Question on horse training methods?

Question

I've got a March '98 AQHA mare that was trained at Findlay College in Ohio. I was just looking for anyone that knew the type of training that went on there. Talking about basically ANYTHING, from leg cues to stopping to lunging. I know she was trained with a round pen for some of her training, which I sadly do not have access to one at my house, but any help would be great. She's an amazing contester and reiner, and improving in dressage, also starting jumping. Looking for that slower, more collected gait with a continued forward motion, and maybe this will shed some light. Thanks and God bless!

Answer 1

Can you ask for her video?  Or, if you contact the Univerity they will put you in touch with a student adviser. Perhaps you can get a good idea what they did.

"Video Requirement: If you wish to use your horse in the English Equestrian Program, it is necessary for our instructors to review a video of you on your horse. This is to ensure that you are able to progress with the rest of your class. Your video should include the following:

Five minutes of flat work to include the walk, trot and canter in both directions. Dressage students should also demonstrate all other dressage movements that your horse is capable of performing.

Five minutes of jumping to include at least one single fence to a line of jumps two feet or higher is required for the horses in the hunter/jumper program. "

http://www.findlay.edu/academics/college...

please contact one of the instructors at 1-800-548-0932 ext.4859, 419-434-4859 or [e-mail].

* no round pens were metioned anywhere, except in the young riders summer camp*   Was she a day care mare or a students project? Luck! Give em a call they are very nice.

Answer 2

To collect a gait is a subtle thing. It takes enough rein pressure in combination with leg aid to cause an upward impulsion without stopping. You could train this yourself with patience, if you know how to cause it in a trained horse that knows how to "shift gears" like this. It will take a little figuring out for your horse to understand what you want. Just heavily praise the wanted response, and ease off and try the motions again if the horse slows or stops. Sooner or later the horse will understand your driving legs and held mouth.