By HOLLY HUGO-VIDAL
While I have no doubt that knowledge is important, sometimes too much information can be detrimental. There is so much information available in today’s world online in books, videos, social media, and magazines all offering advice and opinions. Inquisitive minds always want to learn more, which is great. However, I often see that too much information, or possibly versions of the same thing, can produce frustration and confusion in a rider and can be dangerous as well. To say nothing of confusing the horse by doing things incorrectly! I’ve learned over decades of training horses and riders that too much information, or the wrong information at the wrong time, can be more damaging than helpful.
My approach to training horses and working with riders has always been to keep things clear and as simple as possible. Clarity and safety first. Simplicity always.
There must be a solid base on which to build, and then the build should be gradual, productive, and appropriate in order to progress. For example, I have seen riders who are at a beginner or intermediate level get very concerned with the idea of collection instead of just riding the horse forward and allowing the horse to carry itself in a natural position. Oftentimes the problem is that the rider gets very busy with their hands and ends up being an annoyance to the horse in addition to riding “backwards,” where the horse is not allowed to go forward, and therefore is not in front of the leg.
In the German pyramid of training, collection is at the very top and is the highest level of training. So isn’t it logical that we should start at the bottom which is rhythm followed by relaxation, then up to connection, impulsion, straightness, and then collection? It’s better if you can achieve just one level then slowly move up. But don’t attempt collection without impulsion and knowledge. Each level depends on the one before it.
There are so many aspects of riding and training that can be very dangerous as well as counterproductive if the rider and or the person on the ground doesn’t know what they’re doing,
and even if they do, there is always an element of danger. I heard a lady recently talk about wanting to lunge her horse or possibly long line it after reading an article about long lining
and lunging. This lady would have no more business doing that than trying to fly a plane! She could get badly hurt as well as the horse. This is a skilled art and should only be done by very educated horsemen. Attempting advanced ground work without proper instruction is a recipe for injury.
Some people listen to everyone and everything that they hear without considering the source. There are many new “trainers” who profess to be knowledgeable and lure people in and spew out misinformation. These so-called trainers speak authoritatively and have lots of pictures and drop names, but have never actually done what they claim they have. True horsemen don’t need to convince you: their results speak for themselves.
Wanting to improve and advance is safe to say what most riders want, but it should be done in a safe and knowledgeable way. Not based on a romantic whim or trends. More is not better. Too much information can be a dangerous thing! Keep it clear. Keep it simple.
Holly Hugo-Vidal is a nationally respected equestrian professional, trainer, clinician, judge, and author based in Milton, Georgia. Originally from Bedford, New York, she operates Pacific Blue Training Stable and also teaches at Michael Britt-Leon’s Windsor Stables. With decades of experience in the hunter, equitation, and jumper disciplines, Holly is known for developing confident, well-rounded riders through correct fundamentals and a thoughtful, horse-first approach.
A sought-after clinician, Holly has taught throughout the United States as well as internationally in New Zealand and Panama. She is also an accomplished judge and the author of Build Confidence Over Fences, a sellout book praised for its practical guidance and focus on mental strength and partnership.
For clinic bookings, judging inquiries, or teaching opportunities:
828-674-7983
pacificblue2020@gmail.com
