2% Improvement Works Best

A one percent improvement of a particular task - per ride, would yield a 100% completion rate for that task in 100 rides. Slow and steady works well for all horses (and their humans!).


A five percent improvement of a particular task - per ride, would yield a 100% completion rate for that task in 20 rides. This ups the ante quite a bit for both horse and rider. The handler must be quite knowledgeable to push this much, this fast. Caution: depending upon the horse, burnout (or something worse) is probable.

A two percent improvement of a particular task - per ride, would yield a 100% completion rate for that task in 50 rides. I've found this philosophy works extremely well for both parties.

Next, I choose between two and five tasks to work on during each ride. The horse determines how many of those tasks are completed. Any difficulties with a particular task will drive the number down. I never worry about this. My job is to help the horse learn while they stay comfortable and relaxed. Taking that time may require the entire ride. Great!

Because I don't get in a hurry...