After watching many of Amelia’s videos on YouTube, getting to watch her clinic was a real treat. I was also, just getting out of my back brace so it was extra fun to be at a clinic at the time. She had many people work on a snowman (a 10m circle in one direction and a 20m circle in the other in a figure 8 pattern) and had a ton of good wins for everyone!
“When the neck softens, the forward drive can improve.” This comment was made after a rider continued to hold a horse too tight in the neck, blocking the flow and freedom of the horse.
“You must be forward to the trot. In the down transition keep engaging the leg.” In the down transition, you must think about being forward and maintaining your momentum.
“If you wait until it’s a problem, you’re too late.” This statement was made after a horse continued to spook in the same area of the arena. Giving your horse a job in this kind of situation (shoulder-in is my go-to) is the perfect way to practice prevention. As soon as you see your horse’s attention flagging, don’t wait for there to be a problem, catch it early!
“Move your fingers, flex, and give, softening the inside connection.” The outside rein stays solid and supportive while the inside reins asks the horse to soften in the hand.
