How to pick the correct trainer

Talent, communication, experience, and chemistry – a lot of things matter when you are looking for the best trainer for you and your horse. It is not always so easy compared to other sports where you can change place and trainer easily. When you are dealing with horses several issues take part in the choice of trainer. For example, no one wishes to drive several kilometers with a horse, equipment, etc. With this in mind, it can be quite a challenge to actually find a good trainer nearby. However, there are some questions you can ask yourself before you pick a trainer. 

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What do you want to accomplish?

To find out what trainer suits you, ask yourself what you want to learn from them. Are you ambitious and want to participate in competitions? Do you need help with the daily training? What is your goal? Search the market. What do the different trainers promise, and does it match your expectations? This way it is much easier to find the best trainer. 

What are the advantages and disadvantages?

Sometimes it is both good and bad with a new trainer. You can have a highly qualified one, but it is simply not a match. Perhaps you are a more sensitive rider who needs someone to have a positive impact on your riding with the use of positive motivation. Maybe you are more competitive and need a trainer who says things straight up and is not afraid of using more critical language. If you are sensitive you need to consider if you get something out of a strict trainer or if you can use harsh communication constructively. 

In general, you will not accomplish anything if you are very stressed, because your brain cannot focus on any new information if you are close to the stage of panic. Then you will mostly try to survive while your trainer shouts at you. You can handle this by preparing yourself for it. Some people are not very receptive to criticism or a trainer who is talking in a sharp tone. Others do, and if you are one of those, it can be a good idea to consider what kind of person you are, and what you seek in a trainer before you choose one. This way you are more likely to have experiences in the long run.