Are training rides right for every horse?

[x]

I am a trainer. Training rides can benefit many horses, but there are a few that they may not be appropriate for. One person horses, that are so tuned to just their rider in a special way, may not benefit greatly from a training ride. Horses like this have reached an understanding with their rider, and oftentimes what that person and horse do together doesn’t necessarily fall entirely into the norm of general training–and therefore don’t work as well with a training rider. These sorts of horse/rider combinations are not common, but do exist. These sorts of horses do not adjust well to someone else, and when it comes time to sell them, they may have trouble finding the right person. In the case of that type of a horse, if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. The majority of horses, though, will benefit from a training rides. As mentioned above, it can help identify and fix gaps and fix problems before they start.

[foursocks]

@Me&MrTango

In a perfect world, yes you would move on to a different trainer. But usually changing trainers involves changing barns. There’s a thousand different logistical reasons why changing barns just isn’t practical for some people so sometimes you find yourself having to work with a less than ideal trainer match because things like care or turnout or location are a higher priority.

You know what, you are definitely right. I’ve been in situations myself where I’ve compromised due to factors like the ones you mention. I have to say, however, that I’ve never regretted when I’ve left a trainer for not being right for me or my horse, except perhaps that it took me too long. At this point in my life my priorities have been sharpened by experience, and staying with a trainer who isn’t meeting my expectations is right at the bottom of the list. I’ve also found that if the trainer isn’t working out, there are other things that aren’t right at that barn, either. But there are certainly situations where other concerns have to outweigh the quality of the trainer.

[Lucassb]

@Me&MrTango

In a perfect world, yes you would move on to a different trainer. But usually changing trainers involves changing barns. There’s a thousand different logistical reasons why changing barns just isn’t practical for some people so sometimes you find yourself having to work with a less than ideal trainer match because things like care or turnout or location are a higher priority.

In addition to this very valid point, I would note that riding and teaching are actually two different skills.

I learned a lot from my former trainer, and I enjoyed the lessons I took with him. He definitely helped me learn how to get my horses to sit more, be more balanced, improve their straightness, and he also improved my awareness of their balance, straightness and connection.

Unfortunately he preferred the horses he rode to be a LOT hotter and more reactive than I found manageable.

Like a lot of adult amateurs, I really wanted a trainer who could do a ride for me when work demands or travel meant I couldn’t get my horses out; eventually that resulted in the horses that were too wired for me to ride with any enjoyment (or safety.) We had several conversations about it; we could not come to an agreement so I moved on.