Training All Breeds

    During the first two months of training I want to build a "foundation" through teaching my  24-step "Basic Ground Training Program". Basic Ground Training will take approximately 4-5 weeks on an average 2 year old.The time it takes to teach this initial training varies from horse to horse, depending on the age, breed, bloodlines, disposition, and the style of handling the horse has been exposed to prior to arrival. It may take 6-8 weeks to change the patterns and attitude of an older horse or stallion as more time is needed to maintain their focus and accept training. Basic ground training sets the stage for how willingly your horse accepts the lessons in my "Basic Riding Program". Riding starts 4-6 weeks into the "Basic Ground Training Program".
    The foundation I want to build during the first months of training is a series of simple maneuvers that are the basis of all good riding. I want a young horse to walk, trot, lope and back up on a loose rein and guide well by giving his head softly in both directions. He should lope a nice circle with his body between the bridle reins, not pulling in or out of the circle. I want him to lope a straight line without veering left or right and  lope across the pasture on a loose rein with no signs of  running off. At this time I do not teach any hard fast stops or turnarounds.

1st Month Training 

Basic Ground Training Exercises include: 

Goals to achieve during the 1st Month of Training All "Basic Ground Training" is first taught with a rope halter. The young horse must understand and be cooperative before I progress to a snaffle bit.  I believe it is important to initially teach everything on the ground before riding, so when I get on their back the horse understands what I am asking.

2nd Month of Training
3rd Month of Training
4th Month of Training Each horse has varying degrees of athletic ability, strengths and weaknesses. My job as a trainer is to teach and develop them at a pace that is appropriate for your individual horse.