Behavioural Concerns (Bucking Bolting Rearing etc.)

Autumn Winter 2024

To access this content, please signup to one of our memberships JOIN NOW
If you already have an account then LOGIN

Explore Your Autumn & Winter 2024 IH Magazine!

Hello IH Members and friends! We’ve packed your latest issue of Intelligent Horsemanship Magazine full of fascinating articles, practical advice, and some truly heart-warming stories. This winter edition brings together brilliant minds from our wonderful IH community to help you and your horse have the best possible partnership.

What’s Inside?

I’ve shared a rather personal story about my friendship with the remarkable Joanna MacInnes (who I first knew simply as “The Tea Lady”!), and we’ve got an absolutely fascinating interview with Dr Gemma Pearson, who’s pioneering the field of Equine Veterinary Behavioural Medicine.

Our training section is particularly strong this issue:

Gillian Higgins gives practical help for horses with kissing spines

Leah Wright demystifies water treadmills (they’re not just for racehorses!)

Sue Palmer shows you how to massage your horse (they’ll love you for it)

Gillian Bradley introduces her clever “TEAM A” approach for emotional balance

I’ve also explored the many meanings behind horses’ licking and chewing, and Rosie Jones-McVey has written a thought-provoking piece on how we decide who to trust in the horse world (something we all struggle with!).

You’ll meet our lovely member Sally Henderson (former champion vaulter), read about some terrific new books, and discover how our dedicated IH Trainers are changing lives across the country.

Why You’ll Love This Issue

If you’re anything like me, you’re always looking for ways to keep your horse comfortable and happy, especially during these challenging winter months. This issue is absolutely perfect for that!

The rehabilitation features are particularly special – I’ve experienced kissing spines with various horses that I have met over the years, so Gillian Higgins’ practical exercises have been a godsend. And I’ve personally tried Sue Palmer’s massage techniques (Pie was particularly appreciative!).

Jo Powell’s piece on managing anxiety really struck a chord with me. I think we’ve all felt those butterflies at times, whether it’s at a competition or just when things aren’t going to plan, and her simple mindfulness techniques can make such a difference to both you and your horse.

With the wet, muddy season upon us (is your field also turning into a swamp?), Amanda Goble’s enrichment ideas couldn’t have come at a better time. I’ve already bought a few of the toys she recommends for Pie and Blondie, and the difference in their stable behaviour is quite remarkable.

Whether you’re struggling with a specific issue or just want to deepen your understanding, there’s something in this issue that will help you strengthen that special bond with your horse.

All our members can access this magazine for free, along with our complete magazine archive and loads of exclusive videos and resources. Not a member yet? Come and join our friendly community – we’d love to have you!

Complete Contents with Article Descriptions

04 – Kelly Marks – My World: “The Tea Lady”
I share a rather personal story about my friendship with Joanna MacInnes, who I first met as the tea lady at pony championships but turned out to be the owner of Walton Stud and the wonderful Kilvington Scoundrel.

07 – IH Members’ Photos
Some absolutely beautiful photographs from our talented members – I always love seeing these!

08 – Letters and Cartoon by Nat Herman
Your experiences using IH methods, including a lovely Star Letter about acceptance training with a Connemara pony, plus Nat’s brilliant cartoon.

10 – IH News and Membership updates
All the latest from IH HQ, including improvements to the Members’ Area and our competition winners.

12 – Meet a Member: Sally Henderson – Learning in Leaps & Bounds
Former champion vaulter Sally shares her incredible journey and how IH principles have helped her connection with horses.

16 – Book Review & Extract: Finding Your Superhorse
I review Lynn Palm’s excellent guide to developing horses with good attitudes and share some practical extracts on competition preparation.

18 – The Big Interview: Dr Gemma Pearson
A fascinating chat with the pioneering veterinary behaviourist about her groundbreaking work – she’s truly at the cutting edge of understanding horses.

22 – Controlling the Demon Drivers: Anxiety & Horses Don’t Mix
Jo Powell offers some brilliant practical techniques to manage your anxiety around horses – this could be a game-changer for many of you!

24 – IH Training: Can You Un-Kiss Kissing Spines?
Gillian Higgins explains this common condition in straightforward terms and provides eight exercises that really work to help affected horses.

27 – IH Training: Water Treadmill in Equine Rehabilitation
Leah Wright explores the benefits of underwater treadmills for recovery and fitness – it’s not just for elite competition horses!

29 – IH Training: Massaging Your Horse
Sue Palmer’s step-by-step guide to massaging your horse – a lovely way to strengthen your bond while helping your horse feel better.

33 – IH Training: Join-Up for Anatomy?
Abi Pass shares fascinating insights on “trunk transitions” – crucial junctions in your horse’s spine that affect everything they do.

35 – IH Training: Training Emotional and Mental Agility
Gillian Bradley introduces her “TEAM A” approach to create balanced, happy horses – I think this is absolutely brilliant.

39 – Licking & Chewing: What’s It All About?
I explore the many meanings behind this common behaviour, explaining why context is everything when interpreting your horse’s signals.

41 – Who knows best? How ‘trust’ works in the horse world
Rosie Jones-McVey offers thought-provoking insights into how we decide who and what to trust – essential reading in today’s confusing information landscape.

44 – Spotlight on IH Trainer Jo Powell
Meet wonderful Jo Powell, whose journey from teacher to IH Trainer shows it’s never too late to follow your passion.

46 – Talking Points: Are Bad Practices a Thing of the Past?
A thought-provoking discussion on changing ethics in dressage and high-level training – what’s your take on this?

48 – Book Extract: No Bored Horses
Amanda Goble’s guide to enrichment for happier horses – I’ve tried several of her suggestions with Pie and Blondie and they really work!

51 – IH Trainer Client Feedback
Heartwarming success stories from horse owners who’ve worked with our dedicated IH Trainers – these always make me smile.

Navigation Tags

anatomy, autumn, confidence, anxiety, behaviour, equine behavioural medicine, bodywork, communication, welfare, equitation science, groundwork, enrichment, horse psychology, human-horse relationship, Join-Up, kissing spines, licking and chewing, loading, massage, mindfulness, physiotherapy, rehabilitation, travelling, trust building, water treadmill, winter

Autumn 2022

To access this content, please signup to one of our memberships JOIN NOW
If you already have an account then LOGIN

Explore Your Autumn 2022 IH Magazine!

This issue really brings together the power of learning – not just for our horses, but for us too. I’ve popped in some insights from the ‘greats’, and you’ll find training wisdom from IH favourites like Clare MacLeod and Emma Sharman, along with fresh perspectives from equine professionals working at the very forefront of behaviour and equine welfare.

What’s Inside?

• I’ve shared some personal tips passed down from the very best horsemen and women I’ve been lucky enough to learn from.
• Dr Andrew Hemmings offers a deep dive into the equine brain (spoiler alert: it’s fascinating!).
• Jim Goddard continues his brilliant series on transferring groundwork to the saddle.
• There’s a cracking set of articles on feeding for performance, recognising signs of colic, and demystifying the ever-controversial “heels down” rule.
• And of course, we’ve sprinkled in uplifting member stories, thoughtful letters, and some brilliant photography.

Why You’ll Love This Issue

Autumn’s such a special time – Pie and Blondie are usually full of beans, and I find it’s the perfect season for reflection and gentle progress. Whether you’re helping your horse through box rest, fine-tuning their nutrition, or simply enjoying the last sunny hacks before winter, this issue’s got something to support you.

I especially loved the myth-busting around mare-ish behaviours and heels down – both topics I think we’ve all got strong opinions on! Plus, if you’ve ever wondered what it means for our right to ride horses in the modern world, the “Social Licence to Ride” debate is a must-read.

Let’s keep learning and growing together – that’s what Intelligent Horsemanship is all about.

Complete Contents with Article Descriptions

04 – Kelly Marks – My World: Tips from the Best of the Best
I share my favourite golden nuggets from decades of working with top horsepeople – the kind of advice that never goes out of date.

06 – Letters and Feedback
Our members always offer such thoughtful reflections – and a good dose of humour too.

07 – IH News
Latest updates from IH HQ, including course news and exciting member milestones.

09 – Members’ Photos
A gallery of heart-warming images from our talented IH community.

10 – Meet a Member: James Cooling GP
James shares how he juggles life as a GP and horse owner, and how IH has influenced his training.

12 – Last Chance: IH Equine Photographer of the Year 2022
Your final reminder to enter our much-loved annual competition!

14 – The Big Interview: Andrew Hemmings
A fascinating conversation about horse brains, memory, learning, and emotional states.

18 – IH Training: Understanding Mare-ish Behaviours with Dr Rosie Jones-McVey
Rosie looks beyond stereotypes to explain what really drives so-called ‘mare-ish’ behaviour.

21 – IH Training: Feeding for Muscle, Speed & Stamina – Part 2 with Clare MacLeod
Top nutritionist Clare continues her essential series on performance feeding.

24 – IH Training: From the Ground to the Saddle with Jim Goddard
Jim’s thoughtful approach helps you transfer groundwork techniques to ridden work.

28 – IH Training: Preparing Your Horse for Box Rest with Emma Sharman
Practical strategies to keep horses healthy and happy through confinement.

31 – IH Training: Stickability – the Myth of ‘Heels Down’
We challenge a riding cliché and explore what really helps you stay secure in the saddle.

34 – IH Training: Noticing the Subtle Signs of Colic by Charlie Carr
Charlie helps you catch the warning signs early, potentially saving your horse’s life.

36 – IH Debate: A Social Licence to Ride?
A timely discussion on the evolving ethics of horse riding and public perception.

38 – Book Extract: Sport Horse Soundness and Performance
An expert insight into maintaining equine soundness and competitive longevity.

40 – Spotlight On: Claire Mitchell
Claire shares her story and what led her to become a committed IH Trainer.

43 – IH Trainer Client Feedback
Real-life stories of transformation and connection thanks to IH’s kind methods.

Navigation Tags

autumn, confidence, behaviour, anxiety, brain & senses, nutrition, groundwork, horse-human relationship, colic, rehabilitation, ridden exercises, social licence, box rest,

Winter 2017

To access this content, please signup to one of our memberships JOIN NOW
If you already have an account then LOGIN

Explore Your Winter 2017 IH Magazine!

What’s Inside?

• Monty Roberts makes history at the Spanish Riding School in Vienna – our on-location special from Ele Milwright
• Kelly Marks reflects on working with champions – and why horsemanship is finally going mainstream
• A 10-page IH Training Guide with practical step-by-step advice on separation anxiety, leading two horses, and even a DIY jump wings project
• The Big Interview: Jim Masterson explains how subtle bodywork techniques can unlock your horse’s physical and emotional wellbeing
• Sarah Weston, Kelly and Monty team up in our “Food for Thought” feature – your essential guide to food use, clicker training and positive reinforcement
• Real member stories – from overcoming fear and injury with the help of IH methods to delightful driving success in later life
• Rosie Jones-McVey invites us to pause and think with her piece on equine ethics in the digital age
• From round pen to theatre – what one ex-racehorse taught us about transformation
• 2018 IH course calendar and a spotlight on the Psychology Course

Why You’ll Love This Issue

This edition really brings home what we’re all about at IH – learning, kindness, and progress, no matter where you are on the journey. Whether it’s Kelly’s reminder that even Olympic riders seek help now and again, or Jim Masterson’s beautiful insights into softening and listening through touch – there’s something here for every horse lover wanting to grow. The special feature on food and positive reinforcement (p.28) offers a balanced, thoughtful approach to an often debated topic, and our 10-page training guide is perfect for long winter nights when you’re ready to reflect, plan and improve. If ever there was an issue to remind you that progress is possible, even in deep mud and frost – this is it.

Complete Contents with Article Descriptions

04 – My World: Has Intelligent Horsemanship Become Mainstream?
Kelly shares stories from the field, including working with dressage champions and even Lucinda Green. A great read about how IH has found its way into elite circles.

06 – Letters and Feedback
Moving letters from members reflecting on their journey with horses – some deeply touching stories of transformation and connection.

07 – Members’ Photos
A beautiful spread of member-submitted photos, full of love, memory and pride.

08 – In Other News
Topical insights including the dangers of over-rugging, new research on bandaging, and tackling racism in the horse world.

09 – Meet a Member: Colin Bunting
An inspiring story of recovery and rediscovery – Colin shares his journey from cancer treatment to charity races and IH advocacy.

10 – The Pferdeflüsterer of Vienna
Ele Milwright reports from Vienna where Monty makes history with a stunning demonstration at the Spanish Riding School.

12 – Special Training Day
Behind the scenes of a new event format – Monty works with real horses and real issues in a relaxed setting. Honest, educational and uplifting.

14 – The Big Interview: Jim Masterson
Editor Zoë Smith talks to Jim Masterson about equine bodywork, listening through touch and how less really can be more.

19 – IH Training: Separation Anxiety
Kelly’s thoughtful and practical approach to helping horses feel confident when left or led away.

24 – IH Training: Double Trouble
Safe, sensible guidance on leading two horses at once – perfect for yard life.

26 – Intelligent DIY: Make Your Own Jump Wings
Step-by-step instructions to create affordable, smart jump wings at home.

28 – Special Feature: Food for Thought
Your essential guide to food in training. With insights from Monty, Kelly, and Sarah Weston – this is one to refer back to.

34 – Equine Ethics: Do You Think Before You Judge?
Rosie Jones-McVey’s thoughtful piece on social media and judgement in the horse world. A powerful read.

38 – From the Case Files: From Round Pen to Theatre
How an ex-racer took centre stage – a testament to trust, time and transformation.

41 – Spotlight On: Jade Trelease
A look into the life and passion of one of IH’s valued contributors.

42 – IHRT Client Feedback
Real success stories from IHRT clients – heartwarming and hopeful.

43 – IH Course Dates
Everything you need to plan your next learning step with IH in 2018.

Navigation Tags

separation anxiety, anxiety, groundwork, loading, positive reinforcement, clicker training, food in training, horse bodywork, massage, training aids, horse psychology, rugging, bandaging, ethics, horsemanship around the world, showing

Summer 2017

To access this content, please signup to one of our memberships JOIN NOW
If you already have an account then LOGIN

Explore Your Summer 2017 IH Magazine!

What’s Inside?

• A deeply inspiring Big Interview with Professor Derek Knottenbelt on a life of equine veterinary passion and his Vets With Horsepower charity.
• Sue Palmer shares practical tips for hacking out with more confidence – a must-read for anxious riders.
• A powerful piece from Rosie Jones McVey on the stories we tell about our horses and what they reveal about us.
• Insights from Nicola Tyler (TopSpec) on feeding and meal size – when less really is more.
• Training highlights from Kelly and Monty’s March Demos, including trailer loading, clipping fears, and breakthrough moments.
• Joanna Lowes shares her international journey with Monty Roberts and working with horses in Brazil.
• Forage analysis and bespoke feeding plans – why it matters and how to do it.
• Real-life success stories from IH Members, including “Joe’s road to recovery” and Marmite’s transformation.
• Important update: IH Recommended Associates are now “IH Recommended Trainers” – clearer and just as committed!

Why You’ll Love This Issue

This issue is all about building confidence – in our horses, in ourselves, and in the choices we make. Whether you’re tackling hacking nerves (see Sue Palmer’s practical, confidence-boosting guide), or wondering when to seek help with a tricky problem (page 28), you’ll find encouragement here.

There’s also celebration: of knowledge and kindness through Professor Knottenbelt’s incredible veterinary journey, of connection through member stories, and of summer itself – those golden hours spent out with our horses.

This edition reminds us that learning never stops. Even familiar ground – like feeding or groundwork – offers something new when explored with curiosity and compassion. And if you’re ready to be inspired by people who truly walk the talk, don’t miss Jo’s international adventures with Monty and the unforgettable veterans’ clinic in California.

Complete Contents with Article Descriptions

4 – My World: Horses for Courses
Kelly shares her reflections on March courses, inspirational students, and a surprising Royal engagement. A warm welcome to summer, straight from the heart.

6 – Letters and Feedback
Real stories from IH Members – from rescued ponies to life-saving long lines, and everything in between.

7 – In Other News…
Name change alert: IH Recommended Associates are now IHRTs – plus updates on Sarah Weston, Exmoor ponies, and more.

8 – Buckham Fair
A peek into one of Dorset’s most-loved horse and dog charity events, thanks to Martin Clunes and family.

9 – Members’ Photos
Your beautiful, funny, and moving moments with your horses – captured and shared.

10 – In the News: Under the Skin – Donkeys at Risk
The Donkey Sanctuary exposes the harsh global trade in donkey skins for traditional Chinese medicine. Eye-opening and important.

12 – The Big Interview: Professor Derek Knottenbelt
A brilliant vet, biker, and charity champion – Derek talks sarcoids, passion projects, and the power of education.

16 – March Demos: What We Learned
From side-loaders to Zen-style clipping breakthroughs, Kelly reflects on memorable demo moments.

19 – IH Training: On the Road with Jo
Joanna Lowes updates us on Motto, her time with Monty Roberts in California, and the magic of Join-Up® for people, not just horses.

21 – IH Training: Carefree Hacking
Sue Palmer’s essential guide to building hacking confidence, step by step.

25 – IH Training: Forage Analysis and Feed Plans
Why what grows underfoot matters more than you think – and how to tailor feed to your horse’s needs.

28 – IH Training: Dealing with Problems – Home or Away?
When to handle it yourself – and when to call in a pro. A smart guide to assessing what your horse really needs.

31 – Feeding Myths Busted: Big Meals, Big Mistake?
Nicola Tyler explains why large meals can do more harm than good.

32 – IH Success Story: Working with Joe
A touching account of patience, progress, and partnership.

34 – Narrative Mind Reading
Rosie Jones McVey explores how the stories we tell about our horses reflect who we are.

38 – From the Case Files: My Mate, Marmite
A quirky but moving case study – showing that understanding can transform even the most marmite-like of horses!

41 – IHRT Client Feedback
Straight from the field – feedback that shows the real-life difference IH makes.

42 – Spotlight on Suzanne Halsey
Get to know one of IH’s quietly brilliant trainers.

44 – IH Courses
Thinking of joining a course? Everything you need to know to take the next step.

Navigation Tags

groundwork, hacking, confidence, nutrition, clipping, loading, sarcoids, rescue horses, horse psychology, behaviour, donkeys

Behavioural Concerns (Bucking Bolting Rearing etc.)

Autumn Winter 2024

Explore Your Autumn & Winter 2024 IH Magazine!

What’s Inside?

Why You’ll Love This Issue

Complete Contents with Article Descriptions

Navigation Tags

Autumn 2022

Explore Your Autumn 2022 IH Magazine!

What’s Inside?

Why You’ll Love This Issue

Complete Contents with Article Descriptions

Navigation Tags

Winter 2017

Explore Your Winter 2017 IH Magazine!

What’s Inside?

Why You’ll Love This Issue

Complete Contents with Article Descriptions

Navigation Tags

Summer 2017

Explore Your Summer 2017 IH Magazine!

What’s Inside?

Why You’ll Love This Issue

Complete Contents with Article Descriptions

Navigation Tags

7 Essential Groundwork Exercises Every Horse-Owner Should Know

by Kelly Marks and Sandra Williams