Respect is the most important concept in Lucinda’s training philosophy and approach.  A solid foundation where trust and love can manifest between horse and human lies within how much respect one another has for each other.  Each student at Symmetry Stables is taught how to handle their horse on the ground before riding.  Learning to “move the horses feet” in much the same manner as another horse would do helps gain the leading roll in the relationship and the horses grow to trust their human counterpart because they see them as the herd leader.

All horses are taught to stay out of their human’s space, unless invited in, stand to be groomed, handled by vet & farrier, clipped with electric clippers, saddled, bridled and mounted standing still.  Lucinda believes that exposing horses to as much in the world as possible teaches them to handle new situations with ease.  All horses in training are desensitized to scary objects such as tarps, balloons, loud noises, vehicles, and small animals or children.  A combination of arena work is combined with trail work and if desired, horse shows.

Timing and feel are a large part of training any animal and having the right timing to reward the horse for even the slightest “try” is paramount.  With over 30 years of being around horses and literally learning to think like one, Lucinda has developed the timing and feel to get the best results out of your equine friend.  Whether it is on the ground or in the saddle, the horses at Symmetry Stables enjoy their work and look forward to the next learning session.

Though training can be rushed into a 60 or 90 day program, Lucinda feels that the best horses are left in training for a longer period of time so that the learning experience is not rushed or stressed.  Like people, horses all have a different level of mental and physical maturity.  Some can be pushed and excel, some take more time to grow into their career. 

Though Lucinda’s background is primarily with gaited horses, her training is non-denominational.  It is more important how you train the horse than what type of saddle you use or what breed of horse you ride.  Whether you are riding Saddle Seat, Western, or Dressage, most riders are aiming for the same thing; a horse that is quiet, responsive, light in their movements engaging the hind end, moving freely and forward front and back, is strong across the top line and can think instead of react when presented with new situations or training.

As for riding, the same philosophy is used.  No matter what discipline one rides we strive for a balanced, secure and independent seat, quiet hands, and the proper timing of giving and releasing cues.  These concepts are the focus for each lesson. 

At Symmetry Stables, we are working towards exactly that: Symmetry-

1. Correspondence of opposite parts in size, shape and position,

2. Balance or Beauty of form resulting in this.   

Welcome to Symmetry Stables.  May you come in, relax and explore the wondrous joys of Horses.  Let them lead you on your own magical journey.  Enjoy their beauty, wisdom, honesty and grace and let them teach you all that you want to learn!