Our approach to horses is based on the teachings of the great classical masters (starting with Greek riding master Xenophon, 400 B.C.) and natural horsemanship principles.

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What is classical equitation?

Classical riding encourages a "balanced, deep and feeling seat" in order to improve communication with your horse. "The horse is ridden with the seat first, then the legs and into the hands." The rider rides from his center and is expected to have great discipline and self-carriage in order to improve the self-carriage and balance of his horse. (Quotations from the Classical Dressage Notebook.)

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A brief history of classical riding.

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What is natural horsemanship?

Natural horsemanship is a popular catch phrase right now. It can be used in an assortment of ways but essentially it means to work with the horse using his own form of communication based on his instincts and herd mentality. The goal is to gain your horse's respect and confidence in order to develop a happy and healthy relationship. As trainers we try to be as soft and gentle as possible, but as firm as necessary.

 

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Hast thou given the horse strength? hast thou clothed his neck with thunder? Canst thou make him afraid as a grasshopper? the glory of his nostrils is terrible. He paweth in the valley, and rejoiceth in his strength: he goeth on to meet the armed men. He mocketh at fear, and is not affrighted; neither turneth he back from the sword. The quiver rattleth against him, the glittering spear and the shield. He swalloweth the ground with fierceness and rage: neither believeth he that it is the sound of the trumpet.

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Job 39:19-24