Check out the following tips to stay sane throughout the winter months! Feeling the winter blues? Not all riders can afford to winter in Florida, but don’t be too disappointed if you have to stay behind! There are several reasons dealing with the arctic temperatures of the north can help you and your horse. Proper … Continue reading Feeling the Winter Blues? →

A proper fitting saddle is as important for the rider as it is for the horse. Riders cannot reach their full potential without a saddle that fits well! General Guidelines: There are a few simple guidelines to follow when fitting a saddle to the rider. Fig. 1: Upper Thigh Measurement A saddle’s size is found … Continue reading Saddle Fit Part II – The Rider →

In the 1930s, Das Reiterabzeichen, or The German Riding Badge, was originally created for the military. The Bronze, Silver and Gold badges represented a rider’s competence in and out of the saddle and was issued by the German Equestrian Riding Association. Eventually civilians were also allowed to earn badges by demonstrating proper horsemanship, their knowledge … Continue reading The German Riding Badge: Germany’s Top Notch Equestrian Training Program →

Every single person needs to do their part to help stop the spread of COVID-19, including those of us in the Equine industry. Coronavirus spreads from person to person very quickly and can also live on surfaces for at least 72 hours. We like to think that by being outside at the barn in the … Continue reading YOU Can Help Stop the Spread: COVID-19 →

Written for USDF by Area II Rider: Mara Santiz As riders, we are often so concerned with our horses’ wellbeing that we simply forget to take care of ourselves. We ensure our horses have top notch care; they are visited by vets, farriers, chiropractors, massage therapists and acupuncturists on a monthly basis. Meanwhile, you haven’t … Continue reading You Can’t Do It All →

***This post is NOT an attempt to bash riders about their weight, it is only to suggest the importance of fitness in the competitive sport*** I believe most of us that compete aspire to be fit riders, however that is much easier said than done. It’s only been in the past year that I have … Continue reading Competitive Rider Fitness →

*Written for The Chronicle of The Horse* *Appeared in Heelsdown Magazine (online)* We’ve heard about all of the major stars in the equestrian world and read about their journeys to success, but what about those of us who haven’t made it yet? Maybe you don’t have lots of medals, and maybe you can’t compete because … Continue reading To The Girl Who Goes Unnoticed: I See You, And Your Time Will Come →