Since I have ridden horses, I have worked with a number of trainers, to improve my riding and horse training skills. The best trainers I have worked with acted like coachs and mentors, to help me achieve my riding goals.
Finding that perfect fit between you, your trainer, and your horse is not easy. Some trainers are unreliable, unimaginative, yell too much, or are too easy on you.
As Donna Synder-Smith, a rider bio-mechanics coach, told me once, “Finding a trainer is like buying underwear. It’s a very personal experience. You need to try each one on until you find one that is the right fit.”
So how are you going to find that perfect person to help you and your mount reach the next level? Here are the steps:
1. Determine your goals
Before you start looking for a trainer, think about your goals. Do you want to compete in shows or just become a better rider? Do you have a particular issue with your horse you are working to overcome? Are you interested in natural horsemanship or traditional training methods?
Knowing your goals will help you narrow down you search. You can then began your search.
2. Get a referral
When you move to a new community and need a new doctor or dentist, how do you find one you trust? You talk to your new neighbors or fellow co-workers. If you are trainer shopping, you do the same thing. Ask your horsey friends who they would recommend. Or go to a barn or a horse show and ask the horse owners there.
Once you get a list, do a little more research on the trainer by talking to current clients and other established trainers in the area. When I was trainer shopping, I found a successful trainer, who seemed to be the right fit. However, after talking to one of her clients who told me she was good but over extended herself, I decided against her.
Getting the real truth about a trainer will shorten your list even more. The next step is to watch them in action.
3. Interview the trainer
First write down a list of questions to ask your candidates and then set up an appointment. The goal of your interview is to determine if the trainer can help you achieve your goals. You will need to ask questions such as has the trainer worked in the area where you need help? It wouldn’t be a good fit if you are a beginner and the trainer only works with advanced riders: you probably want to find someone who specializes in working with beginner riders.
When I was looking for a trainer, I wanted someone who was current with the Arab show world and judging trends. I also wanted this trainer to go with me to the shows to coach me through my classes. So one of the questions I asked was, “Do you currently show in Arabian horse shows?” and “Would you be willing to go the shows with me as a coach?” If the answer was “no” then I crossed them off the list.
In addition, I wanted someone who did not use harsh training methods for getting collection and a headset. (Training methods in the horse show world can be hard on the horse.) So I asked, “What are your training methods?” My current trainer and I both have the same philosophy, so we make a good team.
4. Go watch a lesson
Ask the trainer if you can watch them give a lesson. This way you can see their teaching style and how they give instructions. After watching them, ask yourself, “would I be comfortable working with this person?”
Personally, I learn more from a trainer who uses praise but who also pushes me. I don’t learn from someone who yells and is losing patience with me.
5. Sign up for a trial lesson
As a final check point, sign up for a lesson. Use the lesson as test to see if you want to continue to work with the trainer and if the trainer want to works with you!
How did you find your horse trainer? Please let me know!
{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
Hi. Our club, The Los Vaqueros de las Montanas, was formed in the early 40’s. They were members of CSHA almost from the beginning, then dropped the membership for several years. I am in the process of reinstating our club (rejoining). I am interested in trail trials, though I have never taken part in one. I trail ride in our beautiful Big Bear CA mountains on my 13 yr. old Mustang and my 24 year old Quarter horse. I’m over the hill myself. I show locally and am show chairman for our club. I plan to put on at least one trail trial next year so I enjoyed your blog on trail trials. Thanks for your great blog. Jen
I liked your blog on finding a trainer as I have been thinking on that subject. You had some good suggestions. Jen
Thanks for commenting, Jenifer. That is great that you are going to put on a Trail Trial next year! Trail Trials are alot of fun. Once your horse community discovers what they are all about you will probably attract many people. Good luck and let me know how it goes!