This a great video that Gallop NYC recently shared with me. I am posting it for two reasons:
1) For centers: it’s an example of a volunteer training video! GallopNYC told me “The idea was that we wanted to show volunteers things to avoid but we did not want to model those behaviors live. We use the video for training and for “refreshers” if someone seems to have picked up a bad habit. NY Cares, a large volunteer agency in NYC, helped us with this and connected us to jumP who did the video for us pro bono. Incidentally, it was fun to make! ”
2) For new instructors: it’s an example of volunteer mistakes to watch out for! When instructing you are always keeping tabs on the rider, horse, leader, sidewalker, and arena. But it’s easy to get so focused on the rider you forget about everything else, especially when you’re just starting out. This video is a great intro to simple volunteer “bloopers” you will probably need to correct at some point in your instructing career. When you correct these, do it immediately, kindly, and quickly. First say something verbally, then give them a physical demo of the correct way if needed. It’s good to include a quick explanation why.
If you have any questions about this video, contact them through GallopNYC’s website!
Much thanks to GallopNYC for sharing!
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Note: This is not professional advice, this is a blog. I am not liable for what you do with or how you use this information. The activities explained in this blog may not be fit for every rider, riding instructor, or riding center depending on their current condition and resources. Use your best personal judgement!