Having trouble with instructor

[Elaine]

I really like to ride but my instructor is making me very nervous. I don't know if I am doing something wrong or its my instructor. She never compliments my riding. What makes it worse is that I ride with someone else and my instructor is always watching the other person. I feel left out and insulted. I really would like to change stables but I don't know where to find a good stable in my area. I was wondering if anyone has advice to give me? Thanks!

[~alison~*]

I'm sorry Elaine, that can be quite frusterating! Are you a new rider? Well, I took ONE lesson from an instructor like that, and quit. I really feel that you need support from your instructor and those around you to do your best. It doesn't help ANYone in the situation when the instructor is extremely critical. Don't get me wrong, constructive critisim is essential, but not excessive critisim. I would find another instructor if possible. If not, then talk to your instructor or other students to see how they feel. It could help a lot to see your instructor's view. Where do you live? If you let me know, I will try to get some information. Best of luck!

[Horselover2]

Hey there elaine!

You didn't say how long you've been taking lessons..if you're brand new, then maybe you should consider switching intructors. If not, are you SURE that you're not one of the types of students who wants the instructor to focus on you during the lesson? If your group lessons are large, than maybe he/she has to concentrate their attention on everyone. If it's only you and another rider or two or three, then maybe you have not adhered to suggestions that have already been given??!! Just food for thought...if neither of these scenario's apply, then yes, look for another instructor.

HL2

[Mar]

I really feel that a good instructor is half the battle. Let us know the area in which you live. Maybe we can help.

And as others have said, let us know how long you have been riding. If you are a new rider, I would heartily suggest PRIVATE lessons at first. They are more expensive, but well worth the price.

An instructor should always tell you where you need help, and what your strong points are. My instructor will say to me "your leg is good there" or "good correction", things like that. It helps a ton.

Keep us posted!

[fran]

Elaine - no good instructor should ever make a learner nervous in the way you describe. Not giving positive feedback is a lousy way to teach (speaking as a trainer myself, although not in riding...but the principle is the same) and only gets the learner into a vicious spiral of self-doubt. In fact, it's a guaranteed method of prohibiting learning - and that can be positively dangerous for both rider and horse. I think we learn best when we're enjoying ourselves and therefore can be open to necessary suggestions and constructive criticism. If your teacher isn't creating that kind of atmosphere, I would seriously think about changing. Are there other instructors at the stable?


[This message has been edited by fran (edited 22 November 1999).]

[Heather]

Hi Elaine,
Where do you live? Instructors such as this do not deserve the title, as he/she is plainly not teaching you in return for your money.

All the best, Heather

[Elaine]

Hi this is Elaine. I would just like to thank everyone for their imput. To answer a few questions I have been riding for 5 months now. Also I live in the Acton-Boxboro region in Massachusetts. If anyone knows a stable in this rerion please let me know!

Thanks

[Horselover2]

Hi Elaine, Horselover2 here. I didn't mean to imply that you were one of those types, and after re-reading my post, it did sound a bit that way. ok, more than a bit!! :)

Anyway, YOU know if YOU'RE getting your $$ worth, and if you are not than it's time to move on. Best of luck!! Please keep everyone posted!