Dr. Sue Dyson is a world-renowned expert in equine lameness, combining equestrian skills and knowledge of equine movement and behaviour to improve horse welfare. Her extensive research and clinical work have significantly advanced the understanding of lameness causes, diagnosis, and treatment, making her a leading authority in equine health and performance.
Enhance equine welfare with Sue Palmer’s RHP webinar. Learn to identify pain behaviors, improve performance, and understand the social license to operate in equestrianism.
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Continue learning lameness with Dr. Sue Dyson. Get insights on vet vs. physio, saddle fit, pain interpretation, sports horse issues, training aids, and pain behavior.
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Gain expert insights into equine lameness with Dr. Sue Dyson. Learn about diagnosis, training influences, ultrasonography, rehabilitation, and dressage biomechanics.
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Is Your Horse Comfortable? Spotting the Subtle Signs with Dr Sue Dyson, Sue Palmer, Dr James Cooling and Gillian Higgins […]
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This time, there’s a particularly poignant thread running through the magazine as we remember Monty Roberts, whose recent passing has touched so many of us. Kelly shares her personal memories in My World, and we also look back at the extraordinary impact Monty had on horses and people around the world.
We’ve brought together another brilliant line-up of contributors this issue:
• Our Big Interview features Spanish dressage trainer Isaac Ares Rio, whose thoughtful, sympathetic approach to training focuses on biomechanics, communication and developing a genuine partnership between horse and rider.
• Abi Pass explores The Therapy Puzzle, looking at how to choose the right therapist for your horse and why understanding the different approaches available is so important.
• Gillian Higgins looks at joint mobilisation – small, subtle movements that can have surprisingly significant benefits for comfort, movement and soundness.
• Dr James Cooling explores therapeutic schooling and how thoughtful, biomechanically correct training can help rebuild the horse and rider through connection, balance and compassion.
• Dr Sue Dyson takes us through what a full work-up for lameness or poor performance actually involves – a really useful guide if you’ve ever felt that something isn’t quite right with your horse but struggled to know where to start.
• Jo Powell shares the wonderful story of Sandy, from a frightened, malnourished rescue pony to a ridden horse with a very exciting future ahead of him. It’s a lovely reminder of what patience, kindness and time can achieve.
• Dr Rosie Jones-McVey asks us to think about what happens when someone says “stop” – and whether being stopped, or being the person doing the stopping, is actually harder than we might imagine.
Plus, we’ve got fascinating member stories, IH news, a very special book review and extract from Merely a Rider, a spotlight on IH Trainer Christina Wyman-Smith, and our ever-popular IH Trainer client feedback.
This is a particularly special issue for us as we remember Monty Roberts, whose recent passing has touched so many people within the IH family and far beyond. Monty’s influence on how we understand and communicate with horses has been enormous, and his ideas have shaped so much of what we do at Intelligent Horsemanship. Kelly’s personal memories in My World, together with the other memories and reflections in this issue, make this a very special opportunity to celebrate Monty and the legacy he leaves behind.
Alongside our tribute to Monty, there is plenty of practical help for anyone wanting to understand their horse better and improve their comfort, movement and way of going. If you’re ever unsure which therapist is right for your horse, Abi’s Therapy Puzzle gives you some really useful questions to ask and things to consider before booking someone. It’s a sensible reminder that there isn’t necessarily one magic therapy or quick fix, and that good assessment and communication matter.
If you’re interested in improving your horse’s movement and comfort, Gillian’s joint mobilisation article and James Cooling’s therapeutic schooling feature offer plenty to think about – particularly the idea that we should help our horses develop the strength and understanding they need to carry us well.
Sue Dyson’s feature is essential reading if you have concerns about lameness, poor performance or a change in ridden behaviour. It explains why a thorough investigation needs to look at the whole horse and, importantly, why some problems may only become apparent when the horse is ridden.
And Jo Powell’s story of Sandy is one of my favourites in this issue. From a tiny, desperately thin rescue pony to becoming a much-loved riding companion, it’s a beautiful story of hope, patience and giving a horse the time he needs.
There’s also plenty to make you stop and think, from Katherine Harberd’s exploration of why horses lean and how we can help them develop better symmetry and focus, to Abi Pass’s reflections from the Horses Inside Out Conference and Rosie Jones-McVey’s thought-provoking look at being “pulled up”.
And, of course, this issue is also a chance to remember Monty. His influence runs through so much of what we do at IH, and Kelly’s personal tribute, together with the memories shared by others, makes this a particularly special edition.
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!
04 Kelly Marks – My World: Remembering Monty
Kelly shares her personal memories of Monty Roberts and reflects on the extraordinary influence he had on her, on IH and on generations of horse people around the world.
08 Letters and Cartoon by Nat Herman
Your feedback, your stories and Nat’s brilliant cartoon – including some very useful thoughts about being prepared for an emergency with your horse.
10 IH News and Updates
All the latest from the IH world, including congratulations to IH Trainer Charlie Carr on completing her MSc in Equine Science, the success of the Vets with Horsepower tour and a behind-the-scenes look at putting the IH Magazine together.
11 IH Members’ Photos
More lovely moments shared by our members and their horses.
12 Meet a Member: Gerri Drought
Gerri shares her lifelong love of horses, her experiences as an instructor and how IH and horse psychology have continued to influence her work and learning.
14 Big Interview: Isaac Ares Rio, Spanish Dressage Trainer
Kelly Marks and Dr James Cooling talk to Isaac about his lifelong relationship with horses, his approach to dressage and his belief in creating sound, willing and physically balanced horses through progressive, sympathetic training.
18 IH Training: The Therapy Puzzle – Abi Pass
Abi explores the different types of therapy available to horse owners and explains how to choose the right practitioner for your individual horse, including the questions worth asking before booking.
24 IH Training: Joint Mobilisation – Gillian Higgins
Gillian explains how small, controlled movements can help maintain joint health, assess movement and identify areas where the body may be compensating or restricting movement.
27 IH Training: Therapeutic Schooling – Dr James Cooling
James explores how schooling can be used therapeutically to rebuild healthy movement, strength and trust, with the horse and rider working together rather than training being something we simply do to the horse.
32 IH Training: Why Every Uneducated Horse Leans – AlignmentHORSE
Katherine Harberd, with Liz VanRoss, explores why horses naturally lean and how simple practical exercises can help develop greater symmetry, focus and self-carriage.
34 IH Training: Poor Performance Investigated! – Dr Sue Dyson
Sue takes us through what a full lameness or poor-performance work-up involves, from taking a detailed history through to assessing the horse in different situations and, where necessary, using diagnostic techniques.
40 Rescue to Ridden – IH Trainer Jo Powell
Jo tells the heartwarming story of Sandy, a severely underweight rescue pony who gradually recovered and went on to become a much-loved ridden companion – with a very special little rider waiting in the wings.
42 Getting Pulled Up – Dr Rosie Jones-McVey
Rosie considers the difficult dynamics around being stopped in equestrian sport and asks us to think about trust, responsibility and what it means to be part of a system where sometimes someone has to say “stop”.
46 Soundness is a System – Abi Pass
Abi shares her takeaways from the 2026 Horses Inside Out Conference, exploring soundness, symmetry, laterality, rehabilitation and the importance of looking at the horse as a whole rather than searching for one simple cause or cure.
48 Book Review: Merely a Rider – Anneli Drummond-Hay
Kelly reviews this fascinating memoir and shares an extract from Anneli Drummond-Hay’s remarkable life with horses, including the story of her extraordinary horse Perhaps.
52 Spotlight: IH Trainer Christina Wyman-Smith
Christina shares her journey with horses, from childhood riding to discovering IH after finding herself with a challenging horse, and explains how her experiences have shaped the work she now does with horses and humans.
55 IH Trainer Client Feedback
Real-life success stories from our brilliant IH Trainers – showing how thoughtful, patient support can make such a difference to horses and their owners.
horse psychology, behaviour, horse welfare, Monty Roberts, Join-Up, dressage, training, biomechanics, rider biomechanics, therapeutic schooling, rehabilitation, soundness, lameness, poor performance, joint mobilisation, equine therapy, physiotherapy, chiropractic, bodywork, symmetry, alignment, laterality, rescue horses, retraining, confidence, horse-human communication, book reviews, IH Trainers
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This time, I’m sharing my thoughts on getting that extra 1% better – something that’s been shaping how we approach both horses and life. It’s a simple idea, but a powerful one, and we hope it’ll be useful to anyone looking to make steady, meaningful progress without feeling overwhelmed.
We’ve brought together another brilliant line-up of contributors this isse:
• Abi Pass explores electrotherapies – a subject that can feel overwhelming, but her clear, balanced look at evidence, ethics and real-world use helps cut through the noise.
• Lisa White’s interview really got me thinking – especially her belief that “you can’t train pain” and how much the rider’s body influences the horse.
• Gillian Higgins shares her four-part posture assessment system – a practical, accessible way to better understand how our horses use their bodies.
• Dr Sue Dyson takes a closer look at bits, nosebands and mouth opening in dressage – a fascinating and thought-provoking piece on comfort and performance.
• Sandra Williams’ article on burnout in horses really struck a chord – a powerful reminder that behaviour is often communication.
Plus, we’ve got inspiring member stories, useful seasonal advice, and practical features on topics like Weaning, Grass Sickness, EMS and grass management – essential reading as we head into the growing season.
If you’ve ever questioned whether your horse is truly comfortable in their work, Sue Dyson’s article will give you the tools to look more closely – and perhaps see things differently.
If your horse isn’t developing quite as you’d hoped, Gillian’s posture guide offers a clear starting point for understanding what’s really going on beneath the surface.
And if you’re feeling stuck, the idea of improving by just 1% is a reassuring reminder that progress doesn’t have to be dramatic to be meaningful.
This issue also explores some of the more complex challenges we face – from hidden physical conditions to emotional burnout – and how thoughtful, horse-centred training can help us navigate them.
We’ve included honest stories, practical training advice, and insights from experts who aren’t afraid to question tradition in favour of better welfare and understanding.
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
04 Kelly Marks – My World: That Extra 1%…
I explore the idea of small, consistent improvements and how aiming for just 1% better can make a meaningful difference for both horse and rider.
06 Letters and Cartoon by Nat Herman
Your feedback, your stories, and Nat’s brilliant cartoon – always a highlight!
08 IH News and Updates
All the latest from the IH world and beyond – from charity achievements to new ventures and community news.
11 IH Members’ Photos
A lovely collection of moments shared between horses and their people.
12 Meet a Member: Sarah Battrick
Sarah’s lifelong passion for horses shines through in this heartfelt story – from early days to finding her “horse of a lifetime.”
14 Big Interview: Lisa White, International Dressage Trainer
Lisa shares her training philosophy, why rider biomechanics matter, and her commitment to listening to the horse.
17 Electrotherapies for Horses – Abi Pass
A clear, balanced look at electrotherapy tools – helping you make informed, ethical decisions for your horse.
23 Posture Assessment – Gillian Higgins
A practical four-part system to assess and improve your horse’s posture and way of going.
26 Dressage with the Horse in Mind – Dr Sue Dyson
An in-depth exploration of bits, nosebands and mouth opening, and what they tell us about comfort and performance.
30 Cervical Vertebral Malformation: A Hidden Condition – Julia Duncan
An important look at a condition that can easily be missed but has significant effects on performance and welfare.
33 Weaning: Why it Matters – Charlie Carr
A thoughtful guide to weaning young horses with welfare and development in mind.
36 When Too Much Talent Becomes Challenging – Sandra Williams
A powerful case study exploring burnout, behaviour and the importance of emotional wellbeing.
38 Better Answers for Laminitis, EMS & Grass Management – Sarah Bough
Practical, experience-led advice for managing metabolic horses safely and effectively.
40 The Physics of Schooling Livery – Caroline Shenton-Taylor
A fascinating look at the science behind training and horse-rider interaction.
42 Equine Grass Sickness – Charlotte Gilbert
An informative and important piece on a serious condition every owner should be aware of.
43 On the Button – Dr Rosie Jones-McVey
Rosie encourages us to think differently about knowledge, decision-making and the “expert in our pocket.”
47 Book Review: Drawn to Horses – Sue Palmer & Sarah Brown
A beautifully reflective book combining artwork and thoughtful insights into our relationship with horses.
48 Book Review: The Yard – Grace Olson
A compelling and engaging read exploring life in the equestrian world.
50 Spotlight on IH Trainer Nicki Marshall
A closer look at Nicki’s work and her contribution to the IH community.
52 Book Review: The Horse Lovers Miscellany – J. C. Jeremy Hobson
A fun and informative collection of equestrian facts and trivia.
55 IH Trainer Client Feedback
Real-life success stories from our brilliant IH Trainers – always inspiring and encouraging
groundwork, posture, rider biomechanics, dressage, saddle fit & bitting, behaviour, burnout, horse psychology, welfare, electrotherapy, laminitis, EMS, grass management, young horses, hidden conditions, training, book reviews
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This edition has been a time of reflection and rediscovery. In this issue, I share letters from a challenging time, honouring the moments we treasure with both horses and people. From Monty’s 90th birthday to lessons in mindful horsemanship and physical wellbeing, this edition reminds us why horses have a way of healing us — even in the hardest seasons.
We’ve brought together another inspiring line-up of top contributors this time:
Plus, we meet Kelly Gordon, our very first IH Advanced Award Winner, whose partnership with her horse Jenga is both moving and motivating. There’s also a very special celebration of Monty Roberts’ 90th birthday — a milestone for the man whose kindness and courage started it all.
Whether it’s finding patience in the everyday work of training, understanding your horse’s comfort through science, or simply taking a mindful breath in the stable — each article encourages connection, empathy and awareness.
Hugo continues to teach us valuable lessons lessons every day, reminding us — as so many of you will know — how change can bring growth when met with patience and care. The bond we share with our horses continues to show us what matters most: kindness, curiosity and love.
We’ve also included member letters, beautiful photographs, uplifting trainer stories, and thoughtful book reviews — from Dressage 101 to Never Trust a Sneaky Pony. Perfect reading for long winter evenings by the fire.
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!
04 Kelly Marks – My World: Letters to Friends
Kelly shares heartfelt reflections on family, horses and resilience — a moving reminder of why we do what we do.
10 Letters and Cartoon by Nat Herman
Your stories, feedback and Nat’s trademark humour — always a joy to share.
12 IH News and Updates
Fresh updates from the IH community, including new trainers, courses, and exciting improvements to the Members’ Area.
14 Meet a Member: Kelly Gordon – Our First IH Advanced Award Winner
Kelly’s inspiring journey with her rescue horse Jenga, proving that patience and purpose can change everything.
16 Book Review: The Mindful Equestrian – Sandra Williams
An extract from Sandra’s beautiful new book, full of mindfulness, movement and connection.
18 Changing Myself – by Tania Kindersley
A deeply personal reflection on transformation, empathy and what horses can teach us about being human.
20 Food for Thought – Dr Rosie Jones-McVey
Rosie examines the emotional and cultural side of how we feed our horses — and what it says about us.
27 Special Feature: Monty’s 90th Birthday – What We Owe to Him
Celebrating a lifetime of compassion, courage and communication.
32 IH Training: The Shape Characteristics of Elite Event Horses – Dr Sue Dyson
Insightful science on what sets elite athletes apart.
38 IH Training: Muscle Atrophy and Saddle Fit – Dr James Cooling
A practical guide to identifying and addressing muscle loss through proper saddle design.
41 IH Training: Horse Power – Gillian Higgins
Exploring true strength and how to build it mindfully.
44 IH Training: Spotting the Subtle Signs – Sue Palmer
Learn how to see the smallest indicators of discomfort before they become problems.
52 Spotlight on IH Trainer Nigel Radcliffe
Meet the trainer making a difference through thoughtful, kind horsemanship.
54 Holistic Training – Gillian Higgins
A look at whole-horse training — body, mind and spirit.
55 IH Trainer Client Feedback
Uplifting stories from members and trainers across the IH community.
mindful riding, rehabilitation, biomechanics, saddle fit, behaviour, welfare, strength, feeding, horsemanship, connection, trust, Join-Up, emotional awareness, book reviews
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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.
We’ve brought together another brilliant line-up of contributors this issue:
Plus, we’ve got heartfelt member stories, some very handy seasonal tips, and wonderful book reviews – from classical riding to staying strong after fifty.
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!
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.
groundwork, confidence, behaviour, rider positioning & biomechanics, saddle fitting, rehabilitation, laminitis, pasture management, trust building, welfare, Join-Up, horse psychology, book reviews
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Hello IH Members and friends! As the wildflowers begin to bloom and the sun peeks out from winter hibernation, it’s the perfect time to refresh, reset and refocus. This Spring issue is full of inspiring stories, training advice, and thoughtful guidance to help you and your horse step into the season with confidence.
Whether you’re preparing for your first fun ride of the year, reflecting on your long-term horse care goals, or just need a motivational boost, we’ve packed this edition with practical help and heartfelt insight. From the weekend rider wisdom of William Steinkraus to strategies for lifelong soundness, this issue is about growing together — mind, body and hoof!
I’ve written about one of the biggest influences on my early riding life — William Steinkraus — and how even as a “weekend rider”, you can accomplish remarkable things with the right mindset and intention.
Our training section is a true spring standout:
We’ve also got a brilliant chat with legendary show producer Jayne Ross, stunning stories from our members (including an inspiring journey into endurance riding!), and a reminder that every one of us — whether weekend rider or professional — is part of this wonderful IH community.
This one’s all about long-term care, thoughtful training, and personal growth — for both horse and human.
If you’ve ever worried about keeping your horse sound and happy for the long haul (and who hasn’t?), you’ll love our comprehensive feature on maintaining soundness — from saddle fit to nutrition to emotional wellbeing. Pie and Blondie are both benefiting already from these wise and practical suggestions.
Jayne Ross’ interview is full of gold for anyone who wants their riding to feel more harmonious and joyful. I found myself nodding along with so many of her thoughtful, grounded insights. And if you’ve been dreaming of taking on a writing challenge, don’t miss the details of our Short Story competition!
Spring is such a wonderful time to set intentions for the year ahead — and this magazine is the perfect place to start.
04 – Kelly Marks – My World: The Wisdom of a Weekend Rider
I reflect on the riding philosophy of William Steinkraus, and what we can learn from his subtle, thoughtful, and truly inspiring approach to horsemanship — no matter how much time we spend in the saddle.
06 – Your Horse Live 2022
From clippers to trailers to emotional breakthroughs — we recap our amazing Your Horse Live demos with real case studies and practical takeaways.
08 – Letters and Feedback
Stories and reflections from our brilliant IH community — including some powerful thoughts on “Social Licence to Ride”.
09 – Members’ Photos
A celebration of your horses and ponies — from foals to veterans, beach rides to liberty work. Beautiful, as always.
10 – Meet a Member: Dominic Smith – An Enduring Horsemanship Journey
Dominic shares his inspiring route into horses, barefoot endurance riding, and finding his perfect partner in George — with a Dually® and a dream.
12 – IH Short Story Writer of the Year 2023
Feeling creative? Enter our annual short story competition for a chance to win £500 and be published in the magazine.
14 – The Big Interview: Jayne Ross
Legendary showing producer Jayne Ross talks to Zoë Smith about patience, personality, and the secrets to those iconic gallops.
18 – IH Training: How to Keep Your Horse Sound for Life
Kelly Marks, Sandra Williams, Sue Palmer, Clare MacLeod and Dr Sue Dyson join forces to share practical steps for lifelong horse health.
28 – IH Training: From the Ground to the Saddle – Part 3
Jim Goddard helps riders bring confidence and connection from the ground into the saddle with practical riding exercises.
32 – IH Training: The Early Years – How the Horse Develops with Gillian Higgins
Gillian explains how your horse’s body and mind develop from birth — and how to support them through every stage.
36 – IH Debate: Are Horses a Hobby for the Rich?
An open, honest look at access, affordability, and how we keep equestrianism inclusive for the future.
38 – Book Extract: For the Love of the Horse by Mark Rashid
A thoughtful extract from Mark Rashid’s latest book — always a voice of calm, empathy and understanding.
40 – Spotlight On: IH Trainer Sarah Todd
Meet Sarah Todd, an IH Trainer whose journey is full of heart, purpose and commitment to the horses she helps.
43 – IH Trainer Client Feedback
Real stories of transformation from those who’ve worked with IH Trainers — always a joy to read.
soundness, hoof care, saddle fit, endurance, barefoot, showing, young horse, groundwork, rider positioning and biomechanics, body language, horse psychology, behaviour, spring, welfare, social licence, ridden work, writing competition,
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Hello IH Members and friends!
This issue is especially close to my heart, as it’s brimming with stories of resilience, learning, and connection—even if many of us were spending more time mucking out than going out! Whether you’re after festive joy, a bit of training inspiration, or some thoughtful debate to chew over by the fire, this Winter edition is here to bring you comfort, knowledge and encouragement.
• “My World” with Kelly Marks – Reflecting on 2020 and planning for the winter ahead (with a bit of polework for Pie!).
• IH Diploma Success – Inspiring psychology projects from our determined students—horse travel preferences, obesity management, and even veterans with PTSD.
• The 12 Mindful Days of Christmas – Sandra Williams’ seasonal self-care for you and your horse.
• Training Feature: Mounting Success – Kelly’s tips on teaching your horse to stand still to be mounted.
• Spotlight on Land Management – Dr Lisa Schofield shares essential winter advice for horse-friendly pastures.
• IH Debate: Zoopharmacognosy – Can horses really self-medicate? A lively and thought-provoking discussion.
• Book Extract: Tik Maynard’s “In the Middle Are the Horsemen” – A glimpse into thoughtful horsemanship.
• Success Stories & Member Feedback – Real-life transformations, heart-warming letters, and community wins.
• Meet a Member – Polo-player Laura Elliott shares her journey retraining ex-racers the IH way.
Winter is a time for reflection, reset, and sometimes just surviving the mud! This issue encourages all three. Whether you’re inspired by Sandra’s calming Christmas countdown or captivated by the heartfelt Member Story “Speaking Without Words”, there’s something here to lift your spirits and fuel your goals for 2021. The horse psychology projects alone are worth curling up with—ranging from umbrella desensitisation to whether horses can choose how they want to travel. It’s reassuring, fascinating, and a real tribute to how far IH Members will go to understand and support their horses. Plus, there’s lots of festive cheer to enjoy—without any tinsel-induced panic!
4 – My World: What Do YOU Have in Mind?
Kelly Marks shares reflections from the year, goals for winter (polework with Pie!), and celebrates our students’ incredible course achievements despite a tough year.
8 – Letters and Feedback
From hospital recoveries to confidence in the saddle, members share how IH has supported their journeys—even through lockdown.
11 – Meet a Member: Laura Elliott
Polo-player and retrainer of ex-racehorses Laura talks career shifts, confidence, and why she’s passionate about becoming an IH Trainer.
12 – IH Members’ Stories: Speaking Without Words
Irena Szirtes pens a moving reflection on her bond with her horse Tilly, blending stillness, liberty work, and the memory of her grandfather.
14 – IH Debate: Zoopharmacognosy
Do horses really know what they need to eat? We explore both sides of this fascinating (and controversial) practice.
17 – Equine Sports Science Summit
Sue Palmer reports from the Centaur Biomechanics Summit, packed with insights from leading researchers into movement, pain, and performance.
20 – IH on Tour: Northington Demo
A look back at the IH team’s Northington demo—plus the impact on a young rider named Caden and his rescue pony, Moon.
26 – 12 Mindful Days of Christmas
Sandra Williams brings warmth and wisdom to this seasonal countdown for horse lovers seeking balance and joy.
28 – Training a Horse to Stand Still to Mount
A practical and powerful guide from Kelly to one of the most underrated skills—mounting block manners!
32 – Land Management for Horses
Dr Lisa Schofield explores practical winter pasture advice, from poaching to planning for spring growth.
36 – In the Middle Are the Horsemen (Book Extract)
A special sneak peek into Tik Maynard’s celebrated memoir—deep, insightful, and very IH in spirit.
39 – Success Files: Shimmer’s Story
A heartfelt transformation tale about Shimmer’s journey from fearful to trusting—with help from IH methods.
40 – Spotlight On: Leanne Roger
Discover the story behind another IH star who’s helping horses and humans with her unique, thoughtful approach.
43 – Trainer Client Feedback
Kind words and success stories from those who’ve worked with IH Trainers—proof that gentle, informed training really works.
mounting, travelling, winter, zoopharmacognosy, pasture management
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Hello IH Members and friends!
This issue is one of our most thought-provoking yet. We’ve delved deep into the challenges riders face, shared science-led breakthroughs that could change your horse’s life, and we’ve got more than a few uplifting stories to warm your heart on those darker evenings.
• “My World” by Kelly Marks – Shylo the Shoemaker teaches a masterclass in Horse Psychology (p4)
• IH Debate – Are we driving our horses round the bend? A no-holds-barred look at the use of circles and dressage (p12)
• The Big Interview with Dr. Sue Dyson – Insightful and packed with must-know tips on spotting subtle signs of pain (p14)
• IH Training with Dr. Veronica Fowler – Impressive findings on aural plaques and how to treat them (p18)
• Leanne Roger’s “The Trust Pot” – Building a true bond with your horse through trust and consistency (p21)
• Reducing Your Carbon Hoofprint – Sarah Kingsley’s brilliant guide to making your yard more eco-friendly (p24)
• Ride Leader Course Review – IH meets BHS as Jessica Pryor shares her safety-first tips for happy hacking (p28)
• Surprising Poisons – Ele Milwright reveals everyday dangers hiding in plain sight (p34)
• Success Files – Emma and Harvey’s journey from heartbreak to harmony (p38)
• Plus: Members’ stories, pony training tales, uplifting photos, IH Trainer feedback, and much more!
This issue is all about perspective—seeing our horses, our routines, and even ourselves through a fresh lens. Our debate on the ethics of endless circles (p12) will definitely get you thinking, while Dr. Dyson’s feature (p14) provides invaluable clarity on how to spot discomfort before it becomes a bigger issue.
You’ll find practical, real-world training tools—like Leanne Roger’s approach to trust (p21) and Jessica Pryor’s hacking guidance (p28)—alongside deep, heartfelt stories that remind us all why we do what we do. From Shylo’s prascend-pill escapades to brave decisions made in our Members’ Letters, this is an edition that celebrates learning, growing, and looking after our horses with compassion.
4 – My World: Lessons in Horse Psychology
Kelly shares what Shylo taught her about “teaching your horse to be bad”—and then undoing it! A brilliantly honest piece about mistakes, learning, and tiny ponies with big personalities.
6 – Letters & Feedback
Honest, heartfelt stories from IH members—including one brave owner’s decision to sell her horse and start fresh.
7 – In Other News
Shy Lowen’s rescue centre success, a hat-trick win, and a tribute to top IH-trained stallion Fascinating Rock.
9 – Members’ Photos
From newborn foals to brave bareback hacks—our members share inspiring snapshots and training journeys.
10 – Member Story: Hugo
Amy Craske’s touching, funny, and beautifully written journey with a complicated pony and what he taught her about horsemanship, pressure, and humility.
12 – IH Debate: Are We Driving Our Horses Round the Bend?
Is schooling in circles doing more harm than good? Both sides of this passionate debate laid out with honesty and insight.
14 – The Big Interview: Dr. Sue Dyson
An in-depth chat with the veterinary pioneer on saddle fit, subtle lameness, rider responsibility, and what to watch for in our own horses.
18 – IH Training: Dr. Veronica Fowler on Aural Plaques
New results show how simple changes can make a big difference in treating stubborn ear issues.
21 – IH Training: The Trust Pot
Leanne Roger shares her proven method for building (and rebuilding) trust with even the most wary horse.
24 – Reducing Your Carbon Hoofprint
Simple, do-able ideas to make your horsey life that little bit greener. A must-read for every yard.
28 – IH Meets BHS: Ride Leader Course
Trainer Jessica Pryor explains how her BHS training boosted her confidence for hacking out—and how it can help you too.
32 – Recipes for Good Horsemanship
Quick tips and kind thinking to help you create calm, consistent training environments for your horse.
34 – Surprising Poisons
You’ll be shocked by what might be lurking in your paddocks! Essential reading for all horse owners.
38 – Success Files: Emma and Harvey
A moving story of resilience and rediscovery as one rider finds joy again through IH methods.
40 – Spotlight On: Kelly Brotherhood
Get to know this rising IH Trainer star and what inspires her.
43 – Trainer Feedback
Real testimonials from IH clients—heartening stories of transformation, patience, and partnership.
horse psychology, groundwork, aural plaque, saddle fitting, rider weight, hacking, trust building, dressage, poisons, behaviour
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Note – Members you can find this article in the Autumn 2015 magazine in the magazine library of the members area.
