Foundations Challenge Series
Big things start here!
The Foundations Series introduces four incredibly versatile skills that you can use for everything from everyday handling, working at liberty, cooperative care, riding, and more. Explore what you and your horse can accomplish, one challenge at a time!
01 . Default Position
Establish a consistent starting point for training. Default position helps your horse understand where to be and what to do between cues, creating clarity and a foundation for more complex behaviors.
Challenges:
Remain Calm - Show your horse at a calm, relaxed default position for 5 full seconds
02 . The Target
One of the most versatile tools in your training toolbox! Explore how targeting can be used to guide movement, communicate direction, and teach a wide variety of behaviors.
Challenges:
Bop It (gently) - Your horse touches a target on cue to the left, right, and above the nose
Hold It - Your horse maintains quiet contact with a target for 3 full seconds
To Infinity and Beyond! - Your horse moves independently to a stationary target from a distance of 8+ feet when cued
03 . Liberty Leading
Develop the skills to move together without relying on a halter or lead rope. Practice clear cues for movement, transitions, and changes of direction while encouraging your horse to actively participate.
Challenges:
Walk With Me - Your horse walks alongside you while maintaining consistent space and positioning for at least 12 (human) steps
Flow State - Your horse walks alongside you while maintaining consistent space, speed, and positioning while demonstrating a full circle in each direction
Red Light Green Light - Your horse willingly follows changes in pace, demonstrating at least two changes in speed in the walk or walk/trot and at least one halt.
04 . Stay
Teach your horse to comfortably maintain a position as you introduce duration, distance, and movement. A practical skill that carries over into everyday handling, cooperative care, and more advanced training.
Challenges:
Stay a Little - Your horse maintains their position as you move at least three steps away and return, without following or repositioning
Stay a Little More - Your horse maintains their position as you move around them in a full circle
Please Stay Still This is the Last Challenge - Your horse maintains their position as you move around them while doing something mildly entertaining or interesting for at least 10 seconds