Hayley Watson-Greaves

The international dressage rider on plaiting up to music, treating horses as individuals and which quirky but talented mount she wishes she could clone

- Alex Robinson

LESS is definitely more when training horses. Things should be black and white, with no grey areas. When training, don’t overthink what you’re doing. Make it simple so your horse understands what you are asking of them.

It can be easy to practice every aid possible, over-riding to correct a movement. We get too focused on everything being perfect all the time. Think of training the movements to make them better rather than doing the same thing over and over without getting any better. Think outside the box.

Rein it back a little and your horse will have a better understanding. Listen to your horse’s personality on the ground, too. I always get to know my horses’ likes and dislikes in the stable. It’s important to build that partnership as it will continue when you’re on board.