classicpotatochip - 2015-01-24 9:34 AM I hope I'm not tooting my own too much, but I consider myself a good rider. I got a TON out of her clinic. I actually kind of felt that newer riders probably might not understand the point of the exercises and that they might have a harder time understanding why the horses move differently with Charmaynes teachings. I can see this working out, because though they might not pick up on the reasons, they would still be learning the method instead of sticking with bad habits. Advanced riders that are closed minded to new mechanics won't learn anything. This goes for any clinic, not just CJs. If you're going to spend money to go learn someone's method, why go in thinking you know what you're doing? Why not reset completely and really set out to absorb everything you can? Her clinic was seriously groundbreaking for me. I was pleased with the layout, presentation, motivational talks, and her attitude. You won't hear CJ shouting at anyone. She's not there to be a sergeant. She's not there to drill people. I believe that she will spend more time with people she feels that are truly there to improve, listen, and be a student. If you feel confused, or in difficulty, stop your horse. Breathe, compose yourself, make eye contact, and start asking questions. Charmayne will stand with you and give you her full focus until you're calmly working the exercise well. Heather was her assistant in the clinic I went to. That woman is a genius and a wonderful complement. They work as a team to keep helping you learn. I made huge strides with my riding in just a short while. So much of it was mental, and the clinics include so much coaching about mental preparation, mental training, and changing your outlook on your own riding, it's truly inspirational. Every moment, from your arrival to the end, can be spent riding and working on new ideas. A good portion of it is spent solo. It suited my learning style. (Show me something new, stick with me until I'm doing it right, now PLEASE go away so I can practice). They are there to give you the tools, then help you perfect them each time your turn comes up. If you haven't done your homework during the cracks, and spent time truly feeling your horse and practicing new ideas, you won't get As much the next time you have face time. Building block system. I was exhausted at the end. Mentally and physically exhausted. In a wonderful way! I found out that with any kind clinics, whether it's reining, or roping, or cutting, driving, anything, you get what you put in. If you go there thoughtfully, quietly, and grateful for a chance to be taught by a true professional, you'll profit. If you go in grudging every change, twisting every moment of their attention on someone else into a slight to you, and feeling upset because you're just upset, it's super difficult to learn. CJs clinics are no different, and if anything, she's a clinician that won't force the horse to drink after she's led him to the water. It's your choice to relax and learn, because she's not going to pester you or try to convince you. I can't wait to go again.