The world of horse training is vast and varied, but few methods have sparked as much discussion and adoption as Parelli Natural Horsemanship. Developed by Pat Parelli, this approach emphasizes understanding horse psychology and building a partnership based on trust and communication rather than force. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just starting, grasping the core principles of Parelli training can revolutionize your relationship with your equine partner. This guide delves into the “why” and “how” of Parelli, offering insights for a more harmonious connection.
The Philosophy Behind Parelli Natural Horsemanship
At its heart, Parelli is about understanding horses as they are, not as we wish them to be. Pat Parelli’s philosophy stems from observing how horses interact with each other in their natural environment. He identified four key “savvys” – Online, Liberty, Free-Running, and Finesse – which form the foundation of his training system. The ultimate goal is to develop a horse that is confident, willing, and responsive, creating a partnership that feels effortless and enjoyable for both human and horse. This method moves away from traditional dominance-based training, focusing instead on mutual respect and clear communication.
Understanding the Four Parelli Savvys
The Parelli program is structured around four distinct areas, or “savvys,” each designed to develop different aspects of the horse-human relationship. Mastering these savvys progressively builds a well-rounded, responsive, and trustworthy horse.
1. Online
The Online savvy refers to training that occurs with the horse wearing a halter and lead rope. This is the most fundamental stage, focusing on teaching the horse to yield to pressure and respond to cues. Exercises within the Online savvy include leading, lunging, and basic groundwork. The aim is to establish clear communication and respect for personal space. This is where the human learns to “speak horse,” using body language and pressure-and-release techniques to guide the horse. It’s about building the initial bond and ensuring the horse understands the human’s intentions.
2. Liberty
Liberty training takes place without any ropes or halters. In this savvy, the horse is encouraged to engage with the trainer voluntarily. It’s about building a relationship based on trust and choice, where the horse willingly follows the trainer. Liberty work often involves using body language, a string, or a long whip as a psychological barrier to guide the horse. This phase is crucial for developing a strong mental connection and ensuring the horse is truly engaged and not just complying out of obligation. It’s a true test of the partnership, demonstrating the horse’s desire to be with the human.
3. Free-Running
This savvy is the most advanced stage of Parelli training, where the horse and human are together in a large arena or pasture, and the horse moves freely without any tack. The trainer uses subtle body language and energy to influence the horse’s movement, encouraging it to trot, canter, and even gallop alongside the human. Free-running is the ultimate expression of partnership and trust, demonstrating a deep level of understanding and connection between horse and rider. It’s about playing games with the horse that encourage natural gaits and a joyous, willing spirit.
4. Finesse
Finesse involves the refinement of communication and responsiveness, often seen in riding. It’s about achieving precision in movements, lightness of the aids, and a seamless transition between gaits. This savvy builds upon the trust and understanding established in the other three savvys, allowing for intricate maneuvers and a fluid, elegant performance. Whether it’s a subtle rein aid for a collected canter or a precise turn on the forehand, finesse is the art of advanced communication. It’s about the horse being so attuned to the human that a slight shift in weight or a softest touch can guide its every move.
Key Principles and Tools in Parelli Training
Parelli Natural Horsemanship utilizes a specific set of principles and tools designed to facilitate clear communication and build a strong bond. Understanding these elements is key to successfully implementing the method.
The Seven Games
The Seven Games are the building blocks of Parelli training, played in a progressive manner to develop the horse’s confidence and responsiveness. They are designed to mimic the natural interactions horses have with each other, helping them understand human cues within their own communication framework. These games are:
- The Game of Honesty: Teaching the horse to yield to pressure.
- The Game of the Friendly Oppositor: Encouraging the horse to move away from pressure and then return.
- The Game of Proprioception: Developing the horse’s awareness of its body and how it moves.
- The Game of the Porcupine: Teaching the horse to yield to pressure and then return when the pressure is released.
- The Game of the Circle: Encouraging the horse to move freely in a circle, building rhythm and collection.
- The Game of Squeeze Play: Teaching the horse to pass through narrow spaces.
- The Game of Nine: A complex game involving guiding the horse through a series of maneuvers at different speeds and directions.
These games are played with patience and consistency, always aiming to build the horse’s confidence and trust.
The Four Language of Horse (4LL)
Pat Parelli identified that horses communicate through four primary forms of energy and pressure:
- Sound: Snorts, nickers, whinnies, and other vocalizations.
- Sight: Body language, eye contact, and movement.
- Touch: Physical contact, grooming, and interaction.
- Energy: The emotional and physical state of the horse and human.
Understanding and using these four languages allows for more effective communication. The trainer learns to “read” the horse’s energy and respond accordingly, while also learning to project their own energy in a way the horse can understand.
Tools of the Trade
The Parelli program utilizes specific tools designed to aid in communication and training:
- Parelli Halter: A softer, more comfortable halter designed for better communication.
- Parelli Lead Rope (4-Life Rope): A long (22-foot) rope that allows for greater distance and more nuanced communication during groundwork.
- Parelli String: A shorter rope used in Liberty training to act as a psychological barrier.
- Parelli Whip (Parelli Pointer): A specialized whip used as an extension of the trainer’s arm, not for striking but for directing and motivating the horse.
- Parelli Saddle: Designed for comfort and communication, allowing the rider to sit in a way that facilitates a better connection.
These tools are extensions of the trainer’s body and intentions, used to create clear signals and build rapport.
Benefits of Parelli Training for Horses and Riders
Adopting Parelli Natural Horsemanship offers a wealth of benefits for both the horse and the rider, fostering a deeper, more meaningful relationship.
For the Horse:
- Increased Confidence and Trust: By using positive reinforcement and understanding the horse’s natural instincts, Parelli training helps horses become more confident and less fearful.
- Improved Communication: Horses learn to understand human cues more clearly, leading to a more responsive and willing partner.
- Reduced Stress and Anxiety: The emphasis on understanding and partnership rather than dominance reduces stress for the horse.
- Enhanced Mental and Physical Well-being: The focus on partnership and play can lead to a happier, more engaged horse.
For the Rider:
- Deeper Connection: Riders develop a profound understanding and bond with their horses, moving beyond a purely functional relationship.
- Improved Riding Skills: The emphasis on subtle aids and clear communication enhances a rider’s overall horsemanship.
- Greater Confidence: As the horse becomes more responsive and trustworthy, the rider’s confidence naturally increases.
- A More Enjoyable Experience: The partnership approach makes riding and training more rewarding and less confrontational.
Incorporating Parelli into Your Training
Embarking on the Parelli journey requires dedication and a willingness to learn. Here are some steps to get started:
- Educate Yourself: Watch Parelli videos, read books, and attend clinics to understand the philosophy and techniques.
- Start with the Basics: Focus on the Online savvy and the Seven Games. Patience is key.
- Seek Qualified Instruction: Find a certified Parelli instructor who can guide you and your horse.
- Practice Consistently: Regular, short training sessions are more effective than infrequent long ones.
- Be Patient and Persistent: Building a strong partnership takes time and effort. Celebrate small victories.
The journey of learning how do they train horses with the Parelli method is a continuous one, rewarding those who invest in understanding and communicating with their horses on a deeper level. It’s not just about training a horse; it’s about building a relationship that transcends the arena. Understanding principles similar to liberty horse training exercises can greatly enhance this process.
Frequently Asked Questions about Parelli Training
Q: Is Parelli training suitable for all horses?
A: Yes, Parelli principles are designed to be adaptable to horses of all breeds, ages, and temperaments. The focus on understanding horse psychology makes it universally applicable.
Q: Do I need to buy all the specific Parelli tools?
A: While the Parelli tools are designed to enhance communication within the system, the core principles can be applied with basic groundwork equipment. However, using the specialized tools can significantly aid understanding and progression.
Q: How long does it take to see results with Parelli training?
A: Results vary depending on the individual horse, the rider’s dedication, and consistent practice. Some basic responsiveness can be seen relatively quickly, but true partnership and mastery of advanced savvys take time and ongoing effort.
Q: Can Parelli training help with behavioral problems in horses?
A: Often, yes. Many behavioral issues stem from a lack of clear communication or trust. Parelli’s emphasis on understanding and building a partnership can resolve many common problems.
Q: Where can I find more resources on Parelli training?
A: The official Parelli Natural Horsemanship website is the primary resource for clinics, instructors, and educational materials. Exploring resources like youtube parelli horse training can also offer visual learning opportunities.
Conclusion: Building a Partnership Through Parelli
Parelli Natural Horsemanship offers a profound and effective approach to training horses, emphasizing partnership, communication, and mutual respect. By understanding and applying the principles of the Four Savvys and the Seven Games, riders can cultivate a deeper connection with their equine partners, leading to more enjoyable and successful experiences in and out of the saddle. It’s a journey of discovery, not just for the horse, but for the human as well, fostering a relationship built on trust and understanding. For those interested in horse ground training exercises, Parelli provides a structured yet intuitive framework. The insights gained through techniques similar to liberty training horses youtube channels can offer a visual complement to this journey. Embracing Parelli is an investment in a lifelong partnership with your horse.
