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KBR Horse Training Information
Exercising Body AND Mind
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Building a "Confidence Course"
Part Two
The stair platform is a small stout wooden deck with a step on one side. It is reinforced so that it will withstand the weight of a horse standing on it and walking across it. The object is for the horse to walk up the step, stand on the platform, then step off. At first the horse may only be comfortable standing with his front feet on the deck. Eventually as he relaxes he can be encouraged to stop when all four feet are on the deck.
Once the horse develops confidence climbing the stair platform, the barrels are usually removed.
Walking up the steps.
Halting on the platform.
The horse can also be asked to back down the steps and he can also be asked to mount the platform from the opposite direction (the side without any steps.)
This is a larger bridge, about 4 ft. by 12 ft. Typically horses are asked to go across the bridge crosswise, pause and relax, then approach the bridge lengthwise. The reason we start the horses crosswise is to avoid their getting the idea to dodge the bridge before they are comfortable with it. A lot can be achieved with this simple obstace. Horses should learn to quietly walk, stop, turn and back across the bridge.
Crossing the platform bridge.
Halting on the platform bridge.
The tire platform is made from a heavy loader tire that has a piece of 1¼ in. sheet of plywood bolted to one sidewall. The idea is for the horse to mount, stand on and pass over the tire platform on cue. Often we start out with a barrel on each side so that the horse won't be confused by the platform's round shape and try to walk around it.
Pausing on the tire platform.
This obstacle is designed to resemble bridle path "gates" found in a number of parks and recreation areas that allow horses through but prevent motor vehicles from entering. Two short pieces of utility pole are placed about 2½ ft. apart. A barrel is placed on either side of the walkover poles, simulating the fence posts that would usually be present out on trail. The horse needs to pass through with some coordination, not tripping on the poles and not worrying about brushing against the barrels.
Walking through the narrow pole walkover.
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Note: When working around any obstacles, you need to pay careful attention to your
situation, your horse, any distractions and what others nearby are doing (what impact they
may have on you and what impact you may have on them). Some horses may react
unpredictably and you need to be prepared to guide them through any situation... or get
competent assistance if you are not sure how to do so!
KBR Horse Training Information, © 2007
Lamm's Kickin' Back Ranch and Willis & Sharon Lamm. All rights reserved. Duplication of any of
this material for commercial use is prohibited without express written permission.
This prohibition is not intended to extend to personal non-commercial use, including sharing
with others for safety and learning purposes, provided this copyright notice is
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KBR Horse Net