How do i become a horse trainer

[tinkandlily]

I would love to become a horse trainer but dont know how to get started. I am very experianced and have worked with friends horses with great success. My own horses have all been ex-racers and i am currently in the process of re-training my older mare to jump( we came third at her first show) and backing my youngster. I have rode everthing literaily from shetland to shire and delt with unhandled, dangerous and uncatchable horses. I would now like to start my own buissness but dont know how so if anyone has any ideas please let me know.

 

[teddyt]

First you have to consier what sort of trainer- competition, behaviour, general riding horses, etc..... (What are you interested in and what are your strengths, weaknesses, knowledge and ability?) Then gain as much experience as you can in that area. Find out what other trainers are in the area where you live, what they charge, what they do, facilities, etc. Do you have facilities or will you be going to the owners yard?
You need to work out your overheads- insurance, equipment, travel, training, etc and then work out what you will charge.

Everyone has to start somewhere but it may be better to get a job on a yard first. This will give you experience of not only horses but running a business too. You can then go into running your own business with a more solid background

 

[perfect11s]

I would love to become a horse trainer but dont know how to get started. I am very experianced and have worked with friends horses with great success. My own horses have all been ex-racers and i am currently in the process of re-training my older mare to jump( we came third at her first show) and backing my youngster. I have rode everthing literaily from shetland to shire and delt with unhandled, dangerous and uncatchable horses. I would now like to start my own buissness but dont know how so if anyone has any ideas please let me know.

I think anyone who has horses is a trainer , to get work, its like any business in so far you offer a service or product which hopefully is what people want and advertising and the best way of getting work is by personal recomendation from people pleased with your work recomending you to others ,remember you will need insurance and transport ,register as self employed with HMRC... however as the OP said it would be good to work for someone good first, build a reputation and then have a go on your own ... good luck...

 

[tinkandlily]

thanks, does anyone else have any ideas.

 

[Baileyhoss]

TBH, in order for people to put their horses to you for training, you will need a proven track record.

I would begin by getting project horses for yourself, bringing them on to a successful competition level, getting them out and seen, then selling. As you work up the ranks and are seen competing successfully on your projects, then people will start to take notice of you and you'll start getting work. It's a slow process building that sort of reputation and you first and foremost you have to be a very talented rider/trainer.

Over and above your talent, it wouldn't hurt to work towards qualifications, like your BHS stages, teaching exams would be very useful. IME reputation and results ALWAYS comes ahead of paper qualifications.