Horse-man-ship Mentality – Many refer to this as “Natural Horsemanship.”
Cappel Cowboy Wisdom
The core of my training philosophy is what I call my “Clear Mental Picture.” I make what I want the horse to do the easiest and most natural thing for them. In contrast, when a horse does something, I do not want them to. I make that behavior more work for them. Whereby they realize that following my lead is simpler and more comfortable.
This approach relies heavily on precise timing and clear communication. You need to be aware of when the horse has stepped into the correct posture and attitude and allow them to release themselves from the pressure I`m asking with. This allows the horse to experience the reward for doing the right thing. Human awareness is also needed as to know when to put gentle pressure on when the horse steps out of the picture I hold in my mind for them. Horses are fast learners when we communicate effectively which is why timing is so critical. The horses need to recognize that what they did was the reason that they experienced the release. If you provide clear directions and make the right choices easier for the horse, you will see amazing results.
In horsemanship, power lies not in repeated drills but in human understanding and timing. When we approach training with a “Clear Mental Picture,” the horse responds naturally to our cues, finding the path of least resistance to follow, unlike methods that rely on repetition. I believe and teach that the handler’s understanding drives success—seeing the horse`s effort and offering a “sweet spot of release” at just the right moment. As I attune to the horse’s smallest signals, my timing reinforces their progress, honoring their choice to connect without the need for endless correction.
Mindful Riding,
Dennis Cappel - Master Horseman
D/C
Classes Coming 2025:
April 26-27th, 2025
March 29th, 2025
Weekend Horseshoeing
March 7-9th, 2025
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