Equestrian Network Magazine

Standing Still - Like a Statue

One step, building upon another is the basis of my six step progressive program. By creating the "foundation", we are able to successfully develop a safe, responsive, committed horse or mule. The elements of my program build upon each other, just like

bricks in a wall. The complete six steps build the stand still. The use of them in a complete and effective manner will result in control. Each step has its own purpose, as well as, its ability to support and build control benefiting the other steps. They establish strength and confidence through a structured program. Please review September's article; I talked about creating a safe and effective stop which goes hand-in-hand with this month's topic. Let's move on to STANDING STILL!

SIX STEPS TO SAFETY

1) Back up

2) Shoulder control

3) Forward flexed circle

4) Hind Quarter control

5) Stop

6) Stand

Use these steps working together or individually.

Your safety rides on it!

A horse or mule unable to stand is exhibiting a weakness in the foundation of his ground work ability. Remember, often the "problem" (not standing still) is not what needs to be fixed. Trying to force the horse to stand still doesn't cut it. Directing the movement of the horse's feet through accurate ground work, builds the

character of the horse or mule, so he can stand still. This well-established foundation is critical to success, for both the animal and the human. The steps in my program will assist you in understanding my philosophy to build trust, respect and leadership.

Standing quietly (stopping the feet),
most often requires moving the feet!

Whether on the ground or in the saddle, control of the feet is essential. Standing quietly (stopping the feet), most often requires moving the feet! Flexion and confidence are very important elements. The human must always direct the movement (or lack of movement), even when the animal is standing still. Through the halter rope, a connection between the two is established. Communication is soft and subtle, while being extremely accurate.

Remember control is taught not thought.
"I thought he new better."
"I never thought he'd do that."
"HE KNOWS BETTER!" (I love that one).

The handler must identify the desired behavior he is trying to achieve:

The horse or mule must have a soft, confident posture; focused on the handler. On a loose rope, about an arm's length away, ask the animal to stop his feet (see last month's topic). The handler must direct him to stand still with his head centered, facing forward. He must stand quietly until movement is requested.

Soften your body, reduce the energy in your posture, be mindful . . . do not unknowingly request movement of the feet when you really want him to stand still. (Often the human is totally unaware that he is actually creating pressure, producing energy, which results in movement.)

Do not try to FORCE him to stand. It is physically impossible for you to do so. You can assist him in wanting to stand, by creating movement of his feet, if necessary. You may have to work extensively with him, depending upon his ability and desire to stand. Remember, "kicking those hind feet out of gear" (see the August issue about Hindquarter Control) is the best "on and off" switch available to you. Use the ground work skills you have been developing. Often by requesting and directing the movement of his feet, as you observe his demeanor, you can determine when he becomes ready to stand (or when he becomes "ready to get ready" to stand).

If you have a horse or mule that stands quietly, take a moment to critique his demeanor. Is he standing because he is bored or "turned off"? Standing still is a learned behavior. It is one of the critical elements when working on the ground, or when mounted. The horse or mule must not "shut down". He must be focused on you, awaiting your next request. His head should be centered and facing forward. He must stand still: feet, head, neck and body. Do not allow him to be "asleep on his feet". He should be soft, quiet, and confident. Gently correct him with your halter rope if he

fidgets or moves a bit. If he moves a foot, stop the movement immediately. Quietly, with accurate timing and feel, request him to move the foot back to the desired position. You MUST do this. If you allow movement, you are NOT TEACHING HIM TO STAND STILL; you are teaching him to move just a little bit!

The human must master the essential elements of successful ground work: awareness, timing and feel! The horse or mule will develop solid, correct, respectful behavior when supported by the human during ground work exercises.

The human's awareness, timing and feel must be right on when asking the horse to stand, and maintain a standing position. You must be able to arrest any movement BEFORE the horse or mule actually moves! Your timing must be accurate. Be aware of the animal's posture, the weight on each foot, the position of the head. Softly and quietly, your feel must direct the animal to stand. The feel in your halter rope should include a "float in the rope" with just enough energy to request and maintain a standing position.

Always support your horse or mule. If you lose your focus on him; he will surely lose his focus on you.

Current Schedule of Clinics
& Appearances

Sept. 29- Oct. 1	Ramona	Riding/Trail Safety	Mary Deal	760 315-0638 cell or 760-789-4457 home
October 6-8	Red Bluff, CA		Judy Fox	530 528 8412
October 20-21	Wilton, CA	Riding	Cheri Hart	916 991 7879
October 22-23	Wilton, CA	Driving	Terri Riley	916 687 6108
October 29-30	Placerville, CA		Susan Brewer	530 626 3585
November 3-5	Walnut Creek, CA		Jill Henderson North Gait Riding Center	925 683 6332
November 10-12	Napa, CA	Riding	Cheryl Kavicky	707 255 4006
November 17-19	Reno, NV	Riding	Sharon Kutnock	775 721 2495
November 20-21	Reno, NV	New group	Sharon Kutnock	775 721 2495

Meet Jerry Tindell, Teacher and Trainer of Horses, Mules and Humans :

Through JERRY TINDELL HORSEMANSHIP CLINICS, hundreds of horsemen and women have significantly improved their skills. A comprehensive knowledge of equine behavior and the human skills for top performance make Jerry Tindell a one-of-a-kind clinician.

Jerry has a unique ability - and willingness - to effectively teach people of all skill levels and disciplines. He seems to know just exactly what a student is ready to learn at any given time. His timing, commitment, and plain old-fashioned good manners make his clinics successful, educational, and fun – for everyone, whether the rank beginner or accomplished veteran. He is dedicated to the success of his students and his progressive training program.