At Swept Away Farm horses are trained using a technique based on consistency, patience and trust allowing the horses to begin their careers in a good natured, calm manner that is reinforced throughout their education. We work in a sequential manner, never pressuring the horses to go beyond their comfort zones, continually reinforcing the importance of trust in the partnership between horse and rider. Our experience has shown that horses will perform with eagerness and confidence when allowed to take time during the learning process. This is the foundation that successful careers are built on.

The training of a young horse begins with long lining. Through long lining, we are able to teach the horse basic rein aids while at the same time allowing the horse to become accustomed to the saddle and bridle. Long lining is also a great way to develop the horse.s natural balance. Once we feel a horse has basic understanding of the saddle and bridle, we gradually incorporate a rider into its daily workouts. When a horse is comfortable with a rider, it is ridden forward and straight through each gait. With young horses, we encourage the owner to participate in the latter part of its formative education, allowing the owner to become confident with the routine. This makes for an easier transition when the horse returns home.

Training of an older horse varies greatly based on the horse.s history and the owners desired outcome. As with a young horse, we begin by teaching the horse to long line, thereby enabling us to evaluate the horse and reestablish the basics. When a horse’s needs are understood, we are able to proceed in the method most likely to achieve the owners desired training goals.

Horses with established flat work sent here for jumping begin with basic gymnastics and simple lines thus developing form, balance and sense of timing. As each individual horse becomes more comfortable with basic jumping, we increase the complexity of the exercises while ensuring the horse remains relaxed and willing.

Regardless of the horses age or experience, be it a three year old or a proven show horse, our goal is to maximize the trusting cohesive relationship that is critical to all great equestrian partnerships.