Talking About Horses with Jec Ballou (Episode #46)
Feb 16, 2025Summary
In episode #46 of Talking About Horses, Patrick King interviews Jec Ballou, an educator and trainer based in California. They discuss the impact of COVID-19 on the horse industry, the importance of horse fitness, and the evolution of training methods. Jec shares her journey from Vermont to California, her experiences with online coaching, and the significance of collaboration among trainers. The conversation highlights common misconceptions about horse conditioning and the need for a holistic approach to training. This conversation delves into the intricate relationship between horse physiology and rider impact, emphasizing the importance of understanding how horses carry riders and the implications for training. It explores the complexities of equine posture, the significance of cardiovascular fitness, and the realistic expectations for horse conditioning. Additionally, it addresses the care of geriatric horses, highlighting the need for continued movement and monitoring of their health. In this conversation, the speaker delves into the importance of ground poles in horse training, emphasizing their role in conditioning and correcting movement patterns. They discuss various exercises and techniques for improving horse coordination and physical therapy, particularly focusing on the significance of walking and the use of ground poles. The conversation also touches on addressing tightness in horses, stifle strengthening methods, and actionable tips for riders. The speaker shares personal insights on self-improvement in horsemanship and recommends a book that highlights the connection between horses and human experiences.
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