EDUCATION

I hear, I forget
I see, I remember
I do, I understand
- Confucius 551-479

Training For HORSES:

The first start or "backing" of a young horse can certainly optimize a horse’s future as a riding and competition horse. As a youngster, horses are inquisitive and naturally trusting, what a perfect time to gain their confidence and teach them about our expectations regarding tack, stable and riding.

It takes experience breeding, training, and competing, to develop a system that is reliable, safe, and effective.   Using  the psychology of horsemen such as John Lyons, Pat Parelli, Richard Shrake, Ray Hunt, and Positive Reinforcement principles (clicker training), the idea of this process is to gain the horse's understanding  and acceptance,  each step of the way. Everyone wants a horse who enjoys learning, and is a willing partner.

The owner/rider is very much a part of this process, so you can succeed with your horse.

Training For RIDERS:
Do you have a thirst for knowledge?

Whether a beginner rider  or seasoned competitor, we all need some help to achieve our potential !  Riding well takes time. And like any skill, it will certainly  improve with practice!

The most important thing is that you learn to sit in balance, supple and relaxed. Then the aids must be learned, in what order, and when, and how…this requires ongoing techniques and exercises for awareness. The dressage  patterns are to gymnasticize and develop the horse, and they only serve this purpose when the rider is fairly well organized, synchronized to  the horse's motion.

If you heard that dressage riding can make a horse more supple, more  relaxed, more elastic, more obedient, you are right!  Western horses, showjumpers, we find all breeds benefit by dressage riding. Its about communication, and partnership.

For more information on Marcy's training program, visit www.dressagehorsetrainer.com