Never Do These Horrible Natural Horsemanship Exercises Again (If You Like Your Horse)

[@lindalinda568]

OMGOSH.....FINALLY someone who gets it. Who understands it. Can demonstrate it. Can explain it. Hope you continue with your great educational videos. I wish every horse person would watch this video. Keep up the great work!! Thank you.

[@npdesign8202]

Thank Goodness!! Someone speaking out about this stuff! My boss at the equestrian center I work at insists on crouching and prowling around when working with the horses and expectes the employees to do that too! I just can't do it! I can't crouch and feel any respect for myself! And the horses look embarrassed for us! Thank you!

[@cindyferguson8855]

Greetings from the Western NC Mountains....( yes....ground zero and pretty rough here). I want to thank you for your sensibility and compassion with horses. These pitiful training methods bother me as much as they do you. I rescued my first horse when I was 14 years old....and that was back in 1971. As a horseman (woman) all these years.... I've seen lots, both good and bad, but it's refreshing to know that there are still plenty of horse people that actually 'get it'....understand the equine mind....and have beautiful relationships with their horses. Thank you for being one of them...! This is the first video of yours that I've seen.... and I'm looking forward to watching more.... Sincerely, Cindy 🐴

[@jodymaley3674]

My first horse was 1969, a nasty witch who rebeled at big lick TWH training from day two, when they applied the oil of mustard to her forefeet. Used the old Berry School of Horsemanship books to help her not kill me. This was my first horse people. She became like a war horse, protecting her chosen lady from all.

[@marilynbowe650]

I’m not an accomplished horsewoman really, but my husband and I had the privilege of introducing horses to many people in Alaska, including 3 severely autistic boys. Rode pleasure mostly, including extreme trail riding on the Denali highway. We had draft crosses, perfect for that country, and always worried they wouldn’t be in good enough shape for what we were asking. Third year into this we realized that even heavily loaded up with saddles! Scabbards, and light packs, we very carefully mounted what we termed our “crotch rockets” at the beginning of our ride each day. The horses loved the game trails (including bear trails) and river crossings and high country hills, and muscled out so fast - each day they were ready for more. Building their backs in the hills made for some powerful mounts. My OTTB rode like a Cadillac, but I knew it was the slow, steady work that built his back up and gave him a beautiful topline. Miss those days. Thank you for your post. 😊

[@horsingwithhugo]

I agree with the rope halter. My standardbred has a lot of trauma with a bit in his mouth. So we ride in a rope halter for many years. Lately I ride a quality hackamore/bosal and boy the feeling and lightness is incredible. I agreee with you because I went on a trail in the old rope halter and it was clunky and the cues weren’t as clear. So I know now. Thanks for the video.

[@TheColtonWoods]

The best experiences certainly are lived. Appreciate you sharing as it may help those who have not yet tried and experienced the difference riding in a traditional Hackamore set up can make for them and their horse

[@alidamogridge5176]

I have a SB also. He has had major trauma to his mouth and nose from his successful racing 'career'. Rope halters aggravated these injuries. It has been a slow process, but a simple, well fitted bridle has relieved his distress. He is very receptive to clear cues that will help him balance. I almost gave up hope (I also am in my 60's), but watching Colton tonight, I have got a 'second wind'.

[@debbiesmith3146]

So glad I saw your video. I had alot of people say I didn't know what was doing.when i used to train horses. I'm in my 60s now I will take a horse trained like this any day

[@hopebehrendt1786]

If your horse is strung out, he does not have his back rounded and is more likely to develop back issues! He also needs to be able to reach under himself to keep his hocks, stifles and hips loose and moving properly! Pay attention folks cuz Colton is ABSOLUTELY CORRECT! Your bit is used for communication. A port bit allows horse to lift his shoulders becoming lighter on his front end and again, rounding his spine!

[@tracyjohnson5023]

True but the horse has to develop some fitness to be able to maintain that frame. I'm definitely a fan of horses learning self carriage too.

[@TheColtonWoods]

Fitness in our horses is one of the most misunderstood topics as they do not progress or digress in fitness like we do. It takes the same ingredients though- consistently working them, good nutrition, plenty of time and not over doing it.

[@hopebehrendt1786]

Absolutely! It takes time to develop those muscles. I wouldn't expect a horse that's well trained but idle to suddenly frame up. You work the muscles and back off, hips one day, shoulders the next, small increments! Just as a person builds muscle working out the same with your horse!

[@danielmoulton4117]

As a first time listener, I'm compelled to comment. Thank god I'm not alone. As a trainer in my mid sixties, and thinking i knew a little about colt starting I'm apalled by the charlatans who have made names for themselves by misleading gullible new or returning folks. You're helpig tear down the curtain.

[@TheColtonWoods]

You're absolutely not alone! I've personally got no issue with folks rising to the top of the ladder, but I'll never stand for anyone misleading people for their own selfish gain. I'm all for tearing down the curtain of horrible horsemanship that should be buried and moved on from (not forgotten so we dont return). Together We Rise.

[@caciliawhy5195]

Exactly. And if you notice who follows the many charlatans, you see they can't ride and are afraid. They are looking for the magic bullet. I have seen that with saddle fitting in the dressage community. They can't ride and think the saddle will make it possible. I bought a saddle from a saddle fitter as it was a good saddle, and he knew his stuff. I did ask him if the thought it would be fairer to tell them that the 5-6k spent on the saddle would be better spent on riding lessons.

[@Krinsta1]

I don't know what to believe. I'm just going to follow my instincts. Every horse is different. I love my horse. She is adorable, and we are having fun getting to know each other.

[@lesliejacobs3002]

Sounds like you are on the right track..I am enjoying my 4 horses. In Lander Wy.. I am a life long horse owner ( 8- 70years.)

[@Krinsta1]

@lesliejacobs3002 I'm 60. I'm hoping to live until I'm in my 90s and still riding my horse.

[@denisecady1703]

Somehow stumbled upon your video. Love it ! I’ve never put much stock in trainers that have to “bully” their horses into listening to them. Every time I see someone shake that lead rope ( usually with a big metal clip on it) to make their horse back up I want to hit them under the chin and ask how they like it? Ugh! Thanks for thinking of the horse💕

[@ReformedTryHard]

I just bought my first horse after 40+ years. I had them when I was young. I had a couple people “help” me and this is exactly what happened. I found some lighter clips, swapped them out on my lead ropes, and I don’t use that shaking/popping method anymore.

[@sherrytuttle9184]

A breath of fresh air! I subscribed immediately and looking forward to more- thank you so much! I also like the time cues for the video chapters listed below, so I can go right to the thing I need to see again.

[@tracyjohnson5023]

Agreed the standard rope halter isn't made to ride in much. I made my own that fits snugly and put reins on sides. One has some bite and I use it on rehab types so I'm not aggressive in the mouth to start. The other is softer and start horses in it for first few rides. Then I put snaffle on for them to carry while reins still on halter for more rides. One thing that's definitely overlooked in training these days is horses spending time on a high line or patience pole. I do it with halter, but I also add the bit under halter. Still tied with halter, but this really helps them learn to carry bit and teaches them to stand well. Regarding back up, steady pressure with both hands usually results in a brace with halter, bosal, bit.

[@jenz4524]

I enjoyed this video. I use some natural horsemanship in working with my horse. He is a Quarab and has been abused in his past. He came to me very skinny and open sores all over his back. I had a complete medical work up on him and he had mouth trauma-a lovely healed scar on his tongue and 2 scars on each side where some asshole was too rough and severe with the bit. He shakes and throws his head when I come near his mouth. He is getting better simce he has found out that I won't ever use a bit with him again. I have done the crouching thing, but I also back it up with a vocal queue. When ai want him to disengage his hind, I say "butt" and he moves. This comes very handy when I turn him back out or needing to move over a few steps. I train with vocal and silent queues. In case we get into a pickle, it helps to have one or the other method available.

[@carmenslee6234]

Never thought I’d be defending him but, it’s pretty obvious this criticism is directed at Clinton Anderson. He was the first clinician that really tackled teaching the rider/horseman with a step-by-step method that was easily followed. For years previous to Clinton I would go to clinics, understand/do, then back home completely forget what I was taught! Clinton’s little booklets broke down the whole process bit by bit and allowed me to understand the process. I even broke in/started my first colt at aged 60 working from Clinton Andersons colt starting dvd. So, I am very grateful to Clinton’s training. Having said that, I have since moved on from Clinton’s Method as it became just too harsh! I want my horse to be my partner, not my slave!

[@mariamiller2782]

Oh yeah...clearly bashing Clinton....Like you...I learned a lot from Clinton... I think this guy is just over exaggerating all kinds of stuff...Who spends forever disengaging their horses hindquarters? Good horsemanship..includes ALL that this guy is saying AND everything CA teaches too. Not sure what you mean by too harsh? Aren't we asking as gently as we can, but applying the pressure we need? I seriously doubt anyone is beating their horses...I will never buy that (you didn't say this, but Ive heard plenty of dramatic commentary regarding CA) Kinda sad...this guy has to criticize these other good clinicians to promote himself.

[@LastingImpressionHorsemanship]

I will say Downunder is good at explaining it and simplifying things to make it easier for the general public to understand that is what is nice about his program. With the correct end results when the horse backs using the downunder method the horse has his head down and is using the body correctly but you have to get the resistance out of the horse first. That takes time and you are likely teaching things you later have to retrain to do correctly. In the video when the horse threw his head up while backing he was obviously applying much more pressure than needed to get the horse to try, causing the horse to over react and get worried. Same while yielding the HQ, to much pressure, to much change in body language. You have to read the horse and use just enough to get try. Using his same method with an exaggerated body language like he is when using the Downunder method the horse world respond the same way using his own method. Downunder has everyone else beat as far as creating something broken down simple enough that people without professional help can do it and usually see a positive difference in their horse and able to make progress on their own. It doesn't go into as much collection and biomechanics especially if you are just putting the fundamentals on a horse. That may be in the more advanced series I'm not sure. However his method requires the person to have a deeper understanding of a horse, their psychology, biomechanics, personality, energy, emotions, and how to deal with each different type individually and have prior experience working with multiple horses and requires the person to already have feel and timing. A true beginner would not do well with this type of program without professional assistance next to them. They both have their place as long as you can explain your way of thinking there is more than one way to train a horse. More advanced experienced horsemen would appreciate his method a bit more

[@janesheridan7967]

The only one worse than Anderson is Parelli. A friend of mine is a rancher from Pagosa. He said Parelli was constantly beating horses behind his barn. The wife is more incompetent. People in Pagosa want nothing to do with them.

[@mariamiller2782]

@@janesheridan7967 I need someone to show me footage of CA beating horses...Parelli YES!! Why people bash CA...have no idea...yeah...he swears like a sailor....but he's not a horse beater..... I wonder if half you haters actually have followed any of his training videos...

[@mariamiller2782]

@@LastingImpressionHorsemanship I'm confused about who is who in your comment.. Who's would not be for a beginner? CA has so many training videos... starting way back. I just loaned a trail series (4 disc?) and he's a skinny 20 something lol...and it IS for the beginner. Buying your first horse...tack.. clothing.... grooming tools...and then some groundwork..but literally for the beginner. And yes, he has an Advanced series and he also has videos for PROFESSIONAL..... People see possibly a video of him addressing a problem horse that has charged ..chased ..bitten the owner (anyone can find these) and first thing he does ..gets them in the round pen ...and if the average inexperienced person...thinks they don't have to use the stick and string to keep a 1200lb potentially violent animal away from you...and somehow constru that as being harsh....you better get a grip. There's a segment in the movie "BUCK" Horseman Buck Brennaman...where one of his guys is working with a dangerous horse...and that horse ends up attacking that guy and taking a chunk out of that guys forehead...CA is always...about safety...and what a horse has the potential...to do...Wish people would give it up bashing him......

[@lamardavis4951]

I did start my colt with some extra pull on the inside rain, now he turning by just picking up the rains outside Rian touching his neck inside Rian light touch. I want to learn more of riding him from my seat. Great videos and info.

[@Pepesilvia3]

I’ve always hated the way rope halters twist around on a horse’s face. I’ve seen some that have a sliding ring to mitigate this and I hope they become more common.

[@housewithaview]

Oh I like your approach! Q: at 8:19 when asking for softness in the poll should we stay ahead of vertical not behind?

[@TheColtonWoods]

The ideal position is what we consider ON the vertical which is more the horse’s head being straight down. Not being behind nor in front per se. Now the horse’s conformation will determine if they can get on the vertical, some are so thick they can’t. Other horses that are pretty athletic can have tendencies to get behind the vertical on their own and we got to deal with that too so they can move in a healthy way.

[@ericameinecke3808]

Thank you for making this! When i went in with my friend under a certain clinician we had to do levels. And when I asked what the "method" they were using was going to help my horse in the future they couldn't tell me (Also made me the problem student of that clinic). I now have a horse that I have to teach everyone to ride. When I have others that I trained with out " The method" that everyone wants to ride because I trained her with my own methods (a variety of methods). Most things just make the horse have more anxiety and extremely reactivate, when done like a certain clinician. Which is not a quite horse.

[@stephenqueen6211]

I have many thoughts on what you were saying. But I'll only touch on 2. 1. You don't always have to be doing something while around your horse. I spend a great deal of time just standing with them and both of us relaxing. Both in the saddle and on their backs. 2. The idea of wiggling the lead rope to get them to back up is for when doctoring in pasture you can signal to your horse to take the slack out of the lariat. It is not suppose to transfer to backing in the saddle. To teach from the ground you should do something closer to what they'd feel if you were in the saddle. If I'm just trying to get them to back up from a distance, I direct energy at their front feet to get them to look down while backing.

[@anne-grethemichaelsen5789]

100% agree with you in No1: we don`t always have to be doing something while we are around horses!

[@lydiagould3090]

This is great to hear! Thanks for making this video. Remembering my worst natural horsemanship habits, it was mainly in the groundwork . The hindquarter yield and wiggly rope back up. I've always got my young horses used to the bit very soon because I dislike riding in the halter for the reasons you mention. Yes please continue this series. I'm an English rider that does Cowboy dressage ,Trail ,and aspiring to do Working equitation, so look forward to getting a roasting🤣🤣🤣

[@cherylemery109]

I'm really glad I found you. I think everything you spoke about and demonstrated makes so much sense. I guess my favorite tip is not riding around with loose reins and not having the horse in a better working position.

[@TheColtonWoods]

Glad to have you here! Developing that working posture is so important for our horses to not be using themselves in ways that creates long term issues and a whole lot of short term frustrations. Thanks for watching and sharing

[@MollyGrue1]

Hey, thanks, you coverd a LOT of things I had to deal with in many years with my own horse and trainer talk and I'm from the English riding tribe. Well, trail rides and a bit of gymnastic dressage to keep the horse healthy. All you said here makes sense. Well I COULD ride my horse with a wiggly halter and bitless bit it did not get us anywhere, horse grew kind of stiff while never had a problem with a soft hand on a snaffle bit rein at all. Gratefully responded and went through the exercises to keep it straight and do all the bending and engaging stuff, and easily controlled outside while trail riding. I saw, on the other hand, "victims" of a trainer who promoted primitive rope halters because "bits are bad"... stiff, uncontrollable animals. And saw lots of Western style trainers whose methods I found right out rude and cruel, with exercises you mention here. Back to the roots, to classic horse wisdom, learn, observe, try softly, train with your brain, that never hurts.

[@TheColtonWoods]

"Train with your brain." I love that! The pendulum certainly seems to swing from on extremely to the other while the truth lies somewhere in between. Theres a lot of great pieces from both the english and western worlds we can bring together to better serve our horses. Appreciate you sharing your personal story.

[@yvonneschouten8973]

Ha right on 🙌Would definitely add flexing the horses head around until it's rubbernecked!!! Have been in those clinics many moons ago and it messed up my horse!!

[@tracyjohnson5023]

The one thing I'll add about flexing is when turning the head for direction, you have to add leg. Put some trail miles on a horse that had been flexed and was rubbernecked which is great. The problem was he wasn't taught to turn in motion. You could bend his head/neck to your knee and he'd keep going straight. He was so flexible that no his body did NOT follow his head lol.

[@TheColtonWoods]

This is a big issue! So important to keep where the horse is looking with their head and neck connected to their feet until that foundation is solid and they’re ready for more advanced skills. … maybe one to put in the list for episode 2…? 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@yvonneschouten8973]

@@tracyjohnson5023 agreed! For my older horses it's still hard, they always want to flex around when you touch the rein! I do Ranch Riding and that requires a good neck rein and FORWARD! I also take them on trails at least twice a week.

[@terryst9835]

The physical problems occur when the person thinks flexing means the horses nose is touching the riders toes, if they are in the saddle. Good biomechanics keeps the front of the horses face at a 90 degree angle to the ground, they flex to the right or left at the poll, and even an inch or two to begin with is good. As soon as one ear gets closer to the ground than the other, you are doing it wrong.

[@JessaIreland-ii2wc]

Great teaching. I can really see how much more balanced your horse is when you rode him correctly.

[@TheColtonWoods]

Thank you, appreciate that! Leading through our seat & aids then if needed driving, works so much better for our horses than pulling on them. Here’s to better ways that work better for our horses and us too. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment!

[@bigbrad4434]

What a great video I cowboy full time and start colts it’s my opinion that a lot of these horsemanship gurus want to keep the general public at an elementary level to sell products. I start vertical flexion within the first few rides and the same with the outside rein. Having independent control of the horses body parts yes, but not at the expense of being able to keep your horse straight! I could rant on this stuff all day. People would be much better off reading books of the old school European horseman that created the warhorse. Thanks for the video

[@TheColtonWoods]

Absolutely agree many gate keep the information of what really works and can be done much earlier so that their students stay stuck in their programs and levels… garbage. Incorporating guiding off the outside rein and leg so as you said the horse can stay more straight and balanced is a massive help to the horse and makes everything for the horse and human much easier! And I’m with you, vertical flexion in the first few rides for the sake of better balance & biomechanics is spot on👌🏻. Appreciate you taking the time to share your perspective and thanks for watching

[@tracyjohnson5023]

@@bigbrad4434I wholeheartedly agree with you! Those old books are golden in many ways. Classical horsemanship works across disciplines imo. I definitely get why bitd ranch horses got started with the buck out. They had to go to work quickly and stop, go, plow rein is all they needed to work. ❤

[@Rosebud65]

You are so good.

[@batshtcrazy5293]

I trained my horse (he was 3 yrs old by the time I started riding him) with a simple rope halter and a bareback saddle with stirrups. I didn't use a bit, or any kind of constraints. Though I FULLY agree with you that most people should NOT do what I did, it worked for me and my horse. Then again, I also didn't have any clue what I was doing, and had never taken any real courses on training. I got LUCKY. Most horses aren't going to respond to what I did. Now, years later, I've watched a ton of training vids by so many people. YOU are the first one I've found that I totally agree with. Good on ya! Thanks for this truly informative vid.

[@Kalseydemerchant]

Rope halter for riding, I wanted to change to a bosal! Thank you great teaching ! Not clear communication with rope halters! You explain things very well thanks for helping.

[@TheColtonWoods]

Thanks for watching and sharing. Investing in a quality Hackamore set is well well worth it for you and your horse!

[@meinhendl]

a soothing video. When you see what so-called riders do to their horses, it hurts my soul. thank you !

[@lisaweinberger4197]

Thank god for this video! I've asked myself so many times if I missing something but have always thought the 'predator' style of training has GOTS to go!

[@JamesWilliams-vl2fm]

Very educational video, thank you. I would be interested in seeing what you have to offer the English community. Best wishes. Jw

[@TheColtonWoods]

When we lived in Lexington, KY where my training business started our primary clientele was hunters, jumpers & dressage horse owners. I’m a big advocate of taking the positive aspects from both the English & western worlds and bringing them together to create a horse with a very indepth, reliable and versatile education that knows how to use themselves in a healthy way.

[@tonyeather1387]

That was great I am a beginner but have to agree with you ,especially the backup Tony

[@caciliawhy5195]

Excellent. A rider, regardless of discipline, who understands it.

[@pamelachace3205]

Since I'm working with a 2 yr old, groundwork, I am guilty of most of it,, I feel the 'overbending' is a hot topic and def over used. Really appreciate your videos!

[@TheColtonWoods]

It all starts with awareness and we can fix it with action. Overbending is a huge issue, but good thing you're just getting started with your 2yo. Plenty of time to do things in a better way. Wish yall nothing but the best. Thanks for watching

[@belindabetz9994]

I’m always looking to improve myself and my horse… Been at it for longer than you’ve been born. I like your way of explaining, to the point and will implement some of these changes. I want to be a good partner and leader to my horse.

[@dreamgaits]

GREAT imitation of CA and PP. LOL!

[@Conny226]

I am riding my horse in a halter😮I pull the rein to make I’m go right or left😅I am a new rider don’t know to much about horses 😢.I learn some😁

[@Kk-ln1nm]

This is my first time watching your videos yet I learned SO much wow thank you!!!

[@tracybrock1406]

Totally right! I was a member of a natural horsemanship program for years! And while I like what it taught me on the ground, it had us doing things way too long. And then in order to get to the next level you had to have a checklist done. So basically we ran the wheels off our horses. Sadly some were washed up by level 3. My own Appaloosa boy who is 21.... is very Wiggly because of it. We really have to ride in concentrated rain to get him to get under himself and use his engine better & straighter. Good information! ❤

[@TheColtonWoods]

Appreciate you sharing this cause I know a lot of other folks feel the same way!

[@conniepaschall4034]

I am always ridiculed at my barn as I don’t use any “natural horsemanship” techniques. Especially a rope halter. I, too, believe all ground training should be done with the plan of using the same aides under saddle. I’ll never, ever understand the shaking rope halter thing. People pay hundreds to thousands of dollars on “natural horsemanship” but never progress. But, I do. Thank you for your effort to wake the world up!

[@kevintengvall4642]

Finally someone who makes sense, I hate the crouching tiger approach, they talk about softness but start so far away from it I wonder if they ever get there, I strive to start as soft as I possibly can and work from there.

[@jbohio7821]

The pulling thing really made sense to me. Thank you for these tips.

[@TheColtonWoods]

You’re very welcome

[@neeleywilson403]

Agree so much with all these concepts. One question as a trainer why is it that you ride so well but have your foot completely at home in the stirrups. Or all the way in the stirrup not more on the ball of your foot? Maybe for yourself it is comfortable or is this what you would teach?

[@staceykrahn]

Thank you for a great video!

[@TheColtonWoods]

You’re welcome, glad you enjoyed it!

[@jth1195]

I agree with most of what you said. I subscribed. Here is my two cents. I don't flex . If his head turns a certain degree his shoulder need to follow. One rein stop is BS. That is what they do in old westerns when they need to make it look like the horse got shot. All horses would rather be pushed than pulled. They don't pull each other around the pasture.

[@MollyGrue1]

one rein stop is kind of an emergency exit but even there you have to know when, where and how hard you do it. Your horse can't buck, rear or run away when you pull the head around but its an emergency thing not a daily exercise method. Annnd never pick a fight when you are not sure you can win. Remember, 1000 pounds +- -

[@danielmoulton4117]

Although I take your point, to say a horse can't buck, rear, or bolt with its head turned is ridiculous. Nothing is worse than a panic stricken horse with its head cranked around to the left while running literally blindly to it's right. The natural horsemanship movement filled a void left when the horsemanship uncle, neighbor or local worn out saddle tramps ceased to be so plentiful and were no longer the conduit for the next generation. Then someone decided to monetize it. Just a thought from one of those old timers who is still passing information along in my seventh decade. See you down the trail.

[@MollyGrue1]

@@danielmoulton4117 True. Well thats why I said even in an emergency situation you have to really know und judge when, how, where, and if at all. Otherwise its a recepy for disaster. One of the dangers of that "school" you mention is, imho, this "become the boss and you can do anything"-thing. If you lack knowledge, feeling, experience AND the trust of your animal, its all for nothing.

[@jameshawkinsthevoiceofnewb4687]

Great information, and yes there is a lot of misinformation out on the web. I am getting ready to start a couple of new horses to me and I sure don't want to harm or confuse them.

[@lifeacrossthemap4154]

Could not agree with all of these more! Thank you for putting this out there! Ive been saying this forever.

[@TheColtonWoods]

Appreciate you watching! Here’s to better ways to serve our horses

[@desertrat1822]

Great video, however, your statement about the Cavvy community being free to join is misleading. It looks like the 7 day trial is free then it's $49/mo, unless I misread that.

[@TheColtonWoods]

I misspoke in the video but that’s why we added the text to the screen saying Free Trial to clarify. And we put in the text beside the link it’s a free trial. Didn’t mean for it to be misleading by any means. Frankly I wish it could be free but it’s what allows us to do these videos and all the resources and support we provide in the Cavvy for y’all.

[@walamo8971]

I've only broken and ridden English style but I've been really shocked 😮by some training methods... When I was in USA a year ago I couldn't believe what I saw... Poor horses

[@skyfirefarm]

What about see sawing on the horses mouth to get their head in a "frame"? And riding with your hands straight down on your thighs?? I see these 2 things often and it seems to have become "the way" to get horses rounded or on the bit. It bothers me to see it.

[@ItzRandom14]

This is what a real cowboy looks like folks The horses health and care always comes first

[@TheColtonWoods]

Real cowboys care and respect their horses deeply. The whole notion that its anyway else is wrong and those ideas arent cowboy ways of life or doing things at all.. Frankly a lot of it is from hollywood misrepresenting the way things really are. Appreciate you watching and taking the time to say this cause it just may help shed a better light on what it means to be cowboy. Thank you

[@MaxNafeHorsemanship]

No fear of me doing ANYTHING they do in NH because there is NO SUCH THING as natural horsemanship. IMO bits are just an unnecessary waste of money. Then again, so are most bitless bridles. I can get whatever I want just by asking nice with a rope halter before they ever get ridden. Why change? Your cues are as clear as your training. I've had horses that would stop of my seat the first time they were ridden. The loose rein is bad? They would be letting them do what they already know how to do. They know how to use their legs the day they were born. They don't need our help to teach them how to move. We should be learning from them.

[@carolynstewart8465]

Excellent explanation! ❤ thank you!

[@TheColtonWoods]

Thank you

[@brucepeek3923]

Colton- Good for you man! best Bruce Peek

[@gregevans1062]

Some good points 👍 well put

[@TheColtonWoods]

Thank you

[@valsummers5330]

I was surprised they weren’t riding off their legs and looking where they wanted to go

[@michaelapost-stierle9017]

Great Video. But most Horsemanship-Trainers do exactly these terrible things 😮.

[@TheColtonWoods]

Thank you. It all starts with awareness then action. A lot of folks do, do these things and that’s why I want to build the awareness of why these are big issues & provide ways I’ve found that work better for me and my students. As an industry we can raise the standard by doing better. Together We Rise.

[@DavidBorntrager-w4p]

Did you ever win any kind of show

[@MollyGrue1]

WHO cares? He's right and with a well trained confident horse you can do it all. Supposed YOU are good enough. ;)

[@daledavis5254]

You’re going to get cancelled…lol! Nice explanation, this is one of the first videos of yours I’ve watched. I’ll definitely tune in for more because you really have it figured out.

[@TheColtonWoods]

They can try but based on these comments there’s way more of us that agree these things are issues haha. Glad you found this video and glad to have you. Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment and watch, do really appreciate it

[@jackwalker7033]

​@@TheColtonWoodsthis is the first video of yours that I've watched. I'll watch again. One thing these "clinicians" don't tell people is the feel that you need to know when to release, or when to add pressure. Everyone should spend some time with a real, reputable trainer that is trustworthy

[@stephaniebennett7149]

Where are you located? Do you train 3 years olds?

[@AnnaHendricks-j5y]

You left out> People need to stop trying to learn from online! Period! Skills and so called partnership is not learned online! jmho

[@TroyReinholdt-fz2ds]

Thanks for Video, I'd lijeti share with NY fuders your perspective to reinforcing what their being ciached in, but with the questionable language keeps ne from doing it. Take advantage of your educational opportunity and broader your audience. My opinion, of course Riding and driving coach for 30+ years

[@jobond3317]

Even before this video starts, I wonder if he knows about Klaus Ferdinand Hempfling and his work with dangerous stallions. He believes in a non-violent, peaceful approach. It would help if you watched him. Maybe you would learn something about yourself and horses

[@lisabadger3399]

Are my ears and eyes deceiving me?? A cowboy who actually trains with with respect, knowledge of biomechanics, classical principles? No disrespect to western riders intended, but the discipline seemed to have been hijacked by huckster clinicians ever since Monty Robert's wrote that horse whisperer book decades ago. What makes me the most angry is how many naive people have been victim to gimmicky bad training by following NH cults. Watching your video was very refreshing, Colton. (From a classical rider and old school eventer).

[@TheColtonWoods]

Appreciate you taking the time to watch and share this. I'm just doing my best to address issues I believe are important for us to fix in this industry and sharing the ways I've found work best for myself, my horses and my students. Honestly, its much more the norm for cowboys to work with their horses in a respectful way that benefits the horse mentally, physically and emotionally. Certainly a couple bad actors have soaked up the spot light and got a lot of the attention but that shouldnt overshadow all the good ways of doing things cowboys and western riders do have to go about things. There is so much the western world can use to benefit their horses from the english world and theres a lot english riders can take from the western world to benefit their horses. All in all, together we rise! Thanks again for sharing and watching.

[@firstnamelastname-uq9hr]

Most horse riders in U.K from what i see wouldn't know how to ride from their posture,, balance and seat,and certainly wouldn't know about bits/bridles and how fit and use correctly, they tend to go for what is trendy and easiest.From the people that have the sense to correctly do a mouth assessment and realise that even the bridle and nose band gives direction when riding still dont realise that there are other aides to give a horse direction not just pointing the horses head where they want to go,and pull the reins to stop,often too hard.Saddles that are not fitting the horse and so the rider has problems with the horse moving in a uncomfortable way and unbalanced, the riders seat is often not in the deepest part of the seat which of course should be the center of a horses balance when being ridden,i.e over the only truely horizontal vertibrea in the horses spine,saddlers call it the key stone because it helps in good saddle fit and rider balance too,which is freedom of movement for horse and rider.Good videos Colton i always enjoy them and love your attention to detail for us, how you explain things helps.

[@terryhey6730]

What the heck does "disengaging" even mean???? Seems to me what we want to ENGAGE the hindquarters

[@TheColtonWoods]

Absolutely want to ENGAGE. Unfortunately there’s been such a focus on the disengagement that’s it’s been overdone at the expense of many horse’s physical well being.

[@hermgailey4802]

Bet you pissed off a lot of pig farmers !

[@TheColtonWoods]

I’m sure the guy who originally said that quote and travels the country saying it sure has.

[@hermgailey4802]

Hopefully not your main demographic anyway…

[@TheColtonWoods]

I’m here to say what needs to be said and back in up with real results. Anyone that’s mad about that isn’t my demographic to begin with. That being said- I do love pork 👌🏻

[@hermgailey4802]

Right on. Good to see someone with the honesty and guts to challenge the flawed conventional wisdom .Looking forward to more in the future.

[@carolhilton9855]

And don’t forget the more you move the back end this way and that. You create a very font end y horse. Strung out and super heavy on your hands

[@MarkMahnken]

You forgot the ever impressive use of the holy grail "the flag". So I assume you are a flagged one. I once used a homemade flag to see if a horse was blind in one eye. Why are people scaring the shit out of their horses or at a minimum totally annoying them?? My other pet peeve is the blue tarp. Are we practicing for future riding in land fills? I have yet to run into a blue tarp on any trail. I've trained many fine horses with the use of neither nor will I ever.

[@mariannedippenaar8488]

Good

[@tamiboelter5491]

Can't we all just get along?🙃

[@alisonjem]

This video is odd. I also hate the natural horsemanship methods used here and got rid of them a long time ago, and I would argue most people know those extreme backing up exercises are detrimental to the horse at this point… however… some of the equipment comments you made are stupid. The rope halter, if you can’t put a feel on it, that means you’re not a very good trainer. My horse with the lightest finger pressure, knows to back up (collected, pretty, and with energy). You don’t need a bit to get that or train that!! If you are pulling like you did for a backup in a rope halter (yikes is all I’m gonna say)…. And yes I know what I’m doing, I start mustangs and do bridle-less/and or neck rope riding… and you can get advanced steering maneuvers, spins, flying lead changes, front quarter yields, side pass, half pass, leg yields at trot/canter, hindquarters, etc. with no bit EVER in the mouth… your “right equipment” argument is not true… if your not lazy.. you can teach it all at liberty.. you can even do it without spurs too if you wanted…. Just saying.

[@colormaker9212]

Lol that is a suppling exercise not a disengage the hind end. You were just interviewing with the trainer that has that type of exercise in his method. I like his and your methods but I've been with the "other " guy for over 20 years and will stick with what always works. Will follow you and your strengths but will again stick with what works.

[@dreamgaits]

There is no such thing as "natural"horsemanship. There's just horsemanship.

[@michaelweiser6887]

I don’t know who you’re watching but I’ve never seen any reputable horse trainer doing the things you’re trying to fix.

[@brucepeek3923]

Colton- the problem with the way you do your turn on the haunch is that you turn them into flexion- that is they are bent laterally in the direction they turning toward.. To do a turn on the haunch that is actually good for them you need to turn them away from the side they are flexed toward.. When you do so you are actually turning them into a pirouette- a pirouette is a classical high school move and is therefor a developer of physical conditioning and a positive good. As far as flexing the horse to the inside with the inside rein- yes you must do so- they absolutely have to look in the direction they are traveling toward.. best Bruce Peek

[@suezettehollinger9804]

agreed!!!!!

[@AmyChapman-ph5ue]

You really should watch your own video. I agree with most of what you’re saying however when you demonstrate the “correct “ biomechanics you are riding your horse behind the vertical which is detrimental to your horse.

[@TheColtonWoods]

I just shared this on another similar comment and it’s right in alignment with yours as well. In full transparency, I don’t want my horses behind the vertical and was not happy with those particular moments. What I want the focus to be in those moment is on what I’m saying. No horse is always perfect and this particular horse has always been super soft and a tendency to get overbridled. It’s a work in progress as I’m regularly taking her back to a snaffle or Hackamore to work on better balance which ultimately helps the overbridled tendencies. The reality of filming these videos for y’all is I have to do my best without turning every moment when things are not perfect into a training moment with my horses when filming. As a recovering perfectionist myself that in itself is a challenge. My hope is folks can use good judgement to understand even my horses are not always perfect and my main focus in these videos is to bring yall practical education that gets real results. If I lost you and others, I understand. I’ll never claim what I do is for everyone but it sure has helped a lot of people and horses and these videos are my effort to help many more. See some of yall on the next video this Thursday!

[@AmyChapman-ph5ue]

@@TheColtonWoods 0:41 that’s a very fair reply. I meant no disrespect, I would like to suggest you look into Celeste Leilani Lazaris. She has an amazing soft way to open up the horses body in a biomechanically correct way and may help to improve the horses body in an additional way.

[@nvtruant5994]

It’s called “ collective “ having your horse collected underneath!

[@jordanwhite5470]

A better way to interest people in your methods would be to NOT spend your time mocking or calling out other trainers. There are many trainers with different methods than you who do a fine job with their horses. Sad. Unsubscribing now.

[@TheColtonWoods]

This isn’t personal. This is about approaches that actually suit and benefit the horse mentally, physically and emotionally. It’s about what is being taught, not who is teaching it. We all do better when we know better and it’s important we call a spade a spade, and shit, shit. If someone wants to take it personally, as I say, if the shoe fits, where it, Cinderella. One our favorite rules around here comes from the book by Don Miguel Ruiz called The Four Agreements. And Rule #2 is Don’t Take Anything Personally. This is all about a better future for our industry, our horses and those of us in it. I don’t go after people for a reason, it’s not personal. But I will go after the issues. We need solutions to the issues and that’s where I’ve focused my efforts. If that’s not for anyone that watches these videos, I understand and good thing is there’s a lot of great horsemen and women out there to learn from. Different strokes for different folks and I certainly hope everyone finds the right mentor for them.

[@debbieboston2377]

one clinition does a crabbing exercise. i never got it as it looks very predatory. agree with all you day. its common sense and good horsemanship

[@RedHybiscus]

These things that are presented are superficial and really are an exceptionally small part of horse development

[@ismesis]

Johnny said, "Colt I don't like this demo stuff and you being all weird.' And yes I see a lot of bad junky videos.

[@dreamgaits]

Music in this video is unnecessary and annoying. Good video though and I love me some bacon, pig farmers rock!

[@anne-grethemichaelsen5789]

Please don`t talk so fast :) Best regards from Norway

[@TheColtonWoods]

My wife wishes I wouldnt talk so fast either... I'll keep working on it haha

[@anne-grethemichaelsen5789]

@@TheColtonWoods On youtube you can have followers from all over the world. It´s therefore important you speak English slowly and clear :)

[@mheckman06]

You better watch out Colton!!! The 40 year old Parelli followers are gonna be coming for you with a vengeance!!! Lol

[@TheColtonWoods]

I’m shaking in my boots… 🤣

[@wc3624]

🙄 just train and discuss your way without tearing down other methods.

[@rigamaroleBC]

Anyone that's actually watched a Clinton Anderson training video knows that " crouching like a predator" is a very beginning over exaggeration of the concept part of the lesson of yielding the hind quarters for both the human and horse. He laughs about how silly it is and assures the student that this is NOT how it's done with a trained horse. this is yet another wanna be that wants to sound clever like he knows so much more than the top trainers.

[@TheColtonWoods]

That one had absolutely nothing to do with Clinton or his program. There’s a lot of assuming in the comments and most want to make this personal. It’s not. It’s about the issues in teachings, exercises, philosophy, etc. It’s not personal, it’s about addressing the problems and solutions to a better path forward for us and our horses. Sincerely, The Wannabe

[@adrianheinen4705]

just a lot of talking!!making others wrong.!!!! in fact he sais it is good to disengage and using the halter. the rpoblem is in the two words : always and never. to much is to much but to little is to little. the problem si seemingly not was he says but the lack of knowledge of the ordinary riders. thes do NOT progress fast enough for the horse, thats right. but the rider only can do what he can do! so stop complaining but teach the beginners and intermediates better!!!good luck

[@1saddleupgal]

Blah blah blah blah blah

[@SouthWesternCowboys]

OMG. Are you serious?! You might as well train dogs- please…. Do us that favor….😂