Phases and positive reflexes are closely tied at this level. Without clear and effective phases, positive reflexes will prove elusive. In order to truly gain positive reflexes, we need to understand the importance of having our horses moving toward and seeking comfort and also the power of phase one.
Now that you and your horse have a basic communication and he understands your requests, it’s time to lighten up a little. What used to be phase 1 in Level One is now more likely phase 3 or 4 to a horse working on Level Two. Continuing to use what he perceives as high phases would be like constantly yelling at him. If you find that your horse is getting a little cranky in his yields now, this may be what is happening. He’s telling you that he hears you and understands what you want, so just back off a little.
In the exercises that we do during Level 2, you will learn how to ask for more by doing less with you horse, with a greater result. The key to all this is your use of phases.
Imagine that your goal is to have your horse yield lightly off of phase 1. Currently, it is taking phase 3 to get your horse to move and it doesn’t seem to be getting any better, no matter how much you practise! Keep in mind a couple of things – 1) your goal 2) horses learn by comfort or the release of pressure, not the application of it and 3) to always start with phase 1 no matter how heavy you think your horse will be.
If you are unsure about how to be more effective with you phases, think about the response you are getting. Is your horse getting lighter, heavier or more reactionary? If he is getting lighter and staying confident and happy, then chances are you are spot on. If not, here’s a little rule of thumb for you.
If he is heavy and dull, your phases are too slow.
If he’s reacting or scared, your phases are too fast.
It’s important with all of your yields at this level, particularly in looking for positive reflexes, that you release at the right time. If you release at phase 4, then phase 4 is what your horse will get comfort for. However, if you go through your phases, do whatever it takes to get your horse yielding, then quickly go back to phase 1 for a step before you finish, you will have given your horse comfort for yielding at phase 1! Your timing is crucial in this, however it won’t take your horse long to figure out that all he has to do is yield from phase 1 and he gets comfort.
Read More Road To Horsemanship articles.
- By Meredith Ransley, Quantum Savvy.