Description
“In-Hand Lessons with Manolo Mendez – An Introduction to Working In-Hand“ is designed to help you help your horse be suppler, straighter, and more balanced in-hand leading to a calmer, healthier horse under saddle. It benefits horses of all breeds and disciplines because it is based on understanding and creating healthy postures and recognizing and developing healthy gaits. The DVD is a 3 hour– plus introduction to groundwork and working in hand with horses. It is practical and un-intimidating and follows the first five lessons of equestrian and biomechanics lecturer Jillian Kreinbring as she learns to shape, influence and enhance horses’ postures and gaits for the better with the help of a cavesson and a bamboo. Jillian asks a lot of questions which is very helpful for viewers at home. Manolo discusses and demonstrates everything from how to select bamboo and adjust a cavesson properly, to how to create and regulate forward, how to halt, turn, change direction while maintaining healthy flexion throughout the horse’s topline, how to introduce shoulder fore, shoulder in, turn on the haunches, shoulder in – out, to the wall and more..
The DVD also contains additional footage of Manolo working in-hand and demonstrating exercises with two inexperienced horses. In addition, Manolo shares his way of introducing a young horse to lungeing and discusses and demonstrates how to transition a young horse from lungeing to riding. Finally, the DVD contains a section on What the Horse’s Body Tells You, where Manolo and Jilly observe a horse together and discuss physical landmarks and what they mean, how to improve them. While Jillian practices the exercises, Manolo gives her feedback and steps in to correct common mistakes, ensuring that viewers get a good understanding of what to do, and what to avoid.
Kim Walnes, rider and trainer of Hall of fame inductee the Gray Goose, member of the USET 3 Day Eventing Team from 80-86, winner of Individual and Team Bronze Medals at the 82 World Championships and FEI dressage trainer. TheWayOfTheHorse.com
This DVD is brilliant. Manolo demonstrates in-hand techniques he has developed over time that can help any owner improve their horse with exercises designed for balance, coordination, lightness plus strengthened topline and joints. It brings clarity to a subject that is rarely understood and combined with the (free) supporting online written material, will open new worlds for both horse and rider. Your horse will thank you!”
From Kip Mistral, Equestrian Journalist and Best Selling Author of “Horse Training In-Hand: A Modern Guide to Working from The Ground” available HERE on Amazon. Kip has just launched a great new website with a lot of great free content on excellence in equestrianism through time and around the world. Her company, Editions Mistral has just published its first book: Dressage Sabbatical which has received excellent reviews. www.KipMistral.com
“In watching the Manolo Mendez videos and observing the manner in which Manolo handles horses (and teaches the handling), I am struck by how much understanding, compassion and from-the-heart engagement with the horse Manolo demonstrates. That he has a lifetime of equestrian experience is understood, but all trainers end up with experience after decades. How many end up the level of tact, diplomacy and appreciation for the horse, what it needs and how it learns that Manolo has is another question completely.
Quite frankly, I can’t think of anyone I’ve seen who trains and instructs with such a coherently “for the horse” approach. A particularly interesting aspect is how Manolo teaches the student how to look for signs of stiffness or resistance in the horse that will interfere with the horse’s balance and carriage, and cause him to lose any developing suppleness and rhythm. He explains and demonstrates something else that is critical…how to help the horse have forward movement but still carry himself correctly…and why it is so important to teach the horse different speeds in each gait…so he doesn’t tire of one position or speed. If he tires, he gets stiff, and Manolo watches like an eagle for any sign of stiffness to protect the horse from discomfort and also discouragement.
His gentle, friendly and supportive manner with horses just reminds me again how the typical handler/rider/trainer/instructor works from a dominance paradigm, whether conscious or unconscious. Manolo’s level of investment in the horse’s confidence and pleasure in his training and his trusting relationship with his handler is extraordinary and in my opinion there is no single value that can hold more importance. If you learn from Manolo and study his in-hand lessons, you will learn more than an introduction to the working in-hand exercises. You will learn a philosophy of horsemanship that may seem deceptively simple, but is truly the foundation for everything good that can come to a horse through his education. And, these same principles that teach us how to be in a partnership between horse and rider where both are equally willing to learn from one another can be implemented in every area of life that I can think of…family, friends, work…listen, watch, be compassionate, be tactful, be gentle…
These videos are highly recommended for all these reasons!”
“I am a competitive Dressage rider but also love trail riding and in hand work. All my competition horses were rescues and using a combination of in hand work and bodywork following Manolo’s principles has been instrumental in their success.”Julia Latham, NZ June 2017
“When I recommend the DVD, I tell people that it is well worth the price, that it teaches a lot that many people should learn and can change the way one thinks about horses if it’s taken to heart.. ‘but’, that the group alone would make the price worth it because of the massive amount of knowledge shared here. The ability to clarify and expand upon what is presented in the DVD makes the knowledge more useable and therefore more valuable.” Kate O, February 14th, 2017
I have worked with many international trainers and coaches and Manolo has the best understanding of the horse from the horse’s point of view. I have complete trust in his training methods, totally agree with them and they compliment what I try to instill in my students as well. The horse’s best interest is never compromised and at the same time the potential of the horse can be fully reached.Mary Flood:USDF Certified Trainer and Competitor, winner Grand Prix at Devon and Festival of Champions, USDF Bronze, Silver, Gold Medalist, wildfirefarm.com
The postures exemplified in Manolo’s work are of great use to my gaited horses for achieving great movement. Conditioning through relaxed but purposeful exercises result in a very healthy spine mover; essential in the best movement for gaited horses. Ricky Cumming, June 2017
Learn Manolo’s In-Hand & Lunging Training for Wellness™ Method, improve your horse’s posture, movement and performance – and join a vibrant online community of riders, trainers and equine health professionals who use these techniques in over 30 disciplines to help their horses thrive.
Photo Credit: Digital Barrett
NOTICE: The DVD is designed to provide information on how to train horses using Manolo Mendez’s methodology, concepts, and practices. It should be applied with the understanding that at no time is Manolo Mendez, or employees or representatives of Equestrian La Mancha PTY Ltd, responsible for the implementation of his concepts, methodology, and practices. The hands that hold the lunge line and the bamboo are entirely responsible for the actions of the horse. Should viewers not fully understand the implications of the techniques shown here, or be in a position to carry out these techniques, they should seek the advice of professionals. Any dealing with horses can involve danger for human beings. The publisher and the author accept no liability for personal injury, damage to property or pecuniary loss ensuing from use of the exercises shown. Manolo Mendez, and representatives or employees of Equestrian La Mancha PTY Ltd. urge viewers to watch the videos and become familiar with the information available concerning the training of horses without pain and restraint. Manolo Mendez, representatives and employees of Equestrian La Mancha PTY Ltd. are not responsible for others’ interpretation of the methods or ensuing results. Please use common sense when dealing with your horse because horses are inherently unpredictable.Copying, renting, lending, public performance and radio or TV broadcasting – even for excerpts – is prohibited. For private use only. Commercial use, exchange and transfer or tacit acceptance of such is forbidden and will lead to to civil and criminal prosecution.
Katy Spedding (verified owner) –
the DVD is inspirational, out in the field I have continuously seen horses spun on a lunge as a form of exercise by novice and professional riders, so to see and be able to learn, from the fitting of the serrata to ridden segments including bodywork and cause and effects, the importance of conversations with your horse and what you can achieve is something I could not have learned anywhere else along with the support from the group I have received it has been like I have my own secret encyclopedia but it shouldn’t be secret I want everyone to know. It has been my best buy of 2013 Thankyou very much.
Zsuzsu Illes –
Excellent DVD – clearly explained – easily understood – beautifully filmed. This DVD is both a pleasure to the senses and chock full of very useful information to help all riders and horses regardless of breed, ability or discipline.
Michelle Guillot, author of SuperPrix –
Other reviewers have so eloquently described this brilliant DVD, that I’m not sure I can add anything pertinent, except that this is the most useful horse training film I’ve ever watched. It is appropriate to horses of all disciplines, not just dressage horses, because it addresses the whole horse, his mental as well as his physical state and balance.
I particularly like the format in which Manolo works one-on-one with a student to explain what he is doing and why, so the viewer feels s/he is having a private lesson. The student, Jillian Krienbring, helps clarify the work by asking questions that the viewer might be wondering about. I felt as though I was right there in the arena learning along with her.
For those who worry that they don’t have the skills to do this work, the film starts with Manolo carefully explaining the use of the equipment (the serreta and bamboo), and patiently demonstrating the most basic aids he uses to reassure the horse to insure that he understands what is being asked of him.
In-Hand Lessons is beautifully produced and thoughtfully organized to be part tutorial and part documentary. A truly inspirational and thought provoking DVD.
Many thanks to producer Caroline Larrouilh for her tireless efforts in bringing this all together!
Caroline Larrouilh –
From Kathleen Aspenns, Certified Flower Essence Practitioner, TTEAM and TTouch Practitioner
This excellent video offers clear instruction in foundational groundwork exercises. Manolo shows great sensitivity and understanding of each horse, and explains the techniques clearly to student Jillian. This format made it easy for me to understand and apply with my own horse. I found value in repeated viewings of each lesson, seeing new details each time. I really appreciated watching him work with a variety of horses, and how the exercises benefited young horses or those that had been handled roughly. I highly recommend this video to anyone who wishes to learn new skills to enhance their horse’s movement and soundness.
Melanie Griffiths (verified owner) –
I could not wait to get my hands on this DVD, which was released soon after we had taken our first clinic with Manolo. It’s just a necessary at home reference with beautifully produced bite size pieces of information, which are easily digested.
I knew this would be good, just looking at the thoughtful front cover. To me the image speaks of two friends working something out together; there is no dominance, no ego, its just Manolo and his horse being together, simple and uncomplicated. Just like his work.
The beautiful Spanish guitar music immediately transports me back to Spain and happy memories. I am enthralled and almost in a meditative state watching for the first time, I even ignore my cheeky teenagers remarks as they loudly walk past. I have to dreamily watch the DVD twice before I start to dissect information to take back to the stables. But this is not time wasted, I am beginning to understand the philosophy behind this training.
I find myself humming the Spanish guitar music in my head, whilst working in-hand. The tempo and melody are just perfect. It helps me focus, and my youngster usually falls into a nice flowing rhythm.
The production is so carefully put together so that you feel totally immersed – you are almost taking a private lesson. As a green owner of a green young horse I appreciate the question format throughout the lessons, I like the variety of horses and situations – these are real life scenarios with horses.
This DVD does not only give you the tools for everyday handling and working your horse correctly for a long and stress free life. It gives so much more. Manolo encourages you to move with your horse gracefully, to really feel both his ease and discomfort. It may truly change the way you view your horse.
Diana Saraswati –
I purchased the DVD In – Hand Lessons with Manolo Mendez approximately a year ago after attending one of Manolo’s clinics here in New Zealand.
I have watched the DVD three or four times now and each time I watch it I find more information that I hadn’t picked up on when watching it the last time. There is a lot of very subtle information and it to get the best out of it the student, I think, needs to watch it again and again. How I have found it works best for me is to watch the DVD the night before and take a few notes. Then the next day I go out to the paddock and work with my young gelding with the bamboo and one of Manolos serratas which I bought and practice what I have seen on the DVD and seeing how my young horseresponds to what I do. Questions always arise and I need to watch the DVD again to find the answers, then I go and practise again with my boy.
I am a very visual learner and so find the DVD an excellent resource because I can see what Manolo is talking about.
In the DVD Manolo demonstrates on different horses what he is talking about showing his wonderful student Gillian his methodology the reasons behind it and Gillian asks such good questions.
There is a section towards the end of the DVD where Manolo talks about the musculature of the horse and body work that supports the horses healthy movement. He shows the viewer and the student what to look for in the horses body that shows a healthy way of going and what the horse reveals in his body as a not so healthy way of going and training practices that cause damage in the horses body.
I found this section fascinating and it has opened my eyes and I want to learn more and more.
When I bought the DVD I also automatically became a member of an online study group that supports people who have purchased the DVD and I have found it absolutely invaluable.
Kathy Liccardo –
I have watched this DVD many times and have learned something more each time I watch. It has changed everything with how I do ground work with my horse and the results are showing. Instead of the halter, lunge line and lunge whip I now use Manolo’s techniques with him cavesson and a bamboo pole. I love them all and so does my horse. Thank you!
Wendee (verified owner) –
This DVD is an investment in yourself and in the mental, physical, emotional, well being of your horse. You will repeatedly watch this DVD, then go out and try the exercises with your horses. The process is kind, relaxed, and safe. When I make mistakes it’s okay because you won’t harm your horse in practicing with walking along, making gentle circles and lines. This is so much more than traditional “lunging” in circles.
Bozena Bienkowska –
I came across Manolo Mendez when he was presenting a symposium with Dr Kerry Ridgeway. It opened a world of equine wellness that I simply didn’t know existed. Since then, I’ve been hooked.
The DVD is clear and full of Manolo sharing knowledge so few of us have access to. The support group has been kind, supportive and through it I have met highly skilled people who listen and genuinely help.
I breed PRE Andalusians, so run a herd of 22 of different ages and working levels. By watching the DVD, and taking advice from the forum, added to the pleasure of watching Manolo work twice, I have improved my skill base immeasurably.
I am truly grateful that the team at La Mancha are so generous with their knowledge, and that technology allows it to reach even the sodding wet hills of Scotland
Ken –
One of those valuable learning tools you get something extra every time you watch it
Lizzie –
So there are in-depth reviews above, simply put he is the best horse person I have seen and read and I seen a lot ! This is what you have been searching for, Manolo, get this DVD and it will be a guide to his way his teaching and above his essence and spirit. For your horse and for all horses!
Kim Walnes –
I use the knowledge I’ve gained from Manolo’s DVD daily, and go back and watch it again from time to time to glean more awarenesses. I also recommend it to all my students. The DVD is brilliant not only at getting across the concepts of alignment, but also those of the patience, compassion, and empathy that are so very important when working with horses. I’m so grateful that this DVD is available so that people across the world can learn from it and improve their relationships with their horses as well as improve their horses’ lives.
Fiona Mead –
As a veterinarian, acupuncturist and biomechanics practitioner, I have found Manolo’s in hand work to be second to none, in rehabilitation of subtle (and not so subtle) lameness or uneven gaits. The dvd is an invaluable reference and one of my first tools, I suggest to clients to add to their tool box when working with there horses, whether professional or amateur. The dvd is excellent value for money, with hours of detailed ‘how to’ demonstration and explanation. The online ‘in hand group’ which you gain access to when you buy the dvd is a goldmine of further support and assistance in learning how to work with your simple tools – a bamboo and cavesson designed by Manolo himself. There are no gadgets, bells and whistles needed to achieve similar results with your own horses. Just requisites of; patience, development of finese with the bamboo and willingness to learn from each horse. While Manolo makes the in hand work look like a dance, do not expect similar results with your own usage immediately. I like the variety of levels and problems the horses on the dvd portray, ensuring there is dome thing for everyone to learn from watching the dvd (many times). A worthy investment for any aspiring trainer, rider or equine rehabilitationist to go the next level of understanding and working compassionately with their horse.
Patricia Austin –
I am 67 and have changed from Western riding to wanting to learn in-hand and dressage. I wasn’t really getting anywhere until I bought Manolo’s In-Hand DVD. Since then I have nearly worn it out, playing and replaying. Months and months later, I am still noticing new things when I replay it. The most important thing for me is the way Manolo treats both horses and people with such respect and calmness. For him, there are no mistakes needing punishment – you just keep on and quietly fix it. Secondly, after watching both Manolo and Fiona Mead do bodywork on horses and being so impressed with how the horses travelled afterwards, I have signed up for an equine bodywork course myself. Thirdly, I am also learning so much from other In-Hand Group Members – they are such a generous bunch. It is wonderful to be amongst them, soaking up as much as I can! I would recommend Manolo’s DVD to anyone who has anything at all to do with horses. It can only assist them and their horse to a kinder, better way of going.
Debbie Juhnke (verified owner) –
Simply wonderful!! As a 60-something amateur rider, I’ve read literally hundreds of books and viewed dozens of videos on dressage, riding, training, and I’ve “tried on” different theories and approaches to working with horses. I think it’s not uncommon to pick up an idea here or a trick there and make good use of them, and discard the rest. What makes Manolo’s approach so compelling to me is that it is so fundamental to everything you may want to accomplish with your horse, and that everything makes total sense. His way of working is compassionate, and the horses in the videos clearly respond to his kindness while improving their way of going.
I have worked now with my two adult horses–both PREs–using Manolo’s cavesson and in-hand methods–as best I can approximate his skill!–and they have both become in a short time more relaxed and forward. We have a long way to go to transfer that feeling to being under saddle, but I’m confident we will. When my yearling is old enough I will continue to learn and apply the groundwork exercises so he will grow up to be a happy and sound horse. I’ve learned over the years that we will never know everything we need to about working with horses, and I’ll probably wear out the in-hand DVD before I’ve absorbed all it has to offer. It’s truly a journey and every horse is different. Regardless of your discipline, though, I believe that applying these in-hand methods will provide a wonderful foundation for your horse’s long-term soundness and partnership.
Carolyn Darley Miller (verified owner) –
I am so happy to have discovered Manolo’s approach to working with and developing confident, happy, good moving horses in all different walks of equine lives. I purchased this DVD 6 months ago and to be honest, I haven’t yet watched it all the way through as the wealth of material has great depth and it is taking me many attempts to incorporate the information I learn from the teachings. Creating an effective teaching tool in the medium of the dvd format is very technically challenging and this one is very very well done. The added benefit of becoming a participant and beneficiary of the In-Hand Study Group is equally worthwhile. It is difficult to articulate how valuable this teaching is and the reviews already published have said it all so very well. I can only encourage you to step into a new paradigm of relating to your horses with kindness and a working path to understanding and amplifying your horses’ natural beauty. The study group is very vibrant and Caroline, the moderator, keeps it on track in a very stylish and kind manner.
Hayley Di Bella –
The value you will get from this purchase far exceeds the price. Manolo has a way of working that opens up a new dialogue with your horse, one based on kindness, effectiveness and mutual learning. A fabulous perk is that you will also receive access to the In-Hand Facebook group. The group contains a wealth of additional information, and the ability to ask questions directly of Manolo and his very knowledgeable team. I cannot recommend this highly enough.
Tania Spencer –
I have taken up riding again after 12 years and have always wanted to learn in-hand. I brought Manolo’s DVD early last year and have been studying it until I brought a horse. since I now have a horse, I have been working with this for three weeks and love the transformation my horse has taken already, he is more relaxed and each time I see much improvement in his posture. The DVD is absolutely one of the best purchases I have made, instructions are clear and concise, and its fantastic how they use a student and how she asks lots of questions. I have played this over and over again and every time it cements something I have already been working on or I find something new or something that I may have a problem with I also refer back to the DVD. I feel it improves my skills every time I go and work with my horse and each time I feel more and more confident. Not only that it also gives you access to a fantastic Facebook in-hand study group, where there is so much information, feedback and support. This is worth every cent and the best investment you could make.
Theresia Lindgren (verified owner) –
Help me a lot to go back over and over again listen and learn new things every time. I think I did it too hard for my Horses now I slow down and listen to them. Best thing ever!
Yvonne –
Where to start ! It’s beautiful clever kind training a fabulous education for horse and TBH human really ! I have seversl different types ages abilities of horse and ponies including children’s ponies and they all benefit and just keep getting better —- I suppose the best thing for me is to be able to have the dvd and the FB page additional help to do things myself at home at our own pace properly and the dvd you can just keep going over it and trying new things etc
Sharon Furlong –
I have been training my Pony to carry a rider. I am using Postive Reinforcement and preferred Classical methodology compared NH ways. Manolos DVD has helped me pair these together! Easy to follow stages and explanations. The addition of the Facebook group is also wonderful.This is the way everyone should be taught to Lunge.Money well spent.
David Wenger (verified owner) –
I’m not so sure what to say. I know that since I finally gave up my rugby boots over 25 years ago I’ve been a student of the equine. Always believing and looking for the better deal for the horse. I’ve met some fine people and have learned very many useful ways to benefit our friends. This year I was introduced to Manolo Mendez, observed some videos and after less than a week I was convinced that I had found that missing puzzle piece. I have 15 plus horses that I get to work, most have not been started by me. Most have no idea that they have a backend. While I waited for my Serrata I learned to use the bamboo as well as I had a carrot stick. Once the Serrata arrived I’m now in the process of learning both. I can honestly say I’m have not progressed from chapter 1. The feel and understanding of the total horse takes a lot of time. Manolo and Jillian are awesome instructors, the wealth of information contained is beyond measure. In my humble opinion this video is a gold mine for the serious student. Fast food it is not, but if you enjoy a five star meal, and the art that goes into the preparation. Buy this DVD. It will take you to the dance floor where u and your partner become one. No pulling or pushing, just beauty in action. The true Art of the Masters has been revealed for those who have the desire to learn. I’m amazed at the depth of knowledge and to think anyone can afford this baffles me. Now don’t go raising the cost. Lol
Rebekah Gingrich –
I am a hunter/jumper rider that had been looking for a more structured way of working in hand, with taking in consideration how the horse moves, with soundness in mind. Manolo makes this dvd very easy to understand what he is looking for. I have recently bought a thoroughbred war horse to retrain, and I have used the in hand work. She has changed so much how she moves her body and will definitely be using in hand work to start/retrain all my horses! The fb group has been great as you have a chance to chat with others to help you a long. Plus all the extra bonus articles and videos that come a long with the group!! Would recommend this to anyone!
Carla Peters –
This DVD set, and FB support, has been invaluable in training an extremely stiff QH mare. It has given us both techniques and philosophy to create a healthier posture, and a horse that uses her body in a more correct manner. This DVD has also given me the tools, to rehabilitate my 27 year old Appendix gelding from a pelvic injury. This is a DVD, that all horse owners should own.
April Reeves –
I have used in-hand work for decades, but Manolo Mendez added a higher dimension to my work. This DVD would enrich anyone’s work with any horse, regardless of breed or discipline. I use in-hand with my reining horses as well as my English horses. This builds an athlete of exceptional quality. I often get horses in that no one else can start, and it streamlines the process and helps the horse enjoy his work. I highly recommend this DVD, and the chat forum that goes with it is informative and useful. April Reeves, Horseman’s Park Alberta
BARBARA RUDQUIST (verified owner) –
I have two FEI dressage horses. I have learned a lot about lungeing from this and solved some of the problems I had with one of them, who liked to either be “lazy” or take off and get loose! my other horse, who is 28, also needs a little time on the lunge and has learned to move with good posture without the use of side reins, and i’ve learned how to lunge him in a way that helps keep him sound. I ordered the serrata and will never lunge again without it. I don’t do a lot of in hand work, but I find Manolo’s teaching to be very useful for my ridden work and general horse handling skills.
Suzanne Langdon –
The in-hand lessons are an excellent resource expertly backed up by thoughtful, targeted and generous support in the vibrant private Facebook group moderated by the ever supportive Caroline Larrouilh. I find the quiet, stepped, consistency of the methodology dovetails with the equitation science principles that guide the methodology and techniques of our human and horse training practice. The dedication to the welfare of the horse through sensible, thoughtful principles and techniques that focus on beneficial postural biomechanics demonstrated on the DVD and throughout the support group feedback is highly valued. You could not be disappointed with adding this DVD to essential practice.