Does your horse tend to be super laid back—or always a little too ready to go? Maybe they’re bold and confident, or shy and unsure. Just like people, every horse has a unique personality. And understanding your horse’s personality is key to building a training plan that actually works.
In this video, I’m walking you through how to identify your horse’s personality type and, more importantly, how to adjust your riding and training so both of you feel more connected and confident. What I LOVE about riding and training is that every horse is unique and different. I’ve trained thousands of horses and riders. They are all unique. And I love the challenge of figuring out which exercises will work best for each unique combination of horse and rider.
Why Personality Matters in Training
Every horse is different—and what works for one horse might completely overwhelm another. That’s why it’s so important to tune into who your horse is and respond with the right kind of energy, exercises, and mindset.
Whether you’re working with a high-energy, sensitive horse or one that needs a little more motivation, small changes in your approach can make a huge difference.
Hot vs. Laid Back Horses
The first big distinction is whether your horse is naturally “hot” or more “chill.”
- Hot Horses tend to be sensitive, quick to react, and always ready to go. They often benefit from calm, consistent work, bending lines, and a steady tempo to help settle their minds and bodies. If this sounds like your horse, try taking deep breaths in the saddle and keeping your own energy low and relaxed.
- Laid Back Horses can feel sluggish or unmotivated. These horses thrive on transitions to wake them up and get them thinking forward. Use your energy to lift and engage them, and give clear, purposeful aids. Take your leg off between cues so your leg has meaning when you apply it.
You Want to Be the Thermostat, Not the Thermometer
This simple idea can shift your whole ride: don’t just react to your horse’s energy—manage it.
If your horse is hot, help them cool down. If they’re sluggish, find ways to energise them.
Use Exercises that Match the Energy
Once you’ve got a sense of your horse’s type, tailor your schooling to match.
- For hot horses: Keep them mentally and physically relaxed. Use bending lines and focus on consistency in rhythm. Too many transitions can make them hotter—so less is more.
- For laid-back horses: Do more transitions to spark energy. Alternate between forward and back to get them more responsive and engaged.
Shy vs. Confident Horses
Beyond energy level, think about your horse’s emotional type. Are they shy and easily overwhelmed, or bold and confident?
- Shy horses need more reassurance and support. Be a calm, confident leader, and give them extra time to understand what you’re asking.
- Confident horses still need a strong leader! These horses may challenge you or try to make their own decisions. Stay clear and consistent to keep the partnership balanced.
Leadership Through Understanding
No matter your horse’s personality, they need you to be the leader. Not in a dominating way—but like a good parent: clear, fair, and tuned in to what they need. When you adjust your training to fit your horse’s personality, you’ll both make faster progress—and enjoy the journey so much more.
Happy Riding!
Amelia
