Efarmoges Efarmoges I started riding with a saddle pad at 12..years old,,( after 4 years of riding)from straight bareback..cause I realized how dirty my white short shorts were..haha, and I started getting hives from the sweat and hair of my pony..so there are reason for most things.
I went bitless with my Percheron/Standardbred gelding. He goes in a leather side pull with no leverage and he loves it. I tried it on impulse by clipping reins to his leather halter and I got this completely relaxed, sensitive to the aids, responsive horse. It was so amazing that I hacked out on my bareback pad and his halter. We are sold!
Hi PaulaEdwina and Welcome! Thank you for sharing. Should you want to learn more about Caroline’s training, she has a large DVD selection www.taoofhorsemanship.com/shop and online training courses with lifetime access so please be sure to check them out. Or you can join us for our Everything Horses & More LIVE Podcast/Webinar hosted every Tuesday, and Wednesday at 12pm EST on facebook.com/TaoofHorsemanship/. If not, that’s okay. You can find the recording on our Tao of Horsemanship Facebook page. Thanks again and I hope to see you on our show! XO, Sabrina
Bitless riding is a great way to gain trust , understanding and team work without the pain and discomfort from bits . I am over the moon that you recommend this way of riding that has so many postive attributes and can be easierly taught to any horse of any experience or disapline. I believe that no matter how people try to justify using a bit because they believe that is to be less intrusive or painless on a horses mouth that is totally untrue and even rubber bits cause discomfort and damage . Some people will argue that their horse is head strong or uncontrollable and needs a harsher bit to control their horses behavior is just poor horsemanship used by lazy people who want the quick an easier way out to solve their problems that was most likely caused by human error in the first place . Caroline I am so happy that you are introduced this kind of natural horsemanship to all of the equine disaplines and I will be looking forward to watching more of your videos .
Caroline Rider Your welcome hun its great to meet like minded people with a passion for natural horsemanship and building a bond with your horses instead of thinking of them as mindless machines that need to be dominated and bullied . Cheers from your friend from Australia 😊
Kylie Wilson if you get the correct bit and use it well it will be fine, riding bit less can cause severe knots and can actually break the nose, if you watch a video of a horse skull you can really see how thin the nose is and can actually break as well, I don't think bits are bad as long as you use them correctly, a lot of people that say bits are bad don't realise how bad bit less can actually be and the amount of damage it can cause! The position she has the nose band at is way too low, I can see that it is on a very thin piece of bone and just a little bit too much pressure, the horse's nose will snap! Please do not assume that all bits are bad when bit less can be just as bad, if not worse!
Lark LuvsHorses But with bit less you have to position it very high up on the nose, it still causes knots of tissue to form, and if you use bits correctly, they don't mind!
You are a wonderful women who truly understands a horse and how working with your horse instead of demanding and bullying the horses into submission. I truly wish that there was more equestrian people who would follow your advice because you are what true natural horsemanship is about . All the best my friend ☺
This is how I've been with my new horse and my husband thinks I'm nuts in believing that it is working but, it is, I swear we understand eachother without words... 40 years old and finally own my 1st horse and I feel like I've won the lottery, so rewarding, something moneycould never buy!
I have just ditched my happy mouth d ring bit with a peanut roller to consistently ride bitless. My 8 year old OTTB has NEVER been so relaxed before! Our bond has grown tremendously since making the transition to a leather side pull bridle.😊
Hi Claudia and Welcome! hould you be interested in learning more about my work and training, I offer an extensive and revolutionary online training academy that hosts three of my equine training courses: The Tao Method Course, Discovering the Spirituality of Horsemanship Course and Problem Solving and Strategy Video Courses. Each course focuses on one concrete area of horsemanship - from deepening the connection and relationship to developing the best riding foundation and problem-solving strategies for challenging areas and horses. Each was designed to not only educate and problem solve but to empower and inspire! The education and step-by-step practices I offer through my online courses and training programs is both comprehensive and unique. My training programs are not only intuitive based they are practical combining extensive, expert knowledge with thorough, step-by-step exercises and strategies. First, I strive to provide the best information and educational videos, making content better than any other because I offer the most thorough, comprehensive and result oriented courses that are ALL about the horse. Second, my courses give you real results. They are revolutionary, effective, amazing and loving. They are designed to help you find results through quality content and video, in-depth and concise instruction with a multitude of learning opportunities from studying videos to step-by-step practice, “Try This” practice sheets, supplemental reading materials and open Q&A discussion forums. The most popular and practical course is my Tao Method Course. This course is a step-by-step training course for both horses and riders. Please read on for more details and pricing. Tao Method Relationship & Riding Course Achieving the Relationship and Ride of Your Dreams Your Relationship and Riding Success relies on Mindset and Practice Discover Key Insights, Strategies & Exercises to Increase Your Level of Awareness, Relationship, Confidence and Skills! So many of us are missing the essence of relationship in our horsemanship. We are led to believe the only way to handle, work with and train a horse is by following the same, mundane principles and practices of the much taught, and publicized, equine training programs that surround equine care, handling, training and problem-solving. If you are like the many of us who know this, you struggle with the despair and frustration of dealing with what’s considered, and accepted, normal horsemanship practices. You yearn for a way in which to work with your horse that is compassionate, fulfilling, effective and most of all best for both you and your horse. This is why I created my work - to unite both you and your horse as one in mind, soul and movement. Not only will you learn how to deepen the relationship you share with your horse, you will build the best and safest riding foundation through knowledge and skill in horse behavior, training theory and correct ground and riding practices. So, come join me as we embark together on this journey to build the most amazing relationship and ride with your horse! Limited time offer $34.95/month! Once you enroll you have access to all 12 months, or 12 courses, 24/7. For best results please follow courses in numerical order. You can also cancel at any time. To subscriber, click here. SchooX is the host for my LMS (learning module system) so don't be alarmed when you see this link and are directed to their platform: www.schoox.com/bundle/28/The+Tao+Method+Monthly+Subscription Please contact me with any questions! Warmly, Caroline
I restarted my horse bitless a while back because he has scars on his lips from a bit. He also has chest scars from a breast strap so hes been through some stuff and I'd love to make riding easier for him ❤❤
Actually I know I'm Late but Bitless isn't Always Best, I know Some That have Destroyed Horses Faces such as some Bosals are with Rough Material that have ripped Skin and some I don't Rember But a Hackmore with a Weird Part I think under it's Chin puts alot of pressure on it's Face, I'm no Expert which is why I don't Know but that's What I do know
Caroline, thank you so much for sharing your teaching with the world. I have watched several of your videos and am so inspired to restart my horses with fresh understanding (even though I have been practicing "natural horsemanship" for many years.) I just had a wonderful and profound join-up experience today with a horse that I have had for 14 years! Your teachings really connect the dots for me, and help me connect on a deeper level.
Love it! I subscribed when you said you don't use bits anymore. Excellent when someone like you does this it filters down and can only be good for the horses.
Thank you Caroline - that was one big chunk of information !! One of the best I have seen. ...and most helpful. I enjoy 'rope halter plus lead rope made into reigns and bare back (only short distance for the horses sake) - you certainly feel at one with the horse that way !! Wish I was in the USA - I'd pay you a visit.
Hi Liz and Welcome! I'm so happy to hear how well my work resonates with you! Should you be interested in learning more about my work and my training method I offer an extensive and revolutionary online training academy that hosts three of my equine training courses: The Tao Method Course, Discovering the Spirituality of Horsemanship Course and Problem Solving and Strategy Video Courses. Each course focuses on one concrete area of horsemanship - from deepening the connection and relationship to developing the best riding foundation and problem-solving strategies for challenging areas and horses. Each was designed to not only educate and problem solve but to empower and inspire! The education and step-by-step practices I offer through my online courses and training programs is both comprehensive and unique. My training programs are not only intuitive based they are practical combining extensive, expert knowledge with thorough, step-by-step exercises and strategies. First, I strive to provide the best information and educational videos, making content better than any other because I offer the most thorough, comprehensive and result oriented courses that are ALL about the horse. Second, my paid programs give you real results. They are revolutionary, effective, amazing and loving. They are designed to help you find results through quality content and video, in-depth and concise instruction with a multitude of learning opportunities from studying videos to step-by-step practice, “Try This” practice sheets, supplemental reading materials and open Q&A discussion forums. The most popular and practical course is my Tao Method Course. This course is a step-by-step training course for both horses and riders. Please read on for more details and pricing. Tao Method Relationship & Riding Course Achieving the Relationship and Ride of Your Dreams Your Relationship and Riding Success relies on Mindset and Practice Discover Key Insights, Strategies & Exercises to Increase Your Level of Awareness, Relationship, Confidence and Skills! So many of us are missing the essence of relationship in our horsemanship. We are led to believe the only way to handle, work with and train a horse is by following the same, mundane principles and practices of the much taught, and publicized, equine training programs that surround equine care, handling, training and problem-solving. If you are like the many of us who know this, you struggle with the despair and frustration of dealing with what’s considered, and accepted, normal horsemanship practices. You yearn for a way in which to work with your horse that is compassionate, fulfilling, effective and most of all best for both you and your horse. This is why I created my work - to unite both you and your horse as one in mind, soul and movement. Not only will you learn how to deepen the relationship you share with your horse, you will build the best and safest riding foundation through knowledge and skill in horse behavior, training theory and correct ground and riding practices. So, come join me as we embark together on this journey to build the most amazing relationship and ride with your horse! Limited time offer $34.95/month! To subscriber, click here. SchooX is the host for my LMS (learning module system) so don't be alarmed when you see this link and are directed to their platform: www.schoox.com/bundle/28/The+Tao+Method+Monthly+ Subscription Please contact me with any questions! Warmly, Caroline
+Krystal R-S Hi Krystal and Welcome! Thank you! I look forward to keeping in touch! We will be launching our NEW Tao of Horsemanship Online Academy in June so stayed tuned! Warmly, Caroline
I was made aware of you through Rick Gore Horsemanship. I've always liked that he rides bit less , and the fact that he's very non-PC. I appreciate that. What I've seen so far watching your videos, you too are very good with horse's and appear to have a good understanding of what makes them tick.
Hello Susan and Welcome! Great to hear how well my work resonates with you and is working for you! The free training videos that I offer on my youtube channel are just the beginning! Should you want to learn more about my method - the level of personal development, spiritual transformation, deep and rewarding relationship you achieve with your horse during training as well as developing the ride of your dreams, check out my Tao of Horsemanship Online Academy Training Courses for People and Horses. Here is the commercial for the Academy: ruclips.net/video/e2TF3CPU1Nc/видео.html You can learn more about the Academy, details of courses provided and costs here: www.taoacademy-horse-training-courses.com/taomethodcourse Please visit my website www.riderhorsemanship.com to learn more about my method and the wide array of learning opportunities available. Thank you and may you always be one with horses! Warmly, Caroline
You know a rider treats their horse right when the horse rubs her nose on her and almost falls asleep on her. Love you thank you for showing me this I am glad that now I know that bits are not good for horse, I do not have one but would like to own one later, so much thanks and love!
You are fantastic!!! Love this video......seeing and listening to you has given me such motivation to get my new bitless life with my horse started!!! I'm starting in a few days! Thank you!
Hi Jeanette and Welcome! If you love this video and want to learn how to ride bitless and feel connected and safe with your horse check out my NEW Bitless & Balanced, Confident Riding Masterclass Course www.taoacademy-horse-training-courses.com/courses.
Love this video! I work for an NPO that retrains and rehomes ex race horses. All of them are retrained bitless and they listen better than any horse with a bit/harsh bit. Control isn’t about constant pressure or discomfort in a horse’s mouth, it’s about a communicative partnership between you and the horse. Love this video! A little note though, the noseband of the rope halter is sitting a bit too low and is putting pressure on the wrong part of the horse’s face. I know this video is old, but still noteworthy :)
I just discovered you and LOVED this video!! So helpful as I am working on riding bitless with my mare. Can't wait to watch and learn more from you. Thank you so much
Hi Matthew and Welcome! Thank you. If you would like to learn more I have a NEW extensive and comprehensive online academy that hosts several of my teaching and training curriculums, specifically my Tao Method Course riderhorsemanship.com/tao-horsemanship-online-academy/.
@@SuperSapphireStone What is it that you disagree with, because if you do you don't know how to ride without using just the bridle for"control" when you should be using your body and cues from your weight, position, and legs to communicate. Now I guess I shouldn't be allowed near a horse either???
Hi Chang and Welcome! Should you want to learn more, I offer a wide array of learning opportunities here at my FL facility and on my online training academy for people and horses. Here is a little more about my approach. We believe in a holistic approach to horsemanship, providing expert knowledge and instruction for the whole horse and rider. Our approach is multi-dimensional and includes the physical, emotional, mental and spiritual aspects of both the person and horse’s well-being. We specialize in both foundation training and problem-solving and have the answers you are searching for. The key in horsemanship and having the partner you want with your horse is in foundation training. If your horse has either had 1) trauma or 2) hasn’t had a correct and solid foundation (start), they will either be too scared to learn or missing key building blocks to their development. Horses need years of development and learning to be at the level you see in many of the professional clinician and trainer’s horses - including what you see in my videos. There are no quick fixes, tricks or gimmicks and like any solid education, it takes a curriculum or program to follow so you are building a correctly foundation. We have 8 training modules that we follow in our curriculum that specialize in self-awareness, the spiritual connection, relationship, discipline, confidence, biomechanics and balanced riding. Click here for details on our training pyramid www.riderhorsemanship.com/rh-training-program. Should you be interested in learning online, we offer a very large and comprehensive online training academy for people and horses. Click here for details about our online academy training courses www.taoacademy-horse-training-courses.com/. Should you want to learn the step-by-step curriculum, please click here www.taoacademy-horse-training-courses.com/taomethodcourse. For more information about the wide array of learning opportunities we provide, please visit www.riderhorsemanship.com/education.
Why bareback? A well fitted saddle is made to distribute pressure evenly over the horses back and make them more comfortable. It's also important for beginner riders, both for safety and comfort of the horse.
@@Rachel-ge3gl Hi Rachel, for me personally..I can feel what the horse is doing or potentially going to do. When they tense up for example for whatever reason. Those darn horse eating plastic bags that blow by for one. Anyway a well made bareback pad is a plus too. My balance and seat much improved as a result of going bareback. I feel more at one with my horse. I would NEVER ride a horse bareback that was not healthy, i.e underweight etc. It's not for everyone. To much in the way with a saddle for me. Just fyi...I do own saddles both english (Crosby) and western (Hereford) both well made but still prefer bareback and with a pad if needed. Happy Trails!
Excellent point: once your horse has run away, its too late. Your only hope is to prevent the bolt before it happens. I preach this to my friends and students constantly. Prevent the bolt, dont just ride in a big bit and assume youll be able to stop the horse.
Thank you Caroline! I have now watched a handful of your videos. I grew up with horses and riding. I'm a dog trainer by trade and focus so much on relationships with animals, building trust, and kind leadership with my own clients. When I got my horse this summer it killed me to think I would use anything but the methods I preach! I got a 3-year-old spoiled mustang pony. Although, very sweet and not spooky she, for lack of another way to put it, is extremely sassy. She had a tendency to toss her head up, thrash and shake her head, rear up, and/or push into you or basically walk on top of you. It worried me that I might never get the responsiveness from her I set out to achieve using my own methods and how I believe we should all work with animals. Although I was pretty confident when I took her on that I could teach her all that and more I have my doubts. Your videos have reassured me that I can use the methods I set out to use, and help me see what exactly I'm looking for when applying them to a horse. It's also a wonderful feeling to know there are animal trainers, like yourself, that teach people to be in tune, build a relationship, and ultimately prepare the animal for life in our world not demand that they be obedient because we say so. I hope to meet you one day. My little pony and I. Kindly, Kelsie w/ kindanimalservices.com
Excellent video with clear explanations and demonstrations. Unfortunately, it's about 10 years too late for me. I had wanted to try bit-less riding ages ago because my gelding Jack, (ex race horse), and I had such a great rapport/synergy and he had 'chilled out' over the 2 years I had him. Things were going so well for about 15 mins. We even warmed up to a trot. Then, we passed a bit of scaffolding under a tree. Not sure if that reminded Jack of his racing days... ?starting gates or what...? But he took off as though he was racing in some major event!! All I could do was hang on and keep my balance. I didn't know any of the lessons shown in this video - Jack was in control all the way back to our paddock within a few minutes. It was the most scary experience I've ever had on a horse. I'm so grateful that Jack got me back in one piece. He taught me a good lesson - never take any horse for granted! Perhaps he felt my sense of pride... in 'my achievement' rather than 'our achievement'. RIP my 'red boy' - there'll never be another horse like you for me.
Caroline I just discovered you by accident,YAHOO! I've been using a side pull for the last 26 years. In this video you didn't mention them. What do you think of them? Can't wait to watch more of your videos! THANKS! LOVE to see a woman doing such fine work! Jolly Smith
Hi Lorraine and Welcome! I do not like bit-less bridles or side pulls. They tend to pull to much to one side and not release well. I recommend both the stop-n-turn (piece that replaces the bit and works with any headstall) and bosal.
Thank you your wisdom! I think you have the best approach to horsemanship. Love, bonding and respect goes a very long way. ❤️ Whilst I love the bitless bridle, I don’t recommend this for everyone. Only for experienced riders, reason is people not confident with light touch can ultimately compromise the horse, hackamore in severe cases.
Hi Cat's Crib and Welcome! I agree with you and explain the different bit-less bridles in this video and what I recommend the most, for most rider's, and why.
Hello Gem and Welcome! Great to hear how well my work resonates with you and is working for you! The free training videos that I offer on my youtube channel are just the beginning! Should you want to learn more about my method - the level of personal development, spiritual transformation, deep and rewarding relationship you achieve with your horse during training as well as developing the ride of your dreams, you can learn more about the Academy, details of courses provided and costs here: www.taoacademy-horse-training-courses.com/taomethodcourse. I highly recommend the LIFETIME membership as it gives you 24/7 access, 365 days and forever, not to mention all of the BONUS material that’s included. Please visit my website www.riderhorsemanship.com to learn more about my method and the wide array of learning opportunities available. Thank you and may you always be one with horses! Warmly, Caroline
My mouthy little Arabian was constantly working the snaffle bit, so I tried riding him in a training halter with reins attached on the sides. He was easy to handle and more comfortable. I looked at different bitless options and chose the Zilco flower. He does great in it and is happier without a bit. I didn't like the Dr. Cooks bridle because of no release. I also ride him bareback with a pad.He is a happy boy now.
Very informative and interesting. I was wondering how you came about bitless riding, I came about Rick Gore and his horsemanship although I don't own a horse I'm very interested in riding bitless. p.s. your horse is very cute.
HI Caroline: An outstanding instructional video. I just wish everybody that posts equine advise did as much preparation and have as much experience as yourself.
+Caroline Rider (Rider Horsemanship) I look forward to them. I am not exactly a "bit-less" convert (even though all of my students can ride bit-less or even without a bridle) but I believe it is as you say "ride and control from the saddle". and for riders to "read" their horse. Pulling hard and fast on the bit or even when bit-less is a example of a total lack of horsemanship of the rider.
I love you for not using bits. I feel so bad to see how a horse suffers just so the human can brag. 😢😢 I want to do something to get the public voice to ban horse bit once and for all. Anyone knows how to go about it?
It’s a lovely idea! Sadly, I fear those who misuse bits will also misuse hackamores and bosals; however, more and more people are understanding the importance of sensitivity to the horse’s needs. I’d say we’ve come a long way from the 70’s when I was a horse mad child. Thank you for loving 🐴🐴🐴❤️
Thank you so much!!....I would love to not use a bit,...I think it is far more kind to have the animal learn how to listen to you and give it respect by backing off and letting it learn from you...what you would ask it to do and want to respect you by its response!!...great and she it a beautiful girl!!❤️❤️
this is helpful! I go to horse summer camp and we had to ride without a bit and it was scary cause they never showed us how to control our horse without a bit! so this was amazingly helpful!!!
I love your channel! You have helped me with my mare so tysmmm!!!!!!! You are awesome! I learned how to make her follow me, Respect me, and much more! Thanks Caroline!
Hi CreativeMachineYT and Welcome! Thank you! I share more free videos and great articles on my Rider Horsemanship Facebook page facebook.com/RiderHorsemanship/. Please share my work with others so we can spread the word! We believe in a holistic approach to horsemanship, providing expert knowledge and instruction for the whole horse and rider. Our approach is multi-dimensional and includes the physical, emotional, mental and spiritual aspects of both the person and horse’s well-being. We have 8 training modules that specialize in self-awareness, the spiritual connection, relationship, discipline, confidence, biomechanics and balanced riding. We offer a complete guide, step-by-step learning and instruction, here at our center and on our Tao of Horsemanship Online Academy Training Courses for People and Horses www.taoacademy-horse-training-courses.com/taomethodcourse. Please click here to learn more about our training pyramid/program www.riderhorsemanship.com/rh-training-program. Should you want to learn how to develop the relationship and ride of your dreams and from home, please check out my Tao of Horsemanship Online Academy Training Courses for People and Horses. The Online Academy is very comprehensive and includes 3 main courses, each a building block for the next to follow. The LIFETIME access gives you access to hundreds of step-by-step instructional videos and teaches you how to begin your horses training no matter if they are young and green or older and need a re-start. The videos within each course follow my foundation curriculum or program for starting and re-starting horses as well as problem solving tips and strategies. The LIFETIME access also includes BONUS materials, webinars and a discussion forum where we have created an online community where I answer questions each week. I highly recommend the LIFETIME membership as it gives you 24/7 access, 365 days and forever, not to mention all of the BONUS material that’s included. Please visit my website www.riderhorsemanship.com to learn more about my method and the wide array of learning opportunities available. Thank you and may you always be one with horses! Warmly, Caroline
thank you so much for this video ! I am french and don't speak a fluent english but what you say is so clear, sound so well, that I guessed what I didn't understand. A pity you are so far ! Thanks a lot again and happy new year !
Hi Nadine and Welcome! Happy New Year to you! Great to hear how my video resonated with you, helped you. I offer an online course (many) should you be interested in learning my method of teaching you and training horses! The promotion/ad for the course is below. Hope to see you there! Warmly, Caroline
I either use a neck strap (no bridle) or I use a simple halter with reins attached to it. The neck strap works if the horse is attentive to your body weight and legs. The halter with reins is better when the horse tends to be distracted and needs a gentle reminder.
When you made the point that lateral flexion isn't going to save you in the case of a blow up....I was just screaming..THANK YOU!! I have been taught forever and ever that this yielding of the HQ and flexing the head would stop a bolt...and you are exactly right. If the horse has it in his head to do it, he will do it no matter. And yes, maybe a man has the strength to kind of pull the horse out of that mindset, but I totally agree - most women do not. It really made me feel empowered when you said that because you followed up with the real meat of the situation. KNOW your horse - use pre take off check list and if all else fails, try to yield him around and abandon ship. I've done this after a time of learning that I wasn't a match for my horse when he had it in his head to go ballistic. And seeing you suggest this made me feel like I wasn't a chicken sh**. Haha! Sometimes you just want to survive. Live so the next day you can go back and do some ground work and establishing better rapport and hopefully the incident won't repeat itself. :). Thanks for the video. Very informative and I'm definitely going to be looking into going bit less...one bit at a time. :))
Hello and Welcome SweetSuccess! Great to hear how well my work resonates with you and is working for you! The free training videos that I offer on my youtube channel are just the beginning! Should you want to learn more about my method - the level of personal development, spiritual transformation, deep and rewarding relationship you achieve with your horse during training and learning together as well as the ride of your dreams, take a look at my Tao of Horsemanship Online Academy Training Courses for People and Horses. Here is the commercial for the Academy: ruclips.net/video/e2TF3CPU1Nc/видео.html. You can learn more about the Academy, details of courses provided and costs here: www.taoacademy-horse-training-courses.com/taomethodcourse
Very good ! It seems so natural how to move the hindguarter . I made a mistake to train i n a method when they move the hindquarter from standing still before they learnt from turning around.
Awesome video.... I was hooked and learned heaps ... many many thanks... and I am looking forward to finding more of your tutorials :-) Libby, New Zealand
just tried a stop and turn - wow it's amazing! much more control than the Dr. Cook's, my horse caught on quickly, and it takes almost nothing to move him. I agree it takes a light hand, but for a well trained horse it's like butter. thanks so much for the tip!
Thanks so much for all your videos but this one in particular... I just bought a bit less bridle last month and I always see if you have any videos on what I want to work on with my daughter and my horse...she is 13 and I am 55 we NeVeR agree and we met this OTTH, he is 6 and I am doing a lot of ground work with him, we have had him 5 months already, time flies...I believe in preparation and riding bit-less.. but he has to settle down a little. I like to introduce new experiences slowly and want to
Great video Caroline. Thank you so much! I would like to know better how to teach the horse to stay at the mounting block, lateral and vertical flexion. Are you planning to make a second part where you explain this?
+María Durán Hi Maria! The process to acquiring a horse's mindset of calm, quiet and obedient takes time. My entire method of training begins with liberty, then specific online exercises then riding. The liberty develops the calm, stillness, connection and relationship - this is the foundation to developing the "pick me up" at the mounting. It's not an exercise or technique either. I don't work that way. Rather it's created through the power of your heart, energy and intention. The horse wants to envelop you in a hug and with their heart chakra. I have an entire DVD collection of my work that can help you develop this with your horse. You can visit the DVD's on my website: www.shoppingcartdepot.com/shop/default.aspx?c=7l7V707k7Z2 The development of the flexion can be found in my Riding as One DVD. Please see my copy, description, above for more info and links. Thank you! Caroline
Hi Caroline, I did not want to discuss my opinion in a public forum, but I just looked up stop and turn hackamores and was shocked. Those are the harshest bitless devices I have ever seen. Are you aware that for every inch of shank the pressure exponentially increases. This means with a 1 inch shank ( like a small S hackamore) 1 pound of pull from the hand equals 10 pounds on the jaw and nose of the horse. With a 2 inch shank 1 lbs of hand pressure equals 100 pounds on the jaw and nose. 3 inch shanks can easily break cartilage and fracture bone in the wrong hands. I'm not saying no one should use them obviously you are concious of pressure, your horse, and have a soft hand. What bothers me is that a novice could do serious damage to their horse while being under the impression that they are using "kinder" bitless option. And although I am fully anti bit it is much harder to do damage with a snaffle in a novice hand than with a harsh shanked hackamore with a solid bar under the jaw. The novice should at least be made aware of the intense power in their hand with a device like that. With that being said don't you find that training for trust and responsiveness and acheiving a reasonable level of both removes the need for such a potentially harsh and pain motivated device? Still a huge fan of your process, Namaste, Jan
Hi Jan! Your question is great and brings more awareness to selecting bitless equipment and understanding each pieces purpose. I do mention in my video, and in other free training videos where I use the stop n turn, that it is a harsh piece of equipment if used incorrectly. I also mention that I only use it for finesse and when the horse is both balanced and able to collect. It is not a training device and must be introduced when the horse is at a certain level in their education, training and again balanced and collected. To answer your question about: "With that being said don't you find that training for trust and responsiveness and acheiving a reasonable level of both removes the need for such a potentially harsh and pain motivated device?" I do train with trust, awareness, gentleness and develop the level of responsiveness in my horses with a rope halter and lead rope first. Again, I talk about this and demonstrate this in the video. Thanks again Jan for allowing us to further discuss the stop n turn! Warmly, Caroline
Caroline Rider but if you're roping you know when you're moving faster you have to have better control and roping an altar seems you wouldn't have much control
John Galbreath - I think it is all about training. I have seen people ride a reining event with no bridle at all, including a slide. And do a jump course. If you think you need a harsher bit to stop your horse you may stop and think about doing some more training using your seat and other signals.
Jan, I looked it up as well. Basically a mechanical hackamore. Lots of leverage and a narrow noseband. I don't see the use for it as you can't plow rein with it at all but I see people using it to start horses which I do not understand. If the horse pushes through, then I would think there needs to be more training and working with the horse to be more sensitive if you can. I really really do NOT like mechanical hackamore's and even if they are 'bitless', they are more like a curb bit.
Just started looking into all the things I have been taught, man half of them are completely awful for the horse!! May get the result you want, but at what cost? Man, I am definitely going to do my research from now on! And I plan on ditching my bit for good!
Thx Caroline, great info and education. I have a rope halter with rings, came with rein and metal clips. The length of rein is too short for some horses, so I rigged some slobber straps and tied a mecate. Now I’m worried that it’s too heavy across the nose and pole. Can’t post photo here, but the yacht rope is soft but narrow. Any advice or ideas?
Caroline Rider I very much enjoyed this video; I found it to be highly educational. Thank you. What happened with Lovey's right foreleg at 24:39? ~ Also, for your sake as well as for your readers, an Fyi > 1:46 Rather than " Taunt", it is Taut, which Google shows as > Taut > adjective 1. stretched or pulled tight; not slack. "the fabric stays taut without adhesive" synonyms: tight, stretched, rigid "the rope was taut" 2. (of writing, music, etc.) concise and controlled. "a taut text of only a hundred and twenty pages" >> Not " taunt" ( which Google shows as > Taunt > noun 1. a remark made in order to anger, wound, or provoke someone. synonyms: jeer, jibe, sneer, insult, barb, catcall; More verb 1. provoke or challenge (someone) with insulting remarks. "students began taunting her about her weight" synonyms: jeer at, sneer at, scoff at, poke fun at, make fun of, get at, insult, tease, chaff, torment, goad, ridicule, deride, mock, heckle, ride;. ~ Hopefully, this information will aid in communication. I know that edu-comments are popularly shunned on YT, but Taunters need to know that their jeering will be disrespected. ~ Caroline, Thanks again for sharing what you've learned about natural horsemanship. :)
Hi Caroline!😊 I have a couple of questions, for you, regarding ropehalters You mention, that a normal nylon ropehalter is not strong enough, for ex, a draft horse. I have a 10 year old Frisian mare. Before purchasing her, I tried her and it went fine The first time, when I'm about to get on her, after I got her home (july, last year '21), she spooks and bolts, and I fall off, breaking my arm 2 places. That was a major wake up call for me. And I began groundwork right from the basics. She's ridden inn, with bit. In Spain, as a 6 year old, where they're much more hard handed, than we are in Denmark. You mention how horses can get nervous, from the handling. I think that reflects, to my horse, if you know what I mean.... So, in my groundwork, I've had focus on the light handling And she responds beautifully! She's had some frog issues, which I've been treating, daily, since November last year. Therefore, I've had to wait, to begin riding her. (Looking back, this has been, a luck in unluck. I've been 'forced' to work with the saying: The Slow Way, Is The Fast Way'....). 3 days ago, I sat on her for the first time. Just, in a ropehalter, without saddle. Getting on, quietly, and getting off. Repeated this, a couple of times, relating to your Utube video, with JJ. At first, she thought, she had to do a lot. Lifted her head, tightened up, aso. Yesterday, and today, it gets gradually more relaxed. Best of all -the real magic, has been -that she actually leaves her hay, and her herd, when she sees/hears me -and go to the gate, to wait for me..... I have NEVER experienced this, with any horse, before.... It's worth all the time and effort..!!❤ Following your program However -I have 2 questions, Caroline: 1) Is the normal ropehalter enough for her, as the draft horse, she is? (Is it strong enough)? If not -where can I find the right kind of halter? We have a very limited variety, here in Denmark. 2) If I sign up to your program, -then how do I find it? Is it an app, or do I Google the name of the program, that I choose? (3)) Which program will you recommend me, to sign up for? NB Hope, that I've made myself clear, since English is not my primary language...😊 May You Always Be One, With Your Horse 🐎 🙏 ❤️
There are a lot of great points in this video. My biggest question is, when people transition into bitless riding, there is a generally much focus on softening of our hands. Why can't this be applied to a bit? One of my horses needs 1-5 pounds of pressure right now to gain a reaction in a snaffle (Start with >.5 and increase until I gain a response), and my other can be measured in ounces. How is this bad for these horses as this applies far less pressure than that stop and turn? Neither are bothered by the bit at all. Most of the things you talk about regarding safety and such apply to being less forceful on a bit as well. Before the comments come in, I never pull back with both reins until a horse understands vertical flexion. I am working on getting my horses to move on feel rather than pressure so lightness is beyond a priority for me.
Hi Christopher and Welcome! Thank you. Great question and I think people don't think about the bit as being severe. It's what they are or aren't being taught. I don't think there is the level of awareness about the severity of the bit like there is about the bitless bridles, specifically the stop-n-turn. In any case the mouth of the horse and the nose of the horse are sensitive and deserve the same soft, yet firm approach when necessary. In regards to teaching a horse to give to the hands, to contact, regardless of whether it is a bit or nose piece, it should not be about pulling. I rather teach by holding the level of contact needed to get the desired response. This teaches the horse that they can create their own release vs waiting for us to release. There is also a dialogue that needs to happen when teaching contact. I relate the fingers of the hand on the reins as playing an instrument, perhaps a harp or guitar. I want to massage the instrument, talk to it, rather than dominate it and make is submit to pressure. Warmly, Caroline
Hi Caroline. I have a Haflinger that I started about 5 years ago. I started her in a bitless. But, I found that she was always looking for something to do with her mouth. Like someone with ADD who has to have something to do with their hands. Finally, I tried her in a loose ring, French link snaffle. She was like a different horse! Not stressed or anxious about the bit at all. I was toying with the idea of trying her bitless again, until I had a student sit on her bareback with just a halter to get a better feel for controlling a horse with her seat. Now, I did not use the rope halter that day, I used a web halter with reins connected at the sides and kept a lead rope attached as a safety line. Once again, she was looking for something to do with her mouth, not trying to bite. She is not a biter, but likes to explore things with her mouth (i.e. brushes, bug spray, dressage whips, etc.) Have you ever worked with a horse like this before? Do you think she will eventually "mature" out of this behavior? Maybe with more training? I do not consider her "finished" at this point.
+MotherOfManyHorses Hello and Welcome! Great question! Yes, I've worked with many horses like your Haflinger. In my experience it is the mind that is restless and shows it's activity through a busy mouth and or busy feet. The bit becomes a pacifier and subdues only the symptoms not the cause. The cause is restlessness, stress, age (immaturity), lack of stillness/calm, safety and/or comfort. I have found that when you can discipline the mind and create stillness you can release the busy tension that is showing up in her busy mouth. How old is your Haflinger? Sometimes this is about being young and/or a lacking in maturity. Yes, she can grow out of this and she may on her own and I know my method can help her. Hope this helps and I look forward to hearing from you! Warmly, Caroline
+Caroline Rider (Rider Horsemanship) She is 10, although there were a couple years where I did nothing with her (personal stuff happening, I've only recently gotten back into doing things with horses again.) She is not the nervous sort. I rarely see her nervous. She is normally very confident. But she has always been a very "mouthy" girl. Any time something is new, she will put her mouth on it and try it out. She is very inquisitive, especially if she thinks food might be involved. ;) I used to use clips on my reins, but she would toss her head like they were "jingle bells" when ever the reins were loose, so I removed the clips for her. She was fine after that. (She is a bit of a character. ;D )
+MotherOfManyHorses HiMotherofManyHorses! She sounds lovely and full of curiosity! Her "ADD" can be part nature and part behavior - she has learned to be active and has spent most of her life being active vs still. With consistency and time, perhaps 1-2 years of foundation, your mare could stop fidgeting.
+Caroline Rider (Rider Horsemanship) Thanks, I think she is lovely, but I might be a bit biased. ;) I am hopeful then, that we may eventually be able to go back to being bitless.
i saw this tutorial today on how a girl tacked up after watching your video mentioning how inhumane those bits are (i've never tacked up myself) and it made me so sad to see how he got all squirmy all the sudden when she got the bit and bridle out - his whole body language rejected it, and i would've never put two and two together had i not seen your video. at least i now know what to do when i go in myself with tacking up. thanks for this info - ill try and let it reach unaware people out there.
Hi Caroline, I just moved my girl over to a Orbitless Bridle, since her wolf teeth came in and the bit was causing her pain.. You should check it out, it has different settings and my girl LOVES it.. , be something you could keep in your tack trunk..
No actually its very light, and she holds a great light contact on it too.. I found the western hacks to be more heavy then this one.. this one in weight would be right around a normal bridle with a standard snaffle.. I love the feel of it, and she really loves it.. fixed her balking and running backwards issue with this in less then 5mins, first ride.. and I'm actually more apt to canter her in it then i was with a snaffle, she is extremely responsive to it.. definitely worth it. I have a Dr. Cooks, and a micklem multi bridle, and a side pull, and compared to all of them, this is my go to new favorite.. I may end up switching all my guys over to it.
I dont know much about riding bitless but i was told the one thing u must not do when riding bitless was use bosals because they can cause bleeding as the material is so rough
Has anyone else ever tried an indian bosal bridle/attachment? I've seen versions that look like a rope halter made of paracord, either regular throat latch or cross-under, with loops or rings for reins to pass through, different kinds of nosebands, etc. I wouldn't advice buying those held together with tape. I like paracord indian bosals because they're soft, conform to the horse's face, they cross under the horse's chin and apply pressure simultaneously with noseband when you pull back, no mechanical shanks but still have plenty of leverage. Your preference on whether loops or rings (where reins pass through) give better release. I got an indian bosal attachment with a smooth noseband (no knots or ridges), rein loops, and cross-under chin. Figured it would have more leverage than a sidepull if my horse tried to push through the pressure but by far gentler than my mechanical hackamore with long shanks, metal curb chain, and heavy rubber covered bicycle chain noseband. Mechanical hackamore was too much control and I didn't like how badly it fit my Quarter Horse's head. When mounted, my horse rarely backed up right in a bit, but she backed up fine when I was on the ground. Tried backing her in a hackamore--mounted and not--and she did just great. When spring comes I'm going to try riding my horse with a double bridle of sorts. I took an old nylon headstall, its browband and throatlatch removed so it functioned like a hanger for my hackamore attachment, adjusting everything until it fitted comfortably underneath my bitted leather bridle. I'm going to use two separate reins so I can use my indian bosal more often yet I'll have a bit in my horse's mouth when riding through town or if necessary.
Hi Nancy and Welcome! I'm so happy to hear how well my work resonates with you! Should you be interested in learning more about my work and my training method I offer an extensive and revolutionary online training academy that hosts three of my equine training courses: The Tao Method Course, Discovering the Spirituality of Horsemanship Course and Problem Solving and Strategy Video Courses. Each course focuses on one concrete area of horsemanship - from deepening the connection and relationship to developing the best riding foundation and problem-solving strategies for challenging areas and horses. Each was designed to not only educate and problem solve but to empower and inspire! The education and step-by-step practices I offer through my online courses and training programs is both comprehensive and unique. My training programs are not only intuitive based they are practical combining extensive, expert knowledge with thorough, step-by-step exercises and strategies. First, I strive to provide the best information and educational videos, making content better than any other because I offer the most thorough, comprehensive and result oriented courses that are ALL about the horse. Second, my paid programs give you real results. They are revolutionary, effective, amazing and loving. They are designed to help you find results through quality content and video, in-depth and concise instruction with a multitude of learning opportunities from studying videos to step-by-step practice, “Try This” practice sheets, supplemental reading materials and open Q&A discussion forums. The most popular and practical course is my Tao Method Course. This course is a step-by-step training course for both horses and riders. Please read on for more details and pricing. Tao Method Relationship & Riding Course Achieving the Relationship and Ride of Your Dreams Your Relationship and Riding Success relies on Mindset and Practice Discover Key Insights, Strategies & Exercises to Increase Your Level of Awareness, Relationship, Confidence and Skills! So many of us are missing the essence of relationship in our horsemanship. We are led to believe the only way to handle, work with and train a horse is by following the same, mundane principles and practices of the much taught, and publicized, equine training programs that surround equine care, handling, training and problem-solving. If you are like the many of us who know this, you struggle with the despair and frustration of dealing with what’s considered, and accepted, normal horsemanship practices. You yearn for a way in which to work with your horse that is compassionate, fulfilling, effective and most of all best for both you and your horse. This is why I created my work - to unite both you and your horse as one in mind, soul and movement. Not only will you learn how to deepen the relationship you share with your horse, you will build the best and safest riding foundation through knowledge and skill in horse behavior, training theory and correct ground and riding practices. So, come join me as we embark together on this journey to build the most amazing relationship and ride with your horse! Limited time offer $34.95/month! To subscriber, click here. SchooX is the host for my LMS (learning module system) so don't be alarmed when you see this link and are directed to their platform: www.schoox.com/bundle/28/The+Tao+Method+Monthly+ Subscription Please contact me with any questions! Warmly, Caroline
I've always wanted to ride with no track to gain trust with my horse because me and him were in an accident and we havent had time to bond because i was recovering from the accident but I've tried to find ways to find the trust again but none of them gain the trust that we had before 😔
No you don't need to get a new bridle! You can just buy some bitless attachments! Paracord sidepull nosebands are about $12, and come in lots of fun colors! Go on Etsy and look for them!
Hi Amanda and Welcome! Thank you! I do not recommend bit-less bridles because most of the time the side pulls pull too much, don't release well. The stop-n-turns I mention and use in this video replace your bit and can be used with any headstall.
Willow Equestrian Willow Equestrian I respectfully disagree Think like a horse. His horses are not collected and calm. They are not connected no lateral or vertical. No flexion. High headset. The stop and turn and this headatall with reins is my choice for bit less riding it’s way more effective and safe. :)
When I was a kid in the ‘60’s we all rode with curb bits with curb straps. Harsh. Now people are going bitless, I love it! It takes more training, and that’s a good thing.
but shjowsz have rules any any horses over five yrs has to where a bit per show rules and they only allow certain things ..... a truely finished western horse uses a curb and so do gaited breeds so they gait properly and not bad if used properly
Hi Caroline, I just noticed in a post below that you don't like a side pull. Can you kindly elaborate? I have a 9 year old 17.2 hh paint gelding that just went under saddle last October. He was driving me absolutely batty with bit chomping which began the second it was put in to the second it was taken out. He chews on everything so this was just another pacifier for him. He is very respectful and a great horse. I started with a side pull last week to see if I could keep him attention on me more than when he was focused on the bit. So far he is pretty accepting of this except he isn't 100% respecting it on turns or even in a straight line like he would a bit. Everything right now is at a walk. Thank you ever so much in advance for your reply :) Dawn
Hi Dawn and Welcome! My issue with side pulls is twofold: 1) they pull vs direct or guide the horse's nose and shoulder; 2) they don't fit well (some of them) and if you have to pull hard in one direction they tension on the rein can move the headstall. I've seen horses with the headstall ending up on top of the eye. Warmly, Caroline
Ah-ha I see. I haven't had that happen yet but I have had to use some muscle to finish turns because he resists. He was in a full cheek double jointed snaffle to ride for several months so I thought this method might work best since he was used to that side pulling. I also saw you recommend a lead with a rope halter. I could just use my normal reins and get the same effect couldn't I?
I subscribed the moment she said "I dont use bits anymore" and also for bareback riding she uses a bareback pad to protect the horse's back.
Respect
Efarmoges Efarmoges I started riding with a saddle pad at 12..years old,,( after 4 years of riding)from straight bareback..cause I realized how dirty my white short shorts were..haha, and I started getting hives from the sweat and hair of my pony..so there are reason for most things.
Excellent.
Me too...she had me at no bits! She clearly loves horses, respects them and builds a relationship of trust. Makes me so happy!
I went bitless with my Percheron/Standardbred gelding. He goes in a leather side pull with no leverage and he loves it. I tried it on impulse by clipping reins to his leather halter and I got this completely relaxed, sensitive to the aids, responsive horse. It was so amazing that I hacked out on my bareback pad and his halter. We are sold!
Hi PaulaEdwina and Welcome! Thank you for sharing. Should you want to learn more about Caroline’s training, she has a large DVD selection www.taoofhorsemanship.com/shop and online training courses with lifetime access so please be sure to check them out.
Or you can join us for our Everything Horses & More LIVE Podcast/Webinar hosted every Tuesday, and Wednesday at 12pm EST on facebook.com/TaoofHorsemanship/. If not, that’s okay. You can find the recording on our Tao of Horsemanship Facebook page. Thanks again and I hope to see you on our show! XO, Sabrina
I just love this... you ride exactly like I do, no saddle, bitless, bareback pad. Bravo!
yay
The Magic Twister they’re dope! Comfortable for you and the horse. I never ride bareback without a bareback pad
I could not thank u enough for NOT using cruel, harsh, terrible, 100% UNNECESSARY, horrid bits👍
Bitless riding is a great way to gain trust , understanding and team work without the pain and discomfort from bits . I am over the moon that you recommend this way of riding that has so many postive attributes and can be easierly taught to any horse of any experience or disapline. I believe that no matter how people try to justify using a bit because they believe that is to be less intrusive or painless on a horses mouth that is totally untrue and even rubber bits cause discomfort and damage . Some people will argue that their horse is head strong or uncontrollable and needs a harsher bit to control their horses behavior is just poor horsemanship used by lazy people who want the quick an easier way out to solve their problems that was most likely caused by human error in the first place . Caroline I am so happy that you are introduced this kind of natural horsemanship to all of the equine disaplines and I will be looking forward to watching more of your videos .
Hi Kylie and Welcome! Thank you!
Caroline Rider Your welcome hun its great to meet like minded people with a passion for natural horsemanship and building a bond with your horses instead of thinking of them as mindless machines that need to be dominated and bullied . Cheers from your friend from Australia 😊
Kylie Wilson if you get the correct bit and use it well it will be fine, riding bit less can cause severe knots and can actually break the nose, if you watch a video of a horse skull you can really see how thin the nose is and can actually break as well, I don't think bits are bad as long as you use them correctly, a lot of people that say bits are bad don't realise how bad bit less can actually be and the amount of damage it can cause! The position she has the nose band at is way too low, I can see that it is on a very thin piece of bone and just a little bit too much pressure, the horse's nose will snap! Please do not assume that all bits are bad when bit less can be just as bad, if not worse!
Lark LuvsHorses But with bit less you have to position it very high up on the nose, it still causes knots of tissue to form, and if you use bits correctly, they don't mind!
One would be pulling, and pulling way too hard, for knots of tissue to develop.
You are a wonderful women who truly understands a horse and how working with your horse instead of demanding and bullying the horses into submission. I truly wish that there was more equestrian people who would follow your advice because you are what true natural horsemanship is about . All the best my friend ☺
A sign of a good horseman/trainer is when they start horses bitless
I swear by rope halters. they are so so amazing (and since theyre cheap you can buy one in every color 😊)
This is how I've been with my new horse and my husband thinks I'm nuts in believing that it is working but, it is, I swear we understand eachother without words... 40 years old and finally own my 1st horse and I feel like I've won the lottery, so rewarding, something moneycould never buy!
Better than any bit ever. Loved it. This is way more 21 century.
I have just ditched my happy mouth d ring bit with a peanut roller to consistently ride bitless. My 8 year old OTTB has NEVER been so relaxed before! Our bond has grown tremendously since making the transition to a leather side pull bridle.😊
I'm Brazilian barrel racer and I want to learn more to run bit-less with my horses. I'm loving your videos.
Hi Claudia and Welcome!
hould you be interested in learning more about my work and training, I offer an extensive and revolutionary online training academy that hosts three of my equine training courses: The Tao Method Course, Discovering the Spirituality of Horsemanship Course and Problem Solving and Strategy Video Courses. Each course focuses on one concrete area of horsemanship - from deepening the connection and relationship to developing the best riding foundation and problem-solving strategies for challenging areas and horses. Each was designed to not only educate and problem solve but to empower and inspire!
The education and step-by-step practices I offer through my online courses and training programs is both comprehensive and unique. My training programs are not only intuitive based they are practical combining extensive, expert knowledge with thorough, step-by-step exercises and strategies.
First, I strive to provide the best information and educational videos, making content better than any other because I offer the most thorough, comprehensive and result oriented courses that are ALL about the horse.
Second, my courses give you real results. They are revolutionary, effective, amazing and loving. They are designed to help you find results through quality content and video, in-depth and concise instruction with a multitude of learning opportunities from studying videos to step-by-step practice, “Try This” practice sheets, supplemental reading materials and open Q&A discussion forums.
The most popular and practical course is my Tao Method Course. This course is a step-by-step training course for both horses and riders. Please read on for more details and pricing.
Tao Method Relationship & Riding Course
Achieving the Relationship and Ride of Your Dreams
Your Relationship and Riding Success relies on Mindset and Practice
Discover Key Insights, Strategies & Exercises to Increase Your Level of Awareness, Relationship,
Confidence and Skills!
So many of us are missing the essence of relationship in our horsemanship. We are led to believe the only way to handle, work with and train a horse is by following the same, mundane principles and practices of the much taught, and publicized, equine training programs that surround equine care, handling, training and problem-solving.
If you are like the many of us who know this, you struggle with the despair and frustration of dealing with what’s considered, and accepted, normal horsemanship practices. You yearn for a way in which to work with your horse that is compassionate, fulfilling, effective and most of all best for both you and your horse.
This is why I created my work - to unite both you and your horse as one in mind, soul and movement. Not only will you learn how to deepen the relationship you share with your horse, you will build the best and safest riding foundation through knowledge and skill in horse behavior, training theory and correct ground and riding practices.
So, come join me as we embark together on this journey to build the most amazing relationship and ride with your horse! Limited time offer $34.95/month! Once you enroll you have access to all 12 months, or 12 courses, 24/7. For best results please follow courses in numerical order. You can also cancel at any time.
To subscriber, click here. SchooX is the host for my LMS (learning module system) so don't be alarmed when you see this link and are directed to their platform:
www.schoox.com/bundle/28/The+Tao+Method+Monthly+Subscription
Please contact me with any questions!
Warmly,
Caroline
I restarted my horse bitless a while back because he has scars on his lips from a bit. He also has chest scars from a breast strap so hes been through some stuff and I'd love to make riding easier for him ❤❤
Thank you for deciding to make your horse's life better.
I've watched several videos on this subject, and this is by far the best. I'm looking forward to viewing more of your videos! (Lovey is a darling!)
Bit less is best. It works so beautiful.
Actually I know I'm Late but Bitless isn't Always Best, I know Some That have Destroyed Horses Faces such as some Bosals are with Rough Material that have ripped Skin and some I don't Rember But a Hackmore with a Weird Part I think under it's Chin puts alot of pressure on it's Face, I'm no Expert which is why I don't Know but that's What I do know
Caroline, thank you so much for sharing your teaching with the world. I have watched several of your videos and am so inspired to restart my horses with fresh understanding (even though I have been practicing "natural horsemanship" for many years.) I just had a wonderful and profound join-up experience today with a horse that I have had for 14 years! Your teachings really connect the dots for me, and help me connect on a deeper level.
Love it! I subscribed when you said you don't use bits anymore. Excellent when someone like you does this it filters down and can only be good for the horses.
Thank you Caroline - that was one big chunk of information !! One of the best I have seen.
...and most helpful. I enjoy 'rope halter plus lead rope made into reigns and bare back (only short distance for the horses sake) - you certainly feel at one with the horse that way !! Wish I was in the USA - I'd pay you a visit.
Well I just discovered you, and I think you're great! Straightforward info, great delivery, and I wish I had you for a teacher!
This is the best trainer video I've watched (and I've watched a few). thank you so much.
Hi Liz and Welcome! I'm so happy to hear how well my work resonates with you! Should you be interested in learning more about my work and my training method I offer an extensive and revolutionary online training academy that hosts three of my equine training courses: The Tao Method Course, Discovering the Spirituality of Horsemanship Course and Problem Solving and Strategy Video Courses. Each course focuses on one concrete area of horsemanship - from deepening the connection and relationship to developing the best riding foundation and problem-solving strategies for challenging areas and horses. Each was designed to not only educate and problem solve but to empower and inspire!
The education and step-by-step practices I offer through my online courses and training programs is both comprehensive and unique. My training programs are not only intuitive based they are practical combining extensive, expert knowledge with thorough, step-by-step exercises and strategies.
First, I strive to provide the best information and educational videos, making content better than any other because I offer the most thorough, comprehensive and result oriented courses that are ALL about the horse.
Second, my paid programs give you real results. They are revolutionary, effective, amazing and loving. They are designed to help you find results through quality content and video, in-depth and concise instruction with a multitude of learning opportunities from studying videos to step-by-step practice, “Try This” practice sheets, supplemental reading materials and open Q&A discussion forums.
The most popular and practical course is my Tao Method Course. This course is a step-by-step training course for both horses and riders. Please read on for more details and pricing.
Tao Method Relationship & Riding Course
Achieving the Relationship and Ride of Your Dreams
Your Relationship and Riding Success relies on Mindset and Practice
Discover Key Insights, Strategies & Exercises to Increase Your Level of Awareness, Relationship, Confidence and Skills!
So many of us are missing the essence of relationship in our horsemanship. We are led to believe the only way to handle, work with and train a horse is by following the same, mundane principles and practices of the much taught, and publicized, equine training programs that surround equine care, handling, training and problem-solving.
If you are like the many of us who know this, you struggle with the despair and frustration of dealing with what’s considered, and accepted, normal horsemanship practices. You yearn for a way in which to work with your horse that is compassionate, fulfilling, effective and most of all best for both you and your horse.
This is why I created my work - to unite both you and your horse as one in mind, soul and movement. Not only will you learn how to deepen the relationship you share with your horse, you will build the best and safest riding foundation through knowledge and skill in horse behavior, training theory and correct ground and riding practices.
So, come join me as we embark together on this journey to build the most amazing relationship and ride with your horse! Limited time offer $34.95/month!
To subscriber, click here. SchooX is the host for my LMS (learning module system) so don't be alarmed when you see this link and are directed to their platform: www.schoox.com/bundle/28/The+Tao+Method+Monthly+
Subscription
Please contact me with any questions!
Warmly,
Caroline
It's so hard to find someone that knows what they are talking about. Thank goodness you do. 😊😊😊😊
+Krystal R-S Hi Krystal and Welcome! Thank you! I look forward to keeping in touch! We will be launching our NEW Tao of Horsemanship Online Academy in June so stayed tuned! Warmly, Caroline
I was made aware of you through Rick Gore Horsemanship. I've always liked that he rides bit less , and the fact that he's very non-PC. I appreciate that. What I've seen so far watching your videos, you too are very good with horse's and appear to have a good understanding of what makes them tick.
Hello Susan and Welcome! Great to hear how well my work resonates with you and is working for you!
The free training videos that I offer on my youtube channel are just the beginning! Should you want to learn more about my method - the level of personal development, spiritual transformation, deep and rewarding relationship you achieve with your horse during training as well as developing the ride of your dreams, check out my Tao of Horsemanship Online Academy Training Courses for People and Horses. Here is the commercial for the Academy: ruclips.net/video/e2TF3CPU1Nc/видео.html
You can learn more about the Academy, details of courses provided and costs here:
www.taoacademy-horse-training-courses.com/taomethodcourse
Please visit my website www.riderhorsemanship.com to learn more about my method and the wide array of learning opportunities available.
Thank you and may you always be one with horses! Warmly, Caroline
You know a rider treats their horse right when the horse rubs her nose on her and almost falls asleep on her. Love you thank you for showing me this I am glad that now I know that bits are not good for horse, I do not have one but would like to own one later, so much thanks and love!
You are fantastic!!! Love this video......seeing and listening to you has given me such motivation to get my new bitless life with my horse started!!! I'm starting in a few days! Thank you!
Hi Jeanette and Welcome! If you love this video and want to learn how to ride bitless and feel connected and safe with your horse check out my NEW Bitless & Balanced, Confident Riding Masterclass Course www.taoacademy-horse-training-courses.com/courses.
Love this video! I work for an NPO that retrains and rehomes ex race horses. All of them are retrained bitless and they listen better than any horse with a bit/harsh bit. Control isn’t about constant pressure or discomfort in a horse’s mouth, it’s about a communicative partnership between you and the horse. Love this video!
A little note though, the noseband of the rope halter is sitting a bit too low and is putting pressure on the wrong part of the horse’s face. I know this video is old, but still noteworthy :)
Thank you so much!! You are amazing ❤
I just discovered you and LOVED this video!! So helpful as I am working on riding bitless with my mare. Can't wait to watch and learn more from you. Thank you so much
Hi Matthew and Welcome! Thank you. If you would like to learn more I have a NEW extensive and comprehensive online academy that hosts several of my teaching and training curriculums, specifically my Tao Method Course riderhorsemanship.com/tao-horsemanship-online-academy/.
WOW, this is such an amazing video & instructor. Thanks.
This was the first video I ever watched of yours and I've been hooked ever sense! I love your method sooo much!
Hi Veronica! Thanks so much! It's great to hear how well my method works for you. I also appreciate your support!
I've just started viewing her videos and find them very helpful.
OMG, this makes me feel a lot better. You can ride a horse without putting all that metal in his mouth? Grandson's question. Thank you.
Bits are 100% unnecessary 100% of the time. Be kind and ride metal free.
You should not be let anywhere NEAR a horse.
@@silverkitty2503 Are you really that stupid?
@@SuperSapphireStone What is it that you disagree with, because if you do you don't know how to ride without using just the bridle for"control" when you should be using your body and cues from your weight, position, and legs to communicate. Now I guess I shouldn't be allowed near a horse either???
@@kikiv7332 High fives to you!
@@kikiv7332 bitless bridles are just as harmful as a bit
Great teaching video from start on bit less bridles to safety and proper control! TY!
Great video. Yes, your tips are very helpful and I will keep them in mind when I am riding my horse. Thank you so much.
Hi Chang and Welcome! Should you want to learn more, I offer a wide array of learning opportunities here at my FL facility and on my online training academy for people and horses. Here is a little more about my approach.
We believe in a holistic approach to horsemanship, providing expert knowledge and instruction for the whole horse and rider. Our approach is multi-dimensional and includes the physical, emotional, mental and spiritual aspects of both the person and horse’s well-being.
We specialize in both foundation training and problem-solving and have the answers you are searching for. The key in horsemanship and having the partner you want with your horse is in foundation training. If your horse has either had 1) trauma or 2) hasn’t had a correct and solid foundation (start), they will either be too scared to learn or missing key building blocks to their development.
Horses need years of development and learning to be at the level you see in many of the professional clinician and trainer’s horses - including what you see in my videos. There are no quick fixes, tricks or gimmicks and like any solid education, it takes a curriculum or program to follow so you are building a correctly foundation.
We have 8 training modules that we follow in our curriculum that specialize in self-awareness, the spiritual connection, relationship, discipline, confidence, biomechanics and balanced riding. Click here for details on our training pyramid www.riderhorsemanship.com/rh-training-program.
Should you be interested in learning online, we offer a very large and comprehensive online training academy for people and horses. Click here for details about our online academy training courses www.taoacademy-horse-training-courses.com/.
Should you want to learn the step-by-step curriculum, please click here www.taoacademy-horse-training-courses.com/taomethodcourse.
For more information about the wide array of learning opportunities we provide, please visit www.riderhorsemanship.com/education.
Your horse seemed so so happy vs the horses I’ve trail ridden with that were bits.
#bitlessbridles
When people ask what my favorite style of riding is, I say "bareback and bit-less" :)
Really enjoyed this! Firm believer in bareback and bit-less. Thank you!
Why bareback? A well fitted saddle is made to distribute pressure evenly over the horses back and make them more comfortable. It's also important for beginner riders, both for safety and comfort of the horse.
@@Rachel-ge3gl Hi Rachel, for me personally..I can feel what the horse is doing or potentially going to do. When they tense up for example for whatever reason. Those darn horse eating plastic bags that blow by for one. Anyway a well made bareback pad is a plus too. My balance and seat much improved as a result of going bareback. I feel more at one with my horse. I would NEVER ride a horse bareback that was not healthy, i.e underweight etc. It's not for everyone. To much in the way with a saddle for me. Just fyi...I do own saddles both english (Crosby) and western (Hereford) both well made but still prefer bareback and with a pad if needed. Happy Trails!
Excellent point: once your horse has run away, its too late. Your only hope is to prevent the bolt before it happens. I preach this to my friends and students constantly. Prevent the bolt, dont just ride in a big bit and assume youll be able to stop the horse.
Thank you Caroline! I have now watched a handful of your videos. I grew up with horses and riding. I'm a dog trainer by trade and focus so much on relationships with animals, building trust, and kind leadership with my own clients. When I got my horse this summer it killed me to think I would use anything but the methods I preach!
I got a 3-year-old spoiled mustang pony. Although, very sweet and not spooky she, for lack of another way to put it, is extremely sassy. She had a tendency to toss her head up, thrash and shake her head, rear up, and/or push into you or basically walk on top of you. It worried me that I might never get the responsiveness from her I set out to achieve using my own methods and how I believe we should all work with animals. Although I was pretty confident when I took her on that I could teach her all that and more I have my doubts.
Your videos have reassured me that I can use the methods I set out to use, and help me see what exactly I'm looking for when applying them to a horse. It's also a wonderful feeling to know there are animal trainers, like yourself, that teach people to be in tune, build a relationship, and ultimately prepare the animal for life in our world not demand that they be obedient because we say so.
I hope to meet you one day. My little pony and I.
Kindly,
Kelsie w/ kindanimalservices.com
Excellent video with clear explanations and demonstrations. Unfortunately, it's about 10 years too late for me. I had wanted to try bit-less riding ages ago because my gelding Jack, (ex race horse), and I had such a great rapport/synergy and he had 'chilled out' over the 2 years I had him. Things were going so well for about 15 mins. We even warmed up to a trot. Then, we passed a bit of scaffolding under a tree. Not sure if that reminded Jack of his racing days... ?starting gates or what...? But he took off as though he was racing in some major event!! All I could do was hang on and keep my balance. I didn't know any of the lessons shown in this video - Jack was in control all the way back to our paddock within a few minutes. It was the most scary experience I've ever had on a horse. I'm so grateful that Jack got me back in one piece. He taught me a good lesson - never take any horse for granted! Perhaps he felt my sense of pride... in 'my achievement' rather than 'our achievement'. RIP my 'red boy' - there'll never be another horse like you for me.
Caroline I just discovered you by accident,YAHOO! I've been using a side pull for the last 26 years. In this video you didn't mention them. What do you think of them? Can't wait to watch more of your videos! THANKS! LOVE to see a woman doing such fine work! Jolly Smith
Hi Lorraine and Welcome! I do not like bit-less bridles or side pulls. They tend to pull to much to one side and not release well. I recommend both the stop-n-turn (piece that replaces the bit and works with any headstall) and bosal.
@@TaoofHorsemanship, my sidepull has zero leverage so nothing to release.
@@PaulaEdwinaThere needs to be release. The horse learns on the release of pressure.
Thank you your wisdom! I think you have the best approach to horsemanship. Love, bonding and respect goes a very long way. ❤️
Whilst I love the bitless bridle, I don’t recommend this for everyone. Only for experienced riders, reason is people not confident with light touch can ultimately compromise the horse, hackamore in severe cases.
Hi Cat's Crib and Welcome! I agree with you and explain the different bit-less bridles in this video and what I recommend the most, for most rider's, and why.
I love this video. I can't wait to try some of these techniques out.
Hello Gem and Welcome! Great to hear how well my work resonates with you and is working for you!
The free training videos that I offer on my youtube channel are just the beginning! Should you want to learn more about my method - the level of personal development, spiritual transformation, deep and rewarding relationship you achieve with your horse during training as well as developing the ride of your dreams, you can learn more about the Academy, details of courses provided and costs here:
www.taoacademy-horse-training-courses.com/taomethodcourse.
I highly recommend the LIFETIME membership as it gives you 24/7 access, 365 days and forever, not to mention all of the BONUS material that’s included.
Please visit my website www.riderhorsemanship.com to learn more about my method and the wide array of learning opportunities available.
Thank you and may you always be one with horses!
Warmly, Caroline
The best training video, thanks so much for your kindness of sharing this so educational techniques.
Hi Myrna and Welcome! Thank you! So glad my work resonates with you!
My mouthy little Arabian was constantly working the snaffle bit, so I tried riding him in a training halter with reins attached on the sides. He was easy to handle and more comfortable. I looked at different bitless options and chose the Zilco flower. He does great in it and is happier without a bit. I didn't like the Dr. Cooks bridle because of no release. I also ride him bareback with a pad.He is a happy boy now.
Hi Caroline, great to see your sensible and kind horsemanship. Thank you.
Very informative and interesting. I was wondering how you came about bitless riding, I came about Rick Gore and his horsemanship although I don't own a horse I'm very interested in riding bitless. p.s. your horse is very cute.
HI Caroline: An outstanding instructional video. I just wish everybody that posts equine advise did as much preparation and have as much experience as yourself.
+phil vinet Thank you Phil and welcome! I will be offering many new videos in 2016, so stay tuned! Warmly, Caroline
+Caroline Rider (Rider Horsemanship) I look forward to them. I am not exactly a "bit-less" convert (even though all of my students can ride bit-less or even without a bridle) but I believe it is as you say "ride and control from the saddle". and for riders to "read" their horse. Pulling hard and fast on the bit or even when bit-less is a example of a total lack of horsemanship of the rider.
I love you for not using bits. I feel so bad to see how a horse suffers just so the human can brag. 😢😢 I want to do something to get the public voice to ban horse bit once and for all. Anyone knows how to go about it?
It’s a lovely idea! Sadly, I fear those who misuse bits will also misuse hackamores and bosals; however, more and more people are understanding the importance of sensitivity to the horse’s needs. I’d say we’ve come a long way from the 70’s when I was a horse mad child. Thank you for loving 🐴🐴🐴❤️
Thank you so much!!....I would love to not use a bit,...I think it is far more kind to have the animal learn how to listen to you and give it respect by backing off and letting it learn from you...what you would ask it to do and want to respect you by its response!!...great and she it a beautiful girl!!❤️❤️
Hi Carol! Yes, I agree. and thank you. Lovey is the mare in this video and she is true sweetheart!
this is helpful! I go to horse summer camp and we had to ride without a bit and it was scary cause they never showed us how to control our horse without a bit! so this was amazingly helpful!!!
Hi Stephanie and Welcome! Great to hear!
No more bits...I'm in!
I love your channel! You have helped me with my mare so tysmmm!!!!!!! You are awesome! I learned how to make her follow me, Respect me, and much more! Thanks Caroline!
Hi CreativeMachineYT and Welcome! Thank you! I share more free videos and great articles on my Rider Horsemanship Facebook page facebook.com/RiderHorsemanship/. Please share my work with others so we can spread the word!
We believe in a holistic approach to horsemanship, providing expert knowledge and instruction for the whole horse and rider. Our approach is multi-dimensional and includes the physical, emotional, mental and spiritual aspects of both the person and horse’s well-being. We have 8 training modules that specialize in self-awareness, the spiritual connection,
relationship, discipline, confidence, biomechanics and balanced riding.
We offer a complete guide, step-by-step learning and instruction, here at our center and on our Tao of Horsemanship Online Academy Training Courses for People and Horses www.taoacademy-horse-training-courses.com/taomethodcourse. Please click here to learn more about our training pyramid/program www.riderhorsemanship.com/rh-training-program.
Should you want to learn how to develop the relationship and ride of your dreams and from home, please check out my Tao of Horsemanship Online Academy Training Courses for People and Horses. The Online Academy is very comprehensive and includes 3 main courses, each a building block for the next to follow. The LIFETIME access gives you access to hundreds of step-by-step instructional videos and teaches you how to begin your horses training no matter if they are young and green or older and need a re-start. The videos within each course follow my foundation curriculum or program for starting and re-starting horses as well as problem solving tips and strategies. The LIFETIME access also includes BONUS materials, webinars and a discussion forum where we have created an online
community where I answer questions each week.
I highly recommend the LIFETIME membership as it gives you 24/7 access, 365 days and forever, not to mention all of the BONUS material that’s included.
Please visit my website www.riderhorsemanship.com to learn more about my method and the wide array of learning opportunities available.
Thank you and may you always be one with horses!
Warmly,
Caroline
Extremely helpful with or without a bit, as you say! Thanks Caroline, gonna use this as my pre-ride checklist.
+Angela Prenosil Hi Angela! Great to hear from you! Warmly, Caroline
thank you so much for this video ! I am french and don't speak a fluent english but what you say is so clear, sound so well, that I guessed what I didn't understand. A pity you are so far ! Thanks a lot again and happy new year !
Hi Nadine and Welcome!
Happy New Year to you!
Great to hear how my video resonated with you, helped you.
I offer an online course (many) should you be interested in learning my method of teaching you and training horses! The promotion/ad for the course is below. Hope to see you there!
Warmly,
Caroline
I either use a neck strap (no bridle) or I use a simple halter with reins attached to it. The neck strap works if the horse is attentive to your body weight and legs. The halter with reins is better when the horse tends to be distracted and needs a gentle reminder.
Truly great! The best I’ve ever seen, thank u so much!
When you made the point that lateral flexion isn't going to save you in the case of a blow up....I was just screaming..THANK YOU!! I have been taught forever and ever that this yielding of the HQ and flexing the head would stop a bolt...and you are exactly right. If the horse has it in his head to do it, he will do it no matter. And yes, maybe a man has the strength to kind of pull the horse out of that mindset, but I totally agree - most women do not. It really made me feel empowered when you said that because you followed up with the real meat of the situation. KNOW your horse - use pre take off check list and if all else fails, try to yield him around and abandon ship. I've done this after a time of learning that I wasn't a match for my horse when he had it in his head to go ballistic. And seeing you suggest this made me feel like I wasn't a chicken sh**. Haha! Sometimes you just want to survive. Live so the next day you can go back and do some ground work and establishing better rapport and hopefully the incident won't repeat itself. :). Thanks for the video. Very informative and I'm definitely going to be looking into going bit less...one bit at a time. :))
Hello and Welcome SweetSuccess! Great to hear how well my work resonates with you and is working for you! The free training videos that I offer on my youtube channel are just the beginning! Should you want to learn more about my method - the level of personal development, spiritual transformation, deep and rewarding relationship you achieve with your horse during training and learning together as well as the ride of your dreams, take a look at my Tao of Horsemanship Online Academy Training Courses for People and Horses.
Here is the commercial for the Academy: ruclips.net/video/e2TF3CPU1Nc/видео.html.
You can learn more about the Academy, details of courses provided and costs here: www.taoacademy-horse-training-courses.com/taomethodcourse
Very good ! It seems so natural how to move the hindguarter . I made a mistake to train i n a method when they move the hindquarter from standing still before they learnt from turning around.
Ride native style....👏👏👍👍👍👍🧡
Thank you so much for explaining and help me understand,great video and lot of help ❤️
Awesome video.... I was hooked and learned heaps ... many many thanks... and I am looking forward to finding more of your tutorials :-) Libby, New Zealand
Thank you for your videos. All your tips are awesome.
This was very helpful, thank you.
just tried a stop and turn - wow it's amazing! much more control than the Dr. Cook's, my horse caught on quickly, and it takes almost nothing to move him. I agree it takes a light hand, but for a well trained horse it's like butter. thanks so much for the tip!
+louise27574 Hi Louise and Welcome! That's great to hear! Warmly, Caroline
Love your instructions on how to shut down a bolting horse.
Hi Shelley and Welcome! Great to hear and thanks so much!
To skip to "how to ride bitless" 17:30...
Amazing! Do you have any halters or bridles that you recommend, I’d like to get the best one I can. Thank you!
Hi Susannah and Welcome! I recommend and use the following rope halters and lead lines www.handcraftedjewls.com/
Spend the extra money and get good sail line for your lead line. Double braided.
Check out the Nalanta bitless bridle. That is made to have some lateral control, as well.
Thanks so much for all your videos but this one in particular... I just bought a bit less bridle last month and I always see if you have any videos on what I want to work on with my daughter and my horse...she is 13 and I am 55 we NeVeR agree and we met this OTTH, he is 6 and I am doing a lot of ground work with him, we have had him 5 months already, time flies...I believe in preparation and riding bit-less.. but he has to settle down a little. I like to introduce new experiences slowly and want to
Hi Sandra and Welcome! If you have any questions you would like to ask Caroline please email her at Caroline@taoofhorsemanship.com.
Thanks
Sabrina
Thank you Caroline for your answer. I will take a look at those DVD's.
Like after I heard you don't use bit any more =) thank you 😍
Great video Caroline. Thank you so much! I would like to know better how to teach the horse to stay at the mounting block, lateral and vertical flexion. Are you planning to make a second part where you explain this?
+María Durán Hi Maria! The process to acquiring a horse's mindset of calm, quiet and obedient takes time. My entire method of training begins with liberty, then specific online exercises then riding. The liberty develops the calm, stillness, connection and relationship - this is the foundation to developing the "pick me up" at the mounting. It's not an exercise or technique either. I don't work that way. Rather it's created through the power of your heart, energy and intention. The horse wants to envelop you in a hug and with their heart chakra.
I have an entire DVD collection of my work that can help you develop this with your horse. You can visit the DVD's on my website: www.shoppingcartdepot.com/shop/default.aspx?c=7l7V707k7Z2
The development of the flexion can be found in my Riding as One DVD. Please see my copy, description, above for more info and links.
Thank you! Caroline
I love her instructions her details on training ❤ be one with her horses 🐎 I use her methods 🎉
Thank you! So informative and easy to understand.
You're very welcome!
Hi Caroline,
I did not want to discuss my opinion in a public forum, but I just looked up stop and turn hackamores and was shocked. Those are the harshest bitless devices I have ever seen.
Are you aware that for every inch of shank the pressure exponentially increases. This means with a 1 inch shank ( like a small S hackamore) 1 pound of pull from the hand equals 10 pounds on the jaw and nose of the horse. With a 2 inch shank 1 lbs of hand pressure equals 100 pounds on the jaw and nose. 3 inch shanks can easily break cartilage and fracture bone in the wrong hands. I'm not saying no one should use them obviously you are concious of pressure, your horse, and have a soft hand. What bothers me is that a novice could do serious damage to their horse while being under the impression that they are using "kinder" bitless option. And although I am fully anti bit it is much harder to do damage with a snaffle in a novice hand than with a harsh shanked hackamore with a solid bar under the jaw. The novice should at least be made aware of the intense power in their hand with a device like that.
With that being said don't you find that training for trust and responsiveness and acheiving a reasonable level of both removes the need for such a potentially harsh and pain motivated device?
Still a huge fan of your process,
Namaste,
Jan
Hi Jan!
Your question is great and brings more awareness to selecting bitless equipment and understanding each pieces purpose. I do mention in my video, and in other free training videos where I use the stop n turn, that it is a harsh piece of equipment if used incorrectly. I also mention that I only use it for finesse and when the horse is both balanced and able to collect. It is not a training device and must be introduced when the horse is at a certain level in their education, training and again balanced and collected.
To answer your question about: "With that being said don't you find that training for trust and responsiveness and acheiving a reasonable level of both removes the need for such a potentially harsh and pain motivated device?"
I do train with trust, awareness, gentleness and develop the level of responsiveness in my horses with a rope halter and lead rope first. Again, I talk about this and demonstrate this in the video.
Thanks again Jan for allowing us to further discuss the stop n turn!
Warmly,
Caroline
Caroline Rider I think the side pull would be a lot better than that stop and turn
Caroline Rider but if you're roping you know when you're moving faster you have to have better control and roping an altar seems you wouldn't have much control
John Galbreath - I think it is all about training. I have seen people ride a reining event with no bridle at all, including a slide. And do a jump course.
If you think you need a harsher bit to stop your horse you may stop and think about doing some more training using your seat and other signals.
Jan, I looked it up as well. Basically a mechanical hackamore. Lots of leverage and a narrow noseband. I don't see the use for it as you can't plow rein with it at all but I see people using it to start horses which I do not understand.
If the horse pushes through, then I would think there needs to be more training and working with the horse to be more sensitive if you can. I really really do NOT like mechanical hackamore's and even if they are 'bitless', they are more like a curb bit.
Just started looking into all the things I have been taught, man half of them are completely awful for the horse!! May get the result you want, but at what cost? Man, I am definitely going to do my research from now on! And I plan on ditching my bit for good!
Hi Ashto n and Welcome! If you have any questions for Caroline, you can always email her at Caroline@taoofhorsemanship.com.
Thanks
Sabrina
@@TaoofHorsemanship awesome thanks!
Great trainer👍 I’ve used bitless for barrel racing. I don’t use bits.
Thx Caroline, great info and education. I have a rope halter with rings, came with rein and metal clips. The length of rein is too short for some horses, so I rigged some slobber straps and tied a mecate. Now I’m worried that it’s too heavy across the nose and pole. Can’t post photo here, but the yacht rope is soft but narrow. Any advice or ideas?
Caroline Rider I very much enjoyed this video; I found it to be highly educational. Thank you. What happened with Lovey's right foreleg at 24:39? ~ Also, for your sake as well as for your readers, an Fyi > 1:46 Rather than " Taunt", it is Taut, which Google shows as > Taut > adjective
1.
stretched or pulled tight; not slack.
"the fabric stays taut without adhesive"
synonyms: tight, stretched, rigid
"the rope was taut"
2.
(of writing, music, etc.) concise and controlled.
"a taut text of only a hundred and twenty pages" >> Not " taunt" ( which Google shows as > Taunt > noun
1.
a remark made in order to anger, wound, or provoke someone.
synonyms: jeer, jibe, sneer, insult, barb, catcall; More
verb
1.
provoke or challenge (someone) with insulting remarks.
"students began taunting her about her weight"
synonyms: jeer at, sneer at, scoff at, poke fun at, make fun of, get at, insult, tease, chaff, torment, goad, ridicule, deride, mock, heckle, ride;. ~ Hopefully, this information will aid in communication. I know that edu-comments are popularly shunned on YT, but Taunters need to know that their jeering will be disrespected. ~ Caroline, Thanks again for sharing what you've learned about natural horsemanship. :)
Hi Caroline!😊
I have a couple of questions, for you, regarding ropehalters
You mention, that a normal nylon ropehalter is not strong enough, for ex, a draft horse.
I have a 10 year old Frisian mare.
Before purchasing her, I tried her and it went fine
The first time, when I'm about to get on her, after I got her home (july, last year '21), she spooks and bolts, and I fall off, breaking my arm 2 places.
That was a major wake up call for me. And I began groundwork right from the basics.
She's ridden inn, with bit. In Spain, as a 6 year old, where they're much more hard handed, than we are in Denmark.
You mention how horses can get nervous, from the handling.
I think that reflects, to my horse, if you know what I mean....
So, in my groundwork, I've had focus on the light handling
And she responds beautifully!
She's had some frog issues, which I've been treating, daily, since November last year.
Therefore, I've had to wait, to begin riding her.
(Looking back, this has been, a luck in unluck. I've been 'forced' to work with the saying: The Slow Way, Is The Fast Way'....).
3 days ago, I sat on her for the first time. Just, in a ropehalter, without saddle. Getting on, quietly, and getting off. Repeated this, a couple of times, relating to your Utube video, with JJ.
At first, she thought, she had to do a lot. Lifted her head, tightened up, aso.
Yesterday, and today, it gets gradually more relaxed.
Best of all -the real magic, has been -that she actually leaves her hay, and her herd, when she sees/hears me -and go to the gate, to wait for me.....
I have NEVER experienced this, with any horse, before....
It's worth all the time and effort..!!❤ Following your program
However -I have 2 questions, Caroline:
1)
Is the normal ropehalter enough for her, as the draft horse, she is? (Is it strong enough)?
If not -where can I find the right kind of halter?
We have a very limited variety, here in Denmark.
2)
If I sign up to your program, -then how do I find it?
Is it an app, or do I Google the name of the program, that I choose?
(3)) Which program will you recommend me, to sign up for?
NB
Hope, that I've made myself clear, since English is not my primary language...😊
May You Always Be One, With Your Horse 🐎 🙏 ❤️
thank you goddess of horses for being so humble toward your fellow animals
There are a lot of great points in this video. My biggest question is, when people transition into bitless riding, there is a generally much focus on softening of our hands. Why can't this be applied to a bit? One of my horses needs 1-5 pounds of pressure right now to gain a reaction in a snaffle (Start with >.5 and increase until I gain a response), and my other can be measured in ounces. How is this bad for these horses as this applies far less pressure than that stop and turn? Neither are bothered by the bit at all. Most of the things you talk about regarding safety and such apply to being less forceful on a bit as well.
Before the comments come in, I never pull back with both reins until a horse understands vertical flexion. I am working on getting my horses to move on feel rather than pressure so lightness is beyond a priority for me.
Hi Christopher and Welcome! Thank you. Great question and I think people don't think about the bit as being severe. It's what they are or aren't being taught. I don't think there is the level of awareness about the severity of the bit like there is about the bitless bridles, specifically the stop-n-turn. In any case the mouth of the horse and the nose of the horse are sensitive and deserve the same soft, yet firm approach when necessary.
In regards to teaching a horse to give to the hands, to contact, regardless of whether it is a bit or nose piece, it should not be about pulling. I rather teach by holding the level of contact needed to get the desired response. This teaches the horse that they can create their own release vs waiting for us to release. There is also a dialogue that needs to happen when teaching contact. I relate the fingers of the hand on the reins as playing an instrument, perhaps a harp or guitar. I want to massage the instrument, talk to it, rather than dominate it and make is submit to pressure.
Warmly,
Caroline
No horse enjoys having a pain bit, I don't care how soft your hands are. Bits are pain devices pure and simple.
Hi Caroline. I have a Haflinger that I started about 5 years ago. I started her in a bitless. But, I found that she was always looking for something to do with her mouth. Like someone with ADD who has to have something to do with their hands. Finally, I tried her in a loose ring, French link snaffle. She was like a different horse! Not stressed or anxious about the bit at all. I was toying with the idea of trying her bitless again, until I had a student sit on her bareback with just a halter to get a better feel for controlling a horse with her seat. Now, I did not use the rope halter that day, I used a web halter with reins connected at the sides and kept a lead rope attached as a safety line. Once again, she was looking for something to do with her mouth, not trying to bite. She is not a biter, but likes to explore things with her mouth (i.e. brushes, bug spray, dressage whips, etc.) Have you ever worked with a horse like this before? Do you think she will eventually "mature" out of this behavior? Maybe with more training? I do not consider her "finished" at this point.
+MotherOfManyHorses Hello and Welcome! Great question! Yes, I've worked with many horses like your Haflinger. In my experience it is the mind that is restless and shows it's activity through a busy mouth and or busy feet. The bit becomes a pacifier and subdues only the symptoms not the cause. The cause is restlessness, stress, age (immaturity), lack of stillness/calm, safety and/or comfort. I have found that when you can discipline the mind and create stillness you can release the busy tension that is showing up in her busy mouth. How old is your Haflinger? Sometimes this is about being young and/or a lacking in maturity.
Yes, she can grow out of this and she may on her own and I know my method can help her.
Hope this helps and I look forward to hearing from you! Warmly, Caroline
+Caroline Rider (Rider Horsemanship) She is 10, although there were a couple years where I did nothing with her (personal stuff happening, I've only recently gotten back into doing things with horses again.) She is not the nervous sort. I rarely see her nervous. She is normally very confident. But she has always been a very "mouthy" girl. Any time something is new, she will put her mouth on it and try it out. She is very inquisitive, especially if she thinks food might be involved. ;) I used to use clips on my reins, but she would toss her head like they were "jingle bells" when ever the reins were loose, so I removed the clips for her. She was fine after that. (She is a bit of a character. ;D )
+MotherOfManyHorses HiMotherofManyHorses! She sounds lovely and full of curiosity! Her "ADD" can be part nature and part behavior - she has learned to be active and has spent most of her life being active vs still. With consistency and time, perhaps 1-2 years of foundation, your mare could stop fidgeting.
+Caroline Rider (Rider Horsemanship) Thanks, I think she is lovely, but I might be a bit biased. ;) I am hopeful then, that we may eventually be able to go back to being bitless.
i saw this tutorial today on how a girl tacked up after watching your video mentioning how inhumane those bits are (i've never tacked up myself) and it made me so sad to see how he got all squirmy all the sudden when she got the bit and bridle out - his whole body language rejected it, and i would've never put two and two together had i not seen your video. at least i now know what to do when i go in myself with tacking up. thanks for this info - ill try and let it reach unaware people out there.
Hi Jenna and Welcome! Great to hear how my videos are inspiring you, please share!
@@TaoofHorsemanship already on it. thank you again, Caroline!
Hi Caroline, I just moved my girl over to a Orbitless Bridle, since her wolf teeth came in and the bit was causing her pain.. You should check it out, it has different settings and my girl LOVES it.. , be something you could keep in your tack trunk..
Hi SassyMustang1980! This looks great! Thank you! Is it heavy? Asking because the metal and nose band looks like it might be
No actually its very light, and she holds a great light contact on it too.. I found the western hacks to be more heavy then this one.. this one in weight would be right around a normal bridle with a standard snaffle.. I love the feel of it, and she really loves it.. fixed her balking and running backwards issue with this in less then 5mins, first ride.. and I'm actually more apt to canter her in it then i was with a snaffle, she is extremely responsive to it.. definitely worth it. I have a Dr. Cooks, and a micklem multi bridle, and a side pull, and compared to all of them, this is my go to new favorite.. I may end up switching all my guys over to it.
I dont know much about riding bitless but i was told the one thing u must not do when riding bitless was use bosals because they can cause bleeding as the material is so rough
Has anyone else ever tried an indian bosal bridle/attachment? I've seen versions that look like a rope halter made of paracord, either regular throat latch or cross-under, with loops or rings for reins to pass through, different kinds of nosebands, etc. I wouldn't advice buying those held together with tape. I like paracord indian bosals because they're soft, conform to the horse's face, they cross under the horse's chin and apply pressure simultaneously with noseband when you pull back, no mechanical shanks but still have plenty of leverage. Your preference on whether loops or rings (where reins pass through) give better release.
I got an indian bosal attachment with a smooth noseband (no knots or ridges), rein loops, and cross-under chin. Figured it would have more leverage than a sidepull if my horse tried to push through the pressure but by far gentler than my mechanical hackamore with long shanks, metal curb chain, and heavy rubber covered bicycle chain noseband. Mechanical hackamore was too much control and I didn't like how badly it fit my Quarter Horse's head. When mounted, my horse rarely backed up right in a bit, but she backed up fine when I was on the ground. Tried backing her in a hackamore--mounted and not--and she did just great.
When spring comes I'm going to try riding my horse with a double bridle of sorts. I took an old nylon headstall, its browband and throatlatch removed so it functioned like a hanger for my hackamore attachment, adjusting everything until it fitted comfortably underneath my bitted leather bridle. I'm going to use two separate reins so I can use my indian bosal more often yet I'll have a bit in my horse's mouth when riding through town or if necessary.
Nice to see this
Great video! Love the bitless
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Warmly,
Caroline
Thank you, I learn so much listening to you.
Great Video!! It helped me soo much :D
We had a horse named Sundance. She got old and is no longer around but that was her name
Heather Murray it’s a lovely name
I have had good experiences with the Dr. Cook's Bitless......changed the material so it will release.
I've always wanted to ride with no track to gain trust with my horse because me and him were in an accident and we havent had time to bond because i was recovering from the accident but I've tried to find ways to find the trust again but none of them gain the trust that we had before 😔
I think it would be helpful to show a side pull as well. :)
Can I just take the bit out of my existing bridle? Or do I need to purchase a "bit-less bridle"? Thanks! Love your channel :)
No you don't need to get a new bridle! You can just buy some bitless attachments! Paracord sidepull nosebands are about $12, and come in lots of fun colors! Go on Etsy and look for them!
Hi Amanda and Welcome! Thank you!
I do not recommend bit-less bridles because most of the time the side pulls pull too much, don't release well. The stop-n-turns I mention and use in this video replace your bit and can be used with any headstall.
+Caroline Rider (Rider Horsemanship) Awesome. Thank you! :)
Amanda Rose all you need is a rope halter check out Think Like a Horse
Willow Equestrian Willow Equestrian I respectfully disagree Think like a horse. His horses are not collected and calm. They are not connected no lateral or vertical. No flexion. High headset. The stop and turn and this headatall with reins is my choice for bit less riding it’s way more effective and safe. :)
thank you so much I hadn't bought one just borrowed one .
When I was a kid in the ‘60’s we all rode with curb bits with curb straps. Harsh. Now people are going bitless, I love it! It takes more training, and that’s a good thing.
but shjowsz have rules any any horses over five yrs has to where a bit per show rules and they only allow certain things ..... a truely finished western horse uses a curb and so do gaited breeds so they gait properly and not bad if used properly
Hi Caroline,
I just noticed in a post below that you don't like a side pull. Can you kindly elaborate? I have a 9 year old 17.2 hh paint gelding that just went under saddle last October. He was driving me absolutely batty with bit chomping which began the second it was put in to the second it was taken out. He chews on everything so this was just another pacifier for him. He is very respectful and a great horse. I started with a side pull last week to see if I could keep him attention on me more than when he was focused on the bit. So far he is pretty accepting of this except he isn't 100% respecting it on turns or even in a straight line like he would a bit. Everything right now is at a walk. Thank you ever so much in advance for your reply :)
Dawn
Hi Dawn and Welcome! My issue with side pulls is twofold: 1) they pull vs direct or guide the horse's nose and shoulder; 2) they don't fit well (some of them) and if you have to pull hard in one direction they tension on the rein can move the headstall. I've seen horses with the headstall ending up on top of the eye. Warmly, Caroline
Ah-ha I see. I haven't had that happen yet but I have had to use some muscle to finish turns because he resists. He was in a full cheek double jointed snaffle to ride for several months so I thought this method might work best since he was used to that side pulling. I also saw you recommend a lead with a rope halter. I could just use my normal reins and get the same effect couldn't I?