Horses are dangerous, but we have gear in place to lessen the risk. This week we take a look at the research behind helmets and air vests. Which are the best on the market, who has done the most studies and testing, and if they provide the level of protection we believe they do...or have we been lulled into a false sense of security. Unfortunately, both helmet and cross country vest research took a horrifying turn when we discovered both have involved cadavers. Follow along with us on Instagram ...
Apr 01, 2021•1 hr
We've talked about the impacts a bit has on the horses respiratory system, we've looked exclusively into Dr. Cooks research, now it's time for us to address PAIN. Today we looked into the research behind the pain and damage caused by both bitted and bitless options. Is one really better than the other? Follow along with us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/inthebarn.pod/ If you have any questions, comments or concerns let us know mudstudsskullcaps@gmail.com Resources https://www.researchgat...
Feb 04, 2021•59 min
Dr. Robert Cook is a well known name surrounding anything bitless. We have read many different studies, articles, and journals that reference Dr. Cook's research, as well as heard plenty of testimonials in favor of his bridle. We didn't think it would be right to proceed any further into the bit vs. bitless debate without addressing and discussing Dr. Cook's work. For part 2 of the bit debate we looked exclusively at Dr. Cook's work, taking a deep dive into his theories about the bit itself and ...
Jan 28, 2021•58 min
Do you know which bridle came before Dr. Cook's famous bitless bridle? Funny thing is that the "original" bitless bridle he produced was taken from someone else and at one time was known as the Spirit bridle. We explore the court cases surrounding the bitless bridles as well as find out what happened to the original designer Edward Allen Buck. Follow along with us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/inthebarn.pod/ If you have any questions, comments or concerns let us know mudstudsskullcaps@g...
Jan 28, 2021•28 min
Who has a longer attention span, a horse or a gold fish? In this weeks episode we take a peek at what science says about the 3 second rule we all learned growing up. Taking it a step farther we found out how long our horses can focus for a continuous time, the answer may surprise you! To top it off we start to explore some of the gray areas in regard to ethics ad research. Follow along with us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/inthebarn.pod/ If you have any questions, comments or concerns l...
Jan 14, 2021•45 min
New Year...same 'ole us, just a new training philosophy. This week we wanted to share how our opinions and training methods have shifted this year. We have both experienced a change in our mentality and approach to working with our horses while dealing with different behaviors ranging from following targets, to dealing with biting and kicking. As well as give a little update about what we have been doing with our own wild ponies. Follow along with us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/intheb...
Jan 07, 2021•48 min
We finally decided to add our voices to the masses who have discussed the infamous topic of bit vs. bitless. Rather than looking at the same argument over and over, we decided to remove pain from our discussion today and look at the physiological effects as well as the learning curve that occurs with the two different methods. Follow along with us on instagram https://www.instagram.com/mudstuds_skullcaps/ If you have any questions, comments or concerns let us know mudstudsskullcaps@gmail.com Res...
Dec 17, 2020•1 hr 6 min
Heartland, Flicka, Black beauty, and just about any other horse movie is going to sell little girls the dream of a"true bond" with theirs horse of choice. However the reality and scientific research don't tend to back up Hollywood movies. This week we looked into grooming and if it can help strengthen our bond with our horses. We take a look at several different studies that research horse to horse grooming, as well as the internal reactions our horses have to us grooming them. We find out their...
Dec 10, 2020•47 min
Did Vicki Wilson cheat by using a Liquid Titanium hood during the Road To The Horse Competition? We take a look at different calming aides out on the market and what research is behind them to support their claims. We even discovered that POMMS horse earplugs were not invented to block sound, what they were really created for is very surprising...especially if the research says they work. The ultimate question though, is whether or not the research supports the various claims numerous products o...
Dec 03, 2020•55 min
Many of us have heard that a horse with a relaxed jaw will have some foam around their mouths. Many of us have determined a good ride because our horses were producing foam. Products have been developed to create this effect if you cannot achieve it on your own. Kelsey and Robin answer the question of what does it actually mean when your horse is foaming. They dug into research articles, different horse forums, and vet blogs to figure out what is happening internally to cause the external result...
Nov 26, 2020•1 hr 14 min
Let's talk adjustable saddles! We realized that a lot of adjustable saddles seem to be purchased and advertised to fit a variety of horses. They are sold under the idea of being the last saddle you'll ever need to buy, because it can fit every horse! This week we decided to delve into the scientific research behind the designs. We discuss statements the designers themselves have made, the patents that were originally submitted and what their intentions were, as well as what lays behind the vague...
Nov 19, 2020•1 hr 5 min
Whether it was a fluffy little Shetland that left you in the dirt every day, a little Welsh that bolted every chance she got, or a fiery Morgan who was convinced he knew best, we all had our first ponies. Kelsey and Robin dig up stories all about their first ponies, as well as give much needed advice for finding the "perfect first pony". Whether you're wondering how to search for ads, what to do when you go see the pony, or what to consider when bringing the pony home, they have the answers! Don...
Nov 12, 2020•1 hr 1 min
Between Back on Track appearing in just about every barn, to wacky magnetic blankets, and Rambo's new ionic blankets, how are you supposed to know what works? Don't worry, Kelsey and Robin did their own researching and discovered interesting information about all these products. They discuss what these products should be doing, what the research says...if there is ANY research, ranking the products, as well as giving the various prices from each brand selling. If you have questions or comments, ...
Nov 05, 2020•1 hr 5 min
Between Back on Track appearing in just about every barn, to wacky magnetic blankets, and Rambo's new ionic blanket, how are you supposed to know what works? Don't worry, Kelsey and Robin did their own researching and discovered interesting information about all these products. They discuss what these products should be doing, what the research says...if there is ANY research, ranking the products themselves, as well as giving the various prices from each brand on the market. If you have questio...
Nov 05, 2020•29 min
Buckle up we're in for a good one! With Halloween right around the corner, we are feeling the spooky vibes and so are our horses. Or are they? In today's episode we address the stigma surrounding this time of year that include poor supplement advertisements, is your horse actually more spooky, and our best methods for desensitizing our horses! Leave us a review and subscribe to hear more and never miss an episode! Follow along with us on instagram https://www.instagram.com/mudstuds_skullcaps/ If...
Nov 01, 2020•55 min
We have all seen the luxury barn tours, and drooled over those beautiful arenas and pastures. The problem is, all us average horse owners do not have those set-ups. Instead we are fighting mud, fixing fences, and trying to wrangle loose ponies! This week we dive into our own horse properties covering all the imperfections between weird tack-rooms and questionable arenas. Reach out to us with topics or questions: https://www.instagram.com/mudstuds_skullcaps/ mudstudsskullcaps@gmail.com...
Nov 01, 2020•35 min
Have you ever felt guilty for not riding often enough? Or felt as though you were wasting your horse by not going out to the barn everyday and riding? In today's episode we address this question with doing what is right for your horse. We take it a step further in addressing the different types of exercise for your horse, whether it's mental, physical, or both mental and physical. On top of this we start debunking myths about "hot horses" and this phenomenon that seems to crop up everywhere with...
Nov 01, 2020•56 min
Raise your hand if you've ever been told "more leg", "sit up", "eyes up", "WAIT!". We have all been there, and sometimes we have no idea what our instructor is asking of us. Join Kelsey and Robin this week as they break down common trainer sayings, what they mean, how to fix it, and exercises to work on that make sure you aren't hearing the same thing over and over again! Reach out to us with topics or questions: https://www.instagram.com/mudstuds_skullcaps/ mudstudsskullcaps@gmail.com Reference...
Nov 01, 2020•40 min
Let's talk longing! Why do you longe your horse in the first place and why it's not a good idea to longe a hot horse. We also discuss why or why not to use equipment! Being the sisters we are, we have opposing opinions on whether or not to use "gear". So let's talk about it in today's episode. Reach out to us with topics or questions: https://www.instagram.com/mudstuds_skullcaps/ mudstudsskullcaps@gmail.com References; Jim Wofford Book https://www.amazon.com/Training-Three-Day-Event-Horse-Rider/...
Oct 01, 2020•55 min
With the changing of the stars and the creation of an entirely new level, we felt a bit lost and confused. What is a 1* now? What was CIC and where did that go? What is the modified level? Where does it come into play? We break down all these questions and explain the answers to questions that were confusing us. We break down the levels. We explain the changes that are happening, and we talk about what is motivating these changes. Perhaps we tackle the hardest part of it all, with WHO is pushing...
Sep 24, 2020•1 hr 5 min
As members of the eventing community we are confused and hurt to have seen what has unfolded this past week. What transpired seems to have lacked transparency and only hurt the members of this horse community. Instead of having a conversation about the barriers that impact people of color from being able to participate in this sport, we found ourselves arguing over the loss of a venue. We cannot pretend there are not barriers for people of color to join the equestrian world, and we want to see t...
Sep 19, 2020•31 min
This week Kelsey and Robin tackle a topic that may be a bit controversial. They discuss what "on the bit" is and how it is being abused. This is one of those topics that involves everyone! No one is excluded no matter age, discipline, or riding level from needing to know the importance and difference between being "on the bit" and hyper-flexion. If you have any questions or topics you want to talk to us about, let us know! -Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mudstuds_skullcaps/ -Email: mudstud...
Sep 17, 2020•1 hr 3 min
Robin and Kelsey have been watching a bunch of older clinics on USEF tv. This week they decided to tackle the topic of clinic etiquette and how to present yourself. They cover what to wear, what to say, what to bring (i.e. your ENTIRE tackroom), and some of the best information they have ever been told by a clinician. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mudstuds_skullcaps/
Sep 10, 2020•54 min
Have ever found yourself caught up in a new tack trend? We certainly have! We wanted to break down various products and trends that have come about that we found ourselves buying into. In today's episode we skim the tip of the iceberg talking about sheep skin half-pads, 5-point breastplates, anatomical girths, anatomical bridles, and those funky free jump stirrups! This topic will certainly require a second episode! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mudstuds_skullcaps/ Gmail: mudstudsskullcap...
Sep 03, 2020•59 min
Welcome back! This week Kelsey and Robin break down how they balance horses, work, and relationships. Sometimes that balance works well, and sometimes everything seems to collapse! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mudstuds_skullcaps/
Aug 27, 2020•47 min
This week Kelsey and Robin talk all about the basics! What are they? Where does the infamous training pyramid come into play? And Do the basics ever end? Got questions or just something you want us to know? mudstudsskullcaps@gmail.com https://www.instagram.com/mudstuds_skullcaps/ Links to resources referenced in this episode: The Scales of Training Workbook by Claire Lilley https://www.amazon.com/Scales-Training-Workbook-Dressage-Jumping/dp/085131970X/ref=asc_df_085131970X/?tag=hyprod-20&lin...
Aug 11, 2020•45 min•Ep. 5
Welcome back! Kelsey and Robin dive into their past and current struggle with horses. Between being a misunderstood tall rider, to having a highly sensitive horse, or owning multiple horses that for one reason or another cannot be ridden, and facing the never ending challenge of an aging horse. Join the club of never ending challenges and struggles!
Aug 03, 2020•52 min•Ep. 4
What's better, medicine boots or exercise wraps? Do boots create damaging heat to your horses leg? Are the back on track boots even worth it? Here is the study we reference in regard to heat: https://thehorse.com/110289/the-science-behind-equine-boots-and-bandages/
Jul 23, 2020•37 min•Ep. 3
Join Robin and Kelsey as they discuss the controversial topic of when it's appropriate to move up.
Jul 16, 2020•37 min•Ep. 2
What did we do for our horses on the 4th of July? How are we fighting flies this season? And how did we take our average backyard ponies and make them competitive? Join us as we discuss each of these topics sharing our own unique experiences and advice.
Jul 09, 2020•38 min•Ep. 1
