Why Equine Awareness Training Bridges the Gap Between Horsemanship and Advanced Riding
- Loz
- Nov 24, 2025
- 3 min read
Updated: Nov 26, 2025
How Do Equine Owners Fill the Gap and Why Root Cause Thinking is the Key
Do you frequently find yourself unsure about how to advance or progress with your horse? Or do you sense that something is lacking in transitioning your horse from moving adequately to moving with complete ease? Or do you want to understand how to read their behaviours and patterns to enhance your connection more? (Whether this be on the ground or ridden.)
Horsemanship, connection and advancement of riding often feel like separate worlds—one focused on handling horses safely and calmly, one where the horse might not be "heard" (via behavioural expressions) and the other on executing precise movements like half-pass or flying changes. But the truth is, these worlds are deeply connected. The missing link? Awareness.
What Is Equine Awareness Training (aka searching for the Root Cause—the Why)?
Equine Awareness Training is about developing the rider’s ability to feel—to sense what their own body is doing and what the horse’s body is doing in real time. It’s not just about knowing the theory; it’s about creating a physical and mental connection that allows you to influence movement with clarity and kindness.
When horse handlers/riders build awareness, they stop riding or working on autopilot. They start noticing:
Is my weight evenly distributed?
Is my horse stepping under or falling out?
Is the bend coming from the ribcage or just the neck?
Is my horse restricted in its body or thoughts?
Is my horse tense or anxious—why?
This level of feel transforms both everyday handling and advanced schooling. Constantly building by being aware and curious. To get to the root cause for the horse and rider/handler is key! Always ask "why" (and don't be afraid)!
I think Equine Awareness Training helps horse owners transition from not knowing to an evolving state of questioning "why", ultimately empowering them with a conscious mindset approach. Moving from "what I don't know" to constantly "wanting to know, educate and continue to build".
In the equestrian context, root cause refers to the underlying reason for a problem, issue or opportunity with a horse or rider, rather than just the visible symptom.
For example:
If a horse is rushing fences, the symptom is speed—but the root cause might be pain, poor balance, or rider tension.
If a rider struggles with canter transitions, the symptom is rough transitions—but the root cause might be incorrect seat alignment or lack of core stability.
Why it matters: Addressing the root cause leads to lasting improvement and better horse welfare, while treating symptoms alone often results in recurring problems.
Why Awareness Matters for Horse Welfare
A horse’s body works best when movement is functional—balanced, supple, and free from unnecessary brace, tension or strain. Without awareness, riders can unintentionally block that movement, creating more tension or even long-term issues. Awareness training teaches riders to:
Recognise when a movement feels stiff or crooked.
Correct patterns gently before they become habits.
Support the horse’s natural biomechanics for longevity and comfort.
Bridging the Gap: From Groundwork to Advanced Techniques
Horsemanship skills—leading, lunging, in-hand work—are the foundation. Advanced riding techniques like shoulder-in, travers, and half-pass build on that foundation. Awareness training connects the dots:
On the ground: Learn how your horse moves without the weight of a rider.
In the saddle: Transfer that knowledge to influence balance, rhythm, and straightness.
When you can feel what’s happening and know how to adjust, you create harmony. Movements become easier, and your horse feels supported—not forced.
How to Start Building Awareness
Slow down. Spend time observing and feeling, not just doing.
Use mirrors or video. Visual feedback sharpens your sense of feel.
Work with a coach who explains the “why.” Understanding biomechanics makes corrections meaningful.
Practise mindfulness. Breathing and body scans help you notice tension before it affects your horse.
The Big Picture
Equine Awareness Training isn’t just a trend—it’s a game-changer. It helps riders progress from basic handling to advanced riding while prioritizing horse welfare. When you ride with awareness, you don’t just improve technique—you build trust, confidence, and a partnership that lasts.
Ready to Experience Equine Awareness Training?
If this approach resonates with you, why not experience it firsthand? At Lagoballo, Laura Ushay offers tailored Equine Awareness Training sessions designed to bridge the gap between horsemanship and advanced riding techniques.
Through one-on-one coaching, Laura helps riders develop the feel and understanding needed to improve both their own position and their horse’s functional movement—enhancing welfare and performance.
✅ Book your lesson today and start building the connection that transforms your riding using and building Awareness.
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