The quest for a true partnership with a horse is a journey of a thousand conversations, none of which are spoken in words. It’s about understanding the animal’s mind, respecting its nature, and building a bond based on trust, not fear. For decades, one name has been synonymous with this philosophy: Pat Parelli. The vast library of Pat Parelli Horse Training Videos has served as a gateway for countless equestrians to transform their relationships with their horses, moving from simple command-and-control to a sophisticated dance of mutual understanding.
This journey often begins with a simple search for a better way. Maybe you’re struggling with a behavioral issue, feeling stuck in your training progress, or simply dreaming of that effortless connection you see between master horsemen and their equine partners. Whatever your reason, exploring Parelli’s video content can be the first step toward a revolutionary new chapter in your horsemanship. Much like other visual aids, such as specialized horse training dvds, video learning provides a repeatable, detailed format to study complex techniques.
Who is Pat Parelli? The Man Behind the Method
Pat Parelli is a master horseman, a charismatic teacher, and the founder of Parelli Natural Horsemanship (PNH). Growing up with a deep passion for horses, he was inspired by the classical techniques of legendary horsemen but sought to create a system that was accessible to everyone, not just professional trainers. His goal was to teach people how to understand the “why” behind a horse’s behavior, using psychology and communication instead of force and intimidation. He famously stated, “Horsemanship is a journey that never ends,” and his program is designed to be a lifelong learning path for both horse and human.
The Philosophy of Natural Horsemanship
At its core, the Parelli method is about building a relationship. It’s based on the idea that to train a horse effectively, you must first understand its innate nature as a prey animal. Horses are driven by survival instincts; they are naturally skeptical and seek safety and comfort. Parelli teaches that by understanding this psychological makeup, you can become the leader your horse needs—one who is calm, confident, and trustworthy.
This approach rejects mechanical, fear-based training in favor of a partnership. It’s not about making the horse do something; it’s about presenting an idea in a way the horse can understand and accept. The entire program is built on four distinct areas of development, or “Savvys”: On Line (groundwork with a halter and lead), Liberty (groundwork without any lines), Freestyle (riding with a loose rein), and Finesse (riding with precision and collection).
What Are the Seven Games? The Foundation of Parelli
The heart of the Parelli program, and a central theme in many Pat Parelli horse training videos, is the Seven Games. These are not tricks but foundational exercises designed to build communication, respect, and trust between horse and human. They mimic the games horses play with each other in a herd, establishing hierarchy and social bonds.
“The Seven Games are the alphabet of horse language. Once you and your horse learn them, you can have a real conversation.” – Dr. Eleanor Vance, Equine Behavior Specialist.
By mastering these games on the ground, you establish the leadership and language needed for a safe and successful partnership under saddle.
The Seven Official Games
- Friendly Game: This is the game of confidence. You teach your horse that you are not a predator by touching and rubbing him all over his body, first with your hands and then with tools like ropes, sticks, and tarps.
- Porcupine Game: This game teaches the horse to yield to steady pressure. It’s about creating a soft, responsive horse that moves away from a physical cue without resistance.
- Driving Game: The opposite of the Porcupine Game, this teaches the horse to yield to rhythmic pressure or a suggestion. You use your energy and focus to move the horse’s feet without touching him.
- Yo-Yo Game: This teaches the horse to back up and come forward in a straight line with equal ease. It develops balance and responsiveness to both the lead rope and your energy.
- Circling Game: More than simple lunging, this game teaches the horse to maintain gait and direction on a circle without constant micromanagement. It’s a test of responsibility and connection.
- Sideways Game: This game involves teaching the horse to move laterally, or sideways, step by step. It’s a powerful exercise for developing athleticism, coordination, and mental focus.
- Squeeze Game: Horses are naturally claustrophobic. This game helps them overcome their fear of tight spaces by confidently guiding them through narrow gaps, which is essential for trailer loading and navigating trails.
Navigating the Pat Parelli Horse Training Videos and Levels
The Parelli program is structured into a progressive curriculum known as the Levels Pathway. There are ten levels in total, spanning across the four Savvys. This system allows students to learn at their own pace and build a solid foundation before advancing to more complex skills.
The Parelli Levels System
The video library is organized around this levels system. Beginners start with Level 1, which focuses heavily on safety and the Seven Games on the ground. As you progress, the tasks become more challenging, gradually introducing Liberty work, refined Freestyle riding, and eventually the precision of Finesse. The structure is logical and ensures that there are no “holes” in the horse’s education. This systematic approach is something shared by other great instructors; for example, if you were to research a modern trainer like sean coleman horse trainer, you would likely find a similar emphasis on foundational skills.
Where Can You Find the Videos?
Originally available on VHS and DVD, the Pat Parelli horse training videos are now primarily accessible through the Parelli Savvy Club, an online membership platform. The Savvy Club provides streaming access to a massive vault of instructional videos, tutorials, and step-by-step guides covering all ten levels. Additionally, Pat Parelli maintains an active presence on platforms like YouTube, where you can find many free clips, introductory lessons, and demonstrations that offer a fantastic taste of the program’s philosophy and techniques.
The Benefits of Video-Based Horsemanship Learning
Using videos to learn horsemanship has several distinct advantages. It allows you to:
- Learn at Your Own Pace: You can pause, rewind, and re-watch complex maneuvers until you fully understand them.
- See It in Action: Unlike a book, video shows you the timing, feel, and energy involved in each exercise. You can observe how both the human and the horse respond in real-time.
- Build a Knowledge Library: A subscription or collection of videos gives you a resource you can return to whenever you encounter a new challenge or want to refresh your skills.
- Safety First: By studying the techniques on video before trying them with your horse, you can better prepare yourself and anticipate potential issues, creating a safer learning environment for both of you.
Is the Parelli Method Right for You?
While the Parelli program is incredibly popular and has helped thousands of horse owners, it’s not without its critics. Some in the traditional equestrian world find its marketing too aggressive or disagree with certain techniques. However, the core principles—understanding horse psychology, building a relationship before asking for performance, and prioritizing safety—are universally valuable.
The best approach is to explore the introductory Pat Parelli horse training videos with an open mind. See if the philosophy resonates with you. The method requires patience, dedication, and a willingness to see the world from your horse’s perspective. If you are committed to building a true partnership, Parelli’s extensive video library can provide you with a clear, step-by-step roadmap to achieve it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are Pat Parelli videos good for beginners?
Absolutely. The program is specifically designed to be followed from the very beginning. Level 1 focuses on safety, understanding horse behavior, and foundational groundwork, making it an ideal starting point for new horse owners or riders.
What is the most important of the Seven Games?
Pat Parelli would say the Friendly Game is the most important. Without confidence and trust, none of the other games are possible. It’s the foundation upon which the entire relationship is built.
Can you learn the Parelli method online for free?
You can learn the basic philosophy and see demonstrations of the Seven Games through the free content available on YouTube and the Parelli website. However, for the complete, structured curriculum and in-depth tutorials, a subscription to the Parelli Savvy Club is required.
Does the Parelli method work for all horse breeds and disciplines?
Yes, the principles of Parelli Natural Horsemanship are universal. Because it is based on horse psychology rather than specific techniques for a particular sport, it can be applied to any breed, from a draft horse to a miniature pony, and used to build a solid foundation for any riding discipline, be it trail riding, dressage, or jumping.
How long does it take to get through the Parelli levels?
The journey is unique for every horse and human pair. There is no set timeline. The program encourages students to progress at a pace that is comfortable for their horse, ensuring each skill is thoroughly mastered before moving on. For some, it may take a year to complete a level; for others, it may take longer.
Conclusion: A New Way of Communicating
Ultimately, the world of Pat Parelli horse training videos is about more than just technique; it’s about changing your perspective. It’s a call to become more than just a rider or owner, but a true partner to your horse. By learning to speak their language through the Seven Games and understanding their psychology, you unlock a level of communication and harmony that many equestrians only dream of. Whether you are just starting your journey or are an experienced rider looking for a deeper connection, these videos offer a wealth of knowledge that can transform your relationship with your horse forever.
