During the 2026 conference we were lucky enough to welcome Ros Canter to the stage for a relaxed chat and Q&As with Gillian Higgins. In this article, Allison Lowther brings you the highlights which includes assessing asymmetry and how it may impact performance. As well as training young horses with longevity in mind and more. Assessing Horses and Managing Movement Q: How do you go about assessing your own horses and the management side of assessing movement? Ros says: When it comes to...

The conference kicked off with Dr Kevin Haussler who discussed Spinal Evaluation Techniques in Horses. He stressed a clear and structured approach is needed, emphasising that assessment must go beyond simply identifying sore areas. He explained that the spine plays a central role in posture, locomotion, performance, and neurologic function, meaning dysfunction can present as poor performance, behavioural resistance, vague lameness, or subtle neurologic deficits.

Dr Sue Dyson looks at recent research on whether coaches are able to detect hindlimb lameness in horses and why this is an important skill to have to ensure the welfare of the horse.

when you can’t ride or turnout, there's still so much you can do. It may be tricky to find the motivation but this is the perfect time to focus on strengthening your partnership, improving your horse’s comfort and posture, and building solid foundations that will help your training and performance in the future.

Freshness and spookiness can be a real challenge during the winter months. Shorter days, reduced turnout, colder temperatures, clipped coats and more time spent in the stable can all have a significant impact on a horse’s behaviour.

In the quest of better movement, improved performance and long-term soundness, we often look closely at the horse. We analyse conformation, training methods, saddle fit and management in minute detail. But what if one of the most influential factors is sitting right on top of the horse?

Nicola Wilson talks about her passion for coaching, resilience and the lessons life has taught her along the way.

Soundness and symmetry in the equine hoof are influenced by a whole host of factors — quite possibly enough to fill an entire book. With that in mind, in this article, Mark Johnson focuses on some of the most common elements he comes across in his daily work as a hoof-care provider.

Gillian Higgins shares her thoughts and plans with her horses for the year ahead

Ros Canter outlines some of the principles that underpin her training system and the importance of soundness and symmetry in her horses.