Chase the ball - Holistic Horse Handling Program Lesson Plan Preview

Trainability is a concept we discuss a lot at Equestrian Movement.

It refers to the learning capability of the horse, as well as that willingness to learn.

A way to increase that willingness is through variety, consent, confidence and leadership; which is why the concept of “Chase the ball” came up for a lesson plan.

“Chase the ball” expands on the Liberty training outlined in the Holistic Horse Handling Program, and makes our basic, day-to-day groundwork with our horses by including a moving target. Plus, it was just plain fun to teach!

This exercise plan is designed to create confidence in our horses, as we encourage them to investigate new things. It expands their training vocabulary, and helps our horses connect with us. It also removes all pressure in the learning phase, to help strengthen the bond and connection between horse and handler.

Follow my feet - a Holsitic Horse Handling Program Lesson Plan Preview

“Follow My Feet” is a great way to establish leadership and connection with your horse, and can be used to in a variety of different scenarios.

When a horse forces our feet to move, they are taking a role in leadership. When we move their feet, we take the leadership. Follow my feet allows you to expand on that leadership and turn it into a partnership.

This can be a good exercise for our pushy, bully type horses as we can be a bit more assertive when we have the halter on but is also a light, connective exercise for our more sensitive horse and when we get a break through with our bully type horses.

As with all Holistic Horse Handling Lesson Plans, it is groundwork, this time focusing on leadership and connection.