In the world of equestrian arts, few names resonate with the blend of classical grace and cinematic thrill quite like Ben Atkinson. A master horse trainer, stunt rider, and liberty artist from Yorkshire, England, Ben Atkinson isn’t just training horses; he’s forging profound partnerships built on a silent language of trust and respect. As a key figure in the world-renowned Atkinson Action Horses, he has brought some of the most spectacular equine performances to both the big screen and the live arena, demonstrating a level of horsemanship that feels both timeless and revolutionary.
At the heart of his philosophy is a simple yet powerful belief: a true connection with a horse is the foundation for everything else. Whether he’s guiding a steed through the chaos of a film set for productions like Peaky Blinders or Poldark, or performing a breathtaking liberty display with no tack at all, his methods are a testament to this deep-seated principle. This is the story of a man continuing a family legacy, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible between human and horse.
Who is Ben Atkinson? The Man Behind the Magic
Growing up wasn’t just about learning to ride for Ben Atkinson; it was his entire world. Born into the family that created Atkinson Action Horses, one of the most respected equestrian service companies in the film industry, his education in horsemanship started almost before he could walk. This unique upbringing provided him with a living library of equine knowledge, allowing him to absorb the nuances of horse behavior and training from a young age.
His approach is a rich tapestry woven from different disciplines. While deeply rooted in the foundational principles of classical dressage, which provides the structure and physical development for his horses, he is perhaps most famous for his mastery of liberty work. This art of communicating and directing a horse without any physical aids like bridles or saddles is where his philosophy truly shines. It is a “dance of trust,” as many have called it, showcasing a flawless, invisible line of communication. Blending this with fearless stunt riding, he has carved a niche as one of the most versatile and spellbinding horsemen of his generation.
The Atkinson Method: More Than Just Training
To understand Ben Atkinson’s success is to look beyond techniques and see the core philosophy that drives him. It’s not a rigid system but an intuitive approach centered on understanding the horse as an individual. He emphasizes building a bombproof horse—one that is confident, happy, and prepared for any environment, from a quiet trail to a chaotic movie set.
The Core Philosophy: Building a Bond
The Atkinson method begins with one essential ingredient: relationship. Before asking for complex movements or high-level performance, Ben invests time in understanding the horse’s mind. He believes that every horse is an individual with its own personality, fears, and strengths.
“True horsemanship isn’t about dominance; it’s about dialogue,” states Dr. Eleanor Vance, a leading equine behaviorist. “Ben Atkinson is a master of this dialogue. He listens to what the horse is telling him and builds his training around that conversation, creating a willing and confident partner.”
This approach relies heavily on patience and positive reinforcement. Instead of forcing compliance, Ben creates scenarios where the horse chooses to cooperate because it feels safe and understood. This foundation of trust is what makes his breathtaking performances possible.
Liberty Work: A Dance of Trust
Liberty is the ultimate expression of the bond between Ben and his horses. Working without tack, he uses only his body language and energy to guide his equine partners through intricate patterns and movements. This isn’t a trick; it’s a conversation. For Ben, liberty training is the “missing piece” in many training programs because it strips away all the gadgets and forces the handler to become a better, clearer communicator. It proves that the connection is real and not reliant on equipment.
From Classical Dressage to Blockbuster Stunts
While liberty work showcases the relationship, classical dressage provides the physical and mental framework for his horses to excel. The principles of balance, rhythm, and suppleness learned through dressage create strong, athletic, and mentally focused animals capable of performing demanding stunts safely. This dual expertise allows him to prepare horses for the rigors of the film industry, where they may be asked to gallop through a battle scene one moment and stand calmly for a close-up the next.
Atkinson Action Horses: A Family Legacy
Ben’s work is intrinsically linked to his family’s business, Atkinson Action Horses. For nearly three decades, this powerhouse team has supplied highly trained horses, stunt riders, and expert trainers for some of the biggest names in film and television. From Victoria and The Witcher to historical epics, their mark on the industry is undeniable.
The company prides itself on its versatility, providing everything from liberty horses and carriage driving teams to classically trained mounts for lead actors. Growing up in this environment gave Ben a unique understanding of what it takes to prepare a horse for any task imaginable. He continues to be a driving force within the company, upholding its reputation for excellence and pushing the creative boundaries of equine performance.
What Can We Learn from Ben Atkinson’s Approach?
While few of us will train horses for movie stunts, the principles behind Ben Atkinson’s methods are universal and can profoundly impact any equestrian’s relationship with their horse.
- Prioritize the Relationship: Before you focus on your next competition goal, focus on your connection. Spend quality time with your horse that doesn’t involve riding or training, like grooming or hand-grazing.
- Master Groundwork: Ben’s liberty work is built on a foundation of exceptional groundwork. Teaching your horse to be respectful, responsive, and connected to you on the ground will translate directly to your work in the saddle.
- Listen More Than You Ask: Pay attention to your horse’s body language. Are they tense, relaxed, confused, or confident? Adjust your training to support their mental and emotional state. A happy, willing partner will always learn faster and perform better.
- Be Consistent and Patient: Building trust takes time. Celebrate small victories and don’t get discouraged by setbacks. Every interaction is an opportunity to strengthen your bond.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ben Atkinson
How did Ben Atkinson start training horses?
Ben Atkinson grew up in the family business, Atkinson Action Horses, and has been around horses his entire life. He began experimenting with trick training his ponies at age 11 and was working on film sets soon after, becoming a professional by his late teens.
What is liberty work?
Liberty work is a training method where the horse is worked without any tack, including saddles, bridles, or halters. The trainer guides the horse using only body language, energy, and voice commands, showcasing an exceptionally high level of trust and communication.
Which films and TV shows has Ben Atkinson worked on?
Ben Atkinson and Atkinson Action Horses have an extensive list of credits, including popular series like Poldark, Peaky Blinders, Victoria, and The Witcher, among many others.
Can anyone learn Ben Atkinson’s methods?
Yes. Ben is passionate about sharing his knowledge and offers a variety of training opportunities. He conducts clinics and tours, and has partnered with platforms like Horsemanship Hub to create online courses, a “How To” series, and even a feature-length film detailing his approach to liberty and bridle-less riding.
What is the philosophy behind the Atkinson method?
The core philosophy is to build a confident and happy horse through a strong partnership based on mutual trust and clear communication. Ben Atkinson Horse Trainer focuses on understanding horse psychology to create a willing partner, rather than using force to achieve results.
A Partnership for the Ages
Ben Atkinson represents a new generation of horsemen who honor tradition while fearlessly innovating. His work reminds us that horsemanship is more than a sport or a skill—it is an art form. It’s the art of listening, the art of patience, and the art of building a relationship so strong that words are no longer needed. By placing the bond with the horse at the forefront of everything he does, the Ben Atkinson horse trainer not only creates stunning spectacles but also inspires us all to seek a deeper, more meaningful connection with our own equine partners.
