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
