Introduction to Equestrian Instruction Vs. Coaching
Overview
Introduction to Equestrian Instruction Vs. Coaching; this is an undergraduate course developed by Cj Holthaus as part of a Masters in Equestrian Education at William Woods University.
Equestrian Instruction Vs. Coaching: Syllabus
The Vinegar Horse Activity is a ground-skills exercise aimed at enhancing a rider's balance, rein contact, and body awareness through controlled movements. Riders hold the reins lightly while standing on the ground, simulating riding connection. Instructors provide feedback on hand position and responsiveness to help riders develop effective rein aids. A handout with a QR code links to a video lecture and demonstration, enabling students to review key concepts and practice independently. This resource supports skill development both in and outside of class through visual and practical learning.
This activity is part of an "Equestrian Instruction Vs. Coaching" course provides an in-depth exploration of coaching methodologies specific to equestrian sports. Students will develop skills in coaching pedagogy, equine athlete management, rider biomechanics, and team leadership. Emphasis is placed on communication, ethics, and psychological aspects of coaching equestrian athletes in various disciplines. The course includes practical coaching applications, case studies, and opportunities for field experience.
*Author Note*
This content was independently generated by Cj Holthaus, owner of The Bleu Barn in Maryville, Missouri, for graduate coursework in Equestrian Education MEd at William Woods University. It reflects my academic research and instructional design at that time. While informed by best practices and scholarly sources, it may not represent the latest research or institutional policies. Please use it as reference material with this context in mind.
Syllabus
This work-in-progress syllabus was uploaded 3/12/2025 and the hyperlink below reflects updates to the project though 08/31/2025.
https://canvas.instructure.com/courses/11399791/assignments/syllabus
Module 1: Foundations of Equestrian Coaching
Week 1: Introduction to Coaching & Course Expectations
- Course overview & syllabus
- Introduction to coaching vs. instructing
- Threaded discussion: "What makes a great coach?"
- Assignment:
Week 2: Coaching Theory & Rider Development Models
- Growth stages of equestrian athletes
- Powerpoint Link (Lecture Topics) (Lecture Topics on Slide #2)
- Rider biomechanics & movement analysis basics
- Powerpoint Link (Lecture Topics) (Lecture Topics on Slide #2)
- Threaded discussion: "What should an equestrian coach prioritize?"
- Assignment: Short quiz on coaching methodologies
Week 3: SafeSport & Ethics in Coaching
- Understanding SafeSport policies & equestrian coaching ethics
- Powerpoint Link (Lecture Topics) (Lecture Topics on Slide #2)
- Case studies on coaching misconduct
- Guest Speaker (if possible) from a governing body (USEF, USHJA, etc.)
- Assignment: Coaching Misconduct Case Study
Week 4: Risk Management & Concussion Testing in Equestrian Sports
- Risk management in coaching: liability, safety protocols
- Powerpoint Link (Lecture Topics) (Lecture Topics on Slide #2)
- Concussion testing protocols (Return-to-ride guidelines)
- Powerpoint Link (Lecture Topics) (Lecture Topics on Slide #2)
- Assignment: Research concussion policies in different sport & equestrian disciplines