What is acceptance of contact?

There is a delicate dance between the rider and the horse.

A dance of communication, connection and movement. 

In a recent episode of the First Do No Harm Podcast, I dove into a subtle yet crucial distinction: the difference between acceptance of contact and submission to the bit. Let's peel back the layers and uncover the intricacies that allow horses to move more functionally, promoting long-term soundness.

In the equestrian sport, it's a common mistake to use "acceptance" and "submission" interchangeably when discussing a horse's response to the bit. But these terms hold distinct meanings within the complex conversation between horse and rider.

Acceptance of contact is like an invitation — a gentle dialogue where the horse can feel safe to relax into and seek direction from the piece of metal in their mouth. It's a dance where the horse has trust and confidence in the rider's hands, recognizing the rider's influence without sacrificing its natural grace. It's not about forced compliance but a harmonious partnership where both parties find a rhythm that enhances movement.

On the flip side, when we establish submission to the bit, the horse can only seek the release of pressure by going behind it. Our hands are unyielding and unforgiving for the soft tissues of the gums, tongue and lips. When we talk about pressure release, we are creating a pressure that the horse seeks the release of. When we have contact, there is no release of pressure. Why would the horse hold the bit and our hands in their mouth with trust, confidence and relaxation?. This distinction is vital; true acceptance cannot exist without relaxation, trust and confidence in the hand. Why would your horse relax into a piece of metal and seek your hand with trust and confidence for direction?

This insightful episode takes us through the nuanced differences between acceptance and submission. Real-life examples and expert insights unravel the intricacies that allow a horse to move more functionally. It's not about imposing terms on our equine partners; it's about understanding the subtleties that contribute to their physical well-being and overall soundness.

The heart of our exploration lies in how these subtleties contribute to the long-term soundness of our equine companions. Fostering acceptance instead of demanding submission creates an environment where the horse can not only move freely, building strength and resilience over time but has permission to express itself through movement. It's a journey that goes beyond immediate compliance, leading to a partnership founded on trust.

Imagine the horse and rider engaged in a ballet—a dance where the 2 bodies intertwine in melody and harmony. In this dance, the horse finds freedom in movement, and the rider becomes a guide rather than a controller. Together, they create a symphony of motion that nurtures not only physical well-being but also the bond between them.

The takeaway is clear: acceptance and submission are not interchangeable in the realm of equine movement. Understanding this distinction allows us to cultivate a partnership with our horses built on trust, communication, and the celebration of their innate grace. Join us in this exploration, and let's step into a world where ridden work paves the way for long-term soundness and a harmonious connection between horse and rider.