Becoming A Horseman
Becoming A Horseman
When effectively communicating and educating the horse, it is critically important that we utilize the correct body language and manage our reactions appropriately within the span of just a split second. This approach ensures that the horse can visually and mentally grasp how to find the correct answers to the questions we are asking of them. By maintaining clarity in our cues and responses, we help facilitate a deeper understanding and build a more harmonious partnership with the horse.
Our energy, timing, physical movements, and human voice commands, along with our balance, coordination, and mental reactions, play an essential role in the educational journey of our horsemanship. Before we can effectively begin to work with and communicate with our horses, it is crucial to cultivate these attributes within ourselves. Mastering these skills not only enhances our understanding but also builds a solid foundation for a successful partnership with our equine companions.
I want to share an experience from my teenage years in fencing. I believe any knowledgeable coach in any sport would have a similar story.
When I was first introduced to the exhilarating sport of fencing, my mind was fresh and alert, flexible in my joints and poised for action. I was filled with a sense of bravery and youthful enthusiasm, convinced that I knew all there was to know about this captivating discipline. However, on that first day of my education, I vividly remember expecting the coach to hand us the sword, our primary tool, so that we could jump right into the exciting world of fencing and begin to immediately compete, learn, and, most importantly, have a lot of fun.
I initially assumed that participating in this sport would be quite similar to watching the thrilling exploits of the three musketeers on screen. However, I was mistaken in that belief! It was only after a rigorous six months of dedicated education and training that I finally received the sword in my hand from my coach. This delay was due to the fact that my coach needed to first prepare our mental and physical abilities, focusing on essential aspects such as balance, coordination, and the development of proper muscle memory. The coach employed a series of structured methods to follow, and he took the time to graduate us as skilled students in order to ensure that we would ultimately become successful practitioners of the sport.
So it was that we did not just pick up the sword on the very first day and start to swing it wildly from left to right, without really having any idea of what our goals or intentions were. Believe it or not, when I first picked up the sword in my hand, I felt a profound sense of respect for the weapon itself and an equally strong respect for the coach who was guiding us. At that moment, I realized I was a completely different kid mentally than I had been in the six months prior to this experience.
Each new season, our dedicated coach would initiate a fresh group of thirty eager students, ready to embark on the journey of learning and growth. However, after just six months of rigorous training and commitment, only five students would be remaining. This reduction was primarily due to the demanding nature of the program, which required hard work five days a week. It also called for an immense level of patience, unwavering dedication, and a deep respect for our coach's guidance. Additionally, it was essential for us to develop an appreciation for what was being asked of us, learning to enjoy the process as much as the outcomes.
When I reflect on my past experiences in my sport history and compare this to the realm of horsemanship education, I find myself feeling quite disappointed. This sentiment leads me to a deeper understanding of why so many horses are often misunderstood, frustrated, and consequently seem to be difficult to educate effectively.
In today's approach to horse education, it is increasingly common to observe a lack of emphasis on thoroughly learning the methods first and focusing on the specific goals that are to be reached or the potential problems that might be effectively prevented in our education. Many individuals simply rush into the round pen, leap into the saddle, or hastily pick up the reins to start pulling, all without taking the necessary time to learn proper methods or techniques. Furthermore, many resort to using whips and begin applying physical pressure without truly realizing that such actions can ultimately damage the horse's mental and physical capabilities.
I always tell my students that the horse is not simply a boxing dummy to practice on, but rather a living being with a heart, emotions, and a complex understanding of physics. For us as dedicated horsemen and horsewomen, I strongly recommend that we first take the necessary time to thoroughly learn the methods, step by step. It is vital to master how to hold and effectively use our tools—whether they are specialized horsemanship tools or the reins in our hands.
Additionally, we must learn to feel and develop our coordination in both our hands and legs. This includes honing our reactions and being mindful of how we use our body language, energy, and voice commands, while also ensuring that we are consistent in our cues. It is equally important to have a well-thought-out plan before working with your horse. Understanding that this plan or method will significantly contribute to achieving our ultimate goals with your horse is crucial for our continued success within our horsemanship.
It has taken me a lifetime to carefully develop my horsemanship methods, progressing step by step through various experiences and lessons learned, and every single day I continue to discover more effective ways to communicate with the horse. These insights foster greater willingness and understanding between us, enhancing the bond we share. I warmly invite you to explore my comprehensive educational methodology, which details each step along with thorough explanations to ensure clarity and effectiveness in your own practice.