📌 Intuitive Instructor Club - Hoof Falls & Footfalls: https://hooffallsandfootfalls.com/coaching-2/

📌MORE educational resources for instructors: Hoof Falls & Footfalls: https://hooffallsandfootfalls.com

📌 The ultimate planner for adaptive/therapeutic riding instructors: https://thebarnhand.com/products/the-barn-hand-draft-horse-edition-digital-download

In this critical discussion, we delve into the recent ban of Peacock Safety Stirrups by several major equestrian organizations in the US and Canada due to significant safety concerns. We explore the history behind the ban, the risks involved, and the lessons we can learn as adaptive or therapeutic horseback riding instructors. We also share vital considerations for determining whether to remove these stirrups from your barn, and provide alternative safety stirrup options. Join us to ensure the safety and well-being of your students. Don't forget to check the links below for recommended stirrup options and let us know your thoughts and experiences in the comments!

00:00 Introduction to the Banned Safety Stirrup

00:42 History and Reasons for the Ban

03:38 Personal Experience and Legal Insights

06:29 Safety Concerns and Instructor Responsibilities

08:14 Implications for Adaptive Riding Instructors

11:41 Alternative Safety Stirrup Options

18:58 Conclusion and Viewer Engagement

📌 Intuitive Instructor Club - Hoof Falls & Footfalls: https://hooffallsandfootfalls.com/coaching-2/

📌MORE educational resources for instructors: Hoof Falls & Footfalls: https://hooffallsandfootfalls.com

📌 The ultimate planner for adaptive/therapeutic riding instructors: https://thebarnhand.com/products/the-barn-hand-draft-horse-edition-digital-download

Struggling with anxious students in your adaptive or therapeutic horseback riding lessons? You’re not alone—and you can help them succeed.

In this video, we’ll go over 10 practical, proven strategies to build confidence and create a supportive learning environment for anxious riders. Whether you teach mounted lessons or groundwork, these tips will help you better connect with your students and set them up for success.

We’ll cover:

- How to read body language early

- Why normalizing anxiety helps

- Choosing the right words and mindset

- Demonstrating tasks clearly

- Calming techniques you can use immediately

- Why posture matters for confidence

- The role of honest, well-timed praise

- How to vary difficulty appropriately

- The surprising impact of horse build and tack choices

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction to Teaching Anxious Students

01:36 Proactive Reading of Student Body Language

03:24 Normalizing Anxiety in Lessons

05:14 Impact of Words and Mindset

08:48 Demonstrating Tasks to Ease Anxiety

11:45 Calming and Relaxation Techniques

14:33 Importance of Good Posture

17:14 Honest and Well-Timed Praise

19:32 Varying Lesson Difficulty

22:48 Impact of Horse Build on Student Confidence

27:28 Choosing the Right Tack and Equipment

31:32 Conclusion and Instructor Engagement

👉 If these tips helped you, please like, subscribe, and share your experience in the comments!

📌 Intuitive Instructor Club - Hoof Falls & Footfalls: https://hooffallsandfootfalls.com/coaching-2/

📌MORE educational resources for instructors: Hoof Falls & Footfalls: https://hooffallsandfootfalls.com

📌 The ultimate planner for adaptive/therapeutic riding instructors: https://thebarnhand.com/products/the-barn-hand-draft-horse-edition-digital-download

Skipping an intake or meet and greet before promising a student a spot in your adaptive or therapeutic horseback riding program is one of the biggest mistakes you can make.

In this episode, we'll break down why mandatory intakes are critical for programs of all sizes.

You'll learn:

- Why intakes and meet and greets are non-negotiable

- How to conduct an effective intake

- Key observations to make during the meet and greet

- The role of initial phone screenings

- How to set up new students (and your program) for long-term success

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction to the Importance of Intakes

00:21 Personal Experience and Program Overview

01:34 The Necessity of Intakes and Meet and Greets

03:51 Detailed Steps of Conducting an Intake

05:52 Observations During the Meet and Greet

16:54 Addressing Policies and Expectations

28:14 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

31:14 Engagement and Feedback Request

👉 If you found this video helpful, don't forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments!

📌 Intuitive Instructor Club - Hoof Falls & Footfalls: https://hooffallsandfootfalls.com/coaching-2/

📌MORE educational resources for instructors: Hoof Falls & Footfalls: https://hooffallsandfootfalls.com

📌 The ultimate planner for adaptive/therapeutic riding instructors: https://thebarnhand.com/products/the-barn-hand-draft-horse-edition-digital-download

Got a student who refuses to wear a helmet? We've been there! In this episode, we share proven methods to help adaptive and therapeutic horseback riding students go from hating helmets to happily participating. 🐎

You'll learn how to:

✔️ Lead by example

✔️ Manage sensory sensitivities

✔️ Ensure proper helmet fit

✔️ Build positive helmet associations

✔️ Use peer influence and timing strategiesand much more!

Whether you're new to adaptive riding instruction or looking for fresh tools, this guide will help you create safe, positive, and effective lessons for students of all abilities.

🔔 Don't forget to subscribe for more tips on teaching adaptive and therapeutic riding!

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction to Helmet Haters

00:46 Proven Methods and Techniques

02:46 Lead by Example

05:35 Sensory Considerations

08:55 Proper Helmet Fit

10:03 Positive Associations

11:34 Utilizing Photos and Videos

13:59 Loaner Helmets for Practice

15:06 Group Helmet Wearing

17:37 Peer Influence

18:59 Strategic Timing

20:29 Final Tips and Safety Reminders

📌 Intuitive Instructor Club - Hoof Falls & Footfalls: https://hooffallsandfootfalls.com/coaching-2/📌 The Barn Hand - Draft Horse Edition (Digital Download): https://thebarnhand.com/products/the-barn-hand-draft-horse-edition-digital-download📌 Certification Renewal & Maintenance | PATH Intl: https://pathintl.org/certification/maintenance/📌 CHA Instructor Recertification – Certified Horsemanship Association: https://cha.horse/cha-instructor-recertification/Should students in adaptive or therapeutic riding lessons be taught how to walk behind horses? This topic is widely debated among instructors, with some saying it’s too dangerous and others believing it’s an essential skill. In this episode, I share my professional opinion, safety strategies, and practical tips for teaching students of all ability levels to navigate behind a horse safely.00:00 Introduction to the Debate on Walking Behind Horses01:17 Sabra Popoli's Professional Opinion03:31 Teaching Safe Practices Around Horses05:16 Practical Demonstrations and Techniques09:19 Life Skills and Safety Considerations10:37 Adaptive Equipment and Special Considerations12:31 Conclusion and Call for Feedback#TherapeuticRiding #AdaptiveRiding #HorsebackRidingInstructor #EquineTherapy #InstructorTips

📌 Intuitive Instructor Club - Hoof Falls & Footfalls: https://hooffallsandfootfalls.com/coaching-2/📌 The Barn Hand - Draft Horse Edition (Digital Download): https://thebarnhand.com/products/the-barn-hand-draft-horse-edition-digital-download📌 Certification Renewal & Maintenance | PATH Intl: https://pathintl.org/certification/maintenance/📌 CHA Instructor Recertification – Certified Horsemanship Association: https://cha.horse/cha-instructor-recertification/As a therapeutic riding instructor, saying "no" or "not right now" is an inevitable part of your teaching journey. But how do you confidently set boundaries while maintaining trust with students, parents, and caregivers? ✅ Why saying "no" is essential for safety and progress ✅ How to communicate your decisions with confidence ✅ Real-life examples of when I've had to say "no" and what I learned ✅ Tips to prevent pushback from students and parentsChapters:00:00 Introduction: The Inevitable 'No' in Teaching01:29 Personal Experiences and Challenges02:48 About the Instructor04:29 Practical Examples of Saying 'No'08:26 The Importance of Clear Communication10:58 Handling Persistent Requests16:41 Building Confidence in Confrontation19:00 Conclusion and Encouragement#TherapeuticRiding #AdaptiveRiding #HorsebackRidingInstructor #EquineTherapy #InstructorTips

📌 Intuitive Instructor Club - Hoof Falls & Footfalls: https://hooffallsandfootfalls.com/coaching-2/📌 The Barn Hand - Draft Horse Edition (Digital Download): https://thebarnhand.com/products/the-barn-hand-draft-horse-edition-digital-download📌 Certification Renewal & Maintenance | PATH Intl: https://pathintl.org/certification/maintenance/📌 CHA Instructor Recertification – Certified Horsemanship Association: https://cha.horse/cha-instructor-recertification/Are you paying attention to the small, subtle ways your students communicate with you? In adaptive and therapeutic horseback riding lessons, communication isn't always verbal. In this episode, I share a powerful real-life example of how a simple whiteboard exercise helped strengthen trust, connection, and communication with my students—especially those who struggle with verbal expression.By recognizing and responding to small cues, we can create a more supportive and engaging learning environment. This is a must-watch for adaptive riding instructors who want to deepen their relationships with students and improve their teaching approach.Let me know in the comments—do you already look for these subtle communication cues in your lessons?Chapters:00:00 Introduction: Recognizing Opportunities in Instruction00:22 The Importance of Communication in Adaptive Riding01:12 The Whiteboard Example: A Teaching Tool03:27 Understanding Non-Verbal Communication05:03 Building Trust Through Recognition06:33 Encouraging Communication in Lessons09:36 Applying Equine Skills to Human Interaction10:09 Conclusion and Call to Action📌 Subscribe for more adaptive riding insights!🔔 Follow for more tips on teaching adaptive and therapeutic riding!#TherapeuticRiding #AdaptiveRiding #HorsebackRidingInstructor #EquineTherapy #InstructorTips

📌 Intuitive Instructor Club - Hoof Falls & Footfalls: https://hooffallsandfootfalls.com/coaching-2/📌 The Barn Hand - Draft Horse Edition (Digital Download): https://thebarnhand.com/products/the-barn-hand-draft-horse-edition-digital-download📌 Certification Renewal & Maintenance | PATH Intl: https://pathintl.org/certification/maintenance/📌 CHA Instructor Recertification – Certified Horsemanship Association: https://cha.horse/cha-instructor-recertification/Finding the right saddle for adaptive or therapeutic horseback riding is essential for both rider and horse. In this episode, we explore the pros and cons of Western, Dressage, and English saddles, as well as bareback pads, to help you make the best choice.Learn how different saddles impact posture, comfort, and performance and discover tips to choose the right fit based on physical, cognitive, and emotional needs. We also discuss saddle fit for the horse and key adjustments for an optimal riding experience.🔹 Timestamps:00:00 Introduction to Adaptive Riding Saddles01:20 Meet Sabra Popoli: Your Guide02:05 Understanding Traditional Tack and Equipment09:02 Western Saddles: The Most Supportive Option16:06 Dressage Saddles: A Balanced Choice19:40 English Saddles: Close Contact and All-Purpose23:54 Bareback Pads: Least Supportive Option30:42 Final Thoughts and Recommendations💬 What’s your go-to saddle for adaptive riding? Drop a comment below!🔔 Subscribe for more insights on adaptive riding techniques!

📌 Intuitive Instructor Club - Hoof Falls & Footfalls
📌 The Barn Hand - Draft Horse Edition (Digital Download)

Mastering Safe Mounting & Dismounting Techniques

Prevent injuries and improve the longevity of your instructor career by mastering proper body mechanics for mounting and dismounting students. In this episode, we break down essential techniques for controlling student pelvis and upper body positioning, working with gravity, and ensuring safe, effective supported block mounts and croup-to-ground dismounts. Learn adaptive strategies, rein management, and how contextual interference plays a role in skill development.

🔹 Key Topics Covered:
✔ Proper body mechanics for safe mounting & dismounting
✔ Why controlling the student’s pelvis and upper body is crucial
✔ Working with gravity to reduce strain and improve safety
✔ Step-by-step techniques for supported block mounts & croup-to-ground dismounts
✔ Adaptive strategies for common instructor challenges
✔ Using reins correctly during the process
✔ The role of contextual interference in skill development

📢 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe for more expert riding techniques and share your biggest takeaway!

📌 Intuitive Instructor Club - Hoof Falls & Footfalls
📌 The Barn Hand - Draft Horse Edition (Digital Download)

Unlocking the Power of Unmounted Lessons

Enhance your riding program by tapping into the full potential of unmounted lessons! In this episode, we explore how these lessons can improve student success, strengthen barn culture, and boost financial sustainability. Learn how to connect unmounted activities to riding skills and real-life lessons while using dynamic teaching techniques to keep students engaged. Whether you're working with beginners, adaptive riders, or experienced equestrians, this guide will help you build a well-rounded, effective lesson program.

🔹 Key Topics Covered:
✔ The importance of unmounted lessons in rider development
✔ Building a strong barn culture & enforcing policies
✔ Connecting unmounted lessons to riding and life skills
✔ Engaging teaching techniques for maximum impact
✔ Simplifying lessons while keeping them effective
✔ Making unmounted programs financially sustainable

📢 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe for more expert riding strategies and let us know your biggest