Learning thresholds: how far should we push our horses?

Liz Eaton FBHS, brings a trainer’s view to understanding horse and rider learning thresholds

In training terms a threshold is the point at which the horse, rider or, possibly both, meet the boundary between the learning zone and fear. The  diagram below is a well known explanation of the learning zone. it is widely understood that no learning takes place in the fear zone but how often do we push our horses over the threshold without being aware? The consequences of repeatedly doing so can be quite dramatic in the long term, when the horse finally runs out of courage or talent. I often hear “but he was jumping fine” or, as in a recently well publicised case “he had already been through the water 3 times”. It’s not about just doing it it’s about how the horse – or rider, does it that we need to monitor.

In my experience there are a number of areas we need to consider:

Instinctive fear

Every being inherits a level of fear necessary for survival; the point at which this is triggered is different for every individual. Very often it appears there is little warning, and it is the responsibility of the rider and coach to educate themselves to notice the early signs and signals, as they are often very subtle and subconscious. Failure to do so, missing the cues, results in instinctive reaction.

Confidence in skills

Throughout the learning process we are working to acquire new skills as riders and to, train horses to do the same. If a methodical, constructive and consistent approach is taken, neuropathways will be created and muscle memory established. Proprioception and coordination develops and, a skill set is acquired. When we ask horse or rider to call upon his skill set in a new way or, if we ask a question that they don’t have the skill set to answer, we will meet a threshold of confidence. Some individuals will give it a go anyway and some, will immediately lose confidence; there will be many degrees between. The point at which we recognise this and how we manage the situation will determine whether we pay into the confidence bank or, make a withdrawal.

Physical strength and stamina

Once neuropathways and muscle memory are established practise is required, to develop the strength and stamina to repeatedly perform the action. On the whole horses and riders will continue to try beyond their physical threshold.

This is tricky to determine. How much is too much? It is necessary to push the boundaries in order to develop physical, mental and emotional fitness. While a rider can vocalise this, many need to be encouraged to do so and, taught how to self evaluate. Horses however, are not always given this opportunity for expression. If we push them over their physical, mental or emotional boundaries, too often we will empty the confidence account.

Failure to recognise that these thresholds are being crossed results in a horse apparently ‘suddenly’ deciding not to go through water, jump a ditch or load into a lorry. Once this has happened a great deal of time, patience  and retraining is required.

So how do we recognise these thresholds?

Primarily observation. Watch your horses and riders closely.

Learn about them as individuals, are they stoic? Cautious? Introverted? Look to see if they are holding their breath, going increasingly slower, becoming less responsive. Or are they expressive? Given to outbursts that might be labelled ‘over dramatic’? Losing focus? Rushing through tasks?

These are all early warning signs that the  threshold is near. Going back a step to something that is within the comfort zone will build trust and confidence, enabling you to revisit the challenge with a greater chance of success. Far from being a negative thing, allowing a horse or rider, to say ‘no’ can be an opportunity to show them that you are worthy of their trust, empower you as a rider and coach and, lead to a successful future.

Many horses do not reach their full potential because they will try and try again; such is their nature, then when they finally hit their threshold they are labelled as difficult, naughty, lacking courage or ability. Sometimes they break physically as well as mentally.

We owe it to these awesome creatures to pay attention to what they are telling us, they will more than  repay us.

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