Communication Quote by Sally Swift
““Remember, the conversation between you and your horse must never be dull or inert. It should be, “Ask, receive, give. Ask, receive, give." Ask with your body and legs; receive through your body into your hands; give primarily with the hands, but also with your body and legs, so that you can ask all over again, receive again, and give again. The give is your thanks. If you don’t give, you must ask harder the next time, and even harder after that, until you end up with a dead or resistant horse. I have heard Major Hans Wikne, coach of the Swedish dressage team and head of the Swedish National School for Instructors, say so many times, “For everything you ask from your horse, your must give back a little more. The give is more important than the take." Riding is much more than a push-me-pull-you between leg and hand.””
About This Quote
Effective horse communication requires a reciprocal cycle of asking, receiving, and giving, emphasizing gratitude and balanced effort.
In simple terms: Give back more than you take when working with a horse.
Key Takeaway
Balance ask‑receive‑give to build trust with the horse.
Themes
communication
trust
reciprocity
training
gratitude
Mood
reflective
encouraging
Type
instructional
philosophical
When to use this quote
- riding lessons
- training drills
- coach feedback
- personal reflection
Key Concepts
dressage
non‑verbal cues
feedback loops
Questions to Reflect On
- What can you give more to improve the partnership?
- How does gratitude affect training outcomes?
A Different Perspective
If the horse remains resistant, the method may need adjustment or professional guidance.
