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Autumn Winter 2024
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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

IH Magazine Spring Summer 2024

Spring Summer 2024
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IH Magazine Spring Summer 2024

Explore Your Spring & Summer 2024 IH Magazine!

Hello to all our wonderful IH Members and horse-loving friends! I couldn’t be more excited to present your Spring & Summer 2024 issue of Intelligent Horsemanship Magazine. These pages are bursting with fresh insights, hands-on advice, and truly uplifting stories from throughout our incredible IH community. As the sunshine returns and our horsey activities ramp up, this edition brings you exactly what you need for a brilliant season ahead.

What’s Inside?

This time around, I’ve shared some personal reflections on my decades of working with challenging horses (including some hilarious mishaps with Pie that taught me so much!), and we’re featuring a captivating interview with Professor Daniel Mills about his groundbreaking research into equine cognition.

Our training section is absolutely packed with gems this issue:

  • Michael Peace offers brilliant solutions for trailer-loading problems

  • Rachel Bedingfield reveals transformative groundwork exercises for better connection

  • Helen Spence shares her revolutionary approach to working with sensitive horses

  • Lucy Rees explains her fascinating observations on how horses naturally communicate (Blondie has been my greatest teacher in this area!)

I’ve explored the fascinating world of equine facial expressions and what they tell us, while Emily Hadfield has written an eye-opening piece on creating harmonious herd dynamics at home (something that’s transformed my own yard management).

You’ll be introduced to our inspiring member Janet Thompson (who’s accomplished incredible things with her previously “unrideable” horse), discover some brilliant new publications, and see firsthand how our remarkable IH Trainers are changing equine lives nationwide.

Why You’ll Love This Issue

The longer days and drier ground make this the perfect time to refresh your approach with your equine partner. This magazine arrives just when you need it most to make the most of the season!

The trailer-loading section has been an absolute revelation – Michael’s systematic approach tackles this common problem brilliantly. I’ve seen these methods transform even the most stubborn refusers (Pie once took three hours to load until we applied these principles, and now he practically self-loads!).

Rachel’s groundwork exercises have become a staple in my daily routine with both Pie and Blondie. These simple yet powerful techniques create such profound shifts in how horses respond and connect with us – you’ll notice the difference immediately.

With summer shows and events on the horizon, Helen’s insights on managing sensitive horses in busy environments couldn’t come at a better time. Her practical strategies will help your horse stay calm and focused even in chaotic surroundings.

Whether you’re facing specific challenges or simply wanting to enhance your partnership, this magazine offers practical wisdom that will make every moment with your horse more rewarding this season.

Our members enjoy this magazine as part of their subscription, alongside our extensive archive and exclusive online resources. Not yet part of our community? We’d be delighted to welcome you!

Complete Contents with Article Descriptions

04 Kelly Marks – The Learning Curve: “Lessons from Challenging Horses”
I share some candid stories about particularly challenging horses I’ve worked with over the years, including what Pie has taught me about patience and persistence during our most testing moments.

07 IH Members’ Photos
A gorgeous collection of seasonal photographs sent in by our talented members – the quality of these images never ceases to amaze me!

08 Letters and Cartoon by Nat Herman
Your brilliant experiences using IH methods, featuring a moving Star Letter about an ex-racehorse’s transformation, alongside Nat’s always witty seasonal cartoon.

10 IH News and Membership updates
All the latest happenings from IH HQ, including our expanded summer demonstration schedule and exciting new member resources.

12 Meet a Member: Janet Thompson
Janet recounts her remarkable journey with her “unrideable” mare and how IH techniques created a breakthrough when all else had failed – truly inspiring!

16 Book Review & Extract: The Language of Horses
My review of this enlightening guide to better understanding equine communication, with practical extracts on reading subtle signs most humans miss.

18 The Big Interview: Professor Daniel Mills
A captivating discussion with this world-renowned researcher about his latest findings in equine cognition and learning – he’s truly revolutionising our understanding.

22 Trailer Loading: Solutions for Every Horse
Michael Peace presents his systematic approach to solving loading problems, with step-by-step instructions that work even with the most determined refusers.

24 IH Training: Groundwork for Enhanced Connection
Rachel Bedingfield shares transformative exercises that deepen the bond between horse and handler, creating more responsive partnerships.

27 IH Training: Summer Feeding Strategies
Catherine Scott explores optimal nutrition during grass-rich months, with practical advice on managing weight and energy levels as pastures flourish.

29 IH Training: Working with Sensitive Horses
Helen Spence’s brilliant insights into helping highly sensitive equines navigate our human world with confidence and calmness.

33 IH Training: Creating Herd Harmony at Home
Emily Hadfield offers practical strategies for managing multiple horses to create peaceful yard dynamics that respect natural herd behaviour.

35 IH Training: Natural Horse Communication
Lucy Rees explains the fascinating language horses use among themselves and how we can incorporate these signals into our training approach.

39 Equine Facial Expressions: What They’re Really Telling Us
I explore the subtle world of equine expressions and what they reveal about your horse’s emotional state – understanding these has transformed my work with Blondie.

41 Managing Horses in Busy Environments
Richard Maxwell provides invaluable techniques for keeping horses calm and focused in challenging situations like shows and busy yards.

44 Spotlight on IH Trainer Rebecca Howard
Meet our wonderful Rebecca Howard, whose journey from nervous rider to confident IH Trainer demonstrates the power of these methods firsthand.

46 Talking Points: Balancing Technology and Tradition
An engaging discussion on integrating modern innovations with time-tested horsemanship principles – I’d be fascinated to hear your perspectives!

48 Book Extract: The Balanced Rider
Matthew Lawrence’s fantastic guide to improving your seat and influence, with exercises I’ve found immensely helpful in my own riding (even after all these years!).

51 IH Trainer Client Feedback
Heart-warming success stories from clients whose horses have been transformed by our dedicated IH Trainers – reading these always brightens my day.

Navigation Tags

communication, competition & competition prep, equine cognition, equine facial expressions, equine nutrition, equitation science, ex-racehorses, groundwork, horse psychology, horse-human relationship, Join-Up, loading, natural horsemanship, paddock management, positive reinforcement, rehabilitation, rider positioning, summer, travelling, yard management

Winter 2022
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Explore Your Winter 2022 IH Magazine!

Hello IH Members and friends! This issue of Intelligent Horsemanship Magazine is one very close to my heart. As the winter winds blow and the horses get fluffier (Pie looks like a cuddly teddy bear right now!), we’ve wrapped up your magazine with warmth, wisdom and a whole lot of horse-sense.

We dive into the exhilarating topic of galloping – whether you’re already out there racing the wind or (like me) prefer a calm canter, you’ll love our expert insights. There’s a whole lot of helpful advice for winter training, from feeding for stamina to choosing the right lunging routine. And Sandra Williams gives us an exclusive look at her new book on loading those less easy horses – it’s like gold dust if you’ve ever had a horse that simply says “no thanks!” at the ramp!

You’ll also read about the biomechanics of gallop, the psychology behind ‘dominance’ in horse training, and a heart-warming tale from the ever-brilliant Fran Severn. All this, plus wonderful member stories, photos, and a spotlight on the fabulous Lucy Newham.

What’s Inside?

We’ve packed this winter issue with a real mix to keep you learning, smiling and connecting with your horse even more deeply:

• Gillian Higgins breaks down the biomechanics of gallop – and it’s more complex than you might think
• Jo Davis shares practical guidance on how to safely experience the thrill of galloping
• Abi Pass weighs up the pros and cons of lungeing – a must-read if it’s in your winter routine
• Sandra Williams’ new book extract is a fantastic hands-on guide to loading difficult horses
• Clare MacLeod (part 3 of her brilliant feeding series!) explains how to feed for speed and stamina
• Jim Goddard continues his brilliant training series, with groundwork to ridden progression
• Dr Rosie Jones-McVey challenges our thinking about dominance in horse behaviour – very thought-provoking
• Fran Severn makes us smile (and maybe cry a little) with her delightful book extract
• Member spotlight on Lucy Newham – we love sharing your journeys!

Why You’ll Love This Issue

Winter can be a tricky time – short days, cold toes and muddy fields (Blondie’s currently winning the ‘dirtiest horse’ award!). But this issue is full of ways to keep both you and your horse motivated and moving forward.

We’ve put a big focus on movement this time – galloping, loading, groundwork… all the things that keep your partnership strong. Whether you’re warming up indoors or dashing through a frosty field, you’ll find insights that really help. I especially recommend Sandra Williams’ piece on loading – it’s so reassuring to know you’re not alone when things don’t go to plan.

And if you’re pondering whether dominance really exists in our relationships with horses, Rosie’s article might just shift your whole perspective – it certainly gave me pause for thought.

Whether you’re curling up with this magazine after a long yard day or planning your winter training sessions, I hope this edition brings you confidence, clarity and connection.

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: New Beginnings
I reflect on fresh starts and the beauty of embracing change – both for horses and ourselves.

06 Letters and Feedback
Your experiences, kind words and brilliant ideas – always one of my favourite sections.

07 IH News
Updates from IH HQ – find out what we’ve all been up to and what’s coming next.

09 Members’ Photos
Such beautiful snapshots of your lives with horses – thank you for sharing.

10 Meet a Member: Imran Atcha
An inspiring story of connection, determination, and how IH principles are being shared far and wide.

12 WINNER Announced: IH Equine Photographer of the Year 2022
We unveil the winner of our much-loved photography competition – prepare to be wowed!

16 IH Training: The Biomechanics of Gallop – Gillian Higgins
Gillian explains how and why fast work can benefit your horse – essential reading this winter.

20 IH Training: How to Gallop Like a Pro – Jo Davis
Practical advice for getting the best from your gallops – safely, effectively, and enjoyably.

23 IH Training: The Pros and Cons of Lungeing – Abi Pass
Abi helps us balance tradition with research, so you can make the right call for your horse.

26 IH Training: Feeding for Muscle, Speed & Stamina – Clare MacLeod (Part 3)
Nutritional strategies to support winter work and recovery.

28 IH Training: Loading the Less Easy Horse – Sandra Williams (Book Extract)
Sandra shares her brilliant techniques and case studies to help your horse travel with confidence.

30 IH Training: From the Ground to the Saddle – Jim Goddard
Practical progression work that builds confidence and trust step by step.

34 Is ‘Dominance’ a Useful Term for Horse Training? – Dr Rosie Jones-McVey
A challenging and thoughtful look at a common (and controversial) training idea.

38 Book Extract: Riders of a Certain Age – Fran Severn
A joyful and wise excerpt for those of us who know age is just a number.

40 Spotlight On: Lucy Newham
Meet IH Trainer Lucy – her journey is inspiring, and her passion shines through.

43 IH Trainer Client Feedback
Heart-warming stories from horse owners who’ve worked with our amazing IH Trainers.

Navigation Tags

anatomy, book review, biomechanics, confidence, dominance, anxiety, behaviour, equine bodywork, nutrition, welfare, groundwork, galloping, horse psychology, horse-human relationship, lungeing, loading, muscle development, winter

IH Spring Magazine

Spring 2022
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IH Spring Magazine

Explore Your Spring 2022 IH Magazine!

Hello IH Members and friends!

Spring has officially sprung – and hasn’t it been lovely to see those longer evenings and a bit of fresh grass returning to the fields? Pie and Blondie are definitely enjoying the milder weather (and yes, the rolling has increased in both frequency and enthusiasm!). This issue is one I’m especially excited to share with you – we’ve dedicated the whole magazine to something we all need more of at times: Confidence. Whether it’s in the saddle, handling on the ground, or simply making decisions around our horses, confidence is at the heart of everything we do. And we’ve packed this edition with insights, stories and strategies to help you build it. I do hope you’ll find something here that speaks to you.

What’s Inside?

• Kelly Marks’ “My World” reflection on confidence, imposter syndrome, and the importance of nudging ourselves forward
• An inspiring Big Interview with performance psychologist Charlie Unwin on mindset and confidence
• Practical IH Training articles from Clare MacLeod (feeding for confidence), Gillian Higgins (physical readiness), and Dr Veronica Fowler (intelligent science)
• Traffic Light Training for Confidence with Dr Rosie Jones-McVey
• IH Confidence Special – winning tips from Kelly, Sandra Williams and Daisy Smith
• Member stories including Natasha Smith’s heartfelt RAF journey and stage 2 student research projects
• Scientific insights on rider weight and symmetry from the Saddle Research Trust conference
• Letters and photos from members sharing their real-life confidence journeys
• The launch of our 2022 IH Equestrian Photographer of the Year – with a £500 prize pot!

Why You’ll Love This Issue

Spring is such a hopeful season, but it can also feel a bit daunting, especially if you’re coming out of winter unsure about your horse’s fitness—or your own! That’s why this Confidence Issue is a bit of a seasonal toolkit. Whether you’re planning your first dressage test like brave Sue Fletcher (p6) or just getting back to hacking after a soggy winter, you’ll find stories and strategies here to boost your confidence from the inside out.

You’ll love the variety: from Gillian Higgins’ wisdom on making sure your horse is physically safe to ride (p24), to Clare MacLeod’s expert insights into how nutrition affects behaviour and performance (p22). Plus, our wonderful IH students have been doing fascinating studies—ever wondered if a fly mask helps a horse during travel? (p15). There’s practical science, heartfelt stories, and lots of encouragement.

And if you’ve ever doubted whether you’re “good enough” or ready to try something new, I hope this issue will give you that gentle nudge. Because, as I always say, you can do this.

Complete Contents with Article Descriptions

4 – Kelly Marks: My World – Living Our Best Lives!
Kelly reflects on confidence, imposter syndrome, and how Intelligent Horsemanship continues to support both horses and humans to grow.

6 – Letters & Feedback
A whole page of your confidence stories, with heartfelt thanks to Daisy, Sandra and Kelly for the Confidence Webinar that sparked so many thoughts.

7 – IH News
Updates from across the IH community, including a touching tribute to Bob Brickell and support for women in racing.

9 – Members’ Photos
A beautiful gallery of members and their horses. Huge congratulations to canvas print winners Bruce, Diane and their Shire, Harry.

10 – Meet a Member: Natasha Smith
An inspiring profile of RAF medic Natasha, who credits IH with supporting both her horsemanship and mental wellbeing.

12 – IH Equine Photographer of the Year Launch
Full details of our exciting photo competition – open to members and a guest. Cash prizes, canvas print, and a spot in the magazine!

14 – Stage 2 Student Successes & Projects
Meet our newest diploma holders and discover their fascinating research on horse behaviour, stress, laterality, and more.

17 – Saddle Research Trust Conference Review
Sue Palmer breaks down Dr Hilary Clayton’s talk on how rider biomechanics affect horse welfare – a must-read for any rider.

18 – The Big Interview: Charlie Unwin
Performance psychologist Charlie Unwin reveals how mindset shapes everything from sport to horse riding success.

22 – IH Training: Feeding for Confidence with Clare MacLeod
Learn how nutrition can influence a horse’s confidence, behaviour, and readiness to learn.

24 – IH Training: Is Your Horse Physically Ready to Ride? with Gillian Higgins
Discover how to assess your horse’s readiness and comfort before riding – a practical guide to reduce risks and boost confidence.

26 – IH Training: Intelligent Science with Dr Veronica Fowler
Debunking bad science and helping you ask better questions – science communication at its best.

28 – IH Training: Confidence Special – Tips from Kelly, Sandra & Daisy
Real-world strategies from three IH pros on building confidence in yourself and your horse.

33 – IH Training: Traffic Light Training for Confidence with Dr Rosie Jones-McVey
An innovative way to read your horse’s emotional state and respond with clarity and calm.

36 – IH Debate: Unsolicited Advice – Should We Give It or Keep Quiet?
Thought-provoking discussion on the culture of advice in the horse world – helpful or harmful?

38 – Book Extract: Bolder, Braver, Brighter
A sneak peek into a motivating new book on confidence and courage.

40 – Spotlight On: Charlie Carr
A close-up on an inspiring IH Trainer and their journey.

43 – IH Trainer Client Feedback
Real stories of transformation from clients working with IH Trainers across the UK.

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confidence, groundwork, rider psychology, rider positioning and biomechanics, nutrition, equine science, traveling, safety, acceptance training, student research, spring, photo competition

Front Cover of Summer 2020 IH Magazine

Summer 2020
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Front Cover of Summer 2020 IH Magazine

Explore Your Summer 2020 IH Magazine!

What’s Inside?

• Dr Rosie Jones-McVey explores how horses help heal humans in the powerful article How Horses Heal Humans.
• Kelly Marks shares stories of grit, growth and glowing moments in My World: Ray of Light!.
• The Seven Sins of Loading Horses — are you making one of these common mistakes?
• Could You Go Bitless? Alison Ball presents the pros and cons of riding without a bit.
• Becoming a Stronger, More Confident Rider — IH Trainer Stephanie Heeran explains how resistance training changed her riding.
• Big Interview: Dr Veronica Fowler — veterinary scientist, horse lover, and a quiet hero in the COVID fight.
• The Horses Inside Out Conference 2020 brings cutting-edge equine science straight to you.
• Being Brave by Gaynor Roberts — an honest, heartfelt story of rediscovering confidence through a beloved pony.
• Member story: From West End star to aspiring horse whisperer — meet 12-year-old Seb Adams-Eaton and his cheeky pony Dudley.

Why You’ll Love This Issue

There’s something deeply reassuring about this summer’s issue — it meets us where we are. Whether you’ve felt anxious, grounded, inspired or simply in need of a moment of connection, these pages will resonate.

Kelly’s Ray of Light column reminds us that strength comes in all forms — sometimes it’s lifting weights, sometimes it’s just getting back on your feet. Rosie Jones-McVey’s moving research into how horses help heal humans speaks volumes to what we all sense: that horses change us, emotionally and mentally.

You’ll find guidance, inspiration and honest truths — from tips on bitless riding and how not to sabotage trailer loading, to deeply personal member stories of courage, recovery and joy. It’s an issue full of heart, grit, and real support. A perfect companion for these uncertain times.

Complete Contents with Article Descriptions

04 – My World: Ray of Light!
Kelly Marks reflects on inner strength, surprising detours, and an unforgettable standing ovation in Europe — with her trademark humour and heart.

06 – Letters and Feedback
From hat nests to heartfelt farewells, members share moments of joy, grief and gratitude.

07 – Members’ Photos
Winners, working ponies, rescues and family favourites — our members share their most cherished horsey companions.

08 – IH Member News: Paying It Forward
Veteran Ian Whiting brings the Masterson Method to Help for Heroes veterans in a brilliant example of horsemanship giving back.

09 – Meet a Member: Seb Adams-Eaton
12-year-old Seb — guitarist, stage star, and proud IH member — shares his bond with pony Dudley and his dreams of becoming a horse whisperer.

10 – Special Report: Horses Inside Out Conference
Sue Palmer reports from this fascinating 2020 event, diving into fascia, tendons, brains, hooves and biomechanics.

12 – Members’ Articles: Being Brave by Gaynor Roberts
A tender and beautifully written story about fear, recovery and a pony called Toffee who helped mend a broken confidence.

14 – The Big Interview: Dr Veronica Fowler
From foot-and-mouth disease to fighting COVID-19, Veronica’s story is inspiring, insightful and incredibly human.

18 – IH Training: Could You Go Bitless?
Alison Ball explores the pros and cons of bitless riding, sharing experience, evidence and a few cautionary tales.

22 – IH Training: The Seven Sins of Loading Horses
Kelly reveals the common errors that can sabotage trailer training — and how to fix them with understanding and confidence.

25 – IH Training: Resistance Training for Riders
Stephanie Heeran shares how weight training helped her ride better, feel stronger and build her confidence from the ground up.

28 – IH Training: Horsefly Hunters
Tips and techniques for keeping those pesky summer flies at bay.

30 – IH Training: Small But Mighty – Shetland Ponies
A delightful look at these pint-sized powerhouses and the role they play in education and therapy.

33 – IH Training: Recipes for Good Horsemanship
Simple, smart daily habits for nurturing trust, boundaries and joyful partnerships.

34 – Horses as Healers
Dr Rosie Jones-McVey explores the science and stories behind how horses support mental health and emotional healing.

38 – From the Case Files: Wrapping Up Rodney
A tricky case of discomfort, behaviour and breakthrough.

40 – Spotlight On: Garry Bosworth
An appreciation for a quietly influential horseman and IH supporter.

43 – IHRT Client Feedback & Courses
Real-life praise for IH Registered Trainers and a peek at upcoming learning opportunities.

Navigation Tags

bitless riding, loading, confidence, rider fitness, horse psychology, Shetland ponies, fascia, biomechanics, hoof care, summer

Winter 2019

Winter 2019
In

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Winter 2019

Explore Your Winter 2019 IH Magazine!

What’s Inside?

• Kelly Marks’ My World – Reflections on Pie’s golden years and the reality behind the photos
• Big Interview: Clare Balding – National treasure, sports broadcaster and lifelong horsewoman on teamwork, challenges and storytelling
• IH Training: Getting Back in the Saddle – Sandra Williams’ brave and honest guide to riding again post-injury
• Polework for Every Horse – Part 2 – Heidi Maxwell shares practical, engaging exercises to boost your training
• On Safari with IH – Bridget Colston takes us on an unforgettable horsemanship adventure in Kenya
• Herd Hierarchy – Help or Hindrance? – Dr Rosie Jones-McVey explores the science behind leadership and training
• Trailer Safety – Becca Vincent’s top-to-tail trailer check will keep you and your horse safe on the road
• Success Story: From ‘Jaws’ to Joy – A heartfelt story of transformation from troubled horse to trusted partner
• Writer of the Year Competition – Win £500 and get published!
• Plus members’ stories, letters, updates and inspiration to keep you warm all winter

Why You’ll Love This Issue

Winter can be a time for reflection, and this celebrates the quiet resilience and quiet triumphs of everyday horse people. Whether you’re recovering from injury like Sandra (p22), easing your horse into work with thoughtful polework (p26), or learning from veterans like Kelly’s Pie (p4), there’s something in here to inspire and support. Clare Balding’s interview (p14) is a reminder that compassion, consistency and a bit of courage go a long way – whether you’re behind a mic or in the saddle. This issue is about doing what you can, where you are, with warmth and intention.

Complete Contents with Article Descriptions

4 – My World: A Bigger Slice of the Pie?
Kelly Marks reflects on Pie’s amazing health at 24 – and the less-visible care, patience, and thoughtful training that helped him thrive into his older years.

6 – Letters & Feedback
Heartwarming responses from IH members, including stories of resilience, learning, and paying it forward with the Dually®.

7 – In Other News
Updates on mental health first aid in the equestrian community, riding school horses helping the police, and IH’s work with military veterans.

8 – Members’ Photos
A beautiful collection of your horses in winter wonderland settings – congratulations to Helen & Bamm-Bamm, our canvas print winners!

9 – Meet a Member: Kelsey Thacker
From the US to Dublin, Kelsey shares her journey in equine-facilitated education and how IH helped transform both her horsemanship and her life.

10 – IH Writer of the Year Competition
Share your story and win £500! Open to all ages and abilities – details, writing tips, and encouragement to get you started.

14 – The Big Interview: Clare Balding
Broadcaster, author and lifelong horsewoman, Clare chats about confidence, resilience, horses as teachers, and what they’ve taught her about life and success.

18 – Intelligent Horsemanship on Safari
Trainer Bridget Colston recounts a life-changing horsemanship experience working with horses in Kenya.

22 – IH Training: Getting Back in the Saddle
Sandra Williams offers thoughtful advice and personal insight for anyone returning to riding after injury, illness or a break.

26 – Polework for Every Horse – Part 2
Heidi Maxwell’s practical polework plans for all levels. Exercises to keep your horse thinking, moving and improving.

30 – Trailer Check: How Safe Is Yours?
A clear, no-nonsense guide from Becca Vincent on how to inspect, service and stay safe when transporting your horse.

33 – Is Herd Hierarchy Helping Our Training?
Dr Rosie Jones-McVey questions long-held assumptions about dominance and leadership in horse training. Fascinating and thought-provoking.

37 – Success Story: From ‘Jaws’ to Joy
How a ‘difficult’ horse blossomed into a trusting partner with patience, skill and understanding.

40 – Spotlight On: Sue Palmer
The thoughtful equine physio shares insights from her work helping horses feel and move better.

42 – IHRT Client Feedback
Real stories of success and transformation from people and horses helped by IH’s Recommended Trainers.

44 – IH Courses
Find the right next step for you and your horse with our range of educational courses and training experiences.

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