Watch as Jim demonstrates proper rein management and the use of reins in a change of direction without causing the horse to lose forward momentum or become defensive on the bit. Through these exercises, your horse will seek out the ability to drive from the rear, round his back and lower his head and break at the pole.
How often do we get to a gate and then dismount? Watch this video to learn how Jim teaches a horse to open the gate and a few ways you can approach the gate.
As humans, we think that one thing is like the other so it must be the same. The horse doesn't think this way! Watch this video to learn how even something that looks like a horse, still isn't a "horse" in the mind of our equines.
Tackling obstacles can happen in the arena and on the trail so it is important to remember one thing that Jim always teaches: "It takes the time it takes". In this video, Jim talks about how to approach obstacles by giving appropriate direction to your horse and demonstrates how to encourage a horse to complete an obstacle by rewarding them for following the right direction through pressure and release. Watch the video below to learn more!
Jim works with a horse and rider to teach softness and feel in order to cure anxiety in the horse. In just one lesson both horse and rider begin to find their "happy place" and set themselves up for success. Watch below to see how softness can create calmness in an anxious horse.
Meet Jim Thomas and learn more about what it means when he says "Training Through Understanding".
We have to give horses the opportunity to investigate. Does your horse use their hands (yes, I said hands!) and learn? Or do they close their eyes and hold their breath? Jim takes three minutes to discuss the difference in teaching the horse how to learn new things and forcing the horse to do things. Watch now to learn more.
It's no secret that horses perceive energy differently than we do. In this short video, Jim talks about how to use energy to motivate your horse.
As I gather my thoughts for this article, I wonder in my life how often I’ve neglected to do so before communicating with another human or animal. I mean, why did I need to? There was nothing wrong with me or what I had to say— I was perfect in an imperfect world! So why did I need to change? I felt I just needed to push others harder with more energy and less time to dwell. In my shallow brain, I felt things were working out fairly well. I was having success in my career as a Soldier, a
Here's a recent lesson in lunging. Enjoy! [youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v08bTFopaSA&w=560&h=315]
