When it comes to horsemanship, consistency is key, and having a solid home training routine can make all the difference in your progress with your horse. Whether you’re starting fresh with a young horse or refining the skills of an older one, a thoughtful, balanced routine will help build trust, responsiveness, and softness over time.
First things first, decide what your goals are. Do you want a better stop, smoother transitions, or simply a more willing partner? Whatever it may be, start by breaking that goal down into smaller, manageable pieces. Work on one thing at a time, and don’t rush the process. Horsemanship is a journey, not a race.
Once you’ve got that clear in your mind, set aside dedicated time for training. It doesn’t have to be hours every day—a solid 20 to 30 minutes of focused work can go a long way. Your horse will appreciate the routine, and you’ll see more consistent improvements.
In your sessions, remember to balance pressure and release. This is a huge part of what makes a horse soft and willing. If you ask for something, give them a moment to think, then release when they start to respond. That release is your horse’s reward, and over time, they’ll start offering more and more willingly because they know you’ll meet them halfway.
Another tip is to vary your routine. Horses, like people, can get bored with the same thing day in and day out. Keep things interesting by switching between groundwork and riding, slow work and faster exercises. Not only does this keep your horse engaged, but it helps develop their body and mind in different ways, making them a more balanced partner.
And finally, remember to end on a positive note. Whether it’s something big or small, always aim to finish each session with a win. That might mean asking for one last perfect circle or simply getting a soft stop. Ending on a high keeps both you and your horse motivated for the next time.
Developing a home training routine is all about creating good habits, for both you and your horse. Stick with it, and over time, you’ll start seeing the results you’ve been aiming for.
Not sure how to develop the perfect home training routine? My Five Key Components to Transforming Your Horsemanship course is the ideal place to begin. For only $25 CAD, you’ll learn the building blocks of training a soft, willing, and responsive horse through feel, not force. This mini-course will help you create lasting results and take the guesswork out of your training sessions. Ready to transform your horsemanship? Enroll today!
Happy trails,
—KJS
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