08/02/2025
Jody Hartstone – That’s a Wrap!
What a fantastic few days of learning—whether you were in the saddle or simply observing, there was something for everyone.
We are incredibly fortunate to have had Jody Hartstone at Unicorn, working with our riders and coaches. Her depth of knowledge in equitation science and evidence-based training allows her to deliver clear, direct instruction to both horse and rider.
I particularly enjoy the way she breaks down movements—shoulder-in, walk pirouettes, flying changes—into manageable, bite-sized pieces that make sense to both horse and human.
Most problems, as Jody often says, can be traced back to a lack of turn, stop, or go. If you can identify which of these isn't quite functioning as it should, you can begin to get to the heart of your issue—whether it’s your half-halt, half-pass, or shoulder-in. Jody has an extraordinary ability to analyse a horse’s body—shoulder, midsection, and hindquarters—and pinpoint exactly where things aren’t working as clearly as they should. By addressing these areas, you can dramatically improve movements such as canter-pirouettes, flying changes, and collected trot—not to mention reduce unwanted behaviours like shying, spooking, and bucking.
Equitation Science International - ESI and its training principles have transformed my lesson program. The horses within it have become more willing, engaged, and happy partners in teaching people to ride. I’m immensely proud of our program and of the wonderful horses who make it what it is. A special shout-out to the school horses who introduce so many to the joy of riding—they are true stars.
To Lynne Larsen—thank you for introducing me to equitation science and Jody all those years ago at adult rider camp.
And to Jane Stone, another amazing equitation science advocate, thank you for your continued mentoring and clinics at Unicorn.
