Training Tip: Judging Experience vs. Ability With Horses

When people tell me how long they’ve been riding or working with horses in general, I put no stock in it. I form my opinion of their ability when I see them ride and interact with a horse.

You may be 65 and have been riding horses since you were 4, but if you can’t confidently lope a horse, by definition, you’re a beginner. Or, you could be a 20-year-old who started riding eight years ago and in that time you’ve reached the advanced level horsemanship.

The bottom line is years of experience with horses never impress me. What impresses me is the type of experience you’ve had and how you’ve been able to put the lessons you’ve learned to good use. In other words, actions speak louder than words.