When you delve into the world of modern horsemanship, it’s impossible to avoid the name of Horse Trainer Pat Parelli. A figure who is simultaneously celebrated and critiqued, Parelli revolutionized the way many people think about the horse-human relationship. He took the niche concepts of “natural horsemanship” and packaged them into a global curriculum, creating an accessible, step-by-step program for horse lovers everywhere. But who is the man behind the brand, and what makes his philosophy so compelling and, at times, controversial?
At Equine Excellence, we believe in understanding the full spectrum of training philosophies to foster a deeper connection with our equine partners. Parelli’s approach, which he branded Parelli Natural Horsemanship (PNH), is built on the premise that to train a horse, you must first understand its nature. This means thinking more like a horse, understanding its herd dynamics, and using psychology over force. This core idea has resonated with thousands, offering a welcome alternative to more traditional, forceful training methods. If you’re interested in the broader journey of equestrian professionals, exploring how to become horse trainer can provide valuable context.
The Philosophy of Parelli Natural Horsemanship
The foundation of the Parelli method is the belief that horsemanship is a never-ending journey of learning for both horse and human. Pat Parelli emphasizes that success is built on the relationship, not on mechanics or force. He often states that his program teaches people, not horses, because a better human partner creates a better horse. This philosophy is broken down into four key areas of development, which he calls “Savvys.”
The Four Savvys
The Parelli program is structured around mastering skills in four distinct areas:
- On Line: This involves groundwork with the horse on a halter and lead rope. It is the foundation for everything else, teaching respect, communication, and safety from the ground. Exercises here often involve the famous “Seven Games.”
- At Liberty: As the name suggests, this is groundwork performed without any ropes. It is considered the ultimate test of the relationship and connection you have built with your horse. The principles learned here are fundamental, similar to what you might learn about how to start liberty training with your horse.
- Freestyle: This is the first stage of riding, done without contact on the reins. The focus is on developing an independent seat and teaching the horse to respond to body language and weight aids, fostering balance and relaxation.
- Finesse: This is the final and most advanced stage of riding, where the rider introduces contact with the reins. By this point, the communication is so refined that the subtlest of cues is all that’s needed for complex maneuvers.
This structured approach allows students to progress at their own pace, building a solid foundation before moving on to more complex skills.
The Core of the Method: The Seven Games
At the heart of horse trainer Pat Parelli’s On-Line Savvy are the Seven Games. These are not tricks but a series of exercises designed to build a common language between horse and human, establishing the person as a trustworthy herd leader. The games are based on the interactions horses have with each other in a herd.
What Are the Seven Games?
- Friendly Game: This is all about earning the horse’s trust. It involves touching the horse all over its body with your hands, ropes, and other tools to prove that you are not a predator.
- Porcupine Game: This game teaches the horse to move away from steady pressure. It starts with a light touch and gradually increases until the horse yields, at which point the pressure is instantly released.
- Driving Game: This teaches the horse to move away from rhythmic pressure or a suggestion of energy. It’s about moving the horse’s feet from a distance, which is a key leadership skill.
- Yo-Yo Game: This game involves backing the horse up and bringing it forward in a straight line, improving its balance and responsiveness.
- Circling Game: This is more than just lunging. It teaches the horse to maintain gait and direction without constant micromanagement from the handler.
- Sideways Game: This involves asking the horse to move laterally, or sideways, which is excellent for its coordination and athleticism.
- Squeeze Game: This helps a horse overcome its natural claustrophobia by asking it to go through narrow spaces, building confidence and bravery.
Playing these games helps develop a responsive, confident, and respectful equine partner. For those who prefer visual learning, exploring a collection of pat parelli horse training videos can bring these concepts to life.
The Parelli Levels Program and Tools
To guide students on their journey, Parelli developed a ten-level curriculum. Students can progress through the levels at their own pace, submitting video auditions to be assessed by certified Parelli instructors. This gamified structure provides clear goals and a sense of accomplishment, which has been a major factor in the program’s commercial success.
Parelli also introduced a specific set of tools, or “Parelli-approved” equipment. This includes items like the “Carrot Stick,” a 4-foot rigid stick with a string, specific types of ropes, and rope halters. Parelli argues that these tools are designed to be more effective and clearer for the horse. For instance, the rope halter provides a more precise signal than a flat web halter. This focus on specific equipment has been a point of contention, with critics arguing it’s more about marketing than necessity, but many students find the consistency helpful. The use of specific tools is common among trainers, and you can see a variety of approaches in different horse training dvds.
Controversy and Criticisms
No discussion of horse trainer Pat Parelli would be complete without addressing the criticisms leveled against him and his program. While PNH has helped countless people, it has also faced significant backlash for several reasons:
- Marketing and Cost: The Parelli program is a business. The structured levels, branded equipment, and high cost of clinics and courses have led some to label it as a “McDonalization” of horsemanship, prioritizing profit over genuine connection.
- Methodology: Some traditional and classical trainers argue that certain Parelli techniques can be harsh if misapplied. For example, the rhythmic pressure of the Driving Game or the use of the end of the lead rope to create a “sting” can be perceived as aggressive rather than communicative.
- Cult-like Following: The intense brand loyalty and the elevation of Pat and his former wife Linda Parelli to guru-like status have been off-putting to some in the equestrian community.
As equine behaviorist Dr. Eleanor Vance notes, “Any systematic training program carries the risk of being followed too rigidly. The success of methods like Parelli’s hinges entirely on the individual’s feel, timing, and intent. When these are missing, a communication tool can easily become a weapon, regardless of how it’s marketed.”
It’s a reminder that no single method is a magic bullet. The responsibility always lies with the human to be a thoughtful and empathetic leader. The equestrian world is diverse, with many skilled professionals like the renowned jenny horse trainer, each offering a unique perspective.
The Enduring Legacy of Pat Parelli
Despite the controversies, the impact of horse trainer Pat Parelli on the modern equestrian world is undeniable. He successfully brought the principles of horsemanship psychology to the masses, making it accessible and understandable for the average horse owner. He encouraged people to think about their horse’s point of view and to prioritize the relationship above all else.
Parelli’s work has inspired a generation of trainers and horse owners to seek a better way—a partnership based on communication and trust rather than dominance and fear. He created a language and a system that empowered people to solve problems and build the relationship of their dreams with their horses.
Ultimately, the Parelli method is a tool. In the right hands, it can forge an unbreakable bond between horse and human. In the wrong hands, it can be misapplied and misunderstood. The enduring legacy of Pat Parelli is perhaps the conversation he started: a global discussion about what it truly means to be a partner to our horses.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who is Pat Parelli?
Pat Parelli is an American horse trainer, clinician, and founder of Parelli Natural Horsemanship (PNH). He is known for creating a globally recognized program that teaches horsemanship through understanding equine psychology and behavior, emphasizing the relationship between horse and human.
2. What are the Parelli Seven Games?
The Seven Games are a series of groundwork exercises that form the foundation of the PNH program. They are designed to build a language of communication, trust, and respect between a person and their horse, based on the natural dynamics observed within a horse herd.
3. Is Parelli Natural Horsemanship effective?
For many horse owners, the Parelli method has been highly effective in improving their relationship and communication with their horses, leading to safer and more enjoyable interactions. However, its effectiveness depends heavily on the individual’s ability to apply the principles with feel, timing, and empathy.
4. Why is Pat Parelli controversial?
Controversies surrounding Pat Parelli often relate to the commercialization of his program, the high cost of courses and equipment, and claims of a “cult-like” following. Some of his techniques have also been criticized by other trainers as being potentially harsh if applied incorrectly or without the proper feel.
5. Can I learn Parelli Horsemanship without buying the official equipment?
While the Parelli program strongly recommends its branded tools for optimal communication, the underlying principles can be practiced with standard equestrian equipment. The core concepts of understanding horse behavior and building a relationship are more important than the specific tools used.
