Equestrian
TRAINING HORSES with Robert Booth BHSI
I knew I wanted to work with horses from a very early age - but not coming from a horsey background , I had to find a way to get into the system , and the best way at that time was to become a working pupil and train for the British Horse Society exams .
The BHS today is recognised worldwide as a good exam system . The exams start at stage 1 and you don ’ t have to have your own horse to take part . I worked my way up from BHSAI ( Assistant Instructor ) through the stages and have had my BHSI ( Instructor certificate ) for 30 years now and am currently on the Accredited Professional Coaches register . To be a good coach , it ’ s important to have a good sound background knowledge so you can help your pupils in all aspects of horse care . This ranges from how to perform with the horse to advice on management and which competitions to enter . The BHS exam system is a progressive and comprehensive training of riders and instructors and includes care , safety , welfare and knowledge of the horse , riding ability for both flatwork and jumping , and instruction on how to teach and progress riders . You do have to take an exam and can fail - so be assured that someone with a BHS qualification is up to standard ! Although I prefer to train and compete at showjumping , I still enjoy and continue to train and teach flatwork and keep up to date on the latest care and veterinary improvements as it is all related . Being a member of the BHS gives me good insurance cover and being on the Accredited Professional Coaches register means I also have to keep up with my coaching skills by attending training conferences and have a current First Aid and Safeguarding and protection of children certificates . Robert Booth is an Equine trainer for Rodgebrook Horses . Telephone : 01983 521870 or visit www . rodgebrookhorses . co . uk .
Useful tips on training your horse : Heels down !
As a trainer the most common thing I am constantly trying to correct in the rider is keeping their heels down . It may sound very basic , but the difference it makes to the rider ’ s balance and effective aids is enormous . The lower leg is the driving force for the horse and when your heels are down and toes slightly out , the calf is in contact with the horse creating impulsion . Keeping the weight in your heels creates a stronger position and stops the leg from swinging about .
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