Articles & Demos
Dragons in the Bush: Overcoming Fear of Riding
by Sandi Forester
Over the 40 years that I have had the privilege of teaching horsemanship, I find the number one obstacle that deprives riders of both progress and pleasure is fear. Fear of riding horses does not discriminate, nor does it have boundaries. Equestrians of all ages, expertise, and disciplines can find themselves afflicted with fear. (Read more...)
Cavesons
by Sandi Forester
Cavesons created for the purpose of closing a horse's mouth became popular in the 1970s. They seemed effective, so like most, I followed without question. A few years later, equine dentist Ron Ross was visiting my barn in Connecticut. Ron was always willing to help educate his clients on the finer points of the equine mouth. He explained that in order for the lower salivary glands to operate effectively, a horse must "work" his lower jaw. The bit alone makes it impossible for the mouth to properly execute this function. Strappings on the caveson amplify the restriction. Additionally, if one adjusts the noseband straps a bit low and snug (as many are), the free expansion of the nostrils necessary for natural breathing is also restricted. Finally, cavesons adjusted too low apply constant pressure to the bridge of the nose. These points have one common denominator, pressure that will cause pain. (Read more...)
Video Demo: Long Lining
by Sandi Forester
Watch a long line training demonstration by Sandi Forester using classical dressage and natural horsemanship techniques. (Watch video...)
Achieving Ultimate Lightness
by Jane G. Gaston
this article appeared in the Atlanta Polo Magazine, 1997
The Powder Forest Farm in McDonough, Georgia was established about two years ago by Sandi Forester, a New England horsewoman with over 25 years of experience. The facility offers dressage, western, basic training for all disciplines, evaluations as well as clinics and seminars. The Atlanta area was recommended by a former client who had relocated to McDonough earlier. Forester learned there was a distinct lack of dressage trainers south of Atlanta and this knowledge, coupled with a strong desire to get away from the bitter New England winters, finalized her decision. "This is my life. It's what I do and want to continue doing...I just want to be more comfortable while doing it." said Forester. (Read more...)
