In the world of equestrian sports, some names are synonymous with victory, while others are known for their innovation. Amanda Wilson, however, has carved a unique space for herself by embodying both. As a Grand Prix show jumper, wild horse tamer, and revered clinician, this New Zealand horse trainer is redefining the very essence of the partnership between horse and human. She isn’t just training horses to perform; she is teaching people how to listen, understand, and connect with their equine partners on a profound psychological level.
At the heart of Amanda Wilson’s philosophy is a deep respect for the horse’s mind. Drawing from her extensive studies in both human and animal trauma, she has developed a methodology that moves beyond traditional, pressure-based training. Her approach is built on a simple yet revolutionary idea: teaching a horse to respond from the thinking side of its brain, rather than reacting out of instinct and survival. This focus on equine psychology has allowed her to build extraordinary bonds with horses from all walks of life, from elite competition mounts to untamed horses straight from the wild. It’s a gentler, more effective path to building a willing and confident partner, proving that true horsemanship is a dialogue, not a monologue.
A Philosophy Rooted in Psychology
What sets Amanda Wilson apart is her ability to see the world from the horse’s perspective. Where some might see disobedience or a “problem horse,” Amanda sees a horse communicating stress or confusion. Her training system is designed to give the horse the tools it needs to process information calmly and make confident choices.
“A horse’s undesirable behavior is often a manifestation of a past trauma or a current stressor. It’s a survival response, not a choice to be difficult,” explains Dr. Sarah Miller, a specialist in equine behavior. “Trainers like Amanda Wilson are at the forefront of a major shift in the industry, moving towards a trauma-informed approach that prioritizes the animal’s mental well-being as the foundation for physical performance.”
This means focusing on groundwork that builds trust, exercises that encourage relaxation, and a training pace that the horse dictates. Amanda’s goal is to create a horse that is not just obedient but is an active and enthusiastic participant in its own learning. She peels back the layers of instinct to find the thinking, feeling animal within, fostering a connection that is resilient and unshakeable, whether in a high-pressure show jumping arena or a quiet pasture.
From the Grand Prix Arena to the Wild Ranges
Amanda Wilson’s expertise has been tested and proven in the most demanding equestrian environments. Her career in show jumping is nothing short of remarkable. By the age of 13, she was already competing at the Grand Prix level, going on to win some of New Zealand’s most prestigious titles, including the Pony of the Year and the 7-Year-Old Horse of the Year. Her partnerships with her famed pinto sport horses, such as the legendary Showtym Viking and the powerful Showtym Cassanova, have made her a household name in the sport, inspiring countless young riders along the way.
Yet, her passion extends far beyond the polished world of competitive show jumping. Amanda, alongside her equally talented sisters Vicki and Kelly, is a fierce advocate for wild horses. She has dedicated years to taming and rehoming New Zealand’s Kaimanawas, American Mustangs, and Australian Brumbies, many of which would have otherwise been destined for slaughter. This incredible work was brought to mainstream attention through the popular television series “Keeping Up With The Kaimanawas,” where audiences witnessed her patient, empathetic methods in action. Taming a wild horse is the ultimate test of horsemanship, requiring a deep understanding of equine language and an unwavering ability to build trust where there is only fear.
The Amanda Wilson Method for Every Horse Owner
Recognizing that her methods could benefit equestrians everywhere, Amanda has become a highly sought-after clinician and educator. She travels extensively, hosting clinics and horsemanship retreats that empower riders of all disciplines and skill levels to build better relationships with their horses. For those unable to attend in person, she has developed an extensive online training platform.
This digital library is a treasure trove of knowledge, containing over 200 videos broken down into comprehensive series. Whether you are handling a foal for the first time, starting a young horse under saddle, or working through complex behavioral issues like bucking or anxiety, Amanda provides clear, step-by-step guidance. Her modules include:
- Groundwork Essentials: Teaching basic body control and establishing leadership.
- Starting Under Saddle: A gentle, confidence-building approach to a horse’s first rides.
- Behavioral Issues: Diagnosing and addressing common problems from a psychological perspective.
- Foal and Yearling Handling: Creating a solid foundation for a lifetime of learning.
- Ridden Work: Refining communication and body language in the saddle.
The accessibility of her program ensures that any horse owner, anywhere in the world, can learn to apply her compassionate and effective techniques.
A Global Voice for Compassionate Horsemanship
Amanda Wilson’s influence extends well beyond her hands-on training. As a co-author of books like “Showtym Viking” and “The Wilson Sisters Horse and Pony Guide,” she has shared her story and knowledge with a wide audience. She is also a gifted motivational speaker, captivating audiences with her adventures and her profound insights into the nature of horses. Her work is a testament to the idea that success in the equestrian world should be measured not only by ribbons won but by the quality of the relationship built with the horse.
She is an advocate for a new way of thinking—a call to the equestrian community to prioritize empathy and understanding. Her journey, from the top levels of show jumping to the rugged ranges where wild horses run free, demonstrates that the principles of good horsemanship are universal. They are based on patience, trust, and a willingness to listen to what the horse is trying to tell us.
Frequently Asked Questions about Amanda Wilson
What is Amanda Wilson’s training philosophy?
Amanda Wilson’s training philosophy is centered on equine psychology and understanding how horses process stress and trauma. She focuses on teaching horses to respond from the “thinking” part of their brain, building a partnership based on trust and communication rather than pressure or fear.
Is Amanda Wilson one of the Wilson Sisters?
Yes, Amanda is one of the three world-renowned Wilson Sisters, alongside her sisters Vicki and Kelly. Together, they have achieved incredible success in show jumping, wild horse taming, and equestrian education, becoming prominent advocates for compassionate horsemanship.
What horses is Amanda Wilson famous for?
Amanda Wilson is widely celebrated for her partnerships with a string of talented pinto show jumpers. Her most famous mounts include Showtym Viking, with whom she won the prestigious Pony of the Year title, and Showtym Cassanova, who she successfully competed at the World Cup and Grand Prix levels.
How can I learn from Amanda Wilson?
You can learn Amanda Wilson’s methods through multiple channels. She regularly hosts in-person clinics and retreats in New Zealand. For global access, she offers a comprehensive online video training series on her website, covering topics from foal handling to advanced ridden work and behavioral problem-solving.
The Future of Horsemanship
Amanda Wilson is more than just a horse trainer; she is a pioneer lighting the way toward a more empathetic and effective future for the equestrian world. Her work challenges us to look deeper, to question old methods, and to always put the horse’s well-being first. She has shown that by understanding the mind of the horse, we can unlock potential that force and pressure never could. For anyone who has ever looked at their horse and wished for a deeper connection, the methods and message of Amanda Wilson, horse trainer and true horsewoman, offer a clear and inspiring path forward.
