Balancing the time you spend with your horse to achieve your goals while ensuring your horse is not overstimulated is necessary for a healthy and productive relationship. Did you know that your horse thinks about things differently than you do? This is why we don’t always get the results we are looking for when we decide to go to the barn and spend the entire day working with them.
Do you ever have grand plans to spend an entire day at the barn? I know I do. That’s just how my brain works. Sometimes, after a long week at work, I look forward to a day off where I can spend extra time with my horses. I have a list of everything I want to get done with my horse, Jesse. After a few hours, though, it would be too much for him. Talk about information overload! My brain is saying go go go, and his brain is saying, why are we doing so many things!?!
Humans and horses have fundamentally different ways of thinking and processing information, which can sometimes lead to misunderstandings and stress. By understanding these differences and implementing a balanced approach, you can create a harmonious partnership that respects both your needs and those of your horse.
Humans Like Goals
Humans are goal-oriented beings. We often approach tasks with a clear objective, planning each step to achieve our desired outcome. Horses, on the other hand, live in the moment. Their primary concerns are safety, comfort, and social interactions within their herd. This difference in perspective can lead to friction if not managed properly. Recognizing that horses do not have the same cognitive processes or goals as humans is the first step in finding a balance between training and relaxation.
Understanding the Differences: Human vs. Horse Thinking
The human brain is wired for complex problem-solving, future planning, and abstract thinking. We set long-term goals, work systematically towards them, and measure success by achieving these objectives. The equine brain, focused on immediate survival and social harmony, constantly scans for potential threats. Horses learn through patterns and repetition rather than abstract reasoning.
While humans push for continuous improvement, horses may see this as relentless pressure, causing stress and anxiety. Adopting training methods that align with a horse’s natural learning processes and recognizing when your horse needs a break is a key part of balancing the differences in how horses and humans think.
Creating a Balanced Plan
Set Realistic Goals
Establish clear, achievable goals for each session. Break down larger objectives into smaller, manageable tasks that can be accomplished over multiple sessions. This approach makes the training process less overwhelming for your horse and helps you track progress in a structured way.
I could go on and on about setting realistic goals for your horse—so much so that I am going to write an entire post about it. I am passionate about having positive outcomes with my horse. Remembering to consider how the horse thinks plays a big part in the overall goal-setting plan.
Incorporate Downtime
Just as important as active training is the incorporation of rest periods. Horses need time to process what they’ve learned and to relax. Incorporate breaks during training sessions and allow for days off to ensure your horse remains mentally and physically fresh.
Read Your Horse’s Signals
Learn to recognize signs of stress or overstimulation in your horse. These might include increased agitation, resistance, or a lack of focus. When you notice these signs, it’s crucial to adjust your approach, whether that means slowing down the pace of training or taking a break altogether.
Use Positive Reinforcement
Reward-based training can be particularly effective with horses. You can create positive associations with training activities by using small treats, praise, or other rewards. This can make the training process more enjoyable and less stressful for your horse.
Build Trust
A strong bond of trust between you and your horse can significantly enhance your training outcomes. Spend time engaging in activities your horse enjoys that help build a positive relationship. This could include grooming, hand grazing, or simply spending quiet time together.
Balancing Time with Your Horse
Balancing your training goals with your horse’s need for mental and physical well-being is a dynamic process that requires patience, observation, and flexibility on your part.
By understanding the fundamental differences in how humans and horses think and creating a structured yet adaptable plan, you can achieve your training objectives while ensuring your horse remains happy and healthy. Remember, a well-balanced approach not only leads to better training outcomes but also strengthens the bond between you and your horse, creating a partnership built on mutual respect and understanding.
I challenge you to think about this the next time you are out with your horse. Think about how your horse thinks, and keep that in mind when you plan on spending the entire day with him (or her). I would love to know if this made a difference for you!
If you want to learn more about how to interpret your horse’s body language, you should read this article.
Happy horse and human training!
Summer in the Rockies Horse Show Series: Recap Week 2
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