Mastering Mounting: Tips For Fidgety Horses
Mastering Mounting: Tips For Fidgety Horses Featuring Dr Rosie Jones McVey This video offers techniques to help fidgety horses stand still at the mounting block. It demonstrates a circling exercise […]
Dr. Rosie Jones McVey – IH Trainer & Social Anthropologist
Dr. Rosie Jones McVey
Intelligent Horsemanship Trainer & Social Anthropologist
Dr Rosie Jones-McVey is a leading voice in equine welfare and training, combining hands-on expertise with cutting-edge academic research. A lifelong horsewoman, she became the youngest ever Recommended Associate of Intelligent Horsemanship at just 21, riding in demos for Kelly Marks and Monty Roberts. Her deep passion for understanding the horse-human relationship led her to Cambridge University, where she completed a PhD in Social Anthropology, exploring how different cultures perceive and interact with animals.
Now a Wellcome Trust Research Fellow at the University of Exeter, Rosie’s research delves into ethics, power, and the evolving concept of ‘mind’—including how we understand and train horses. Her book GlobeTrotting chronicles her global journey studying horsemanship across cultures, reflecting her open-minded, evidence-based approach to equine welfare.
With a unique blend of academic rigor and real-world experience, Rosie brings fresh insights to the future of horse training—one that listens to the horse’s voice
Dr. Rosie Jones-McVey Content:
Helping Overcome A Fear of Show Jumping Poles Demonstration
Join Dr. Rosie Jones McVey and Kelly Marks in this insightful video as they work with Ivor, a lovely Irish Draft horse who’s developed a real fear of poles. Despite being bought as a potential hunter, Ivor refuses to go anywhere near poles, even when they’re simply lying on the ground. This video demonstrates a gentle and effective approach to help Ivor overcome this fear so that he can eventually progress to jumping show jumps.
Top Marks – Being Brave
This episode details the efforts to train horses to be brave for different purposes. The programme focuses on acceptance training (desensitisation) with horses to various stimuli and helping them overcome specific phobias through gradual training techniques.
Top Marks – Loading
This episode of “Top Marks on the Road” features a loading clinic in Gloucester, where the host works with three horse owners and their horses to address loading difficulties. The programme details the initial challenges, the techniques used to overcome them, and the importance of understanding the root cause of each horse’s reluctance to load.
Top Marks – Mounting Manners
This episode of “Top Marks on the Road” focuses on mounting issues experienced by three different horses and their owners in Somerset. The programme demonstrates initial training interventions aimed at helping these horses stand still and accept being mounted calmly.
Top Marks – The First Challenge
This episode of Top Marks documents the initial activities and challenges faced by a team preparing for a horse demonstration event in Dorset. The programme focuses on assessing horses for suitability, addressing behavioural issues, and introducing young horses to the demonstration environment.
Spring Summer 2025
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Explore Your Spring & Summer 2025 IH Magazine!
This time, I’m sharing Hugo’s rehab story – yes, the so-called “One Pound Pony”! It’s been a journey full of lessons, love and a few laughs too, and I hope it’ll be useful to anyone navigating the ups and downs of recovery and decision-making.
What’s Inside?
We’ve brought together another brilliant line-up of contributors this issue:
- Abi Pass reflects on ten years of IH training and shares her five favourite groundwork exercises – I’ve tried them all myself and they’re spot on for building trust and strength.
- Kate Sandel’s piece on balance really got me thinking – how often do we ask horses to carry us without understanding how they carry themselves?
- Olympic medallist Sharon Hunt offers her seven confidence tips for you and your horse – not just for eventers!
- Peggy Cummings takes us through the art of riding with feel, and Dr Sue Dyson explores what comfort truly looks like in our horses – a must-read if you’ve ever wondered whether your horse is really happy under saddle.
- Dr Rosie Jones-McVey returns with another thought-provoking article – can our horses choose good welfare? Her work always challenges me in the best way.
Plus, we’ve got heartfelt member stories, some very handy seasonal tips, and wonderful book reviews – from classical riding to staying strong after fifty.
Why You’ll Love This Issue
If you’ve ever questioned whether your horse’s saddle is quite right, Sue Dyson’s article gives you the tools to spot discomfort early. And if you’re feeling rusty after winter, Abi’s groundwork reminders are a gentle, effective way to re-engage your horse’s body and mind.
Hugo’s journey meant a complete reassessment of how we manage allergies, bitting, ulcers, saddle fit and more. I’ve included every detail in the hope it helps others – especially if you’ve got a horse with mysterious niggles.
We’ve also included fabulous pieces on emotional and physical rehab, pasture management for laminitics, and one of my favourites – a story from Heather Lee, whose lifelong devotion to horses is both moving and inspiring.
All our members can access this magazine for free, along with our full archive and loads of exclusive videos, webinars 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 Story of Hugo aka The One Pound Pony
I share Hugo’s remarkable rehab journey – from unsound to sounder – and all the lessons we’ve learnt along the way about welfare, diagnostics and doing the right thing.
10 Letters and Cartoon by Nat Herman
Your feedback, your wins and Nat’s cartoon brilliance – including a letter on nutrition and hoof health that really got me thinking.
12 IH News and Updates
Everything new in the world of IH, from competitions and webinars to our newest IH Trainers.
15 IH Members’ Photos
More beautiful moments captured between horses and their people – I always enjoy looking through these!
16 Meet a Member: Heather Lee
Heather’s moving account of a life shaped by horses – from Pony Club to prison rehabilitation, and everything in between.
18 IH Training: A Decade of Learning – Abi Pass
Abi Pass shares five essential groundwork exercises for all horses – ideal for building strength, suppleness and connection this spring.
24 IH Training: The Balanced Horse – Kate Sandel
Kate explores why balance matters so much in training – and how you can help your horse find it.
26 IH Training: Riding with Feel – Peggy Cummings
Peggy shows how you can develop a lighter, more aware seat and deepen your communication under saddle.
28 IH Training: TEAM A Exploration-Based Exercise – Gillian Bradley
Part 2 of Gillian’s emotional and physical agility training – a brilliant way to help horses feel safe while learning.
31 IH Training: Training Horses and Humans
Exploring the mutual learning between horse and handler – something we’re all familiar with in IH!
32 IH Training: Seven Tips for Horse Confidence – Olympic Medallist Sharon Hunt
Sharon Hunt shares golden advice for creating calm, brave horses – clear, concise and very effective.
34 IH Training: What Does Comfortable Look Like? – Dr Sue Dyson
An invaluable guide to recognising true comfort (or lack of it!) in your horse’s way of going.
36 IH Training: Learn From My Mistakes – IH Trainer Jo Powell
Jo bravely shares the lessons she learnt the hard way so you don’t have to – including saddle fit and behavioural misinterpretation.
38 Can Our Horses Choose Good Welfare? – Dr Rosie Jones-McVey
Rosie brings her usual thoughtful lens to this challenging question – what role does choice play in equine care?
42 A Seed Solution for Laminitic Horses & Ponies
Practical pasture advice to support horses prone to laminitis – timely and essential reading for the growing season.
44 Spotlight on IH Trainer Hannah Wells
A closer look at Hannah’s work helping horses and humans through Inspired Equine.
46 Book Review: Packing My Bags – Julie Ulrich
A lovely read full of classical wisdom and witty insight from Julie Ulrich.
51 Book Review: Riding in Release – Kate Sandel
Kate’s book bridges classical French and Western riding – and offers a fresh take on how we connect in the saddle.
53 Book Review: Thriving Beyond 50 – Will Harlow
A practical guide for riders looking to stay strong and supple – I found the shoulder advice very helpful!
55 IH Trainer Client Feedback
Real-life success stories from our brilliant IH Trainers – uplifting and encouraging as always.
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groundwork, confidence, behaviour, rider positioning & biomechanics, saddle fitting, rehabilitation, laminitis, pasture management, trust building, welfare, Join-Up, horse psychology, book reviews
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.
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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
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.
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anatomy, book review, biomechanics, confidence, dominance, anxiety, behaviour, equine bodywork, nutrition, welfare, groundwork, galloping, horse psychology, horse-human relationship, lungeing, loading, muscle development, winter
Autumn 2022
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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.
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autumn, confidence, behaviour, anxiety, brain & senses, nutrition, groundwork, horse-human relationship, colic, rehabilitation, ridden exercises, social licence, box rest,
Spring 2022
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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
Winter 2021
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Explore Your Winter 2021 IH Magazine!
Hello IH Members and friends!
This issue feels especially timely as it encourages us all to embrace change, plan ahead, and cherish the journey — both in the saddle and out.
What’s Inside?
• A heartfelt and practical piece from yours truly on what we might be grateful for six months from now – and yes, Pie and Blondie are both part of the story!
• Meet inspirational Paralympic coach Clive Milkins in a thought-provoking interview about what really matters in horsemanship
• Explore the world of Equine Assisted Therapy with Dr Rosie Jones-McVey
• Nutritionist Clare MacLeod shares expert guidance on feeding older horses for longevity
• Saddle fitting from a fresh perspective with IH trainer Nicole Golding and master saddler Kay Humphries
• Sandra Williams offers a thoughtful recipe for successful horsemanship
• Dive into our IH Debate: Is sportsmanship always compatible with horsemanship?
• Celebrate member achievements with the launch of the very first IH Awards
• Success stories, member photos, and a lovely ‘Meet a Member’ feature on the ever-wise Pauline Ling
Why You’ll Love This Issue
With the darker mornings and all that delightful mud, this is the season where connection and motivation can sometimes dip. But this issue is here to lift your spirits and bring new perspective. Whether it’s the inspiring journey of Sophie Christiansen and Clive Milkins, or Angela Hobbs’ reminder that it’s never too late to shift direction, you’ll find something to keep you grounded and moving forward. For those looking to set some positive goals this season, the brand-new IH Awards offer just the nudge you need. And for the thinkers among us, the articles on therapy, mindfulness, and our evolving relationship with our horses provide plenty of fuel for warm fireside pondering.
Complete Contents with Article Descriptions
04 – Kelly Marks: My World
Kelly reflects on winter as a time of preparation and growth, shares thoughts on the importance of small consistent actions (apple stretches included!), and introduces her new pony Blondie.
06 – Letters and Feedback
Our wonderful members share stories of transformation, farrier breakthroughs, and the power of patience and the right people.
07 – IH News
Celebrating Leanne Roger’s marathon success, new research on turnout, and updates on equine welfare legislation.
08 – Meet a Member Special: Pauline Ling
A fascinating chat with lifelong horsewoman and breeder Pauline Ling — filled with wisdom, Yorkshire wit, and a bit of Harvey Smith nostalgia.
11 – Members’ Photos
Eight lovely photo entries from members and their horses — from eventers to therapy ponies and happy hacking in the snow!
12 – Are You Ready for a Change?
Business mentor Angela Hobbs shares empowering reflections on reinvention, menopause, and the importance of women supporting women.
14 – The Big Interview: Clive Milkins
A compelling interview with para-dressage coach Clive Milkins on redefining ‘ability’, training with empathy, and what winning really means.
18 – Introducing the IH Awards!
Find out how to earn your IH rosettes through kind and consistent horsemanship, and meet our first proud recipient.
22 – Feeding Your Veteran
Equine nutritionist Clare MacLeod gives practical advice on feeding older horses for health and longevity.
24 – Equine Assisted Therapy
Dr Rosie Jones-McVey explores the role horses play in therapy, and the scientific perspectives behind it.
27 – What You Need to Know About… Saddles
IH Trainer Nicole Golding and master saddler Kay Humphries help you look beyond saddle fit to the bigger picture.
30 – Centaur Biomechanics Webinar
Insights from a recent IH webinar on biomechanics and movement in horse training.
32 – Recipes for Successful Horsemanship
Sandra Williams offers a practical framework for training success — think less pressure, more partnership.
34 – Mindfulness Map for the Festive Season
Tips and exercises to stay centred during the busyness of Christmas — for you and your horse.
36 – IH Debate: Sportsmanship and Horsemanship
Members and trainers weigh in — can the drive to win always coexist with kind horsemanship?
38 – Success Story: Autumn for All Seasons
A story of patience and perseverance with a mare named Autumn who finally finds her place.
40 – Spotlight On: Melanie Nagele
We shine the light on IH member Melanie, her passion for learning, and her work with young horses.
43 – IH Trainer Client Feedback
Real stories of transformation and trust between horses and humans — the heart of what we do.
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dressage, saddle fitting, veteran horse, nutrition, IH Awards, mindfulness, menopause, winter. biomechanics
