START AS YOU MEAN TO GO ON

Whether you’re schooling in an arena or field, the key to a successful session starts at the very beginning. “If your horse spooks at something in the environment you’re working in, right at the start of your session, try not to let it phase you,” says Leah. “Continue your warm up, but do it away from the thing that’s troubling him. Then, throughout your session, slowly move back towards it. He’ll forget to spook when he’s relaxed, warmed up and on your aids. Stroke him and reward him as soon as you feel that he’s submitted to you and the scary object in question.” Once you’ve warmed up, use Leah’s advice (right) to ride a spook-free session.