feed schedule for changes. Third, open the doors. Then, a couple small tasks down, I could start to tackle the rest of feeding and move on with my to-do list. As the sun rose higher in the sky, people arrived. Some of them were there to help with the chores, some just to offer a word of greeting or a conversation to bolster me for the rest of my shift. Likewise, when I was in college feeling overwhelmed by my course load and the sheer volume of appointments, classes, work, meetings, and outings filling every inch of my color-coded schedule, I was able to channel those habits I built in the barn and simply take it one step at a time and search for a community of people to help share the load or encourage me through the hard times.
IZZY: I expect that transitioning into a more independent lifestyle will be a challenge when I go to college. I’ve never spent more than a week away from home, so I’ve never had to deal with the decisions and responsibilities that come with living more independently. I’m living on campus so I won’t be completely on my own, but I won’t really have parental oversight. I think that I can apply the confidence and independence I learned working with horses to the experiences I will have in college. I know how to manage myself (even in situations that I’m unsure about), and I have the confidence necessary to adapt to the new way that I’ll be living – even if it’s unfamiliar and sometimes intimidating.
MADELYN: The biggest challenge I expect to face will be moving away. Academically I know there will be trials, but I am more concerned about being away from home, from my family, friends, and the horses. It will be an adjustment trying to learn the new environment. I can see myself getting nervous in certain situations. Luckily, having had to learn to control anxious emotions at the barn, I know I will be able to conquer
the trial of moving away. If I feel myself getting worked up, I’ll be able to walk myself through sensory methods like breathing to help me break down what seems like an intimidating circumstance. I can visualize settings that bring me peace, which will in turn help me feel comfortable in the unfamiliar area.
What advice would you give to a rider who is just beginning college?
JACI: Beginning college, whether you’re moving far away from home or not, is a scary endeavor for any young person. My advice would be to 1) remain patient and don’t give up, 2) try things that scare you, and 3) don’t forget to enjoy the ride. Whether you’re a life-long rider or only have a few lessons under your belt, there are so many lessons that translate from the equestrian world to the academic one. One of the skills I struggled with for months was learning how to pick up my correct diagonal in a posting trot.
“There, can you feel it? You’re on the wrong diagonal, so it should feel a little off.”
“No! No, I can’t feel it! It feels like I’m posting, isn’t that enough?”
Around and around we’d go. I’d pick a diagonal, I’d call out if I think it was the correct or wrong one, and inevitably half the time I’d have to look down to check and still be wrong. I’ll never forget the joy I felt when one lesson I finally started to feel that subtle difference when I was working against my horse’s movement and could sit and switch it in a beat and suddenly feel “Ah-ha! It’s correct.” There will be a lot of moments in college where you may feel frustrated, thinking you’re on the correct diagonal only to be told you’re not. (Why am I not understanding this concept in class when everyone else is breezing through?) Don’t stop practicing and don’t quit if the skill doesn’t come as quickly as you think it should.
Another lesson I often dreaded as a teenager was the scary canter. It looked so cool when other people did it, but it felt so wildly out of control when I tried. We moved so fast, that corner was so far away, that fence post was WAY too close to my leg. The first several months of getting off the lunge line and learning to control my body and move with the gait to control my horse’s body and direction of travel were terrifying! College can be a little terrifying (especially if you’re introverted like me). The good thing is that everyone is a little scared when masquerading as an adult for the first time. College is a great time to make mistakes and learn. It may seem like the end of the world to fail a test or drop out of a club because you can’t commit the time, but there is so much life left that comes after college. While you should always work your hardest and find ways to step out of your comfort zone, don’t be afraid to fail or change when something isn’t working. Don’t be afraid to try new things. And don’t be afraid to ask for help from students, professors, or counselors along the way.
Finally, make sure to revel in that posting trot or rocking canter once you finally get the hang of it. You probably spent a lot of
From left to right: Maggie, Isabella & Madelyn. Photo provided by Lydia Fairchok
time and effort working to master those skills, and it’s tempting to move right on to that next skill that’s just out of reach. Be sure to take a few minutes out of each ride to settle into those comfortable movements that are as easy as breathing now before trying something else. In college, there’s always another semester to enroll in, a summer internship to line up, or a leadership role in an organization to apply for. Don’t get too focused on what’s next that you forget to soak up the moments you’re currently experiencing. Meet that friend you shared notes in class with for coffee and find out what you have in common besides some random elective class; go to sporting events or volunteer days and show off your school spirit; and set up a hammock on the lawn to study with your friends. Time flies and horses aren’t forever. Enjoy them both while you’re able.
What advice would you give to a rider who is just beginning high school?
IZZY: I would tell them to just have as much fun as possible. I’ve had more access to horses these last four years than I expect to have for a long time, and I’m sure many other people are in the same situation. Because of that, I think it’s important to get the most enjoyment possible (for both horse and rider) out of that time.
MADELYN: High school can be a true growing experience, so I would say that if you can, find a support group at your barn. A couple of friends that aren’t a part of your school life can really be a breath of fresh air when you are having intense days in high school. The friendships I built at the barn really helped boost me when I was going
through rough times and growing pains in high school. Whether you’re struggling with friends at school or you are being challenged academically, it’s really good to have friends that are separate from that environment. They aren’t part of the friend drama at school or the pressure one may face with classes. They can empower you, provide a different perspective, and just be there to help give your brain a break. Some of my bleakest school days also have been some of my favorite barn days.
I am so privileged to know each of these extraordinary young women and to have shared so many barn memories with them. I hope you have enjoyed their thoughts, experiences, and insights, and I hope you will consider asking your own graduates similar questions. While nothing completely fills the place they leave behind as they find their own way in the world, the knowledge that they have benefitting from their time at your barn is something you can treasure forever.
About the author:
Lydia Fairchok is certified in Recreational Riding Level 1, and lives and teaches with her three horses in Central Indiana. Lydia segued from a full time instruction career to the field of public safety in 2014 and continues to teach a small number of students while working as a police officer and 9-1-1 dispatcher.
From left to right: Jaci & Lydia. Photo by Hope Stretch Photography
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Pet Peeves in the Saddle:
How to Handle Everyday Irritations as a Riding Instructor
By Didi Arias
Slurping noises when eating, cutting in line, talking on the phone at the dinner table are a few of the behaviours that most people would notice as mildly irritating in others. We may take note of them as inconsiderate or lacking in social graces, but we don´t usually attach too much
importance to them, maybe rolling our eyes while shrugging them off. However, if you end up finding some actions or words of others more than a little offensive, thoughtless or inconveniencing, they can really get under your skin and grow in proportion to “pet peeve” status.
If asked, most folks could easily make up a list of these irritants, which is exactly what an instructor friend and I did when he brought up the topic with “you know what bugs me…”. Defining what we considered a pet peeve to be, we crafted a list of those annoyances that we identified as being
Illustration by author
particularly irritating when we were on the job. As the list grew, we both felt perhaps we were being too tetchy, so decided to scale back to only include the most vexing. In Spanish the translation of pet peeve is “favorite annoyances”, and on that note of assigning a bit of affection to the theme, here are a few of our faves skimmed from those we compiled during our venting session. I´m certain that more than a few will elicit nods of agreement.
The student who regularly strolls in late for class.
Frequent last minute cancelations or even worse, the no-shows.
The students who frequently cancel or don´t show but then complain that they are not improving enough and accuse you of giving the other students the better horses.
Lack of attention to safety details, despite that correct instruction has been given (discarding the reins up the neck and then blithely dismounting with the leg swoop over the front always wins it for me).
Blaming everything on the horse (and the weather, the bystanders, the other students, the teacher), but never once looking to find fault in themselves.
Asking for your advice your (professional) advice, and then asking ten other people the same question (ten non-professional people), until they get the answer that they wanted to hear in the first place, which is usually not yours.
Students that are classically conditioned to the ding of their telephone, letting the sound break their concentration during the lesson. You know what is really on their mind is picking up that phone.
Parents who like to side-line train their kiddos while the lesson is in progress.
“
When faced with a peeve, it is all about your reaction.
”
Even worse are those who criticize and fault the child during the ride.
Not having consideration for putting the horse´s welfare first.
Relentless rein fiddling to “keep him on the bit”.
The students that just don´t seem to retain or be able to apply any information previously given, eliciting thoughts of “I don´t want to be, but I must sound like a broken record” through your mind.
Riding establishments that rely on devices and gadgets instead of training to get the school horses to submit and perform.
Visitors who don´t control their feral children.
People that don´t / won´t read or heed signs (they are frequently accompanied by the feral children).
These things may seem trivial, and perhaps to list them rather petty, but if left loose and unchecked, these little peeves can grow in
significance in your head and get you riled up. My friend and I made the list not just to share an instructor´s life moan with each other, but to discuss why we let these things get to us the way they sometimes do, and most importantly, what to do about them.
Pet peeves can often provoke a reaction in one as a result of a perceived unjustness or a principle that needs defending. For example, as we put great stock in to the care and training of our animals, we want those that ride them to also have an empathy toward them. It is hard not to take it personally when a rider takes out their frustration on the horse, or treats them as if they have no real importance. As we start out our days as generally good-natured persons, we expect the same from the others. When we encounter someone who does or says something that we perceive as thoughtless, it is generally unintentional on their part, but it can still be a difficult to not react or feel negative towards them. Many times people are just distracted, or themselves reacting to something going on with them in their day. Of course there are those that are plain rude and offensive, not giving a hoot who they insult or step on; to me, this behaviour is in a category of its own.
If you notice that you have a few pet peeves, acknowledge that some things can have a way of getting to you, and then decide how you will handle any of the situations as they arise. When faced with a peeve, it is all about your reaction. As I have the tendency to make big things out of little or nearly non-existent ones if I´m not having my best day, I may find things bothersome that really shouldn´t be. The main thing about these bothers is to let them go, because giving those pets a nest in your head is ineffective and non-productive. If you hold on to them, it can be hard to hide your response and not react, which in turn, can make the other person react. When you look in to your lesson schedule for the day and see a particular name and just know that you are going to encounter an annoying
moment, the mere anticipation of it can affect your demeanour. You have to wonder if it has gotten to the point that perhaps you are actually now causing the situation to happen based on prior encounters, and the other person is just responding to you. If you do find that you have caused a situation to happen, own up and apologize, and consider it a good lesson learned.
Though some issues need addressing, how we handle the situations can be in just allowing the “offender” some slack. We all have our moments, and letting it go as one of theirs is probably the easiest way to deal with it. Put to use the old “pause and count to ten” diffusing adage and that can really help you gather your thoughts. Concentrate on your breath, stand deeply in to the ground or employ whatever centering exercise that works for you. These help to stop your flight
in to a reactive response and gives you time to use your head instead of defaulting to emotion. Keep sight of the fact that you are a good and creative instructor, so use your talents and wisdom to gain control of the situation and its positive outcome. And hey, consider that you may have held a bit of a grudge or misjudged the other person, assigning them a peeve; this can be relationship damaging. Remember, a peeve is not a real thing, so try not to empower it in that way.
Getting all hot and bothered over things generally isn´t worth it; there is usually a better way to problem solve. As for those pesky pet peeves, see them for what they are, imagine patting them on their little heads and sending them on their way. You won´t be taking those “critters” home with you today.
About the author:
Arias is a Level 3 ARIA Certified Instructor and national dressage judge and teacher, who resides in Almeria, Spain.
Didi
Common Equine Industry Legal Disputes and Ideas for Avoiding Them
Julie I. Fershtman, Attorney at Law
www.equinelaw.net
As a lawyer with almost four decades of experience, and with Equine Law being one of my areas of practice, I’ve received thousands of calls and e-mails from people in the horse industry with legal disputes. Unfortunately, very few are prepared for the effort, expense, and inconvenience that legal disputes typically involve. People in the equine industry can benefit by avoiding disputes before they happen. This article addresses the most common legal matters I’ve encountered from prospective clients, along with ideas for avoiding them.
1. No More Verbal Contracts
By far, the most common inquiry I’ve received involves verbal contract disputes. People have bought or sold horses, leased horses, boarded horses, bred or trained horses with absolutely no written agreement between them. Problems have occurred when someone was not paid, services were not provided (or were provided in a less-than desirable way), a horse did not measure up to the seller’s verbal promises, or a horse was leased through a verbal arrangement and not returned. While text
messages, instant messages, and e-mails can show part of the parties’ understanding, they’re never enough with verbal contract disputes as the parties almost always disagree on other terms.
Resolving verbal contract disputes through a lawsuit is never easy, quick, or cheap. By comparison, a well-written contract can avoid legal disputes or it can narrow the disputes considerably. That results in an overall cost savings and more than justifies the up-front legal expense for the contract.
2. Home-Made Waivers Can Be Trouble
Sometimes stables, horse owners, and equine professionals draft their own waivers using documents they’ve borrowed or found, bypassing a lawyer completely. When I’ve defended equine-related lawsuits, the shortcomings of these home-made documents become apparent and can hurt our case. Here are some examples:
• Despite a document being titled as a “waiver” at the top, it contained no language where the signer agreed to release the stable from liability. That’s a major omission because waiver/release documents, by design, have the signer agreeing to release the stable and others from liability to the fullest extent of the law (and language for accomplishing this varies from state to state).
• A waiver/release document failed to mention its effective dates, and it appeared to release the stable on the day it was signed. That left a question of whether the document was meant to be valid months later when someone was hurt.
• One document had the horse owner releasing the stable from liability for injuries that the owner might sustain, but it was silent about releasing the stable for injuries that the horse might sustain. The stable using that document had no boarding contract. That became a problem when the stable was sued for an injured horse.
• In another case I handled, a waiver had the parent agreeing to release the stable only if her minor child sustained injuries during his riding lessons, but the document was silent about the parent releasing the stable if the parent, herself, was hurt. That became an issue when the child stopped taking riding lessons but the parent began taking lessons instead. However, the parent was injured during a lesson. When the parent filed suit, the stable had no other document to use in its defense.
• Frequently, stables use waiver/release documents where the signer releases the stable and others `only if the signer is hurt when “riding” a horse. The problem is, injuries can occur when people handle horses, are near horses, drive horses, or even when on the premises of a horse facility. In those situations, a document that limits the stable’s protection merely to “riding” activity may not apply.
Consider hiring a lawyer to draft or review your contracts. A knowledgeable lawyer can learn about your operations and seek to make your contracts protect you for a variety of activities you undertake. A lawyer can also check for compliance with applicable laws such as a state equine activity liability act, state-specific waiver language, and more.
3. Get Paid for Your Hard Work
Equine professionals have experience encouraging horses to do amazing things, but they sometimes hesitate to encourage their customers to pay bills. By the time disgruntled equine professionals call me, the debt has accumulated after months or years of non-payment, the non-paying customers have refused to communicate, and the professionals are left with horses in their facilities that are worth much less than the debt.
Worse, frustrated equine industry professionals have been known to do several things in response to non-payment situations, without seeking advice from a lawyer, such as:
• Sometimes, they sell the non-paying customer’s horse to satisfy the debt, without the owner’s permission and without following their state’s stablemen’s lien law, only to discover later that the buyers cannot get registration papers transferred into their names. In situations of unauthorized sales, non-paying boarders have been known to seek criminal charges against trainers or stables for theft or conversion.
• Trainers sometimes “lease” out a non-paying customer’s horse, despite having no legal ownership of the horse and no authorization to do so.
• Without the non-paying owner’s permission, trainers and instructors sometimes place the non-paying owner’s horse in their riding lesson or camp programs. Problems can occur if a student is injured and the owner (unaware of the arrangement) is named in a lawsuit along with the equine professional.
Equine professionals have every incentive to ensure that they are paid timely for their services, and their contracts can help. For example, contracts can specify the services that will be provided, late payment fees, interest that will be charged on unpaid balances (at the legal rate for the applicable state), when and how the contract can be terminated, and an attorney fee clause if legal action is brought to enforce the contract. Before undertaking drastic action involving a non-paying customer, proceed lawfully and consult with a lawyer.
Conclusion
For professionals in the equine industry, such as trainers, boarding stables, instructors, and breeders, succeeding is tough. Expectations are high, costs always increase, good workers seem hard to find, and hours are long. Advance planning, and the use of well-worded contracts, can prevent some legal disputes from occurring or narrow the areas of dispute. Manage your business carefully, and take it seriously. Your efforts will pay off.
This article does not constitute legal advice. When questions arise based on specific situations, direct them to a knowledgeable attorney.
About the Author
A lawyer for 38 years, Julie Fershtman is one of the nation’s best-known and most experienced Equine Law practitioners, with a law practice that is national in scope. She is a Shareholder with the law firm Foster Swift Collins & Smith, PC, in Michigan. She is listed in The Best Lawyers in America and Super Lawyers. Her speaking engagements span 29 states. The ABA published her latest award-winning book in 2019 called “Equine Law & Horse Sense,” which was written for non-lawyers and lawyers. Find it on Amazon and look for the horse on the cover. For more information, visit www.equinelaw.net
Julie I. Fershtman, Attorney at Law
FIT FOR FUN
Creating an Exercise Plan to get in Shape for the Saddle
By Shya Beth
We all know riding is exercise all by itself who hasn’t felt a bit stiff or sore after long trial ride, or walking cowboy style after getting back in the saddle after some time off? And while you might think that the exercise you get from riding is good enough, the benefits of working out, gaining muscle, strengthening your core and working on flexibility are extremely beneficial to riders of all ages and backgrounds.
The best part is that you don’t need to spend a dime (if you don’t want to) you don’t need a gym membership, personal trainer, or expensive equipment. There are countless ways to properly exercise, lose weight, gain strength, and reach your rider fitness goals from home - let’s dive in!
Lower Body CALF-RAISES
If you want to improve balance and strength in your lower body, consider incorporating calf raises into your weekly workout regimen. A super simple exercise, targeting the the muscles on the back of your lower leg, calf raises help keep you keep a good leg position in several ways: Increasing flexibility, ankle strength, flexibility, and stability.
1. Stand up straight.
2. Put your weight on the balls of your feet, lifting your heels until you’re standing on your toes.
3. Lower back to starting position and repeat.
4. Slow speed is best!
Core Exercise BICYCLE CRUNCHES
Want to be stronger in the saddle? Bicycle Crunches target both the rectus abdominus and oblique muscles, with the “pedaling” movement (where the exercise gets its name from) of the legs stimulates the hips all excellent ways to engage your core muscles and build strength and flexibility.
1. Lie flat on your back and raise your feet so that your hips and knees form a 90-degree angle.
2. Place your hands behind your head.
3. Lift your shoulder blades off the ground.
4. Turn your right shoulder toward your left knee, aiming to touch your elbow to your knee, while simultaneously
extending your right leg and keeping it hovered off the ground.
5. Repeat the movement on the other side.
6. Continue alternating sides and complete 3 to 5 sets.
Full Body PLANKS
The plank may be the simplest, yet effective ways to continue to help your core become stronger for riding. Planks are perfect full body exercises, targeting muscles throughout your body. The goal here is to distribute your weight evenly on both sides of your body, aiding you with balance and symmetry while building muscle.
Start on all fours and lower onto your forearms, keeping your elbows slightly wider than shoulder-width.
1. Lift up onto your toes, maintaining a straight line from head to heels.
2. Engage your glutes, pull your navel towards your spine, and push down through your forearms.
3. Keep your neck neutral by looking down.
4. Ensure your hips are aligned with your shoulders.
5. Hold the plank position for as long as possible and aim to increase your time as you progress.
Lower Body GLUTE KICKBACKS
Perfect for increasing balance and stability while in the saddle, Glute Kickbacks specifically targets your glutes, while also strengthening the hamstrings and core. Keeping a proper posture, while shifting your weight to the side you are working on is key.
1. Start on all fours with palms flat on the floor, knees bent at a 90-degree angle, and shoulders aligned with your wrists.
2. Keep your back straight and engage your glutes.
3. Lift your right leg, flexing the heel as high as possible, as if trying to place your foot on the ceiling.
4. Lower the knee back down and then lift it again.
5. Engage your core and avoid arching your back during the movement.
6. Complete 10-12 reps on one side, then switch sides.
7. Perform 5 to 10 sets.
Full Body OPPOSITE ARM AND LEG
From aiding with stability, hip mobility, posture, balance, and coordination, this is an excellent addition to your workout routine for all around fitness in and out of the saddle.
1. Begin on all fours with your wrists directly under your shoulders and knees under your hips.
2. Extend your right arm forward while simultaneously lifting and extending your left leg back.
3. Ensure a straight line from your extended arm to your extended foot.
4. Hold the position for 5 seconds.
5. Switch sides and repeat.
6. Complete 5 to 10 reps.
Full Body PUSH-UPS
Nearly everyone has heard of the tried and true push-up, and there is a reason they are a key part of many athlete’s workouts. A full body strength exercise, push-ups are pretty simple, but proper form is key to doing them correctly.
A basic push-up will work your pectorals, deltoids, triceps, and abs in your upper body while also engaging the glutes, quads, and calf muscles in your lower body.
1. Begin in a plank position with your palms directly under your shoulders and your neck in a neutral position.
2. Engage your core and maintain a flat back.
3. Lower your body by bending your elbows, keeping them slightly angled back.
4. Descend until your chest nearly touches the floor.
5. Push back up to the starting position.
6. Perform 3 to 5 sets of 8-12 sets.
Lower Body SQUATS
As riders, squats are another tried and true exercise that can be a super move for riders. Focusing on those calves, glutes, quadriceps, hamstrings, and abdominal muscles, stability and flexibility are also benefits. As you get used to the exercise and get stronger, you can incorporate weights into the exercise to help with strength and enhance this step in your routine.
1. Stand upright with your feet slightly wider than hip-width apart.
2. Lower yourself by pushing your hips back until your thighs are nearly parallel to the floor.
3. Raise yourself back up to straighten your legs.
4. Keep your back straight, feet flat on the floor, and chin and chest up throughout the exercise.
5. Ensure your knees remain aligned with your feet.
Don’t forget to warm up and cool down with some light stretches and build up your reps slowly! Aim for slowly building your weekly runtime and focusing on consistently and quality. In a few weeks or months, the results in your riding will speak for themselves! Encouraging riding students to workout, or find a workout buddy, makes for happy and fit riders, as well as happy horses.
About the author:
Shya Beth is a rider, artist writer and all around horse lover based in New Jersey, USA. Whether creating horses in art, riding in the fields on her farm or writing about horses, horses are a huge aspect of her life and inspire her every day.
Bouncing Back: How Athletes Can Overcome Setbacks and Come Back Stronger
Laura King CHt, NLP, Life & Performance Coach
In the world of equestrian sports, setbacks are inevitable. Whether it’s a downed rail, a forgotten course or test, a tough loss, an injury to you or your horse, or negative press/ social media, every athlete faces challenges that test their resilience. But it’s not the setback itself that defines an athlete—it’s how they respond. The ability to bounce back from adversity is a crucial skill that can set the stage for future success.
In this article, we’ll explore practical strategies and mindset shifts that can help athletes recover from setbacks and emerge stronger than ever.
Acknowledge Your Emotions
The first step in overcoming a setback is to acknowledge and accept your emotions. It’s normal to feel disappointed, frustrated or angry after a loss. Trying to suppress these feelings can lead to burnout or prevent you from fully processing the experience.
Take some time to reflect on how you’re feeling. Journaling or talking to a coach, trusted friend or life coach can help you work through your emotions and gain perspective on the situation. Remember, it’s okay to feel down, but it’s important not to dwell on negative emotions for too long.
Analyze the Setback to Move Forward
Once you’ve processed your emotions, it’s time to analyze what went wrong. Was it a lack of preparation? Did nerves get the best of you? Was there an external factor, like weather or an injury, that affected your performance? By identifying the root cause of the setback, you can learn valuable lessons that will help you improve in the future. Again, don’t dwell on this step by beating yourself up—it’s time to change the script and focus on what you can do to improve.
Set SMART Goals
After analyzing the setback, set specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and timebound (SMART) goals to help you get back on track. SMART goals give you a clear path forward and help you regain a sense of control after a setback.
For example, if you struggled with endurance in your last competition, set a goal to increase your stamina by incorporating additional cardio workouts into your training regimen. If mental focus was an issue, work on mindfulness techniques to stay present during competition.
Embrace the Growth Mindset
A growth mindset—the belief that abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work—is a powerful tool for overcoming setbacks. Athletes with a growth mindset view
small victories along the way and recognize that setbacks are a natural part of the journey toward success.
Lean on Your Support System
No athlete succeeds alone. Whether it’s a life coach, fellow trainer, teammates, family or friends, having a strong support system can make all the difference when you’re dealing with a setback. Don’t be afraid to reach out to others for encouragement and advice. Sometimes, an outside perspective can help you see things more clearly and remind you of your strengths. Surround yourself with people who believe in you and your potential, and lean on them when you need a boost. Remember, asking for help is not a sign of weakness—it’s a sign of strength and self-awareness.
Develop a Resilient Routine
Consistency is key to bouncing back from setbacks. Developing a routine that prioritizes physical and mental well-being can help you stay grounded and focused, even when things don’t go as planned.
Incorporate regular exercise, adequate sleep, and balanced nutrition including getting plenty of protein into your routine to keep your body in peak condition. Protein is important for athletes because it aids the body with several aspects of performance and recovery including muscle repair after exercise and injury prevention. Protein supports immune function and red blood cell production and it may help athletes function at a higher level.
“You can pull all the work in, you can get all the rest, but if your body doesn’t have the proper nutrition, it’s not going to be able to operate at its most optimal form.”
Masai Russell, American Olympic gold-medal winning track & field sprinter and hurdler
Consider adding some of my self-hypnosis MP3s to your daily schedule. I offer a variety of topics including some titles created specifically for equestrians including “Resilience for the Equestrian,” a powerful MP3 that empowers you to exceed your own expectations while achieving your personal best. Find it at www.laurakinghypnosis.com/ product/resilienceforthequestrian
Or make an appointment for a one-on-one life coaching and/or a hypnosis session. Want to know how talking to a life coach and hypnosis can help? Read on.
The Synergy of Hypnosis and Life Coaching
While hypnosis and life coaching are powerful tools on their own, they can be even more effective when used together. Hypnosis addresses the subconscious mind, helping athletes release negative emotions, build confidence and reframe their experiences. Life coaching, on the other hand, provides a structured approach to goal-setting, action planning and resilience-building.
When combined, these approaches create a comprehensive support system that addresses both the mental and practical as-
pects of overcoming loss. An athlete might start with life coaching to develop a concrete action plan and stay accountable to their goals followed by hypnosis sessions to clear mental blocks and build confidence.
Hypnosis Can Reframe Your Experience
One of the primary ways hypnosis can help athletes overcome loss is by reframing the experience. Under hypnosis, an athlete can be guided to view the loss from a different perspective—one that focuses on the lessons learned and the opportunities for growth rather than on the failure itself.
For example, a rider who forgets her dressage test at a competition might dwell on the mistake and develop a fear of failure. Through hypnosis, she can be guided to see the error as a valuable learning experience, one that will help refine skills and improve performance the next time she goes down centerline.
Release Negative Emotions
Losses often bring up a range of negative emotions, including disappointment, frustration and shame. These emotions can linger in the subconscious mind, affecting an athlete’s confidence and motivation. Hypnosis can help access these deep-seated emotions and release them in a healthy way to create space for positive emotions like confidence and determination.
Build Confidence and Self-Belief
Confidence is key to athletic success and a significant loss can shake an athlete’s belief in their abilities. Hypnosis can be used to rebuild this confidence by reinforcing positive beliefs and affirmations at a subconscious level.
For instance, a rider might be guided through visualization exercises under hypnosis, where they vividly imagine themselves performing at their best, achieving their goals and experiencing the emotions
of success. These positive visualizations, combined with affirmations like “I am capable,” “I am resilient,” and “I learn from every experience,” can strengthen the athlete’s self-belief and set the stage for a successful comeback.
Similarly, talking to a life coach can help you work though the setback and, when used in conjunction with hypnosis, the positive effects are compounded.
The Role of Life Coaching in Overcoming Loss
While hypnosis focuses on the subconscious mind, life coaching offers a more conscious and practical approach to overcoming setbacks. A life coach works with the athlete to identify their goals, develop strategies and create an action plan for moving forward. Life coaching is particularly effective in helping athletes stay motivated, build resilience and maintain a positive mindset in the face of challenges. Life coaching can include goal setting, helping develop mental resilience, and providing accountability and support.
Goal Setting and Action Planning
After a loss, it’s easy for athletes to lose sight of their goals or feel overwhelmed by the prospect of starting over. A life coach helps athletes regain clarity by setting specific, achievable goals and helping to create a step-by-step action plan to reach them.
Developing Mental Resilience
Resilience is the ability to bounce back from setbacks, and it’s a critical quality for athletes. Life coaching helps athletes develop mental resilience by teaching them how to navigate challenges, manage stress and stay focused on their long-term vision.
Through coaching sessions, athletes can learn techniques such as mindfulness, positive self-talk and stress management. These tools not only help them cope with the immediate aftermath of a loss but also build
a strong mental foundation that supports sustained performance.
Accountability and Support
One of the key benefits of working with a life coach is the ongoing accountability and support they provide. After a loss, athletes may struggle with motivation. A life coach serves as a trusted partner who keeps them on track, offers encouragement and provides a safe space to discuss challenges and setbacks.
Learn to Let Go
Finally, one of the most important aspects of bouncing back from a setback is learning to let go of what you can’t control. Dwelling on the past or worrying about future outcomes can drain your energy and hinder your progress.
Instead, focus on what you can control— your effort, attitude and preparation. Let go of the need for perfection and embrace the journey, with all its ups and downs.
When you learn to let go of what you can’t control, you free yourself to fully engage with the present moment and give your best effort, no matter the circumstances.
Remember: Your Potential is Limitless
For athletes, setbacks and losses are an inevitable part of the journey. However, they don’t have to define an athlete’s career or limit their potential. By addressing both the subconscious and conscious aspects of performance, these approaches provide a holistic path to recovery and growth.
Remember, every loss is an opportunity to learn, grow and come back stronger. With the right support and mindset, athletes can overcome any challenge and achieve their full potential. Be patient, persistent and learn to let go of what you can’t control. With these strategies in place, you’ll be well-equipped to bounce back from any
setback and achieve your athletic potential. Your best performance is still ahead of you!
“I think exercise tests us in so many ways, our skills, our hearts, our ability to bounce back after setbacks. This is the inner beauty of sports and competition, and it can serve us all well as adult athletes.”
Peggy Fleming, American Olympic goldmedal winning figure-skater
Need help addressing your challenges or achieving your goals? Sessions available in-person, via Skype, or by phone.
Products: www.summitpress.net
Sessions: www.summithypnosis.com
Email: SummitHypnosis@gmail.com
Phone: 561-841-7603
About the author:
Laura King is the Director and Founder of Summit Hypnosis and Wellness and is a Certified Hypnotist, NLP Practitioner, Life Coach, and Sports Performance Coach. Laura has written and published several books and workbooks, including ”Power To Win” for equestrians and “Perfect Enough,” a guide to help you evaluate your perceptions and experiences around vital areas of your life.
Key Considerations for Establishing a Successful Equine Boarding Facility
By Karen Cole
When starting an equine boarding business, there are many factors to consider, but one of the most critical is the location where you will house the horses. Whether you’re purchasing an existing facility and renovating it to suit your needs, or building from scratch, here are key aspects to keep in mind.
Choosing the Right Type of Building
The type of structure you choose for your equine boarding business is vital for the comfort of the horses and the efficiency of operations. Common options include barns, wooden stables, and modern prefabricated
buildings. Traditional barns, often made from wood or metal, offer a classic and durable solution. Timber stables are visually appealing and blend well with rural settings, creating a natural atmosphere that may benefit the horses’ mental well-being. Prefabricated structures are quick to set up
and can be customized to suit specific needs, providing flexibility in design. The choice of building will depend on your budget, local climate, and the particular requirements of the horses.
Determining Space Requirements
The amount of space required for your boarding business is influenced by several factors, with the number of horses being a primary consideration. Typically, each horse needs a stall that is at least 12 feet by 12 feet to move comfortably. In addition to stalls, you’ll need areas for grooming, washing, and storing equipment. Outdoor space is also essential, as horses need room for exercise and regular turnout. Properly sized paddocks and pastures are necessary to ensure the horses can move safely and freely. Overcrowding can cause stress and health issues, so having enough space is key to maintaining a high standard of care.
Ensuring Good Ventilation
Adequate ventilation is crucial in any horse barn to promote respiratory health. A well-ventilated space helps remove moisture, dust, ammonia, and other contaminants, which can cause respiratory illnesses. You can enhance airflow by installing windows, vents, and fans to keep the air circulating. Ridge vents on the roof and strategically placed fans can further improve ventilation. However, it’s important to avoid drafts in colder months, which could chill the horses. Proper ventilation creates a healthier environment, reducing the likelihood of respiratory problems and contributing to the horses’ comfort.
Secure Stalls
Safety in the stalls is a top priority when designing an equine boarding facility. Stalls need to be strong and secure, with sturdy walls and doors that can withstand the strength of horses. Solid or grilled partitions between stalls can prevent horses from bit-
ing or kicking each other, reducing injury risks. Stall doors should be secure but easy for handlers to use, with sliding doors often preferred for saving space and minimizing hazards. Additionally, inspecting hardware for sharp edges and maintaining stalls regularly will help prevent injuries and ensure long-term safety.
Choosing the Right Flooring
The flooring in your barn significantly impacts the horses’ comfort and health. Rubber mats are a popular choice due to their durability, ease of cleaning, and ability to absorb shock, which reduces strain on horses’ joints and hooves. They also provide good traction, minimizing the risk of slipping. Beneath the mats, a well-draining foundation like compacted gravel or crushed stone helps manage moisture and maintain a dry environment. This combination ensures a safe, comfortable, and hygienic space for the horses.
Fire Safety
Fire safety should be a top concern in any horse barn, given the flammable nature of materials like hay and bedding. Installing fire alarms, smoke detectors, and sprinkler systems can protect both horses and property. Clearly marked exits and accessible evacuation routes are essential in an emergency. Fire extinguishers should be placed in key locations and checked regularly to ensure they are functional. Additionally, enforcing strict no-smoking rules in and around the barn will help prevent fires. Conducting regular fire drills and preparing emergency plans can save lives and reduce damage.
Storage Solutions
Effective storage is critical for the smooth operation of your boarding facility. Tack rooms should be well-organized, with plenty of space for storing saddles, bridles, and other equipment. Feed storage areas need to be dry, cool, and rodent-proof
to prevent spoilage and contamination. Storing hay in a separate, well-ventilated area helps reduce fire risks and dust accumulation. Adequate storage not only improves workflow but also enhances biosecurity by preventing the spread of disease through proper cleaning and separation of equipment and supplies.
In summary, establishing the right facility for your equine boarding business involves thorough planning and attention to detail. From the type of building to ventilation, safety, and storage, every aspect plays a role in creating a safe, comfortable, and efficient environment for both horses and staff. Taking the time to plan carefully will help set your business up for success and build a strong reputation in the equine community.
… in which Cameo Miller stirs her thoughts and ideas to see what rises to the top.
JUDGING
By Cameo Miller
Illustration by Bethany Caskey
According to the dictionary, judging is: verb: 1) to form an authoritative opinion about, after inquiry and deliberation 2) to sit in judgment on 3) to form an estimate of 4) think as a way to form an opinion. There is so much to parse out in that one word and its meanings. One note is that it is a verb which means it denotes action— something you actively do. Another is how much emphasis is put on the intelligent effort put into gaining all the information needed to make an informed judgment. Nowhere does it say that it is something that one should passively allow others to dictate to you. We all spend a huge amount of time and, hopefully, effort in judging everyone and everything every day.
As to judging people, there’s been a whole lot of that going on for awhile now. But then I imagine it has gone on ever since more than one person got together with another. The moment we meet someone, we start the process. When someone calls for a lesson or to ask to board at your barn, you start to judge if they are a fit or not. Need a vet, farrier, working student—judging. The people at the feed store, the staff at the show you are looking at going to—judging. In our private life, we tend to gravitate towards those who think and act like we do. We ‘judge’ that they are enough like us that we can fit together comfortably.
We also judge non-human things—the quality of the hay someone is selling, the condition of that back pasture, whether it’s cold enough that the horses need blankets—judging. Judging determines industry standards for horses, riders, and how things are done. By determining who wins, judging defines so many things in the equine world. So, obviously, judging matters and is not a bad thing in and of itself.
So what might make some part of judging a “bad” thing? I think one of the things that does is if you are just accepting someone else’s judgment rather than making your own assessment. That person or thing may indeed be bad or good from their point of view. But, thankfully, we are all different so the same person or thing may be very different to you when you actually dig in. I think an excellent example of this is the fact that within our profession there are so many different disciplines that some of us are drawn to while others think we are crazy for not going with (fill in the blank) instead. Even within a single discipline we can’t agree on what is the best way to do things. This is true also with so many things industry wide that aren’t discipline specific—not only when to blanket, but if blankets are needed at all, to shoe or leave barefoot, etc. If we blindly just accept someone else’s judgment, you are picking
up their bag of issues without even knowing what is in it. Which leads to a second thing I think contributes to judgment potentially being bad. That is making a judgment based on a preconceived idea or concept. This lumps all people or things into a broad category whether they actually fit or not. This does not take into account their story, all the things that have gone into making them the individual they truly are. All redheads are…, all overweight people are…, all CT people are…, everyone who rides saddle seat does…? Has this ever happened to you? Has someone made comments to you, about you, or about someone you know well, that is clearly not true just because they made an assumption and dumped you or that other person into their preconceived notion? We’re all guilty of this at one time or another and to one extent or another. But, perhaps, it is something we need to work to remove as our default setting. I also think this one is bad because it tends to lead people to being less open to changing their judgment. It means we have preconceived notions that have to be proven wrong before we can make that change rather than being open to seeing each person or thing in its own light. Less open to “forming an opinion after inquiry and deliberation”.
So if we have made careful “inquiry and deliberation”, and have come to an informed personal judgment, which we are still open to changing if more facts or better options become available, are we done? No. Then we have to be just as careful and thoughtful about what we DO with that judgment. So many people think that, just because they have decided that something is right for them, it should be right for everyone. If you have used your knowledge and experience, that you have worked long and hard to achieve, to make your best judgment, it should be the right decision for you. But, as I pointed out earlier, everyone’s life experiences are different. You don’t know their life story, their needs, or even their wants. It is often said that it takes a
village to raise a child. Well, it also takes a village to succeed in an equine business. Think of all the different people, with different skills that go into your successful business. Each with their very own biases, want, needs, goals, expectations, problems to deal with, etc., etc. Their judgments are based on everything in their life from the time they started making decisions and combined with how and where they want their life to go in the future. There may be places where all of this for them intersects with all of this for us, but there will still be differences. This is equally true for the rest of the people in our lives—our professional life and our personal one. If we can’t even agree on what’s “best” within a single discipline, how can anyone think they know what is best for everyone in so divergent a world?!
Judging is going to be all pervasive in our lives. That is a given and inescapable. But that doesn’t mean it needs to be detrimental to us or to those around us. It is critically useful in so much of our life. Judging helps us decide who and what we want in our lives. It helps us shape and direct the path of our lives. It helps define who we are and what we show ourselves to be to the world. Make your best judgments, and use them wisely. Recognize that others are trying to make their best judgments too. Find the people whose judgments align more closely to yours. We embrace the vast variety of our profession. I hope we are also able to embrace the even vaster variety of informed inquiry and deliberation that makes up our world.
Just something to think about.
About the Author:
Cameo Miller is a Masters-level clinical psychologist and a Level IV ARIA Certified Instructor based in Michigan. She is a member of the ARIA Evaluation Panel and an ARIA National Test Center Administrator.
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Reflections on a Lifetime of Watching Falls
By Jack Marston
As a seasoned instructor, I’ve witnessed countless falls throughout my career, likely numbering in the thousands by now. Most of these incidents have been harmless, with the rider simply dusting off and carrying on. However, there are those rare moments where a fall turns into something more serious, involving injuries—or worse. Recently, I had one of those moments where I saw a young rider’s life flash before my eyes. What began as a lighthearted, almost comedic scene quickly took a sharp turn toward disaster before thankfully ending as nothing more than a tense moment.
From Laughter to Fear
In this particular instance, we were conducting a cross-country clinic that seemed like any other—riders with some experience, well-prepared and on suitable horses,
all eager to improve. One young rider, whom I’ll call Paradigm, stood out. She was cautious but willing, riding a horse—Fatboy— who had more jumping experience than she did. Fatboy was capable of clearing anything as long as his rider asked for it with confidence, but Paradigm was still building up that trust.
The exercise was simple: jump one log, turn, and head toward a second similar log. This gave me the opportunity to instruct the group on proper aids for a turn and how to think from the horse’s perspective. Fatboy, unsurprisingly, was full of enthusiasm when jumping toward the group, but as they turned away for the second log, his energy waned, and he stopped. Paradigm, being slightly ahead of the motion, began an awkward, slow slide down his neck. It was
almost humorous at first—until I realized she hadn’t been taught how to fall correctly.
With her arms outstretched and head lifted toward the ground, Paradigm was in a precarious position. She was headed for an almost direct face-plant. Fatboy’s movement at the last second spared her from a serious injury, and while she was understandably shaken, she was unhurt. The moment made me more determined than ever to emphasize teaching not just riding skills, but the critical art of falling.
Preparing for the Inevitable
There’s an old saying: “There’s never been a horse that couldn’t be ridden, nor a rider who couldn’t be thrown.” Falling off is an unavoidable part of riding, so it’s essential that riders learn how to fall in a way that
reduces the risk of injury. But before mastering the fall, fitness is key. Physical conditioning not only improves balance and agility but also reduces the risk of injury. Personally, being fit and knowing how to fall has saved my life more than once.
You don’t need a special setup to practice falling—your riding arena will suffice. Start with basic gear like your helmet and vest, and as you progress, practice in your competition attire to help your body recognize the feel of it. If you’re unsure or feel unathletic, getting help from a gymnastics or martial arts coach can be a good idea.
The Art of Falling
Start with simple, controlled falls. Begin by standing on a soft surface with feet shoulder-width apart. Cross your arms over your chest, then kneel and, as your knee touches the ground, turn your body so your shoulder makes contact next. Tighten your core, tuck your knees toward your chest, and roll onto your back, eventually returning to your feet. Rolling at a 45-degree angle away from the direction you were facing helps prevent being in your horse’s path.
Practice falling in both directions—one will feel more natural than the other. Over time, you’ll gain confidence rolling on both sides.
Pro Tips for Safer Falls
Give yourself mental permission to fall when the time comes. Don’t resist or try to hang on—focus on falling safely.
Let go of the reins during a fall to avoid injuries like shoulder dislocations or worse.
Always tuck into a ball as you fall, protecting your arms and legs from injury. The key is to roll, not brace against the ground.
After mastering falls in barn clothes, switch to practicing in your full riding gear, so you get used to the sensation of wearing your helmet and vest while falling.
As you improve, challenge yourself by performing multiple rolls before returning to your feet.
Falling with Motion
Once you’re comfortable falling from a standstill, add some motion. A slow-moving golf cart or similar vehicle can be helpful for practicing falls at a walk speed. Jump from the moving vehicle, tuck, and roll just as you would during a real fall. This adds the
element of momentum, which is common in falls from horses.
**Handling Different Types of Falls**
The method described above works well for falls over a horse’s shoulder, but not all falls are the same. If your horse slips and falls, lean away from the direction of the fall, pushing against the withers to lift yourself away. Protect your leg by keeping it close to your body, and roll away once you hit the ground.
Falls from rearing horses are particularly dangerous. If a horse begins to rear and you sense they might go over backward, dismount quickly by pulling yourself up the neck, swinging a leg over, and rolling away from the horse as soon as you hit the ground.
Final Thoughts
While no technique can guarantee complete safety, practicing how to fall and maintaining fitness are essential to reducing injury risks. Riders should also mentally prepare themselves for the inevitable fall and focus on staying calm and executing a proper roll when it happens.
