Monty Roberts – “The Man Who Listens to Horses”

Monty Roberts

“The Man Who Listens to Horses”

Monty Roberts, known as the “Man Who Listens to Horses” has led an extraordinary life. An award-winning trainer of championship horses, best-selling author, Hollywood stunt man, foster dad to 47 children (in addition to three of his own) and creator of the world-renowned and revolutionary equine training techniques…


Monty Roberts Content:

  • Autumn Winter 2025

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    Explore Your Autumn Winter 2025 IH Magazine!

    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.

    What’s Inside?

    We’ve brought together another inspiring line-up of top contributors this time:

    • Dr Sue Dyson explores what truly defines elite event horses — and how conformation, conditioning and character all play their part.
    • Dr James Cooling takes a deep dive into muscle atrophy and saddle fit — an essential read for anyone who’s ever wondered why a horse’s topline changes.
    • Gillian Higgins brings her signature insight into strength and biomechanics — helping us redefine what healthy movement really means.
    • Sue Palmer offers expert advice on recognising the subtle signs that something isn’t quite right — a powerful reminder of how small details can make a big difference.
    • Dr Rosie Jones-McVey returns with another thoughtful piece, this time exploring the human side of feeding horses — how our emotions, habits and care all intertwine.
    • Sandra Williams shares an extract from her new book The Mindful Equestrian, inviting us to find calm, balance and awareness in everything we do with our horses.
    • Tania Kindersley writes beautifully about change, self-compassion and the transformative lessons horses can teach us.

    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.

    Why You’ll Love This Issue

    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!

    Complete Contents with Article Descriptions

    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.

    Navigation Tags

    mindful riding, rehabilitation, biomechanics, saddle fit, behaviour, welfare, strength, feeding, horsemanship, connection, trust, Join-Up, emotional awareness, book reviews

  • Autumn 2019

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    Autumn 2019

    Explore Your Autumn 2019 IH Magazine!

    What’s Inside?

    • Kelly Marks reconnects with one of IH’s original students, Irene French, for a moving life story packed with wisdom and horse-sense.
    Daisy Smith shares how IH principles can boost your marks in the show ring – practical tips with proven results!
    Russell Guire, biomechanics specialist and Centaur Biomechanics founder, joins us for an exclusive interview exploring saddle fit, Olympic success and rider influence.
    Heidi Maxwell takes us through her polework bootcamp – clever exercises for any horse and rider.
    • Dr Veronica Fowler returns with another myth-busting “Intelligent Science” – are zebra fly rugs really all they’re cracked up to be?
    • Our Intelligent Debate tackles a big one: is “natural” always best in horse training?
    • Hands-on feature: Teach your horse to accept injections calmly and confidently.
    • Don’t miss the launch of our exciting IH Writer of the Year competition – your chance to be published and win £500!
    • Warm success stories and your brilliant member photos, plus a special shout-out to our long-standing demo supporters Oliver & Julia.


    Why You’ll Love This Issue

    This season’s edition is all about renewal, reflection and confidence – just what we often need as the seasons shift. Whether you’re rethinking how you handle your horse’s training, navigating a personal change, or simply curious to understand more, there’s something here for you.

    I especially loved catching up with Irene French (p4) – her story is brave, funny, moving, and absolutely packed with life lessons. You’ll find practical know-how too, like Daisy’s guide to impressing in the ring (p20), or the step-by-step guide to needle training (p28). Plus, for the scientifically-minded among you, Dr Fowler’s fly rug investigation is a fascinating deep dive into how easy it is to be led astray by “bad science”.

    Most of all, this issue is a celebration of our members – your stories, your photos, your journey with your horses. You’ll see that Intelligent Horsemanship continues to be a place where everyone is welcome, whether you’re just beginning or rediscovering your confidence.


    Complete Contents with Article Descriptions

    4 – Life Lessons with Irene French
    Kelly shares an emotional reunion and inspiring interview with Irene, one of IH’s earliest students, whose story reminds us it’s never too late to reclaim your confidence – and your love of horses.

    6 – Letters & Feedback
    Heartfelt updates from IH members – from life-changing Join-Up® sessions to bold new starts and breakthroughs in confidence. Real stories, real change.

    7 – In Other News
    Equestrian world updates, including lunging vs long-lining, low-emission zones for horseboxes, and keeping young riders safe through NSPCC’s Sports Parent Promise.

    8 – Members’ Photos
    Fourteen wonderful member stories and snapshots, from first foals to dressage dreams. This season’s canvas wall art winner: Vicky & Bella!

    11 – Meet a Member: Oliver & Julia
    Two of our most loyal demo helpers reflect on their 70+ tours with IH, their horses, and the power of a perfect Join-Up®.

    12 – IH Writer of the Year Competition
    A brand-new writing competition inviting YOU to share your horse stories. Open to members and friends, with a £500 prize and a place in the magazine!

    14 – Intelligent Science: Horses in Striped Pyjamas
    Dr Veronica Fowler unpacks the hype around zebra-print fly rugs. Do they work? Possibly – but it’s more complicated than you might think…

    16 – The Big Interview: Russell Guire
    Russell talks biomechanics, how he helped design Olympic-winning girths, and how science can improve both horse performance and welfare.

    20 – IH Training: Gain Marks in the Show Ring
    Daisy Smith shares how applying IH techniques helped her achieve success and get noticed by the judges – practical and encouraging.

    24 – Polework Exercises for Every Horse
    Join IH student Heidi Maxwell on a 5-day polework bootcamp with exercises suitable for all levels. Great variety and thoughtful progressions.

    28 – Training: Teaching Your Horse to Accept Needles
    Step-by-step guidance to help your horse become comfortable with injections using positive, trust-based methods.

    33 – Kelly Marks’ Book Review: Know Better to Do Better
    Kelly reviews Monty Roberts’ latest book, reflecting on what learning better really means – for us and our horses.

    36 – Intelligent Debate: Is Natural Best?
    A spirited discussion on whether “natural” horse care and training is always the ideal – thought-provoking and open-ended.

    38 – Success Story: Willing to Change
    A member shares their transformation story – from fear and frustration to freedom and flow with their horse.

    40 – Spotlight On: Paddy Gracey
    An in-depth look at one of IH’s own – his work, his outlook, and his horse life journey.

    42 – IHRT Client Feedback
    Real feedback from people working with IH Recommended Trainers – proof of positive change and problem-solving.

    44 – IH Courses
    Dates, descriptions and how to book for our latest courses – your next adventure starts here.


    Navigation Tags

    groundwork, confidence, biomechanics, horse psychology, training aids, vaccinations, polework, showing, writing competition, rugging, fly rugs

  • Winter 2017

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    Winter 2017

    Explore Your Winter 2017 IH Magazine!

    What’s Inside?

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

    Why You’ll Love This Issue

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

    Complete Contents with Article Descriptions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Navigation Tags

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

  • Autumn 2017

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    Autumn 2017

    Explore Your Autumn 2017 IH Magazine!

    What’s Inside?

    • Big Interview with Elsa Sinclair – trainer behind Taming Wild and founder of Freedom Based Training™
    • Monty Roberts’ June diary – from Royal Stables to the Spanish Riding School
    • 8-page Creative Groundwork Training Guide packed with new ideas
    • “How Well Do You Know Your Horse?” – understanding personality in training
    • IH Recommended Trainer Rosie Jones on finding your horse’s sweet spot
    • Clinic review of Elsa Sinclair’s UK debut
    • Book feature: Rider Biomechanics by Mary Wanless
    • Inspiring member story: Tam Carroll’s journey from trauma to healing through horses
    • Intelligent DIY: Make your own jump fillers
    • Latest on Horse Sense and Healing clinics with veterans
    • Reader stories, photos, feedback – and a chance to win tickets to HOYS!


    Why You’ll Love This Issue

    From the thoughtful “How Well Do You Know Your Horse?” (p28) to Elsa Sinclair’s groundbreaking work in liberty training (p14–18), we explore how to build real trust and communication. Our 8-page Creative Groundwork section (starting p20) gives you fresh, practical ways to develop your horse from the ground up — and even some DIY inspiration if you’re feeling hands-on (p26).

    Rosie Jones’ article (p34) is a gentle reminder of how finding joy in small moments can shift everything — a message that echoes across the entire issue. We’ve also got heartening updates on the Horse Sense and Healing programme (p12), highlighting the powerful healing horses offer to veterans.


    Complete Contents with Article Descriptions

    4 – My World: What Sparked Your Passion?
    Kelly Marks reflects on a childhood story that shaped her love of horsemanship — and celebrates the start of her nephew horse Jack’s working hunter career.

    6 – Letters and Feedback
    Heartfelt member stories, from horses overcoming challenges to gratitude for IH courses. Don’t miss the star letter winner!

    7 – Members’ Photos
    A gorgeous selection of member snapshots and stories — from first ponies to rescue transformations.

    8 – In Other News…
    From hobby horse championships to massage and Mozart for racehorses — all the quirky, useful, and thoughtful updates from the equine world.

    10 – Monty’s June Diary
    Follow Monty’s whirlwind tour — including work with Royal Stables, veterans, and his powerful demo at the Spanish Riding School.

    12 – Horse Sense and Healing
    Ele Milwright shares the latest progress in the IH veterans programme, including new partnerships and powerful stories of healing through Join-Up™.

    14 – The Big Interview: Elsa Sinclair
    An inspiring, in-depth chat with Elsa about taming wild horses, Freedom Based Training™, and reshaping how we approach horsemanship.

    18 – Clinic Review: Elsa Sinclair’s Debut UK Clinic
    IH member Alison Ball shares what she learned — and how it’s already making a difference with her own horses.

    19 – Meet a Member: Tam Carroll
    An extraordinary story of recovery, resilience, and how a Clydesdale named Ollie helped save a life.

    20 – Creative Groundwork Exercises
    Start with fresh groundwork ideas to keep things interesting and build skills with trust and clarity.

    23 – Creative Problem Solving
    Think outside the box with practical ways to tackle common handling hiccups.

    24 – Out and About on Long Lines
    Take long-lining to the next level with tips on building confidence in different environments.

    26 – Intelligent DIY: Make Your Own Jump Fillers
    Turn scrap wood into smart, fun training tools — a great weekend project!

    28 – How Well Do You Know Your Horse?
    Understand personality types and how they shape your training relationship — a thoughtful and practical piece.

    32 – Book Review & Excerpt: Rider Biomechanics by Mary Wanless
    A first look at this essential guide to riding technique and posture with purpose.

    34 – Creating a Sweet Spot
    Rosie Jones explores how finding comfort and rhythm can unlock better performance and a happier horse.

    38 – Win Tickets to HOYS!
    Enter to win tickets to Horse of the Year Show – a must for any horse lover.

    39 – Spotlight On: Lynn Chapman
    Celebrating a valued member of the IH community and her continued contributions.

    40 – IH Success Story: Toby Slocum and His Small Herd
    A touching success story of trust, partnership, and the difference IH methods can make.

    42 – IH Trainer Feedback
    Testimonials from real clients on the difference IH trainers are making around the UK.


    Navigation Tags

    groundwork, liberty training, horse psychology, separation anxiety, anxiety, rider positioning & biomechanics, jumping, long reining,

  • Summer 2017

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    Summer 2017

    Explore Your Summer 2017 IH Magazine!

    What’s Inside?

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


    Why You’ll Love This Issue

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

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

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


    Complete Contents with Article Descriptions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


    Navigation Tags

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

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