I started training with Susan Shiba in 2001. I had been riding for a little over 10 years with a focus on dressage for most of that time and had a nice horse who was capable of doing lower level work. I had worked with several local trainers and was familiar with phrases like "on the bit", "over his back", "inside leg to outside rein", "ride the back end of the horse", etc, but I had no concept of what it took to accomplish any of these. I rode with my hands and was far from having a partnership with my horse.

One of the first things Susan helped me learn was to develop a steady, giving contact with the horse's mouth and to stop riding with my hands. She taught me become a quiet, considerate rider so my horse was much more relaxed and trusting. She has patiently explained and demonstrated "inside leg to outside rein" many times in many ways, and I now understand and can do this. She has taught me to use my seat and legs effectively to get carrying and thrust from the back end of the horse, and my upper body for half-halts to control the front end of the horse.

Possibly the most important thing I have learned from Susan is to be patient with my horse, to trust that he's trying to do what I'm asking. If I don't get the result I want, it's probably because he doesn't understand, not because he's deliberately disobeying. I need to be responsible for my position and balance and give the correct aids; and be patient and gently correct him until he understands what I'm asking.

Over the years, my first horse has been retired and I now have two very capable young horses. As a result of my work with Susan, I am a quieter, more confident rider on happy, relaxed horses who are progressing nicely.

Janet Rigler
31 Aug 2009