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TRAINING the TRAINER
Mission Statement:
The Training the Trainer series is dedicated to teaching
the trainer/handler/owner, how to get the most enjoyment
out of their mount, regardless of the discipline, in a
SAFE, and easy to learn format.
Goal:
The goal is spelled out for each clinic. I will
help the trainer strive to achieve that goal!
Format: In order for
the trainer and mount to progress in their training in a
structured manner, I have made the Training the Trainer
a 4 part color coded series. The four series will be
listed as White, Gold, Red, or Black. Each series will
have a number of clinics in it. This will allow for the
trainer to chart their training progress, and determine
whether or not they wish to continue on to more advanced
training techniques. Learning is achieved through
repetition. All clinics will involve a certain amount of
repetition, allowing the trainer to “refine” techniques
as they progress. Trainers are encouraged to “do their
home work” between clinics.
Why a 4 part Color Series:
The color coded system is a simplified way for me to
present the training information in a logical,
progressive manner. It also allows the trainer to gauge
his/her understanding and training ability. The system
is fashioned somewhat after my martial arts training.
White indicates the
beginning, a starting point.
Gold indicates
intermediate or someone with some experience.
Red indicates
advanced or someone with more than average knowledge of
Natural Horsemanship. This person is striving to achieve
“oneness” with their mount.
Black indicates some
expertise. While we can strive for perfection, we will
only achieve a certain amount of it. The Black series
signifies that the trainer is willing to go the
distance, do whatever it takes to achieve complete
mutual respect and trust with their mount. This person
is regarded as someone who truly understands Natural
Horsemanship!
Remember the color code system
only indicates the material being presented and learned.
I do not wish to offend anyone by saying they are a
beginner, when in fact they might be an expert. The
training techniques are for everyone, but the “MOST
COMMITTED WILL WIN!”
Certificate: Upon
completion of each clinic, the trainer will be awarded a
training certificate indicating their achievement in
that particular clinic.
Comment: It takes
time and dedication to develop a well-trained horse. The
mount will become, and stay as dedicated as the trainer.
If the mount does not respect you, it will not trust
you, and your riding experiences might be difficult, if
not dangerous. I have three basic rules that I follow to
achieve respect. One:
safety first, our safety. We are very important and
cannot afford to be injured in any way.
Two: training cannot injure
the horse. Three: we must
have movement in order to teach. Exaggerate to teach,
and refine as you go along.
Respect: The horse
must respect us and our space! How is that achieved?
Actually it is quite simple. We make it uncomfortable
for the mount when they do something that is
unacceptable, such as being disrespectful or pushy and
make it comfortable for the horse when they try or do
the technique correctly. Uncomfortable means moving the
horse forward, backward, left and right. The horse is
never allowed into our personal space, unless we invite
them in. The trainer MUST be willing to do whatever it
takes to get the job done.
Remember:
AS GENTLY AS POSSIBLE but AS FIRM
AS NECESSARY!! |