“Join up” is a term frequently encountered by teenagers interested in horse training, often stemming from popular book series like Heartland. These books, however, tend to lack the detailed explanation needed for a comprehensive understanding of this technique. This has led many young horse enthusiasts to ask, “How do I join up with my horse?” While sometimes referred to as hooking on, latching on, or simply round penning, join up is a specific round pen method designed to capture a horse’s attention, foster trust, and encourage the horse to accept handling from a trainer. It aims to overcome a horse’s natural fear and flight instincts, paving the way for a willing partnership and serving as a strong foundation for subsequent training.
The core principle of join up involves placing the horse in a round pen or similar enclosed space. The trainer then initiates the process by encouraging the horse to move away, typically using a longe whip or a flag stick to prompt the horse to circle the pen. Initially, a young or inexperienced horse will likely trot or canter, seeking an escape from the perceived pressure of the trainer and the moving whip. After several circuits, the trainer will request a change in direction, having the horse circle the opposite way. Close observation of the horse’s body language is crucial here. As the horse begins to realize there’s no escape from the enclosure, it may start to exhibit signs of focusing on the trainer to alleviate stress. These indicators can include flicking ears towards the trainer instead of the outside of the pen, stopping to lower its head and sniff the ground, or turning towards the trainer with an approach. These are signals that the horse is shifting its focus from escape to engagement with the trainer.
At this pivotal moment, the trainer should transition their body language from an assertive posture to one of approachability. This involves lowering the whip, ceasing its movement, and extending one hand towards the horse in a welcoming gesture, possibly taking a step towards the horse’s head. Should the horse react by bolting and running, the trainer must revert to the assertive driving strategy, guiding the horse through several more circles and observing for the signs of acceptance. However, if the horse remains calm and accepts petting and touch, the trainer can proceed with gentle handling all over the horse’s body, building a sense of trust. If, at any point, the horse turns away from the trainer or becomes distracted by external stimuli such as other horses or grazing, the trainer should prompt the horse to move away again, completing another circle before resuming gentle interaction. This repetition reinforces the idea that remaining close to the trainer is the desired outcome. A horse that learns to accept handling in this manner should be easily caught and haltered throughout its life. While the initial goal is often to get the horse to follow, this following behavior is a learned response to avoid being driven away, rather than an indicator of deep connection. For those interested in the nuances of horse behavior and training, exploring resources on horse training methods can provide further insights.
A significant misconception surrounding join up is its universal applicability. Horses, as individuals, possess unique past experiences that shape their behavior. While young colts or horses with minimal handling often respond favorably, seasoned horses that are already gentle may not grasp the concept due to a lack of fear or mistrust towards their handler. Similarly, horses that have experienced negative training or abuse may never fully “join up” due to heightened fear levels. Therefore, join up is not suitable for every horse and does not guarantee success. Many observers mistakenly equate a horse following a trainer with a genuine “bond.” This is not necessarily the case; the horse’s compliance may simply signify acceptance of the situation and a learned response to avoid being driven.
True bonding with a horse is a distinct and far more profound connection than what can be achieved through a single session of join up. Developing a deep bond can take years and may occur with only a select few horses throughout a person’s life. It is often summarized by the sentiment that “wet saddle blankets are the foundation for making a true bond between you and your horse.” This deeper connection is forged through extensive time spent together, collaborative efforts on new tasks, shared diverse experiences, and maintaining a united front through both challenges and triumphs. Understanding the difference between these training techniques and genuine companionship is key for any aspiring horseman. For those looking to deepen their understanding of equine partnership, resources on heartland horse training methods might offer additional perspectives on different approaches.
It’s important to note that while “join up” can be a valuable tool in a trainer’s arsenal, it is not a definitive measure of a horse’s affection or willingness to cooperate. The goal is to build a foundation of trust and respect, recognizing that each horse’s journey and response to training will be unique. Exploring different training philosophies and seeking guidance from experienced professionals can further enhance a trainer’s ability to connect with their equine partners. The journey of working with horses is one of continuous learning and adaptation. Remember, the key is to approach each horse with patience, understanding, and a commitment to their well-being. Developing a strong relationship with your horse is a rewarding experience that goes beyond basic training exercises. With dedication and the right approach, you can build a lasting partnership. The process of horse training with whip techniques, when applied correctly and ethically, can contribute to this goal. Further exploration into techniques such as colt starting can provide a broader understanding of foundational training principles.
