A recurring theme in our recent PIB review classes has been the importance of "doing less" while maintaining clarity in our cues/aids. This principle fosters confidence and responsibility in the horse, creating a more refined and harmonious dialog and partnership. However, "doing less" is often misunderstood as "doing nothing"—or worse, "hanging up the phone" on the conversation. Let’s explore this subtle yet powerful distinction.
Doing Less Without Disconnecting
"Doing less" means scaling back the complexity or intensity of the aids, not withdrawing entirely. It’s about refining communication to be softer and clearer while remaining engaged. If we "hang up the phone" by becoming passive or unresponsive, we risk leaving the horse unsupported and confused. Instead, "doing less" is about staying present and connected while creating space for the horse to process and respond.
Striving for Subtlety
Subtle aids don’t mean silence—they mean offering just enough guidance to maintain the dialogue. This approach encourages the horse to take responsibility for their movement and balance, fostering both understanding and confidence. It’s a conversation, not a monologue, where each subtle cue has purpose and clarity.
Clarity Creates Confidence
Horses thrive on clear communication. When we reduce the noise and focus on intentional, subtle aids, the horse feels supported and understood. This clarity builds confidence and prevents confusion, ensuring the horse remains engaged and curious rather than overwhelmed.
Less is More, but Not Nothing
Reducing the intensity of aids isn’t about doing nothing—it’s about offering what’s essential and no more. Overcomplicating with excessive or conducting aids to prevent failure, especially when teaching something new, can quickly create dependency or frustration. By simplifying, we allow the horse to take responsibility for their movement while still feeling guided and supported.
A Continuous Thread in Training
This balance of clarity, subtlety, and engagement is a continuous red thread in horse training. It especially comes to light when teaching, optimizing, or refining something new. It’s easy to get stuck in using too many cues and aids—maybe necessary during initial explanations but quickly redundant as the horse starts to understand. Transitioning to subtler guidance as soon as possible ensures that the horse can take ownership and grow.
Reflect on your own training: Are you transitioning from explanation to refinement? Are your aids supporting the horse’s independence, or are they creating unnecessary noise?
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