101 RIDING: Expert Gymnastic Horse Training for the START!

Riding is faster than speech.. This is why understanding the mechanics and theory of horse training is crucial before you ride. In this lecture, we’ll map out the foundational horse training syllabus—a step-by-step guide to developing well-trained, responsive horses. Learn how to teach a horse that governs its own momentum with balanced carriage while responding precisely to the natural aids through your seat. Discover the key principles necessary for producing a properly trained horse, from mastering 'carry' and 'go' to fostering trust and partnership in every stride.

The masters of classical riding—from Saumur and Ft. Riley to Warendorf and Vienna—agree on one universal truth: the foundation of effective horse training starts with the Law of Association of Sensations. This timeless principle teaches horses the meaning of the four natural aids of riding, forming the Basis of a Common Equestrian Language.

In this lecture, you’ll not only learn these principles but also see, hear, and witness them in action. By experiencing how these methods work in real time, you’ll gain the confidence to translate them into your own riding and training. Master the techniques to establish a clear equestrian language with your horse—because language, not relationship, is the foundation of understanding. Every stride, every aid, every decision -- even every desire -- begins here.

Claim as your own the time-tested principles at the foundation of all proper horse training. Everything we teach is verifiable ‘by the book,’ ensuring precision, accountability, and excellence—and the horses UNDERSTAND it with ease! In a horse world muddied by unclear standards, you’ll rise above as a rider and trainer grounded in proven principles and systematic methods. Empower your clients and students to excel as competent, correct riders, guided—always straight-forward!—by these timeless principles and systematic methods. THIS is why I harp on the bookshelf! :)

Every stride of riding boils down to 4 essential Events: Carry Go, Stop/Slow, TURN, and Carry-On. These foundational actions are ever-present, forming the heartbeat --and the hoofbeats! -- of effective riding. In this section, we’ll break these Events down to their purest forms, exploring how they interconnect and co-act seamlessly in every moment. By mastering this framework, you’ll gain the tools to transform your riding and training into a harmonious, purposeful dialogue with your horse.

The carrying power and the propulsive force are the two motors of the hindquarters.  These must exist from the start.  These two functions and their 'wedding' are the aim training.  Is the CARRY and the GO present when you march off from the mounting block?  It must be !  We'll also learn the first $1,000,000 Riding Lesson !

We've taken some big bites here !  We'll review what we've done so far and we'll prepare for what's next...including a reading assignment.

What can you expect from the Riding Lessons' Courses ?    (Soon, but not now... we'll spell out what is expected of you.) 

Next time you depart the mounting block, will you note if he carries you plainly or instead does he shift you ? or lollygag?  Let's get the Carry and Go right from the start, from the first step !  Faithful over a few things makes us ruler of many ! START NOW! :)