Enhance Your Riding Skills from Home with These 5 Video Techniques (Indeed, It's Really Doable)
In the world of equestrianism, constantly honing your skills is essential. Two renowned trainers, Archie Cox and Kip Rosenthal, share their insights on how amateurs can improve their riding techniques.
Archie Cox, a hunter/jumper trainer and judge, suggests learning from the best. Whether it's watching top-level riders at an international competition or on video, observing their movements can provide valuable insights. He also advises focusing on horse-rider combinations that are similar to you and your horse, like smaller riders studying Margie Goldstein-Engle.
Cox emphasizes the importance of breaking down your learning process. The first time you watch your round, he recommends viewing it as a spectator to understand what it looks like. If there's something specific you've been working on, such as hand steadiness, focus on it and look for instances where you get it wrong and how it affects your horse. The final time, focus on the same aspect but watch what happens when you get it right.
Cox also highlights the importance of identifying small details that contribute to a great round. For example, notice if your horse lands light after a jump or if the canter stride becomes longer. He advises reframing mistakes using positive language, such as 'shoulders back' or 'eyes up', to achieve results. Cox stresses the importance of using positive language in riding, avoiding words like "not" and "don't", and instead telling people what to do.
Kip Rosenthal, a hunter/jumper trainer and judge with a PhD in clinical counseling psychology, echoes these sentiments. He recommends watching a video of a round or test at least three times. If there's a specific aspect you've been working on, like hand smoothness, focus on that aspect in a professional's performance. He also suggests watching professional equestrians on young horses to see them navigate challenges.
Rosenthal emphasizes the importance of balancing focus on areas that need improvement with areas where improvement has occurred. He also encourages moving on from mistakes and focusing on how to fix them, rather than dwelling on them.
For those wanting to take their equestrian education to the next level, consider subscribing to Noelle Floyd's Masterclass for access to video courses from industry experts. With these tips from Archie Cox and Kip Rosenthal, you're well on your way to improving your riding skills and achieving your equestrian goals.
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