Justin Thomas – Your Go‑To Source for Real‑World Riding Advice

If you’ve ever scrolled through AJ’s Equestrian Sports looking for a clear answer on a riding problem, you’ve probably landed on a post by Justin Thomas. He’s not a celebrity chef or a football star – he’s the kind of rider who spends mornings in the arena and evenings answering questions on forums. In plain English, he knows what works and what doesn’t when you’re on a horse.

Who is Justin Thomas?

Justin started horse riding as a kid on a small farm in England. He didn’t have fancy trainers; he learned by watching older riders, fixing his own mistakes, and reading every article he could find. Today he runs a small training business, writes blog posts for us, and runs weekly lunge‑lesson clinics. His style is practical – no fluff, just what you can try on the next ride.

Justin’s Practical Riding Advice

One of his most‑asked‑about topics is the lunge lesson. He explains that a lunge lesson isn’t about the horse doing lunges; it’s about giving the rider a chance to work on balance while the horse moves in a circle on a long line. Key tip: keep the line taut, stay relaxed, and focus on your core. He says a few minutes of lunge work each week can dramatically improve your seat.

Justin also talks a lot about gear on a budget. When you ask him about riding clothes, he lists brands like TuffRider, Ovation, and Saxon as solid choices that won’t break the bank. He stresses that safety gear – a properly fitted helmet and sturdy boots – matters more than a fancy jacket. “If you can’t afford a new jacket, invest in a helmet,” he warns.

Kids love horses, and Justin has written a piece on why horseback riding is great for children. He points out three big benefits: improved balance, boosted confidence, and a sense of responsibility when they care for the horse. He recommends starting with short, fun sessions and always having a knowledgeable adult nearby.

Some riders worry about getting back after a long break. Justin’s advice is simple: start with flatwork at a walk, rebuild your core, and don’t rush into jumps. He compares it to riding a bike – once you’ve learned, the muscles remember, but you still need to warm up.

Safety is another area where Justin is vocal. He’s written a straightforward article about helmets, saying they’re designed to absorb impact and can be the difference between a bruise and a serious injury. He admits helmets don’t stop every injury, but they’re the best cheap insurance you can buy.

For riders who wonder about the right spurs, Justin says the English rowel spur is good for dressage, while a simple Western spur works for trail riding. He stresses that spurs are tools, not toys – use them lightly and always listen to your horse’s reaction.

Finally, Justin loves answering odd questions, like whether riding a horse can hurt your… private parts. He laughs, says the saddle design matters, and recommends a well‑fitted seat to avoid any discomfort.

Bottom line: Justin Thomas delivers no‑nonsense, experience‑based advice that you can try right away. Whether you’re a kid, a budget‑conscious adult, or someone getting back on the horse after a break, his tips are designed to make riding safer, more fun, and less confusing. Keep an eye on his posts here at AJ’s Equestrian Sports – they’re packed with the kind of real‑world advice you won’t find in a textbook.