Choosing a trainer for your horse or for yourself is a big decision. But how do you know that you found the right one? Here are a few thoughts that might help you:
💙 1. The right “stomach-feeling”
In my opinion, the most important factor. It can be challenging to find a trainer next door, but I strongly recommend that you choose the one, who gives you the right feeling in your body. You might be lucky, and it’s the local trainer, but you might be better off driving a little extra and get the right help.
2. 💙 A good rider isn’t always a good teacher!
We all have our talents and you need to have clear expectations towards your new trainer when looking for one. Not all great riders are great teachers and not all the good teachers compete at the highest levels. It’s two different skillsets! If you’re looking for someone to train your horse, go and see some horses the trainer has trained. Looking for a good lesson-giver? Go and see the trainer teach. Show results posted on social media tell you very little about the trainers abilities outside of the show pen.
3. 💙 Meet your trainer!
As obvious as it sounds, I had many conversations in text messages and calls with customers wanting to send horses in training with me, entirely based on what they saw me post on social media. I always have the same answer: Take the time and meet your trainer! Ask them about their principles. See horses that they trained at home or at shows. Ask if you can watch a lesson. Finding the right match is crucial not only for you, but also for your trainer, so they can actually help you. Align expectations so you’re set up for success from the beginning.
I hope, that this’ll help, when you’re considering taking lessons/attending a clinic/sending a horse in training with a new trainer 🥰