Training IV - VI

Course Name: Training IV - VI

Prerequisites: Successful Completion of Training III for Training IV, Training IV for Training V, and Training V for Training VI.

Description:
The basic content of the training course that is presented in Training I and applied in Training II and III will be the content of Training IV-VI. In Training IV-VI, the learner continues to apply concepts and principles and to develop and refine skills on horses that have not previously been handled. In addition, students are generally assigned two horses with which to work throughout the quarter. Mounted training is included in Training IV-VI. In Training IV-VI, the student is teaching “to a horse.” The level of application of the principles of training will vary throughout the course with the ability level of the student. Horses will be assigned on an individual basis depending upon the student’s knowledge & ability level.

Weekly Topics: The following content and skill areas will be developed and refined as students progress through Training IV-VI.

• Turn-Out Procedure: Body Position and Safety
• Assessing the Level of Training & Condition of the horse
• Response to handling: grooming and leading
• Reaction to pressure: moving into and away from
• General condition: physical & mental
• Leading
• Proper equipment
• Body position and influence
• Corridor of aids
• Setting a cadence
• Setting a length of stride
• Grooming
• Gaining the horse’s trust
• Developing communication
• Appropriate passive restraints
• Correct use of equipment
• Line driving
• Responding to mouth pressure
• Following the lines
• Stopping and turning
• Body positioning
• Lunging
• Proper procedure
• Introduction to shape
• Positioning for safety
• Introduction of equipment, such as the long line, lunge whip, bridle/drop nose band, saddle, and side reins
• Balance
• Rhythm
• Relaxation
• Beginning obedience to aids
• Introduction and use of Equipment
• Introducing new equipment
• Using familiar shapes to develop an acceptance of equipment
• Mounting
• Techniques for keeping horse calm & trusting
• Develop camaraderie
• Mounted Training
• Selection of equipment appropriate to riding discipline
• Introduction to weight of rider with assistance of handler
• Development of balance with rider at the walk and trot
• Lunge with rider including: develop rhythm, develop relaxation; freedom of gaits, & introduction of aids
• Riding free in the arena including following the horse’s motion, using weight aid, developing rhythm and relaxation; freedom of gaits, and introduction to leg and rein aids
• Area of Specialization including: Western – pleasure or performance, Dressage, and/or jumping

Performance Objectives:
The Performance Objectives of Training IV-VI are the same, varying only in the degree to which the student has progressed in his/her ability to apply the principles and to implement the skills of training. Following successful completion of the Training IV-VI course the student will:

• Be able to apply the knowledge & skills of Training III, IV, or V
• Be able to work safely and effectively with a suitable training colt
• Demonstrate proper procedures for: turn out, assessing the level of training and condition of horses in training
• Demonstrate proper procedures to use with a training colt with regard to leading, grooming, line driving, and lunging
• Explain and demonstrate the proper use of various types of equipment for use with training colts
• Describe and demonstrate safe & effective techniques for mounting and for mounted training
• Develop a basic understanding of the training techniques used in training horses for specific disciplines

Methods:
In order for students to acquire the knowledge and skills of Training IV and develop and refine their skills through Training IV-VI, the instructor will use a variety of teaching methods including: expository learning, discussion, demonstration, & extensive guided practice. All aspects of safety will be practiced throughout the course.

Evaluation:
Students will keep a daily log book and journal related to the development of their knowledge and their experience with training colts. They will be evaluated on their knowledge & skills through the following:

• Daily grades for participation and performance in the training process
• Participation in taking care of the needs of the horses in the training program
• Journal entries
• Consideration will be given to punctuality; attitude; effort; professional appearance, progression of knowledge & skills, & appearance and care of the horse