PRACTICAL HORSEMANSHIP ™

“The Art of Building Confidence in You and Your Horse’

A way of using Classical Riding and Natural Horsemanship together with over 30 years of teaching experience to benefit and improve the skills of the horse and human.

The two separate issues of teaching the horse and teaching the human.

In the first instance a lot will depend on the natural ability of the horse. In simplistic terms does your horse look more like a square (from the side view) or a rectangle. This is a basic way of checking how your horse might ‘round up’ or bascule.  Is he more able to use his hocks and rear quarters or is he more likely to be on the forehand with the rear quarters trailing behind.

Conformation will dictate to a certain degree the potential of the horse, then with good handling and riding skills we can develop the best that horse can be.

In the second instance a lot will depend on the dedication of the rider. As a teacher it is important to help the person learn the correct way of riding as it applies to the benefit of the horse.  So many times the horse carries the blame for inadequate riding skills.  In these cases if  the teacher/trainer rides the horse,  the ‘problem’ disappears or at the very least fades away.  It is the responsibility of the teacher to clearly explain how to reproduce this effect.   I hear of too many so called trainers with the ‘car salesman rap’. Fast talking, well worn phrases delivered in a meaningless manner.

The opportunity of learning lost in a barrage of cliché and self aggrandizement.

My responsibility as a teacher is to pass on my knowledge and experience as clearly and meaningfully as possible.

As a teacher it is necessary to still retain an open mind with a view to continual self education.

Each discipline may have its own idiosyncrasies. But the foundation of good horsemanship should be universal and ideally spoken in a language which is understood by the masses.  As always human nature must allow for individual expression and that is where true art enters, however we should not allow the possibility of education to be shrouded in mystique. This benefits no one.

Throughout all of this…….it is important we have FUN!

Here are some comments from John's students: 

John has a unique ability to communicate freely with horses. He understands them and they him. He provides a safe learning environment and works to instill confidence in both the horse and the rider. Working with John has been a pleasure in every instance. His methods are sound and provide a firm foundation for continuous success while training. John is a suitable trainer for young and old horses and riders alike. Your horse will love John Saint Ryan." - Amie
 

As a Veterinarian, I have referred several horses to John Saint Ryan for behavior traits that I consider unsafe towards humans or the horse itself. With his knowledge of training and compassion towards animals, he has successfully trained the horses I have referred in a gentle manner." - Dr. Joan

"I'm now getting a softness in my horse that I never experienced before, thanks to John" - Bryn

"...Huckleberry is turning from a 4 year old spoiled bully to a fine young (horse). All this done without violence but with gentleness and compassion for these noble creatures." - Gwen

"John Ryan's ability to size up a horse, understand the situation from the horse's point of view, and work with the owner/rider to allow them to learn is tremendous. His patience and calm manner has rubbed off on me, and significantly increased my ability to use his teaching methods and 'tips' to better work with and improve my horses and riding abilities. He is a complete trainer: from the ground, in the saddle, recommending and offering advice with respect to tack and training aids, and building confidence in the owner/rider through knowledge and understanding. He's the best!!!" - Danny
 

John's Two Day Clinic at Kirsi Nevalainens Dressage School