PTR Horsemanship
Pressure | Timing | Release
Communicating with your Horse
Communication
Pressure timing and release is a method of communication between a horse and handler that uses the precise application of pressure cues and the timely release of that pressure as a reward. This training approach aims to establish clear and effective communication, build trust, and encourage cooperation from the horse.
Horse and Handler
With pressure timing and release, the handler applies pressure to the horse to ask for a specific behavior or response. The pressure can be physical, such as a light pull on the reins or a gentle squeeze of the legs, or it can be mental, conveyed through body language, energy, or voice cues. Regardless of the type of pressure utilized, the timing of the pressure is crucial; it must be applied at the exact moment the desired response is requested, and immediatly released when the horse has performed the specific behavior or requested movement.
Reinforcement
Stand, walk, and turn. Once the horse responds appropriately to a pressure cue, the handler immediately releases the pressure, providing instant relief. This release serves as a reward for the horse's correct response, reinforcing the desired behavior and encouraging the horse to repeat it in the future. The release can be something as simple as a loosening of the reins, a relaxation of the body language, a gentle pat or affirming touch.
An occasional reward at the end of a training session can provide additional reinforcment for the horse being trained.
Developing a consistent language between the horse and handler fosters trust, respect, and a willingness in the horse, leading to an effective and harmonious partnership.
Examples
Here are a few examples to illustrate how pressure timing and release works:
1. Asking for a halt: The rider applies gentle backward pressure on the reins, signaling the horse to stop. The moment the horse starts to slow down and comes to a complete halt, the rider releases the rein pressure, rewarding the horse for following the cue.
2. Requesting a turn: To ask the horse to turn, the rider applies pressure with the inside rein in the desired direction. As soon as the horse begins to turn its head or bend its body in response, the rider releases the rein pressure, acknowledging the correct reaction.
3. Encouraging forward movement: When asking the horse to move forward, the rider applies light leg pressure or uses a clucking sound as an auditory cue. As soon as the horse takes a step forward or picks up the desired gait, the rider relaxes the leg pressure or stops the clucking, providing immediate release and rewarding the horse for its response.
These examples demonstrate how pressure timing and release utilizes the principles of clear communication, precise timing, and the timely release of a pressure cue to effectively convey the handler's expectations to the horse. By consistently applying this approach, the horse learns to associate the pressure cues with specific actions and becomes more responsive and willing to follow the rider's requests.
It's important to note that pressure, timing, and release is just one approach to horse training.