Ask An Expert: Horse Care and Riding Advice

Staying on top of vaccinations is one of the most effective ways to protect your horse’s long-term health, but knowing what to give, when, and why can feel overwhelming. In this episode of Ask an Expert, equine veterinarian Dr. Erica Lacher breaks down how to make confident, informed decisions about your horse’s vaccination plan. She explains how to assess risk, how environmental factors influence what’s needed, and what signs to watch for if your horse has an adverse reaction.    Episode Highlights:  3:00: Dr. Lacher’s overall approach to vaccinations and how owners can stay informed about what their horses need  15:30: Key environmental factors that influence which vaccines are necessary  25:45: How veterinarians choose between vaccine brands and why it matters  39:30: How vaccinations support herd health and reduce risk at shows and boarding barns  45:30: What to do if your horse experiences a reaction, plus warning signs of a more serious issue    Meet the Expert, Dr. Erica Lacher        A graduate of the University of Florida, Dr. Erica Lacher is the owner and lead veterinarian of Springhill Equine Veterinary Clinic in Newberry, Florida. She has a particular interest in helping sport horses have long, successful careers and helping owners learn how to make that happen. When she's not at the clinic, Erica competes her own horses in the jumper ring and co-hosts the podcast Straight From The Horse Doctor's Mouth with Justin Long.  Brought to you by Ride iQ  This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively in the Ride iQ app, where members have access to more than 200 expert interviews covering training, horse care, sports psychology, and more. Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches. Members also get weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts, exclusive podcast episodes, dressage test playbooks, and supportive community conversations that make learning feel fun and doable. If you’d like to explore what Ride iQ offers, you can learn more and start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com.  Want straightforward, expert advice on keeping your horse sound and thriving? Dr. Erica Lacher’s eight-part program, Horse Health Essentials, is now available, and you can use code POD35 for 35% off. Learn more at RideIQElevate.com/horse-health.

Effective bit and bridle fitting supports not only communication but also your horse’s long-term comfort and performance. In this episode of Ask an Expert, equine physiotherapist and biomechanics specialist Kailyn Pupa breaks down what riders should know about bit and bridle fitting, how to recognize good (and poor) fit, and the small adjustments that can make a big difference in your horse’s way of going. Episode Highlights: 8:30: What to look for and prioritize when choosing a bit and bridle fitter 16:30: Clear signs your horse is in the right bit and bridle 36:00: Bridle styles and design features riders should generally avoid 38:00: Common signs of discomfort or poor bridle fit in older horses 48:00: How to determine the correct bit size and height for your horse Meet the Expert, Kailyn Pupa After completing her graduate degree in equine physiotherapy at Writtle University in the U.K., Kailyn Pupa founded Bullseye Equine to support sport horses and their riders through expert biomechanics work and independent bit and bridle fitting. She previously groomed and managed at the five-star level and now works between Wellington, Florida and Central New Jersey. Specializing in hunter/jumper, eventing, and dressage, Kailyn focuses on optimizing both performance and long-term comfort through precise, detail-oriented care. Brought to you by Ride iQ  This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively in the Ride iQ app, where members have access to more than 200 expert interviews covering training, horse care, sports psychology, and more. Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches. Members also get weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts, exclusive podcast episodes, dressage test playbooks, and supportive community conversations that make learning feel fun and doable. If you’d like to explore what Ride iQ offers, you can learn more and start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com. For Black Friday, use code FRIDAY35 to get 35% off your first month or your first year. Want straightforward, expert advice on keeping your horse sound and thriving? Dr. Erica Lacher’s eight-part program, Horse Health Essentials, is now available, and you can use code POD35 for 35% off. Learn more at RideIQElevate.com/horse-health.

Understanding your horse isn’t about finding a magic button - it’s about clarity, communication, and confidence. In this episode of Ask an Expert, recorded on October 7th, 2025, Dr. Shelley Appleton shares how science, horsemanship, and self-awareness can help you bring out your horse’s best. Episode Highlights: 12:00: The most common issues Shelley sees in the horses she works with 15:30: How she approaches working with riders and the challenges they bring 23:40: The rider tendencies that often limit progress (and how to fix them) 34:00: How to help a horse with poor boundaries or buddy sour behavior Meet the Expert, Dr. Shelley Appleton Dr. Shelley Appleton began her career as a university academic and pharmacist, researching how people develop expertise and think critically. A pivotal moment with her own horse sparked a personal mission to understand how horses learn and how riders can communicate more clearly. That mission soon grew into helping friends, then students, and ultimately riders around the world. Less than a decade later, she left her 25-year academic career to found Calm Willing Confident Horses, where she teaches riders how clarity, curiosity, and communication create genuine partnership. Through clinics, coaching, and online education, she helps riders transform frustration into confidence, for themselves and their horses. Brought to you by Ride iQ  This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively in the Ride iQ app, where members have access to more than 200 expert interviews covering training, horse care, sports psychology, and more. Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches. Members also get weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts, exclusive podcast episodes, dressage test playbooks, and supportive community conversations that make learning feel fun and doable. If you’d like to explore what Ride iQ offers, you can learn more and start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com.  Want straightforward, expert advice on keeping your horse sound and thriving? Join the waitlist for Dr. Erica Lacher’s eight-part program, Horse Health Essentials, at RideIQElevate.com/horse-health.

Equine posture offers valuable insight into a horse’s comfort, balance, and overall well-being. In this episode of Ask an Expert, Shelley Thomas explains what your horse’s posture is telling you and how noticing small changes early can support their long-term health and happiness. Episode Highlights: 4:00: What equine posture entails and why it is important to pay attention to it 7:45: What the ideal posture looks like and how riders can assess their horses' posture 29:30: What to do with the information gathered from assessing posture 50:15: How nutrition plays into posture and the indicators that a horse may need a different nutrition plan Want a free downloadable worksheet on how to assess your horse's static posture? Check out Shelley's website! Meet the Experts, Shelley Thomas Shelley Thomas is a Certified Equine Rehabilitation Practitioner through the University of Tennessee. She is also a Permitted Equine Therapist for FEI competitions, a certified movement performance coach, a Precision Nutrition Level 1 coach, and a Master Reiki practitioner. In addition to her equine work, she holds a degree in psychology and a master’s in physical therapy from the Mayo Clinic and has over 20 years of experience as a human physical therapist. Having ridden through Preliminary eventing and Fourth Level dressage, Shelley brings firsthand knowledge of sporthorse demands to her busy practice, where she treats both horses and riders in-person and virtually. Brought to you by Ride iQ  This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively in the Ride iQ app, where members have access to more than 200 expert interviews covering training, horse care, sports psychology, and more. Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches. Members also get weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts, exclusive podcast episodes, dressage test playbooks, and supportive community conversations that make learning feel fun and doable. If you’d like to explore what Ride iQ offers, you can learn more and start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com.  Want straightforward, expert advice on keeping your horse sound and thriving? Join the waitlist for Dr. Erica Lacher’s eight-part program, Horse Health Essentials, at RideIQElevate.com/horse-health.

Emotional self-regulation is a foundation of effective training for both horses and riders. In this episode of Ask an Expert, father-and-son team Dr. Paul T. Haefner and Justin Haefner break down how emotional regulation influences learning, confidence, and the partnership in the saddle.    Episode Highlights:   8:00: How a horse’s ability to self-regulate impacts training, and clear strategies to help horses learn emotional control  20:00: A step-by-step approach to helping young or anxious horses work through regulation challenges  30:00: What human dysregulation looks and feels like to a horse, and how it affects the partnership  36:00: Practical tools riders can use to expand their window of tolerance, especially around nerves and fear of falling  Meet the Experts, Paul T. Haefner, PhD and Justin Haefner    Paul T. Haefner, Ph.D., is the founder of Riding Far, LLC, where he combines over 35 years of clinical psychology with his love for horses. Through sport psychology, psychotherapy, and neurolinguistic programming, he helps riders and trainers build confidence, overcome self-doubt, and improve performance. He also contributes to research in human-horse interaction through organizations like the Horses and Humans Research Foundation.  Justin Haefner joined Riding Far, LLC in 2018, bringing expertise in vaquero-style horsemanship, classical dressage, and equine bodywork. With a strong foundation in starting young horses and a passion for mindful training, Justin emphasizes developing strength in mind, body, and spirit. He continues to study with top instructors and is committed to making a positive impact in the equestrian world.    Brought to You By Ride iQ                  This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively within the Ride iQ app, where members have access to over 100 other expert interviews on a variety of topics.                  Podcasts are just part of what Ride iQ has to offer. As a member, you also have access to on-demand, listen-while-you-ride audio lessons with world-class coaches and an incredible community of horse people (members and coaches alike!).            Interested in trying Ride iQ? An all-access subscription is $29.99/month or $299.99/year, and new members get a free 14-day trial. Sign up at ⁠⁠Ride-iQ.com today and start improving your riding and horse care with support from top professionals! 

When the temperature drops, your horse's health needs a thoughtful approach to keep them comfortable and thriving through the winter. In this episode of Ask An Expert, renowned equine vet Dr. Lisa Casinella joins us to reveal the essential winter care practices every horse owner should know. From diet adjustments to blanket selection, Dr. Casinella shares actionable advice to make winter stress-free for both you and your horse.Episode Highlights:10:30: Must-have items for a winter emergency kit (when a vet isn’t available).25:30: Seasonal diet and supplement changes after pasture grass disappears.37:00: How to select the right blanket based on weather and hay access.39:30 : Solutions for horses prone to weight loss in winter.44:00: Indoor vs. outdoor winter care: pros, cons, and when to blanket.Meet the Expert, Dr. Lisa CasinellaDr. Lisa Casinella is a leading equine veterinarian based in Ocala, FL, with over 25 years of experience in performance horse care, including as the Official USEF Team Veterinarian. She brings deep expertise in both sport and racehorse health, with a holistic approach that includes acupuncture.Brought to You By Ride iQ              This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively within the Ride iQ app, where members have access to over 100 other expert interviews on a variety of topics.                  Podcasts are just part of what Ride iQ has to offer. As a member, you also have access to on-demand, listen-while-you-ride audio lessons with world-class coaches and an incredible community of horse people (members and coaches alike!).              Interested in trying Ride iQ? An all-access subscription is $29.99/month or $299.99/year, and new members get a free 14-day trial. Sign up at ⁠⁠Ride-iQ.com today and start improving your riding and horse care with support from top professionals! 

Catching soft tissue injuries early can make all the difference. In this episode of Ask an Expert, Dr. Carol Gillis explains how to recognize early signs, take preventative steps, and guide your horse through a successful recovery. Episode Highlights: 4:00: Ways riders can help prevent soft tissue injuries 17:30: Approach to icing legs and cold hosing 20:30: What an initial assessment of lameness or a suspected injury looks like 27:00: When to involve a veterinarian if an issue is suspected 29:30: Modalities that tend to be the most and least effective for treatment Meet the Expert, Dr. Carol Gillis Dr. Gillis is a graduate of the University of California Davis School of Veterinary Medicine. After earning her degree, she developed a sport horse practice and became one of the first equine veterinarians to perform ultrasound examinations on the equine musculoskeletal system. She returned to UC Davis for an equine surgery residency and then obtained a PhD in equine tendon and ligament pathophysiology. At the same time, she also established the equine ultrasound service at UC Davis and created courses and wet labs to train veterinary students, residents, and veterinarians on how to perform and interpret ultrasonographic examinations. Dr. Gillis is the author of over 50 scientific publications in peer-reviewed journals, as well as the book Equine Sports Medicine and Surgery, which has become THE definitive reference book on the topic. She has presented her research on equine sports medicine topics both nationally and internationally. Brought to You By Ride iQ              This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively within the Ride iQ app, where members have access to over 100 other expert interviews on a variety of topics.                  Podcasts are just part of what Ride iQ has to offer. As a member, you also have access to on-demand, listen-while-you-ride audio lessons with world-class coaches and an incredible community of horse people (members and coaches alike!).                   Interested in trying Ride iQ? An all-access subscription is $29.99/month or $299.99/year, and new members get a free 14-day trial. Sign up at ⁠⁠Ride-iQ.com today and start improving your riding and horse care with support from top professionals! 

Cross-country schooling should be both productive and safe. In this episode of Ask an Expert, Leslie Law and Lesley Grant Law share their expertise on how to get the most out of every schooling session and set yourself up for success.  Episode Highlights:    6:30: How often to school cross-country at different levels  14:30: Avoiding pressure on a single schooling session  17:30: Setting up cross-country exercises without a field or jumps  45:00: Tips for determining if you’re in the right bit  50:30: What to include in a cross-country warmup at competition    Meet the Experts, Leslie Law & Lesley Grant Law  Leslie Law is a British 5* event rider and the individual Olympic gold medalist at the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens. He is the USEF Eventing Team Chef d’Equipe and High Performance Manager. Previously, Leslie served as the USEF Eventing Developing Rider Coach, and he is ICP Level IV certified.  Lesley Grant Law is a Canadian 5* event rider. She served as the Rider Representative for the 2005 and 2006 Canadian Eventing High Performance Committee and is involved in the Athlete Development Program.  Leslie and Lesley are based in Ocala, FL, where they run Law Eventing, a successful training and coaching business that competes at the top levels of the sport.  Brought to You By Ride iQ                  This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively within the Ride iQ app, where members have access to over 100 other expert interviews on a variety of topics.                  Podcasts are just part of what Ride iQ has to offer. As a member, you also have access to on-demand, listen-while-you-ride audio lessons with world-class coaches and an incredible community of horse people (members and coaches alike!).              Interested in trying Ride iQ? An all-access subscription is $29.99/month or $299.99/year, and new members get a free 14-day trial. Sign up at ⁠⁠Ride-iQ.com today and start improving your riding and horse care with support from top professionals! 

Every rider wants their horse to look and feel like a champion. In this episode of Ask an Expert, world-class groom Emma Ford shares her top grooming and barn management secrets, developed through years of working with some of the best riders in the world.  Episode Highlights:   5:30: Defining great leadership as a groom and barn manager 16:20: Essential barn management must-haves 21:00: Preparing horses for travel 26:30: Show grooming tips for a polished look 31:50: Helping horses manage stress in new environments 47:00: Best practices for post–cross country care   Meet the Expert, Emma Ford  Emma grew up in North Devon, England, through Pony Club and the hunt field, earning her B certification before moving to the U.S. to pursue a career with horses. She managed advanced event horses for Adrian Iorio for seven years and later managed Phillip Dutton’s barn in Pennsylvania. Emma has groomed at nearly every CCI5* in the world, as well as the Olympic, World, and Pan American Games, and has also worked at top show jumping and dressage competitions. She is co-author of World Class Grooming, World Class Braiding, and Horsemanship and Grooming, and teaches grooming clinics worldwide.  Brought to You By Ride iQ                This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively within the Ride iQ app, where members have access to over 100 other expert interviews on a variety of topics.               Podcasts are just part of what Ride iQ has to offer. As a member, you also have access to on-demand, listen-while-you-ride audio lessons with world-class coaches and an incredible community of horse people (members and coaches alike!).             Interested in trying Ride iQ? An all-access subscription is $29.99/month or $299.99/year, and new members get a free 14-day trial. Sign up at ⁠⁠Ride-iQ.com today and start improving your riding and horse care with support from top professionals! Book Links: World Class Grooming World Class Braiding  Horsemanship and Grooming 

Equine biosecurity is often overlooked, yet it impacts horses everywhere they go and in everything they do. In this episode of Ask an Expert, Dr. Holly Helbig explains what biosecurity means, why it matters, and the simple steps owners can take to keep their horses safe. Episode Highlights: 6:30: Defining equine biosecurity and why it matters 9:00: The common equine diseases vets monitor closely 21:30: Preventative measures owners can take at home and at shows 25:30: How vets respond when a horse shows symptoms at a show 40:00: Best practices for quarantining horses 43:30: Key vaccines to include in any equine biosecurity plan Meet the Expert, Dr. Holly Helbig Holly Helbig, DVM, is the owner of Hawthorne Hill hunter/jumper boarding and training facility and Hawthorne Veterinary Clinic in Dublin, Ohio. A graduate of The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine, she is a licensed FEI veterinarian, an accomplished rider and trainer, and has served as the official veterinarian at top competitions including the World Equestrian Center, the Kentucky Horse Park, and Brave Horse. In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Helbig is a Veterinary Technical Advisor for Zoetis, supporting equine vets nationwide and contributing to innovative equine health solutions. Brought to You By Ride iQ                  This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively within the Ride iQ app, where members have access to over 100 other expert interviews on a variety of topics.                  Podcasts are just part of what Ride iQ has to offer. As a member, you also have access to on-demand, listen-while-you-ride audio lessons with world-class coaches and an incredible community of horse people (members and coaches alike!).              Interested in trying Ride iQ? An all-access subscription is $29.99/month or $299.99/year, and new members get a free 14-day trial. Sign up at ⁠⁠Ride-iQ.com today and start improving your riding and horse care with support from top professionals! Links:Equine Disease Communication Center 

Emergencies can be overwhelming, and knowing when to call the vet isn’t always clear. In this episode of Ask an Expert, Dr. Phil van Harreveld shares what owners should do in different equine emergencies and how to make the right call when it matters most.   Episode Highlights:   5:00: Must-have items for every horse owner’s emergency kit 8:30: Overlooked emergencies owners should take more seriously   13:30: Key signs of colic and when it’s time to call the vet 29:00: Determining if a wound needs sutures or veterinary attention  34:30: Identifying serious vs. minor lameness and first steps to take 45:30: Common mistakes owners make during equine emergencies  Meet the Expert, Dr. Phil van Harreveld   Dr. van Harreveld received his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from North Carolina State University, and his master’s degree and surgical board certification from Kansas State University. He practiced as an equine veterinary surgeon for more than 22 years, founding the first equine referral hospital in Vermont, which he operated for over two decades. In addition to handling the hospital’s field cases, he managed the in-house medical and surgical case load. He joined the Merck Animal Health equine veterinary professional services team in 2022.   Brought to You By Ride iQ                  This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively within the Ride iQ app, where members have access to over 100 other expert interviews on a variety of topics.                 Podcasts are just part of what Ride iQ has to offer. As a member, you also have access to on-demand, listen-while-you-ride audio lessons with world-class coaches and an incredible community of horse people (members and coaches alike!).                   Interested in trying Ride iQ? An all-access subscription is $29.99/month or $299.99/year, and new members get a free 14-day trial. Sign up at ⁠⁠Ride-iQ.com today and start improving your riding and horse care with support from top professionals! 

Success in the saddle requires more than riding skills. Mental toughness and physical strength are just as important. In this episode of Ask an Expert, Daniel Stewart explains how he builds riders and coaches who are balanced, confident, and ready to perform their best. Episode Highlights: 19:30: Teaching coaches to support students through stress and nerves 25:30: Finding joy in the process when progress isn’t clear-cut 31:00: His approach to goal setting 35:30: Balancing risk and reward as a rider 42:30: Common mistakes riders make in building mental and physical strength Meet the Expert, Daniel Stewart Daniel Stewart has been an equestrian for over 35 years and has spent the last 25 of them coaching riders all over the world. Combining his knowledge as an equestrian with a degree in physical education, he created a series of clinics that help riders develop strong minds and bodies. As the internationally acclaimed author of the books “Pressure Proof Your Riding”, “Ride Right”, “Fit and Focused in 52”, and “Bolder Braver Brighter”, he’s widely considered one of the world's leading experts on equestrian sport psychology, athletics, and performance. Brought to You By Ride iQ                This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively within the Ride iQ app, where members have access to over 100 other expert interviews on a variety of topics.               Podcasts are just part of what Ride iQ has to offer. As a member, you also have access to on-demand, listen-while-you-ride audio lessons with world-class coaches and an incredible community of horse people (members and coaches alike!).                Interested in trying Ride iQ? An all-access subscription is $29.99/month or $299.99/year, and new members get a free 14-day trial. Sign up at ⁠⁠Ride-iQ.com today and start improving your riding and horse care with support from top professionals!  Book Links: Pressure Proof Your Riding Ride Right Fit and Focused in 52 Bolder Braver Brighter

Equine ulcers are one of the most talked-about yet often misunderstood issues in the horse world. In this episode of Ask an Expert, veterinarian Dr. Angie Yates breaks down how ulcers develop, the signs to watch for, and the most effective ways to prevent and treat them. Episode Highlights: 3:00: Understanding the horse’s digestive system: foregut vs. hindgut 11:00: Recognizing the most common symptoms of ulcers 19:30: Environmental and training factors that can help prevent ulcers 31:30: The risks of leaving ulcers untreated 41:30: The three main treatment options for ulcers Meet the Expert, Dr. Angie Yates Dr. Yates is the owner of Yates Equine Sports Medicine based in Ocala, Florida, which specializes in performance horses. She received her Bachelor of Science from Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis and her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Illinois. In addition to being an equine veterinarian, Dr. Yates is also certified in acupuncture, chiropractics, equine rehabilitation, and she serves as an FEI vet. Brought to You By Ride iQ                This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively within the Ride iQ app, where members have access to over 100 other expert interviews on a variety of topics.               Podcasts are just part of what Ride iQ has to offer. As a member, you also have access to on-demand, listen-while-you-ride audio lessons with world-class coaches and an incredible community of horse people (members and coaches alike!).                Interested in trying Ride iQ? An all-access subscription is $29.99/month or $299.99/year, and new members get a free 14-day trial. Sign up at ⁠⁠Ride-iQ.com today and start improving your riding and horse care with support from top professionals! 

Do you ever wish you had the formula for getting your horse fit, confident, and ready to compete at your level? In this episode of Ask an Expert, Jon Holling shares 6-week conditioning schedule templates for Training, Modified, and Preliminary levels and explains how to adapt them to your horse and circumstances. Even if you’re not an event rider, these conditioning strategies offer valuable insights that can be applied to any discipline.    Episode Highlights: 6:40: Covering the 6-week program for Training level. 18:25: Covering the 6-week program for Modified level.31:00: Covering the 6-week program for Preliminary level.59:00: Altering the schedule in preparation for an event.1:02:00: Flexibility with the number of days a week the horse should work. Printable conditioning schedule templates⁠⁠Training⁠⁠Modified⁠ ⁠Preliminary Video of the episode Meet the Expert, Jon Holling    Jon Holling is a U.S. 5* event rider with an impressive career both in and out of the saddle. He’s coached the Area IV Young Rider team to multiple gold medals, serves as Chairman of the USEF Eventing Sport Committee, and is the National Safety Officer for the US to the FEI. As an ICP Level IV coach, Jon brings top-level expertise and a passion for developing riders at every stage.    Brought to You By Ride iQ                    This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively within the Ride iQ app, where members have access to over 100 other expert interviews on a variety of topics.                   Podcasts are just part of what Ride iQ has to offer. As a member, you also have access to on-demand, listen-while-you-ride audio lessons with world-class coaches and an incredible community of horse people (members and coaches alike!).                   Interested in trying Ride iQ? An all-access subscription is $29.99/month or $299.99/year, and new members get a free 14-day trial. Sign up at ⁠⁠Ride-iQ.com today and start improving your riding and horse care with support from top professionals! 

Do you ever wish you had the formula for getting your horse fit, confident, and ready to compete at your level? In this episode of Ask an Expert, Jon Holling shares 6-week conditioning schedule templates for Starter, Beginner Novice, and Novice levels and explains how to adapt them to your horse and circumstances. Even if you’re not an event rider, these conditioning strategies offer valuable insights that can be applied to any discipline.    Episode Highlights:              9:20: Covering the 6-week program for Starter level. 24:50: Covering the 6-week program for Beginner Novice level.29:30: Covering the 6-week program for Novice level.  42:00: Altering the schedule in preparation for an event. 52:50: Altering the schedule after missing a day.   Printable conditioning schedule templates ⁠⁠Starter level⁠⁠Beginner Novice⁠ ⁠Novice⁠   Video of the episode Meet the Expert, Jon Holling    Jon Holling is a U.S. 5* event rider with an impressive career both in and out of the saddle. He’s coached the Area IV Young Rider team to multiple gold medals, serves as Chairman of the USEF Eventing Sport Committee, and is the National Safety Officer for the US to the FEI. As an ICP Level IV coach, Jon brings top-level expertise and a passion for developing riders at every stage.    Brought to You By Ride iQ                    This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively within the Ride iQ app, where members have access to over 100 other expert interviews on a variety of topics.                   Podcasts are just part of what Ride iQ has to offer. As a member, you also have access to on-demand, listen-while-you-ride audio lessons with world-class coaches and an incredible community of horse people (members and coaches alike!).             Interested in trying Ride iQ? An all-access subscription is $29.99/month or $299.99/year, and new members get a free 14-day trial. Sign up at ⁠⁠Ride-iQ.com today and start improving your riding and horse care with support from top professionals! 

For most horse owners, feeding is more than a chore, it’s a way to nurture their horse. In this episode of Ask an Expert, Dr. Rachel Mottet breaks down how to create a diet that truly supports your horse’s wellbeing.     Episode Highlights:            9:30: Common nutrition mistakes horse owners make 16:15: Building a feeding program from the ground up  26:40: Visual and handling cues for evaluating hay quality  41:00: The best approach to feeding supplements  44:15: Nutritional red flags that show up as behavioral issues Meet the Expert, Dr. Rachel Mottet     Dr. Rachel Mottet holds a B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. in Animal Science and Nutrition. Through her company, Legacy Equine Nutrition, she has served the equine community as a trusted equine nutrition professional for more than a decade. Over the years, Dr. Mottet has partnered with hundreds of horse farms, developed individualized feeding programs for more than 5,000 horses, and delivered educational seminars to thousands of horse owners nationwide.    Brought to You By Ride iQ                This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively within the Ride iQ app, where members have access to over 100 other expert interviews on a variety of topics.               Podcasts are just part of what Ride iQ has to offer. As a member, you also have access to on-demand, listen-while-you-ride audio lessons with world-class coaches and an incredible community of horse people (members and coaches alike!).             Interested in trying Ride iQ? An all-access subscription is $29.99/month or $299.99/year, and new members get a free 14-day trial. Sign up at ⁠⁠Ride-iQ.com today and start improving your riding and horse care with support from top professionals! 

Great riding starts with mastering the basics, but that’s often easier said than done. In this episode of Ask an Expert, Grand Prix dressage rider and trainer Lauren Sprieser shares her insights on the fundamentals of dressage and her approach to developing horses through the levels.    Episode Highlights:          8:30: The foundation every dressage horse needs  16:30: The core basics riders must master  23:40: Common misconceptions about foundational dressage work  34:25: Key traits of successful riders at every level  40:50: How to structure your ride and determine the right duration    Meet the Expert, Lauren Sprieser     Lauren Sprieser is a USDF Gold, Silver, and Bronze Medalist With Distinction and an international Grand Prix dressage competitor. She has a successful training and coaching business, Sprieser Sporthorse, which she runs out of Clearwater Farm in Marshall, Virginia. In addition to producing numerous FEI horses and riders, Lauren is an acclaimed blogger for the Chronicle of the Horse and a regular contributor to Dressage Today, Noelle Floyd, and Practical Horseman. She is a graduate of the young rider and U25 programs and earned a degree in public policy and urban planning from Sarah Lawrence College.    Brought to You By Ride iQ            This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively within the Ride iQ app, where members have access to over 100 other expert interviews on a variety of topics.           Podcasts are just part of what Ride iQ has to offer. As a member, you also have access to on-demand, listen-while-you-ride audio lessons with world-class coaches and an incredible community of horse people (members and coaches alike!).            Interested in trying Ride iQ? An all-access subscription is $29.99/month or $299.99/year, and new members get a free 14-day trial. Sign up at ⁠⁠Ride-iQ.com today and start improving your riding and horse care with support from top professionals! 

We expect our horses to be fit, flexible, and athletic—but what about us? In this episode of Ask an Expert, strength and conditioning coach Tony Sandoval dives into rider fitness and shares his approach to building strength, balance, and body awareness in the saddle.  Episode Highlights:        15:00 – The current culture around rider fitness in equestrian sports 23:00 – Key components of a well-rounded performance plan 27:00 – How to approach fitness and wellness when starting from scratch 41:30 – Tips for adult amateurs beginning their fitness journey 48:30 – The most effective approach to flexibility and cardio for equestrians  Coach Sando has over 15 years of experience in the fitness industry, beginning his career as a Division 1 collegiate strength and conditioning coach. After the opportunity to help an injured rider through rehab, he shifted his focus entirely to equestrian athletes and founded Coach Sando Training. Since then, he has worked with top riders including eventers Allie Knowles and Cosby Green. Coach Sando is passionate about helping riders improve their strength in the saddle, reduce common aches and pains, and build a deeper connection with their horses through intentional fitness and movement.   Want More From Coach Sando?          Coach Sando has been a guest on the Ask an Expert podcast twice and has created a comprehensive 10-module rider fitness program exclusively on the Ride iQ app. Each module is designed to target a specific aspect of rider fitness, helping riders become well-rounded athletes. You can access all of Coach Sando's resources and everything else Ride iQ has to offer by starting your free trial at Ride-iQ.com.      Book recommendation: Atomic Habits by James Clear 

Whether you're a seasoned pro or an adult amateur, helmet safety is a topic that affects all of us. In this episode of Ask an Expert, helmet safety expert Jeanie Clarke helps us navigate the different helmet approval standards, emerging technologies, and what truly matters most based on your individual needs.    Episode Highlights:       3:00: The key differences between the main helmet safety standards  10:30: The different types of impact that helmets are tested for  28:00: Finding a helmet that truly fits  36:40: The exciting new helmet technology that is on the rise      Meet the Expert, Jeanie Clark  Jeanie Clarke is a lifelong horsewoman, a USEA ICP Level 2 Instructor, and a Graduate A Pony Clubber. She has competed at the FEI level in both showjumping and eventing and runs her own Jeanie Clarke Equestrian based in Ocala, FL. Combining her passions for educating others and providing top quality equipment, she founded Equestrian Outfitters with the goal of carrying the best equipment currently available on the market. Jeanie has undergone extensive training to become one of the leading industry experts in helmet safety, fitting, and technology and is now the main US representative for ARRO helmets.          Brought to You By Ride iQ        This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively within the Ride iQ app, where members have access to over 100 other expert interviews on a variety of topics.        Podcasts are just part of what Ride iQ has to offer. As a member, you also have access to on-demand, listen-while-you-ride audio lessons with world-class coaches and an incredible community of horse people (members and coaches alike!).        Interested in trying Ride iQ? An all-access subscription is $29.99/month or $299.99/year, and new members get a free 14-day trial. Sign up at ⁠⁠Ride-iQ.com today and start improving your riding and horse care with support from top professionals! 

We’ve all heard advice like “never let a colicky horse lie down” or “don’t let a hot horse drink cold water”—but how much of that is actually true? In this episode of Ask an Expert, equine veterinarian Dr. Erica Lacher separates fact from fiction as she busts some of the most common horse care myths once and for all.    Episode Highlights:        6:10: Debunking dental myths for young and senior horses10:00: Colic dos, don’ts, and common misconceptions 17:30: Myths about when young horses are ready to be started23:30: Misconceptions around scheduled care like joint injections and deworming 28:30: Miscellaneous horse care myths      Meet the Expert, Dr. Erica Lacher      A graduate of the University of Florida, Dr. Erica Lacher is the owner and lead veterinarian of Springhill Equine Veterinary Clinic in Newberry, Florida. She has a particular interest in helping sport horses have long, successful careers and helping owners learn how to make that happen! When she's not at the clinic, Erica competes her own horses in the jumper ring and also has a podcast called Straight From The Horse Doctor's Mouth.    Brought to You By Ride iQ      This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively within the Ride iQ app, where members have access to over 100 other expert interviews on a variety of topics.        Podcasts are just part of what Ride iQ has to offer. As a member, you also have access to on-demand, listen-while-you-ride audio lessons with world-class coaches and an incredible community of horse people (members and coaches alike!).        Interested in trying Ride iQ? An all-access subscription is $29.99/month or $299.99/year, and new members get a free 14-day trial. Sign up at ⁠⁠Ride-iQ.com today and start improving your riding and horse care with support from top professionals!