Brain Works and Ground Work
Jim talks about how the horse's brain works and how we use groundwork to communicate with the horse.
Jim talks about how the horse's brain works and how we use groundwork to communicate with the horse.
In this video, Jim explains the reason for having to stay in constant conversation with our horses while riding. But, how do we get the horses attention when they aren't paying attention? Watch this video to learn more from Jim.
Jim takes a moment to discuss what "True Feel" means. This is a great message from Jim and relates to equestrians of all stages and disciplines. Watch the video below to hear from Jim!
In this video, Jim displays a whole hour of trailer training in 6 minutes. Jim will also talk about tying in the trailer and why he trailer trains the way that he does at the end of the video. Enjoy!
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.
In this video series, Jim Thomas talks about helping a horse find a safe space, and how to transfer that one safe into other areas or tasks for the horse. Dr. Steve Peters is on site for this demonstration and offers input as well. We will be posting a three-part series of these videos with Mason the horse, Jim's perspective and some insight from Dr. Peters. Stay tuned for parts 2 and 3 but each video has information independently useful.
Jim demonstrates the need to be mindful about how we ask our horse to turn with proper hands and by lifting UP not OUT with the reins. This is a great video to watch and then go out practice!
Did you know MOST riding accidents happen at the mounting or dismounting!? It is SO important for your horse to be settled, and ready, at the mounting block. Making sure to teach a horse to not walk off, stand square at the block and be relaxed could prevent injuries and accidents. Make sure to watch this quick video on just one technique for teaching a horse to stand at a block with Jim.
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.
Riders often come to me for advice because they’re having a hard time getting their horse’s mind and body soft and willing when they go to work in the arena. I always respond with the same question— “How do you go about your lesson with your horse?” Their response always seems to be the same. “I catch my horse, lead him to the barn, put him in cross-ties, groom and saddle, lead him to arena, get on and hit the rail for our warm-up.” Usually, they go on to say that the horse starts pushing through all directions once they