Julia Duncan Grounded Horsemanship

04/09/2026

A lovely review shared by Kelly Marks from one of my clients, Emma — and one that means a lot to me. ❤️

Working with young horses, especially when there are challenges around handling, isn’t about simply getting a horse to “do” something. It’s about understanding the cause of the behaviour, building confidence and two way communication, and finding a way forward without pushing things too soon.

Emma and her young horse have made some fantastic progress over the past few months — from biting and rearing when being led, to becoming calmer, more confident and able to stand quietly at the mounting block.

I particularly love that Emma describes horsemanship as being at the centre of my approach — because understanding the horse as the prey species it is is the building block from which everything else follows for me. 🐴

Thank you Emma for trusting me with your horse and for taking the time to write such a thoughtful review. It’s a privilege to be part of your journey.

If you’re struggling with something with your horse, or simply want to develop a better understanding and partnership, please get in touch. 💚

This is a review of our Intelligent Horsemanship Recommended Trainer, Julia Duncan
Edinburgh, Scotland (Clue is the flag)
Covering 35 mile radius of Edinburgh. Further by arrangement
07518 193093 or [email protected]
www.juliaduncangroundedhorsemanship.com

"I bought a young horse and was having particular problems handling and leading him. He would usually try to bite or rear when being led in the arena.

So, I did some internet research and found Julia's details.

Julia has helped transform my young horse over a few months! He has gone from biting and rearing when being led, and not standing by the mounting block, to a much calmer state. Learning the basics of groundwork, including leading over poles, backing up, yielding, and standing perfectly to get on.

Julia is gentle but firm, and her patience with us has been fantastic. She has a varied approach using different techniques including long-reining to find the most appropriate way to make progress without pushing things too soon.

As well as groundwork, Julia has taught me a lot about horsemanship, which is always at the centre of her approach.

I have had a great experience with Julia and would recommend Julia and Intelligent Horsemanship to other owners."

Emma Wood, 30th August 2026

27/08/2026

This really sums up my approach to working with horses. ❤️

Ropes, halters, Duallys and other equipment are training tools — which reinforce what we are asking based on the release of pressure but for me, they are cues, not the starting point.

What comes first is us: our intention, thought, focus, breath and posture. These are what signal the question to our horse.

The equipment can reinforce and clarify our question. Why shout when we can whisper?

The aim is for our horses to respond to the smallest suggestion — developing a conversation based on feel, clarity and trust.

Less force. More feel. 🌿🐴

24/08/2026

Long day at the laptop today! Finally escaped with my girls to hang out and recharge with little Corbie and Lola and the gang ☺️ 💚

21/08/2026

A relaxed groundwork session today with some lovely farm staff at Craigie Farm 🐴💚

I had the pleasure of working with both the largest and smallest horses I’ve worked with to date in sane session: 18hh handsome Clydesdale Buddy and little Pumpkin, who is now 3 years old!

Buddy can be quite a presence! He can become elevated and strong at times, so today was all about helping him stay connected, focused and responsive, while keeping things calm and clear.

And Pumpkin… what a little star 🌟 She is making such great progress in her job in the children’s area at the farm. It’s lovely to see her growing in confidence and learning to navigate all the different things that come with being a pony working around children.

A really positive session with both horses, and a great team of people supporting them. ❤️

🐴

14/08/2026

A little Shetland surprise! 🐴

In the small hours of this morning, Lola welcomed her gorgeous wee c**t into the world. 💙

He is absolutely adorable — and already melting hearts! 🥰🐴

Welcome to the world, little one. 💚

10/08/2026

After a very busy week- some time out with the boys by the river 💚☀️

09/08/2026

🐴 FULLY BOOKED! 🐴

I’m delighted to say that Reading the Herd on 22 August is now fully booked! 🎉

Thank you so much to everyone who has booked — I’m really looking forward to a fascinating day of learning, observing and exploring how horses communicate and interact within their herd.

There’s an informative, reflective programme planned including a talk from Dr Debbie Davy about her work breeding Exmoor ponies and their role in rewilding.

If you’d like to be added to the waiting list or to hear about future events, drop me a message and I’ll make sure you’re kept in the loop. 💚