Does Your Trainer Bury You, or Do They Plant You?

In life, and in horses, there’s a fine line between being buried and being planted. Both involve going into the dirt, but the outcome couldn’t be more different. One ends in death and stagnation, while the other brings forth new growth, strength, and potential. The same is true in the horse training world—both for horses and the people who work with them.

Buried or Planted? The Difference Matters

A trainer who “buries” you—or your horse—throws pressure, correction, or criticism at you without guidance. Buried training suffocates, leaving no room for growth. The result is a horse that shuts down, fears mistakes, and loses its spark… or a rider who feels defeated and inadequate.

But a trainer who “plants” you does something entirely different. Planting still involves challenge, discomfort, and pressure—it’s part of the process. But instead of suffocating, that challenge is surrounded with encouragement, direction, and clarity. A planted horse begins to grow confidence. A planted rider learns to push through mistakes, knowing the pressure has purpose.

What Planting Looks Like in Horse Training

• Clear Communication: The horse knows what’s being asked, not just what’s being punished.

• Patience: Growth doesn’t happen overnight. Seeds take time.

• Foundation First: Just like a seed needs good soil, a horse needs proper groundwork and basics to flourish.

• Encouragement Through Struggles: The trainer explains, adjusts, and helps the horse and rider learn from mistakes rather than fear them.

Why It Matters for You and Your Horse

If you or your horse are constantly leaving the arena frustrated, confused, or drained—you may be buried. But if you leave challenged yet inspired, tired yet hopeful, and excited to return tomorrow—you’re being planted.

The best trainers don’t just “work” horses; they cultivate them. They see what a horse can be and create the conditions for growth. They don’t bury mistakes in shame; they plant lessons that sprout into strength.

A Final Word

So ask yourself: Is my trainer burying me, or planting me? And if you’re a trainer, ask: Am I burying, or planting?

Because the difference between the two is life-changing—not just for horses, but for the people who ride them. 🌱🐎