Transitioning From Ponies to Horses

Josie: “Hi guys! I am here with Larkin Hayes (@Horses-forever) to talk about transitioning from ponies to horses. Larkin, can you tell us a little bit about yourself?”

Larkin: “I am a thirteen-year-old competitive equestrian. I lease a jumper horse called Evan. He is my first horse after having a pony named Diarado.”

Josie: “How did transitioning into horses feel for you?”

Larkin: “At first it felt really scary because I had ridden ponies my entire life. I wasn’t sure how horses would ride, and I was nervous that I might lose my confidence.”

Josie: “And what helped you become less nervous, and what helped you transition into horses?”

Larkin: “I took it slowly at first and relearned all the basics because it is different on every horse, and I wanted to keep my confidence. It takes time to learn the basics, and it can be frustrating, but if you take it slow it will serve you well later on with your horse. You have to be patient and careful because horses are different, but when you figure them out it is very rewarding.”

Josie: “How did the size of the horse make them feel different or harder to adjust to?”

Larkin: “There is a lot more to control, and you have to use your body effectively. When I am showing, it’s nice because horses have a larger stride than ponies and cover ground better. Turning was also a big change because, since horses have a larger and longer body, they can’t turn as efficiently as ponies.”

Josie: “How did you figure out how to turn more effectively on a horse?”

Larkin: “I started using my outside aids more effectively, and although I had to go out farther in the turn, my horse had a bigger stride, so it made up the time. Although transitioning from ponies to horses is hard, you should never give up and keep trying your hardest. In the end, it will take you much further in your riding career.”

Josie: “Great! Thank you for joining me!”

Larkin: “Of course! Thank you for having me!”