Foundation Training
Foals and weanlings
Our foundation training program for foals and weanlings takes approximately three weeks and is taken to whatever stage the horse can manage. The most important thing is that the horse remains relaxed at all times and is not overloaded with training he is unable to absorb.
Following our step-by-step approach, we begin with in-hand work to train the young horse gently to respond to lead pressure (forward, back and stop). Our shaping program requires that the horse learns by offering one step at first. Once this is perfected using a light aid, we move to a second step.
When the horse is leading and stopping lightly, we shape this leading response and focus on training the horse to maintain his rhythm, take longer/shorter steps from light aids and, finally, that he keeps his line and straightness. Once he has mastered his legs and has confidence with his mobility, we train the young horse to maintain a stable and consistent head and neck carriage.
We then gradually introduce the young horse to more challenging environments (different arenas, paddocks) and situations (water, ditches, ramps, bridges, rubber mats, narrow spaces, etc), asking him to maintain the basic responses.
All young horses are trained:
- To wait for the walk on signals and, in their absence, to remain immobile
- To quietly offer their feet and remain immobile during all aspects of husbandry
- To obediently load onto a float from light aids
For yearlings, we develop the in-hand work further, including lunge-training if required.
Under-saddle training
Older horses that are ready to be introduced to a rider complete the groundwork, which ensures the stop/go signals elicit a light and immediate response from a relaxed and attentive horse. The bridle is introduced first, with the signals trained again in-hand.
Once the horse is relaxed with the bridle, habituating him with a rider begins with bareback work as the contact is most conducive to relaxation. We progress from laying on the horse bareback, to sitting up. We then train the horse to move forward from leg signals and to stop/slow from the reins.
Turning both ways from the correct turn signal follows and the saddle is introduced once the horse is fully relaxed with a bareback rider. Usually by the end of the second week the horse can be ridden around the property at a walk.
Perfecting and refining the training takes place in the indoor and outdoor dressage arenas, alternated with forest rides and obstacle course training. We also ensure the horse is relaxed on bush rides, in groups, pairs and on his own.
All gaits are trained and horses work on straight lines and circles, learning to leg-yield in walk and trot. The extent of the horse's education depends on his maturity, conformation and strength. We are careful not to overload the horse and hold relaxation as paramount.
We welcome you to participate in your horse's progress at any time during the training. We always provide a lesson on your horse, so you are familiar with all his trained signals, as well as a detailed 'horse report' with insights into his tendencies, training level and a plan to continue his training.