Did you know training can be as simple as hanging out with your horse? A good foundation starts with building a connection. So often, riders demand things from their horse with little regard to the impact that it has. You can ride and have fun, but also have a happy and willing horse. This is achieved by building a connection with them!

How to Connect

In Warwick Schiller's Principles of Training, he begins by creating a connection with his horses. He encourages riders to "hang out" with their horse. Here's some tips on getting started.

  • Go to your horse's field or stall and sit with them in a chair or stand quietly. You can read a book or meditate.
  • Enter their pasture or living space without demands or expectations.
  • It's your horse's choice to come over or not.
  • If they do approach you, don't scratch or touch them unless they initiate it.
  • Don't catch them afterwards.
horse nose COWGIRL magazine
A horse coming over to say 'hi'. Photo by Mahmoud Ayad.

By hanging out with your horse, you let them know you're not just there to work them. It's a great exercise for those that are hard to catch. Their curiosity often leads them over to you. It can also help the person to remove their expectations.

This exercise isn't recommended for riders with a pushy horse or those that can't respect your boundaries. It's intended for those that are standoffish, uninterested in people, or have shut down.

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