Embarking on the journey of starting a young or “green” horse is a pivotal moment, one that holds the power to shape your equine companion’s perception of being ridden for years to come. The decisions made during these crucial initial weeks and months lay the groundwork for their future experiences and partnership with a rider. This process is not merely about getting a rider into the saddle; it’s about introducing foundational training principles that foster confidence, understanding, and a willingness to learn.
Building a Foundation of Confidence
A slow and steady approach is paramount when starting a young horse. This deliberate pace allows the horse to build confidence, not only in their rider but also in their own capabilities. Rushing this stage, while seemingly quicker in the short term, almost guarantees future roadblocks and will ultimately slow down the overall training process. A horse that has had the opportunity to “work things out” physically and mentally from the outset gains a significant advantage. They become more capable of problem-solving later in their training, whether navigating challenging terrain or handling difficult jumping efforts. The early methods employed will significantly influence their reactions under pressure.
Establishing a Realistic Time Frame
A general recommendation for the “starting” phase is approximately six weeks. This period concludes when the horse is happily working under saddle, understanding basic aids, and responding to the rider’s questions. At this point, they are ready to commence a more comprehensive “schooling” program. However, it’s crucial to remember that each horse is an individual, and their progress will dictate the speed of this journey. If a horse exhibits anxiety or stress, it’s essential to backtrack and reassess. They must be comfortable with each step before progressing. This necessitates a flexible plan with room for detours and delays.
The Power of Consistency and Routine
Horses, much like children, thrive on routine and clear boundaries, especially when introduced to new experiences. It’s vital to allocate sufficient, dedicated time for this process, ideally a regular daily slot for at least six weeks. If consistent daily training isn’t feasible, seeking a professional trainer might be a more suitable option. Developing a consistent routine in how tasks are performed—whether grooming before or after work—is also important. This predictability helps the horse remain relaxed throughout the training.
The Crucial Role of Relaxation
Relaxation is a key indicator of progress and should be a focus from day one. It’s not something to consider solely when riding or working up the “training scale.” As the person introducing the horse to carrying a rider, promoting and ensuring relaxation is paramount. Tailoring the program to keep the horse as stress and anxiety-free as possible allows them to better absorb training and “go forward” in a relaxed manner. This relaxed state is a fundamental building block for effective work under saddle.
Individual Considerations for Every Horse
Before starting, evaluate the horse’s prior handling experiences. How they have interacted with people in the past significantly impacts their perception of you now. Basic respect for people is a prerequisite for a safe and easier working relationship. Additionally, their comfort with being touched, led, and generally handled on the ground will influence the initial weeks of training. Incorporating groundwork into their routine, as discussed in “Communicate with Your Horse Through Groundwork Touch,” can be highly beneficial.
Health and Happiness Go Hand-in-Hand
Ensuring the horse’s overall health and wellness is critical before beginning the starting process. Basic checks, including dental evaluations, up-to-date vaccinations, farrier visits, and a consistent deworming program, should be in place. A horse that doesn’t feel their best cannot perform at their best. Pain or discomfort during the introduction of tack can leave a lasting negative impression.
Quality Over Quantity in Training
When working with horses, especially young ones, prioritizing quality over quantity is generally the most effective approach. Shorter, focused sessions with a clear plan or goal will capture the horse’s full attention and prevent boredom. Young horses have limited concentration spans, and maintaining their engagement is key.
Essential Equipment and Facilities
For the initial weeks of training, specific equipment and facilities are necessary:
- A round pen or enclosed arena
- A lunge line
- A lunge whip
- A cavesson
- A reliable, calm, and experienced helper
- Ample time, a clear plan, and a consistent schedule
- A quiet stable or stall for focused work
Making Every Experience Positive
It cannot be overstated how important these initial “starting” weeks are. How the horse perceives this process will profoundly influence their future feelings about riders and being ridden. Striving to make each new experience happy and relaxed is vital. Simple measures, like having an older, experienced horse nearby, can aid relaxation and build confidence, showing the horse there is nothing to fear. This is particularly helpful if the horse becomes overwhelmed. Initial introductions to tack, such as the bit, bridle, roller, and saddle, will often occur in the stable, making a quiet and relaxed atmosphere essential.
Recruiting a Reliable Helper
Incorporating a dependable helper into the starting process is strongly recommended. This individual should possess a thorough understanding of horses and exude confidence and calmness. The horse looks to those around them to assess new situations, and positive human energy facilitates a smoother transition to working under saddle. Avoid helpers who are nervous, anxious, or unfamiliar with horse handling, as this can lead to frustration for you and intimidation for the horse. Your helper will assist with initial lunging, tack introduction, and mounting, playing a significant role in many aspects of the starting process.
Introducing Your Horse to Lunging
Before lunging, consider the horse’s perspective. Historically, they’ve been taught to work “beside” you. Lunging, however, asks them to work “away” from you, which can be confusing. A helper plays a crucial role in this transition, guiding the horse around the lunge track while you remain in the center, communicating. Initially, your helper will guide the horse, facilitating the shift from “beside” to “away.” Crucially, the aids used on the ground—body language, voice, lunge line, and whip—will be transferable to riding.
A Lasting Impact on the Partnership
The overarching principle during this initial training period is that the horse’s experiences will have a lasting impact on all future interactions with people and riders. Maintaining a relaxed physical and mental state, coupled with routine and consistency, is paramount. Remember, slow and steady truly wins the race; avoid rushing the process.
Happy Riding,
Lorna
Resources for Starting Your Horse:
For a step-by-step guide to starting your horse and building a solid foundation under saddle, explore “The Starting Collection.” This series of audio trainings offers daily programs designed to remove stress and confusion from the process, guiding you from initial handling and groundwork to riding away. More information can be found at https://stridesforsuccess.com/join/.
