About Ali
photography by Dave Russell
I think I may have briefly contemplated the wisdom of embarking on a sport where the principle equipment can up and disagree, quite vehemently, with you—and at more than half a ton of muscle and horsey opinion, can mount convincing arguments. But if I did, it was “brief” even on a subatomic scale. Because, after all, it’s the bond between horse and rider that makes the glory and joy an absolute steal on the cost of tears and bruises. No baseball player ever wastes a second trying to convince his bat that hitting the ball is really what it wants to do—and no baseball player will ever find the solace on a rough day, the sense of teamwork on a demanding course, or the triumph of success when I’m standing with my arms thrown around the neck of the horse that just carried me to first, as I can.
I don’t even remember my very first ride, though I’m sure it should be memorable material. But much of my childhood recollections are nonetheless marked by personable ponies, and many of these escapades I remember better than my contemporary classes. Perhaps that’s appropriate, considering I’d swear I learned more important lessons from my furred, maned and hooved teachers than my human ones. But is anyone who survived elementary school really surprised?
My first real school horse was an ornery, opinionated and above all lazy appaloosa called, for no reason I could figure out, “Shush.” My most vivid memory of her was winning the requisite battle to achieve the kind of slow plod usually reserved for funeral processions, only to suddenly find that forward was no longer her direction of choice—and she proceeded to back me into a partially constructed arena wall with more vigor than she had ever before displayed in any action.
A fabulous cast of school horses made their hoofprints on the stage of my riding education. Captain, the lanky-limbed chestnut jumper that won me my first ribbon and patiently waited for me to learn not to hold my breath during our courses; the greyish-yellow pony Mustard, who’s name mystified me until I found out his full name was actually Grey Poupon; AJ, a sleek, black bullet of a pony who at age 27 outraced full-sized horses; Lexington, a tall bay Thoroughbred who never met a jump he didn’t like, but was reduced to a quivering, frothing wreck at the first whiff of a llama; and of course Scooter, a handy little mare who kindly tried to teach me how to herd cattle any time we encountered them on our trail rides.
These wonderful equine professors led me to Noah. After seven years of riding fantastic schooling ponies, I figured it was time to have one I could call my own. And most importantly, my mom agreed. We looked for almost two years before I found a four-year-old chestnut Morgan little more than saddle-broke (translation—you could put a saddle on him. That was about it.). He was a shimmering red-gold, and almost as fiery as his color implied. He could do everything, except go slow. He was the reason I fell in love with jumping: on Noah, it wasn’t jumping—it was flying. There’s an Arabic legend told in an old story called King of the Wind that runs, “And Allah said unto the wind, “I will a creature to proceed from thee…condense thyself, and thy name will be horse!” Noah was my velvet-wrapped zephyr of freedom.
I’ve done stupider things than convince my mom to buy a green horse for a young and (even after eight years) still inexperienced rider, but to be honest probably not many. We had a roller-coaster of a time in training, a ‘two steps forward, one step back’ path of successes and setbacks. But for lesson problems, school problems, boy problems, friend problems, life problems, I always had his wings. One good gallop, his muscles surging like a cresting wave beneath me, and my worries just couldn’t keep up.
I’ve taught riding lessons, trained horses, groomed and competed. I don’t do any of it for a living (though I’ve seriously contemplated it). I ride because I love it, and I teach because it’s one of the few things I find nearly as satisfying as riding. For those that might be wondering, I’m 22 and currently studying for my masters in veterinary science at Cambridge University in Cambridge, England. Far away from my horse, but an exciting adventure none the less. And would you believe it? My lab office overlooks the vet school’s horse fields.
Why “Help! My daughter loves horses”?
Why on earth would I have called my website “Help! My daughter loves horses?” It could just as well serve as a good resource for any beginning rider, but as I started teaching lessons I realized that there was a brave group that nobody seemed to be helping. Mothers. I’ve watched a mother chase down a renegade pony in flip-flops simply because she doesn’t own a single pair of her own paddock boots. I’ve seen mothers unfailingly show up at every show without any knowledge of what their daughter’s dressage judge is even looking for. I’ve heard a mother quizzing a truck driver on backing up so she could drive a trailer for her daughter’s horse.
And I have also witnessed the power of incredible parent-child teams. What amazed me most is that some of the most talented teams arose from parents who had no experience with horses. I realized that, somehow, these dedicated parents were learning everything they could to help their children succeed in a fantastic—and fantastically challenging—sport.
You can buy lessons for your daughter (I’ve both taken and taught my fair share of these!) But how many people offer lessons for mothers? Whether you are a complete newbie to the field or an old hat just in need of a brush-up, I hope to offer a resource to both mothers and daughters alike. First, to mothers to help them understand what their daughters are doing, and allow them in turn to help their daughters grow and advance as riders. Second, to daughters to help them navigate the complicated equine world.
It’s my goal to make everyone’s entrance into this marvelous sport as fun and simple as possible.
As the officials say at the starting gate of a cross country course, when it’s your turn to gallop away to the first fence:
3…2…1…Have a nice ride!
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Comments on About Ali
HI Ali,
Just wanted to say, “Keep up the good work”. Wow, England , Did you live there or the states? Anyway, what’s your specialty going to be if your going for your Master’s?
Your mom I’m sure is keeping Noah happy, to bad you couldn’t take him with you. Is there a barn close by that you could do that with now. I’m close to the vet school in Gainesville, Fl.
Good Luck in your Endevors,
Pam
Thanks for the great wishes, Pam! My mom takes great care of Noah while I’m in England, studying up on zoonoses (diseases that jump from one kind of animal to another–including humans!). I wish I could have him in England with me, but I can’t imagine him on a jet plane…oh well!
Stay in touch–I’d love to hear more comments about my site!
Thanks again,
Ali
Hi Ali, my sister really likes horses and I imagine she is a lot like you. My question is who created this site? Did you? And if so, how?
@Nathan: Hey, Nathan! I’m sure I’m a lot like your sister ;) I did indeed created this site, with the help of my AMAZING partner, Dave. He’s the one with all the tech savvy ;) I’m just the one who loves horses! So I write and take pictures, and he shows me how to post everything.
Thanks for stopping by!
Ali
Hi Ali,
You are absoltuely delightful! As a mother of a 13 year-old daughter I am very glad I found your site. My daughter has aspirations of being an equine vet and right now will do anything to just be around horses. She does not have one of her own (yet) but loves helping out with friends who have horses and is becoming a good rider. I can’t wait to show her your website and to see your new postings. Noah is just beautiful. You can see the love between you. I am sure that your Mom is very proud of you. Keep up the great work.
Jamie
Jamie–
Thank you so much for your kind comment!! I really hope I can help you and your daughter enjoy horses! There’s just so much to love ;)
Let me know if there is ever anything you’d like to see on the site, and I see what I can do for you.
Cheers!
Ali
wow i watched all your videos and i know loads of facts about horses and your horse is sooo pretty
Ah, thank you so much Alya! Glad as always to help ;) Noah says thank you too!
Hey Ali,
I’m a returning rider who needed to brush up on her tack up skills and your videos were great! You are by far the most informational and I feel like I understand more about why things are done a certain way. I’ve always just been told do this because this is how it’s done and not explained why. I feel like I have a more solid understanding that I’ll remember no matter how long of a break I take. So glad you created this site and videos. Keep up the great work!
Cat from San Francisco
Cat–
Thank you so much!!! I’m so glad the videos are helping. I always HATED being told to do something “just because.” It makes so much more sense if you know why you’re doing something, I think.
If you need something you don’t see, please let me know!!! I’m creating mores stuff all the time, and love having suggestions for new vids and posts.
Happy trails!
Ali
hey ali you are so helpful to me in all ways and now i know about all sorts of things about horses i want to get one in like maybe 5 years if i have the time and money. thanks sooo much!!!!!!
I AM A 13 YEAR OLD GIRL WHO REALLY WANTS A HORSE!!!!!!!
hi ali
omg ur videos helped me soooooooo much you do not no how thank full i am. i do riding lessons but my instructor is really mean do you think you can made a video about adjusting your stirrups when mounted on the horse cause my instructor makes us do then by r selves and it is really annoying oh and is noah your horse ? if he is yours you are wery lucky i think noah os the only horse i have seen that is not girthy :D
So glad the videos are helping! I will definitely do a video about adjusting your stirrups in the saddle. I’m headed home in less than a week (YAY!!!) so I’ll get to see Noah and do some new videos. Get excited, everyone!!
Noah is indeed my horse–my mom and I technically co-own him. And yes, I’m very, very lucky ;)
-Ali
oh and ali can you please make a video about trimming a horses tale
Hey Ali can you make a video about how to tack a horse western style. And can you do more videos about how to ride a horse? And how to speed your horse up from a walk to a run. thanks so much!
and sorrry i was wondering if you could make a video on cantering and most people say you move your leg back so could you show us like what they mean by move your leg back cause i am not really sure
Hi Ali
I just wanted to say that you are so lucky I would give anything to have a horse (including my sister). I went horse riding for my 12th birthday and I was looking forward to it for about 2 months before it, and then when I finily got on the back of that horse I felt like I belonged there I never wanted to get of, and my family have been having abit of trouble with money over the past months but my mum still let me take riding lessons. I am so excited for my first lesson, I can’t sleep i am that excited!
Anyway bye Ali
P.S: I love Noah he is a beauty, and I love the blaze on him it suits him!
hey ali thnx so much 4 the videos u recently uploaded and helpful tips
Hi Ali,
Thank you for your videos. My daughter is as obsessed with horses as I was at her age. She decided she wanted to use the internet to learn more about them and how to ride, tack up etc. Do you know how hard it is to find a kid-friendly website that isn’t all words and reading???? She’s only 7, so your video’s are awesome and she’s “gobbling” up all the info and asking more and more questions!!!
Keep the video’s coming, thank you!
Aw, thank you SOOOO much! That was exactly my goal in setting up the site. Please, please don’t hesitate to pass on ideas to me if you daughter is looking for something in particular–the website is definitely still in its development stage and I welcome all advice!
Thanks again, and I hope and your daughter keep enjoying the site!
-Ali
Hi Ali,
My daughter Belana has a few ideas for you! :) She would love to know some more info on:
- How to catch a horse in the paddock (that doesn’t have a halter on).
- What size equipment you need for which sized horse.
- What are a horses basic requirements that it needs, eg. what size paddock, shelter etc.
- What to look for when buying a horse, what questions to ask the seller, what is a good first horse, do you need a vet check?
She also wants to know how Noah is?
I hope this helps you add to your awesome site.
Thanks.
Hey, Ali!
It’s so cool to see you still creating phenomenal community! Thanks again for being my coach back in 2009!
All the best,
Daniel
Aw, thank you so much Daniel!!! You are so sweet to find this site ;) I hope all’s well for you!!!
-Ali
What brand riding apparel do you have and where did you get it?
My gear is a mish-mash of different brands–usually from what I can find on sale at the Tack Shack (my local mom-and-pop tack store). I usually ALWAYS buy Ariat boots, though. They just are the best-made boots I’ve ever found! I also have Ariat half-chaps, but other brands are good too.
-Ali
Hi Ali
My friend and I are both obsessed with horses and are totally hooked on your website. I don’t have a horse but I REALLY want one. My parents said that if they could get me one they would but we don’t have enough money. I love horses soooo much and I don’t want to give up my dream of having my own horse just yet but what can I do? I really want to join pony club so I don’t want to wait until I’m an adult to get my own horse, I have no idea of how I could get enough money in time…
please help
Eve ;D
you are amazing!!! :-)
when you ride bareback, do you use a surten bit???????????????
I have a very old stallion that just does not gain OR LOSE weight. He’s not tooo skinny but he doesn’t have fat on him like he should and i need to know how to get him to gain AND KEEP weight as well as maybe a little muscle mass as well. I also would like to know the cheapest way to get farrier equipment because i am trying to put myself through college and cannot afford expensive equipment. I am in Cochran, Ga.
Hi Ali,
This site is awesome! I don’t have my parents to come watch me or help me ride because they’re not really into the “horsey” thing but they try :) This helped me a lot!
Thanks!
Eve–
I’m so glad you enjoy the site! Luckily, you don’t have to own a horse to be in Pony Club. Many Pony Clubs have horses you can borrow or even lease. I’d start by looking around for a club that will help you ride even if you don’t have your own horse. I totally understand wanting to have your own, but they really are expensive! You can also see if you can find someone who has a horse they aren’t using much, that you can either exercise for them or work off getting to use him by cleaning stalls, etc. There are lots of ways to get all the horse experience you want without buying your own horse. And in fact, I think girls who grow up riding lots of different horses are WAY better riders than ones who only ride one. So you get a great learning opportunity! Keep an open mind, and see what kinds of chances are out there for you. You can also check out my blog on horse expenses for more ideas.
Keep dreaming big!
-Ali
I like to ride Noah bareback without a bit at all, in a hackamore bridle. But if I do use a bit, I use the same one I use all the time (a broken snaffle).
-Ali
Well, if he’s not too skinny, that just might be the weight he’s supposed to be at. If you can’t see his ribs, he’s probably fine. In terms of muscling out, that’s more a matter of exercise regimes. Depending on what kind of muscle you want on him, you should work on different things. Topline muscle comes out of collection and extension work, especially things like good-quality trotting and cantering over cavaletti poles. Fit, “racehorse” muscle comes from lots of interval and speed work, like trot sets or hand-galloping. Always make sure your horse is moving properly though–if he’s just hollow or rushing he won’t muscle or he’ll build up the wrong muscles!
As for farrier equipment, I’m not sure what you mean. If you aren’t a licensed farrier, you should have someone else be doing your horse’s feet and shoes. Unfortunately, shoeing is expensive–you can shop around for good bargains in your area, but that’s sort just how it is.
-Ali
is it true that you need horse licence to ride a horse on a street?
Hey Ali
I was wondering if you could teach me about the Types and Breeds of Hosres. My Horse Exams are on Sunday. Oh Boy! Wish Me luck ! I bet it is hard to be away from Noah. I wish I could have a Horse and my mom is trying but my dad is totally agaist it BOOHOO :( Well Good Luck With learning more about zoonose it sounds hard !! :)
-Amber
Amber–
Good question! I’ll have to post a blog about horse breeds soon. I think it’s too much for me to cram into a comment ;) There’s some good stuff even just on Wikipedia on breeds, and horse channel. com has a list of pretty much everything to tide you over until I can get that blog posted.
Good luck with your exams!! What are you doing that you’re taken horse exams? I want to do that…
-Ali
Jeez, I have no idea! I’m sure it varies HUGELY by where in the world you are–the US and England are probably different, and even the different States in the US could be different. It’s probably worth you looking up the rule for your particular area. A local horse association may know exactly what you need.
-Ali
Ali
I am taking private lessons this summer on English riding. But Kelly (my trainer) has to evaluate me to see where i need help. So I’ve been studing, because when i was in a “club” all of the other students would get in the way so i couldn’t learn that well. So i was brushing up on anything that I Might be asked about or to do so . . . Wish me luck the test is on Sunday at 11:45. I think I’m ready though! :D
Hi Ali!
I’m a beginning rider, who’s taken several group lessons before, and since I’m a really fast learner, they were always really obstructive to me. Now – finally! – my mom’s organized two hour-long private sessions for me (we don’t have a lot of money, so this is a big break for me!) I’m so excited, but since I haven’t ridden anything for almost a year, I was really worried about what I knew. So I went online, and thankfully found your website. It’s helped me brush up on so much, and I’ve also learned a lot of new things. So a few days ago, when they called me to find out what level rider I was (to figure out what horse to give me) I was able to say with confidence that I could groom and tack him up, lead him to the arena, mount, walk, post and sit trot, canter, stop and back up, dismount. I am so happy!
I also wanted to say that you seem like a really nice person and an excellent rider. I wish you the very best, especially in all things horse-related!
-Sophie
Well I did great on the evaluation and my horses name is Isabel just like my pet bunny :D
Hi Ali
Well there is this horse at my stables, his name is blackjack and he is a really nervious horse because he had been beaten before he came to the stables, anyway i have a little soft spot for him and I think he really trusts me aswell but before I go into his stall to groom him I kinda get a bit scared because he had been beaten before and I dont know if he would kick me or bite me and I think he pick’s up on me being scared and I dont know what to do I was hoping that you could help me. It would really help, thanks
Paige
P.S: i havent riden him yet
Hi Ali,
I adore your videos on Youtube, and watch your podcasts on my iPod touch! Your Website is very inspiring and I love your horse Noah, he just won’t stop following and nuzzling you!!!
I am 12 years old and all my friends say I am horse obsessed!
I was just wondering, how old is Noah and how many hands is he?
hi Ali i wish i had a horse of my own but we don’t have a lot of space at home so that idia is a no no! but… i take riding lessons in grand falls,NL ( I ride a horse named ginger she is just like Noah!!!!!
i am wondering how do you catch a horse in the paddock (with a helter on )
Summer peddle
P.s how is Noah and please put more stuff on i would like it
hi ali ur videos r wonderful and they’re so wonderfull i was wondering if it was possible if you could make a video on lunging horses
thnx lisa
ps noah is beautiful
Hey Ali,
I am a Hunter/Jumper competitor and so far I have made it up to 2’6”…haha that was this morning :) <3 gridwork<3 I have had a tough journey with horses with 2 terrible heartbreaks. My mom is the typical horse show mom: allergic to horses and hay, always wears flip flops to the stable and always brings our toy poodle puppy "Junior" to the stable to "meet the horses"…One of my ponies has actually been bitten by Junior haha. I keep asking her to go to this website because she doesn't know a thing about horses, but she thinks she does so sometimes we get into arguments and I have to respectfully remind her that she doesn't know anything about horses…LOL. I love jumping and I know exactly what you mean when you say its like flying :) I also know what you mean by look where your going (I ended up on top of the jump thanks to me looking at the jump resulting in a nasty refusal…Thanks STAR :/) But anyway I just feel a lot like you before my 16th birthday…only I probably wont get a horse…:( I will keep hoping and saving:)
P.S. I do have a lease on a horse and i am taking lessons and i am working at my stable and i want to be an equine vet too :) I also want to take a year in the UK :) P.P.S. i am 13 :))
hi ali i really love your horse he is just gorgous and i am hoping to get a horse just like you one day. i just really love horses so so much, just one thing ali what breed is noah?
hey Ali :)
I just want to say thank you so much for making your youtube videos and this website :D!
I recently started out volunteering at a stables near me, and I’m a total amateur. I have a trainer and everything, (we get about 6/7 weeks training, once a week on a Saturday) so I’m really learning a lot from you. I’ve already fallen for a horse called Dooley, and a pony called Buddy (who I’ve ridden:) and they are absolutely gorgeous! I love the stables where I’m at, because it’s so different, it’s in the middle of a city.
oh, and could you possibly go into more detail on parts of the saddle and bridle, maybe some cleaning tips or even a video on maintaining tack? Thanks!
Hi, Ali,
Many thanks for all of the effort you’ve put into your site. I’ve always loved horses, and spent my childhood in a town synomonous with riding, but was never able to take lessons–until now. I’d my first just the other day, and just fell in love with it, as I always seemed to know I would. Your videos are so valuable; they help to reinforce what I’ve learned so far, AND help give a background on things to come. Many thanks & keep at it! Take care, Jenny
P.S. I must ask: is Noah named after the character in ‘The Notebook’? : )
Haha, someone else noticed the “Ali and Noah” connection, but it’s actually purely random! Noah is short for his registered Morgan name, Devonwood No Doubt, and Ali’s just my nickname! Wish I were more clever than that, but nope ;) So glad my videos are helping–hoping to get more up soon!
Cheers,
Ali
Aw, I love your stories, Julia! One big reason I have my site is for the comments from people like you ;) I hope that if your mom does look at this site it will help her, but that if she doesn’t you can still enjoy horses. Keep up the amazing work and you never know what might happen. Leasing a horse is the best way to start, and the fun will just continue from there!
-Ali
Why thank you so much!! It’s so satisfying to know that in pursuing a passion for me, I’m to help others do so as well!! I hope you have a fantastic time with your lessons and are starting a lifetime adventure with horses ;)
-Ali
I’m so glad you’re enjoying the site so much! It’s definitely a pleasure to write the blogs and film the videos. I’ve been amazed at the response! And don’t worry about being horse-obsessed, most of us in the horsey world are ;)
Noah is, let’s see… 13 (just turned so on 13 June). He’s about 15.2, maybe pretends to be 15.3 when he’s flirting with mares…
-Ali
Thanks so much! Dooley and Buddy sound like great horsey compatriots ;) I don’t know if these videos/blogs are what you’re looking for, but for right now they’re all I’ve got. http://helpmydaughterloveshorses.com/2010/02/horse-tack/
http://helpmydaughterloveshorses.com/2010/08/clean-as-a-bridle/
Hopefully, that will get you started until I have a chance to make better ones!
-Ali
Aw, thanks ;) Noah is a Morgan!
-Ali
Hi! Hopefully this will help answer your questions about catching horses in a paddock:
http://helpmydaughterloveshorses.com/2011/06/how-to-catch-and-lead-a-horse/
-Ali
Thank you very much! Actually, I have some footage on lunging…maybe I can get my behind in gear and make a video of it soon! I’ll get on that…
-Ali
hi Ali how are you and Noah I need to now how to put a horse in a trailer to go to a show do you think you will be able to make a video of how to do it for me got to go bye i will be so happy if you get in in before next month thank you
summer and
Skittles
Thank you for answering my questions about Noah, he sure is a special horse!!! I went to a pony club day, and nobody had taught me how to put tack on or groom a horse, but I knew how to do it, and one of the girls asked me how I knew how to do everything without being taught, and I told her about Help My Daughter Loves Horses, and how Ali had taught me how to do everything with her gorgeous horse Noah!!!
How are you and Noah? Hope you are doing good.
xxx
heyy Ali how are you and how is noah i just wanted to let you know that how to put a horse blanket on really helped me thanks so much bye
love the videos lol B)
Hello Ali,
my daughter is crazy about horses and is developping into a beautiful rider. She has discovered jumping last summer (after many years of taking lessons and riding western). My father has bought her an amazing mare last spring and Emy spends as much time as she can riding and helping out around the stables. I love to see how happy she is around these beautiful animals. There is one small glitch though: although I completely trust the knowledge and the experience she has acquired so far, seeing my beautiful, “small”, eager daughter on the back of a huge, sometimes antsy, sometimes grumpy, sometimes recaciltrant horse, jumping hurdles makes me very nervous. I know that she loves it and she is talking about competing in a year or two and I absolutely want to be supportive. Can you give me one or two tricks to get over my anxieties?
Of course! I can completely imagine your anxiety (and the anxiety I know I caused my mother doing the same things!). The first thing you can do is just to make sure you and your daughter do everything you both can to make jumping safe. There are definitely ways to reduce the risk–having a good horse and good equipment; always wearing a helmet, and a vest if you’d like; never doing more than you and your horse are ready to; jumping safe jumps (e.g. NEVER jumping ramped jumps or jumps with ground lines from the wrong direction, or poorly constructed jumps); having a good trainer only jumping with him/her or another buddy present; and so on. Once you feel like you’ve done what’s reasonable, take the time to really let that sink in–you’ve done the best you can, and that will go a very long way to take care of your precious daughter. What happens after that is purely chance, and you can’t ever do anything about that. I don’t know if this will help, but I always think about how I am much more likely to get in a car crash than get hurt riding. Life is just risky in general–even if you banned your daughter from riding or anything dangerous, she could fall down the stairs and hurt herself! Then, as you watch her ride, notice all the things she does well, all the great ways her horse takes care of her, and how much fun they are having together. It might help distract you from your fear. Lastly, know that you are an amazing, wonderful mom for being so supportive and loving and caring even in the face of totally rational fears! Your daughter will always treasure that.
I hope this helps, but write back if I can do more ;)
-Ali
Hey Ali. I think you’re amazing, and the best horsey person i know so far. On youtube and on the internet in general. I currently want to become a horse expert, so i’m looking at all your video’s to help me.
I was wondering if you could tell me about confidence when riding big and scary horses, and how to handle a horse that walks off all the time. Not that i own a horse, but i sure do make a fool myself from time to time. And i’m taking a test soon, and i don’t know what horse they will put me on?
Thank for all the help you bring in your videos.
-RidingAngel
hey Ali! my name is kennedy i live far away but i love horses. i just got my own a few months ago. i love him to death but he is a real brat sometimes… he refuses to stand atill while tacking him up and even though i have learnd to work around him and calm him down a little other people arnt to thrilled when he butt bumps other horses… any sugestions?
I’m in the UK and just found this site – I wonder if you are still in England ?, I’m about an hour from Cambridge – I hope that you enjoyed your experience here and that the Brits were kind to you – wanted to say thanks for the videos , especially the one on tacking up , I’ve just managed to get a horse share two days a week and am riding on my own for the first time ( no instructors etc ) . I’d be really happy to see you do some videos on HOW to ride – there’s a few on you tube but having watched your videos I think your easy style and calm manner would really lend themselves to teaching lessons .After 20 odd years of riding on and off I’m still never sure if I’m in the right position or if my reins are too long/short and whilst I do it I am still scared of cantering ! Came off last week too and cracked my hat in two places – proof if ever it were needed that riding without a hat is BONKERS ! I wish you all the best .
Why thank you so much!! I’m not in England at the moment, but I’ll be back soon ;) I’m so glad the videos are helping. And definitely–always ride with a helmet! Thanks for sharing such sounds advice.
-Ali
Big scary horses are hard to handle! It’s not that you’re being made a fool at all. First, don’t try anything you don’t feel ready to try. It usually doesn’t end well. The next thing to do with big scary horses is figure out how not to be afraid of them! Then, you can try working with them. Start on smaller, nicer horses and work on up. Confidence is just knowing that you’ll be able to handle what comes up, and you only know that when you’ve had enough good experiences.
Good luck with your test!
-Ali
Sounds like your pony needs to learn a few ground manners. Commit some serious time to working with him on that and just that. Have a handler help you hold him as you tack up. If he moves, make him go in three circles around you. Then try again. Repeat until he’s willing to stand still. You’ll have to be patient and consistent–if you’re not, he won’t learn. Basically, you’re just trying to always make it more work for him to misbehave than to behave. You’re not forcing him or scaring him into it–it’s his choice. You just want to encourage him to make the choice you want ;) Good luck!
-Ali
hi ali
i love ur website and ur horse ur doing great work
i hope u get more vids because i watched all of them sometime i tell
my cousin facts because she like horses like me and she goes on ur website :)
Ali,
Thank you so much for the videos. I love horses and my parents have decided to let me get one after 6 years of riding. I have found the perfect horse. A Gray Arabian Mare named Spring. thank you for all of the videos
You are most welcome! I’m so glad you are enjoying the videos :) Have an AMAZING journey with Spring!!
-Ali
Hi Ali, I also put this comment on the “Contact Ali” page in case you didn’t get that…
You’ve probably heard this for the 1000th time, but your videos are amazing and Noah is Beau-ti-ful.
I really would like to become pen pals because I have always needed a friend who loved horses as equally as I do!
I need some help- I started riding about 4 months ago and my favorite horse to ride was sold so I started last week I rode this humongous but beautiful paint called Toby. He is an AMAZING trotter and they are really smooth and beautiful, but he hates the bit and won’t let me turn him right, and he keeps going back to this one fence so I have to keep circling him again and again and it frustrates me a lot!
Also, he is scared of sprinklers so when I was riding him last week he got spooked by the sprinklers and broke off into a canter. I am really scared I might fall off him, and he is frustrating to work with, but he is a BEAUTIFUL trotter… (did I mention he is groom-sour too?)
I need some advice on what to do to improve him, or if I should just ride another horse… Please help me!!!
-Pinto
Ali, ignore the comment above because you already responded to it :)
Hi Ali and Noah i have been watching your videos alot, and they have came in handy i am looking into loaning a horse and this information has really helped!! I have recommended your website to loads of people as it will help them alot to. thankyou, lauren x
Hi Ali, I was wondering if all horses have those little snow pads on the bottom of their foot around the frog. Please write back. Thank you for all your videos!
Thanks so much!! I always appreciate the word-of-mouth publicity ;) So glad you’re enjoying the vids!
-Ali
Hi Ali and noah i was just wondering if horses that you loan come with their saddle and tack or does it depend xx
Hi Ali,
from another Alli, I just wanted to say thank you. As someone who has been riding at schools since I was 9, I have learned so much more from your videos. For example, how to put together a bridle again! While I’ve had oodles of saddle time, some of these more practical bits of horsemanship have been left out of my education. Thanks, and keep up the good work!
Hi! i love all your videos and they help me so much! i am a young learner in the midst of reciving a horse of my own! I am trying to get my mom and dad get me one! I have wanted one all my life and i have a question, what exactally is ground work? I understand what it is but im still iffy on it. could you help?
Ali
I love your website! It helped me learn a lot.
I don’t have a horse but my grandma has 3 but they arent broke.
I love horses and I’ve allways wanted one!
My questions are first : where should I look for a horse?
And what should I be western or English?
Most of my family is western but I like English riding you made it look fun on here!
Hi Ali! Love horses but don’t have a horse, but I always watch your vids they are awsome and I hope some day when I get a horse I’ll be able to use all your tips!!!
Byexxx
Hey, Ali. A pleasure.
I want to say I’m very impressed with your work. Particularly outstanding is how well organized your ideas are in speech and writing. For instance, in every video I’ve seen, you demonstrate concise communication skills through good word choice, body language, and logical sequencing. Did you study Speech in School? In a funny aside, it’s as almost if you are using Noah as a podium, and you are giving fantastic speeches with him as your megaphone and backdrop. After all, biologically, people are the world’s smartest bipod while the horse is the world’s fastest quadrapod. No need to put my foot in my mouth to say you two make great communication partners. I’m very amazed with you all’s skills. Have you looked into public speaking, public relations, and communication careers? If so, I’m an executive at a large firm that is ready to pay $100,000 dollars to….LOL. Just kidding about the executive part! :0 Seriously, keep up these killa skillaz!
hi ali.
that clip is so inspiring, and so awwww…
your other clips have helped me heaps to!
keep making awsome clips.
thank you!!!
You and Noah are simply amazing! You guys are great together. I have every video of yours on youtube and they have really helped me. I know absolutly nothing about horses and i really want to learn. I have just started riding lessons and i have had about 5 lessons on a 14.8hh horse. I was just wondering what is the best horse for me, and how do you know what a good horse is for you?
Thankyou so much, you have really helped me with my riding and other horse stuff. You are the best :D
THANKYOU HEAPS
Would it be ok if i starting leasing a hhorse before i actually go and buy one? I just want to know the best thing to start with ;)
Hey Ali!!!!!!! Thank you on the tips oh and also i am 11 years old and i have 3 horses 1 of them is a baby shes only 1 year old if you have a baby horse could you show me how to get a good bond before she gets TOO big thanks a whole lot now i know a buch about how to have better horsemenship thanks bunches bye bye Ali!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Wow, baby horses are a big responsibility!!! The best thing you can do is treat it like a horse, even when it’s very small. So don’t let it do things you don’t want a 1200 pound animal doing. Next, spend lots and lots of time with it, just grooming it or playing with it. The more time you spend around it, the more comfortable it will be with you. Get it used to a halter, and leading around. Good luck!
-Ali
I’m so glad ;) Thank you so much for watching!
-Ali
Haha thanks so much!!! I did not study speech at all, actually. I think I just like talking :D Thank you very much for all of your exceedingly kind words!
-Ali
Aw, thank you! You know you’ve got a good horse when you feel like you could tell him anything, and he’d love you anyway ;) It’s really about the bond. Can you guys do what you want to do together? Do you butt heads or learn well together? There is no “ideal” horse, it’s all just a matter of fit.
Good luck!
-Ali
Of course!! That’s what I actually recommend to EVERYONE. Always start by leasing. That’s the very best thing you could do.
-Ali
Of course! Ground work means practicing that you do with a horse while you are on the ground (rather than mounted). So work on a lungeline, or in a halter and lead, or even practicing your horse’s manners while you groom him all count as groundwork.
-Ali
I’m so glad!! Thank you so much for the kind words ;) And yay for Alli’s!!
-Ali
Where you look for a horse totally depends on what resources you have around you and what you are looking for. There are usually listings for horse sales in local papers and on websites. Also, your local tack/feed store can have a bulletin where people list horses for sale. You can check your area for barns or training facilities, as they often have a good idea of schooling/training horses for sale in the area. As for English or Western, that’s up to you! Try out both, and decide which you like best ;) I LOVE to jump, so I always go English. But I do want to learn how to barrel race…
-Ali
Aw thanks so much :D Best wishes!
-Ali
hi ali,
im horsey but my mum isnt. she has had a bareback ride on her sisters horse and a ride in Greece i dont know how to get her into horses.
HELP, lucy x
hi alli,
i have a 15hh hackney x cob mare and she likes to think shes the boss of me. i try to take control but she always wins. any help would be appreciated
thanks,lucy x
just wanted to say noah is so CUTE
haha thanks so much!!
-Ali
Unfortunately, she will ALWAYS win any battle you guys get into–she outweighs you by 10-fold! The trick is to never let it turn into a battle. If she wants to do something, let her–but make it particularly difficult for her to do. For example, let’s say she always tries to go really fast when you lead her. Let her go fast, but stand still and just have her go in circles around you. Eventually she’ll decide that’s way too much effort, and stop. Then you can walk forward again. If she gets fast, just stop again and have her go in circles. This way, she’s doing all the work and you’re just hanging out peacefully waiting for her to decide on her own to do what you want to do. Does that make sense?
-Ali
Well, why does your mum need to be into horses? Not everyone likes the same things. If she is preventing you from riding because she doesn’t like horses, then you just need to work on her understanding why YOU like riding and why you’d like to be able to ride. She doesn’t have to like horses or be into horses.
-Ali
I just wanted to say that Noah is so so so so CUTE and your lucky to have him! Morgan.
Dear Ali,
I just love horses! my name is Breanna and im a 10 year old who loves horses. Ever since i rode one i was just dying to have one. They are so precious and sweet. I was wondering how would you pick a horses hoof if their a colt ?
From,
Breanna
P.S. Noah is sutch a good boy and probably a pleasure to have.
Breanna–
Noah is a pleasure, I’m very lucky ;)
Picking a colt’s hoof is the same as picking an adult horse’s hoof, just smaller.
-Ali
im obseesed with horses and i always am thinking of them got any tips how i can get one? oh and you youtube vidios are awesome to thanks Emilee
hi ali,
thanks for the tips i will do that and see if she will lead any better
thanks lucy xx
thanks for the tip about my mum ali
Hey Ali i ride a horse named noah and i love him so much he’s not my horse but i ride him at my lessons , i would really love my own horse one day and hope i will get one =]
P.S love your video’s and love noah he is a real stud =]
Hey Ali I love your videos. they’re probably the reason i got the confidence to ride!!.
Noah is such a gorgeous horse you are soooo lucky.you trained to be such a brilliant horse tell him I said hi !!
-Carole
HI ali this is ella i also ride english at a place called beaver bam i ride a paint horse named jetson