THE CURSE OF INCONSISTENCY

THE CURSE OF INCONSISTENCY

People being inconsistent in their interactions with horses is the number one reason for training issues or problem horse behaviour.

Inconsistency comes in many shapes and forms and can be seen at all levels of experience. People learning to work with horses can lack consistency in how they ask their horse to do things. Their lack of ability to balance in the saddle and have an independent seat also creates inconsistency in how aids are applied and what the horse is feeling and experiencing.

Experienced riders can become inconsistent by trying to correct too many things at once or a demand for everything to be perfect from the line, speed, posture etc….and the horse gets caught in a blur of unrelenting pressure that they struggle to work out and navigate.

Rider fear or a lack of confidence that can make a rider reactive, hang on or panic and rip at the reins also creates inconsistent random, blurred and harsh application of pressure that can really upset horses and make the whole situation worse.

Therefore, learning to be consistent requires more than just learning to ride and how to ask the horse to do things. It requires you to listen to the horse and have empathy for what your horse is experiencing. Whether you call it mindfulness or paying attention, consistency comes from developing awareness of the present moment. Awareness of what your body is doing, what your mind is thinking and the purpose behind the actions you are taking.

Sometimes this awareness will reveal you are struggling. Struggling is not failure. It might reveal you need to work on yourself. Your weight, core strength, emotions, confidence or you have hit that place where your knowledge has ended and your frustration has taken over. It might means you need help. Seeking help is not weakness, it shows commitment and courage. It shows you are prepared to learn how to get it right!