Groundwork · Free playbook
The Groundwork Playbook
Six steps to a better horse and a clearer partnership.
Step 01
Understanding the Horse
Your horse already has a language, and it is our job to learn it. Too often we focus on trying to get the horse to understand us, but real progress begins when we first understand them.
Horses communicate through energy first, then body language. If your energy is scattered or inconsistent, your horse will notice that before they ever notice your cues. Work on staying calm, grounded, and clear.
Raise your energy: Take a strong breath, stand taller, and use more intentional posture to ask for movement.
Lower your energy: Soften your shoulders and breathe deeply to invite relaxation.
Adapt your approach: Give a nervous horse slower steps and reassurance. Give a laid-back horse greater clarity and energy.
Every horse has a personality. Spend time observing and adjusting, and you will become fluent in your horse's language much faster.
Your teaching map
See the progression.
Select a step to explore the idea.
Understanding the Horse
Start by reading your horse’s attention and body language.
Step 02
Build Rapport, Focus, and Attention
The next step builds on what you have just learned.