Growing up, I learned quickly the best way to get good at anything was to learn from someone who was already great. There is no youtube video or written book that can teach you something as well as someone who already has the experience and wisdom. Although there are certainly alternate sources for learning things, riding is certainly something that improves when you have someone to critic you, and make certainly you are feeling what is correct.
The first step you should take is to take a honest look at your personality and your learning style. This step is going to help you find a trainer that can give you the best advise and expediate your learning.
Alright; So your online and looking for a coach, now what? Facebook has many groups where people can post adds for services or even recommend a coach. You can start by scanning the feed to see if anyone else has asked, or start your own post and ask for recommendations. Chances are if a coach comes highly recommended, they are good at what they do!
Whatever your outlet is for choosing, there are several other factors your should consider when making your decision.
1. You'll need to consider geography. How far away are they, if you are considering hauling to a facility, always make sure you know the costs associated with hauling in and figure out what is included with your fees (ie. wash bay access, right of way during lesson etc). If you have the facility required for a proper lesson, you could also consider a coach who is willing to travel to you!
2. Consider how busy the coach is. Organizing your own schedule can be difficult let alone trying to make two schedules work together, consider someone who knows they will have some flexibility to work with your schedule as well.
3. You should also look into a coaches credentials. There are several institutions that provide coaching certifications. In Canada, you could consider certifications from Equestrian Canada. One United States organization would be the USDF (U.S. Dressage Federation)
4. In additional to credentials, wins or accomplishments are great to know where the coach excels, and what kind of things they are able to teach you. But you should also remember coaching is not something requires a degree. You should consider all combinations of credentials and experience when deciding.
5. Reviews from others. This is a very important aspect, while some opinions can be biased and uncalled for, it is a good idea to read some reviews and decide what kind of coach he/she may be.
Once you've considered your options, and you think you have narrowed down a few choices, you should give them a try! Ask to do trail lessons with your favorite coaches, and see how your personality matches with your coach. Make sure you discuss with each coach your own goals and aspirations and ask them how they believe they can help you achieve your goals.
Be sure to make sure during your trial lessons that your coach considers both horse and rider in his/her assessment and plan.
Also, make sure your coach has a plan. Of course horses are still wild animals and they will always have a mind of their own, but your coach should have general idea on what to be working on, and how to get there!
Now that you've read through all of that, I am sure you are will equipped to find yourself an excellent coach.
Good luck, and have fun! Even if you don't choose a coach, this is still a great way to get out and meet horse professions for the future.
I encourage you to sign up for the members forum and leave your ideas. What else do you think is important when choosing a coach?
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Got an amazing coach? Send in pictures of you and your coach or share them on our facebook page. We would love to show them off!
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