Monthly Training

What will my horse learn?
The monthly training is designed for horses that have specific training issues that need to be addressed or refined. Your horse will be taken through a step by step program that builds upon the understanding at each stage. By breaking the exercises down, your horse will be trained through consistent, concise cues which they will learn through repetition and the release of pressure. This then becomes the reward and starts the process of teaching your horse to look for the answer.

The first step is in the round pen where forward movement is gained, respect is established, and a solid work ethic is derived. Desensitizing, saddling, bridling, standing politely, and respect while leading and handling are also established here. Next specific training exercises on the ground are taught to gain suppleness, responsiveness to the bit, directional and transitional control, as well as proper headset and head elevation. Both are fine tuned to build specific muscles so carrying the rider becomes easier and safer. Trailer loading will be taught also until the horse will comfortably load and unload in the trailer calmly. Some trail riding will then be introduced to gain forward movement in all 3 gaits, as well as crossing obstacles, building confidence, and exposing your horse to varied terrain and environments. This all brings your horse closer to balance, collection, and contact on the bit, giving you reliable control in a small amount of time. Upon completion of the program, your horse will be able to walk, trot, and canter both in an indoor arena and out on a trail by an experienced rider.

Performance Enhancement Program

What if my horse is already broke to ride and I want to further the training?
The performance enhancement program is designed for horses that are able to be ridden at a walk, trot, and canter safely. No matter what your riding discipline or riding level, we can fine tune your horse to increase your level of performance. Depending on your horses experience entering the program, we will develop an individual training program geared towards your needs and riding goals. By breaking exercises down and filling in training gaps your horse will gain a clear, concise understanding of how to be a willing, working partner.

At the start of the training session your horse may be round penned to help unveil the root of the issues that the horse may unmask. Ground exercises to soften the horse, gain control of the jaw, neck, poll and shoulder will be perfected to increase softness under saddle. Hip control will ensure hind end engagement and the beginning of collection and contact on the bit to start to build muscle for self carriage. Transitions and directional control will be taught, so forward movement is easy to obtain as well as steering and stopping. Speed control in different gaits may be addressed as well. Arena work is important, but trail riding will also be done to help expose your horse to different surroundings and exercises will be practiced so the cues are solid and happen when and where asked. All of this will help you ride towards your goals and ensure your safety.

Is my horse right for this program?
At Cedar Run Ranch we create a lesson plan designed to move your horse’s training at a speed that is both comfortable, and attainable. We set your horse up to win, not fail. Given this, results may vary with each training horse, but the foundation is always set. We train at an attainable speed that will work for your horses mind, and body. In the beginning the foundation is repeated so the horse understands the cues. As the training progresses we begin to ask your horse to perform in a consistent, timely manner so the foundation is always solid. By asking your horse to change his mindset and think of the rider or handler you gain a respectful, gentle, working partner that is willing to perform what you ask of them.

General Information

What happens at the end of the training program?
At the end of the horses training program we require the owner to participate in an overview session before the horse leaves. It is extremely important we train the horse to what the rider is looking for. We strive to make the horse work for you. Your involvement in your horses’ training session depends on your attendance. If you don’t come and spend the time to see what your horse has learned, you are on your own when you and your horse return home. It is that important!

How much attention and ride time will my horse receive during training?
At the ranch we only take 2 training horses per trainer. We feel it is important to dedicate as much time as possible to your horse. We spend an average of 2- 4 hours daily with your horse. All the hours may not be spent in the saddle, but also will be spent practicing specific ground exercises, leading lessons, trailer loading, trail riding or just enjoying a session of playing a game of soccer on horseback. Some days may not be as long if your horse has made great progress and needs a break. The point being, if your horse needs the extra time, the time is available.

Who will be working with my horse?
Kenny and/or one of his respected Certified Students that have graduated his year long Certification Program will be riding our Monthly Training Horses. Kenny oversees all the training and horses during our Monthly Training Program.