Posts by Stacy Westfall
Episode 149- Three traits I see in riders that reach their goals
ALL riders I’ve talked with experience dissatisfaction…the interesting thing is that some keep going and some do not. I see people give up…and I see people who overcome. What is the difference? I discuss three traits I’ve noticed in riders who consistantly reach their goals. I explain the tipping point that I see and how…
Read MoreEpisode 148- Three situations where horses frequently double check the rules
In this episode, I discuss three situations where it is common for horses to ask questions about the rules. I call these moments ‘Grandma’s rules’ which is my fun way of explaining that horses are always seeking out the most benifitial set of rules to opperate by. I explain where the name came from and…
Read MoreEpisode 147: This is the awkward, uncomfortable part of the journey.
Increasing a riders awareness of the feelings or emotions that come up during the learning process is extremely beneficial. For most riders, learning to train their own horse means learning new skills and experiencing the feelings that often accompany that like; vulnerable, nervous, disappointed, frightened, uncertain and awkward. In this podcast I explain the role…
Read MoreEpisode 146-Why patterns can help & why riders resist riding patterns
Today I’m talking about patterns…why I recommend riding patterns and why riders often have resistance to riding patterns. I’ll discuss anticipation in multiple forms, increasing your awareness by getting feedback from your horse and how your focus, or lack of focus, is impacting your ride. I posted two of my favorite training patterns over on…
Read MoreEpisode 145: Skill confidence vs self confidence
If you’re in the middle of a work session and things aren’t going the way you hoped do you lose confidence? How does this impact your time with your horse? In this episode I propose the idea that we can have different types of confidence. I outline ’self’ confidence vs ‘skill’ confidence and explain why…
Read MoreEpisode 144: 3 ways riders block their physical awareness
In this episode, I explain three ways I see people holding themselves back by accidentally limiting their awareness of their body. Riding horses can be a great physical awareness tool. I describe what I call ‘body scanning’ and how to use this tool as a way to increase your awareness of your body so you…
Read MoreEpisode 143: Prerequisites for flying lead changes
In this episode I’m answering a question about lead changes. In the beginning I’m very methodical about teaching shoulder control with the reins, legs as speed control. THEN hip control with my legs…separate from the shoulder control that is in my reins. I discuss: Bend and counterbend, turn on the forehand, Canter-walk-canter transitions, bouncy canter…
Read MoreEpisode 142: How can I slow my horse down on a loose rein?
In this episode I’m answering a question about teaching a horse how to hunt slowing down with less or no rein contact. I’ll discuss teaching multiple cues, offering choices through the use of patterns and I’ll give you three different ‘tests’ you can take to evaluate your communication with your horse. ⬇️FULL SHOW NOTES Links…
Read MoreEpisode 141: My horse is on the wrong lead…
Learn how to identify what lead your horse is on when watching from the ground or when riding. What makes a lead ‘right or wrong’ or correct or incorrect? What is counter canter? What is cross firing? If a horse is constantly cross firing…what’s going on? Is this a soundness or a weakness issue? I…
Read MoreEpisode 140: Uncollected-Is that resistance, stiffness and tripping mental or physical?
I recieved an email awhile back that asked a short question. Here is what was written. “The biggest question I can’t seem to get a clear answer for is “how do I ask for the collection?” It is such a short…and seemingly simple question. I explain the underlying issue of collection and why the answer…
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