Waterfall Creek > Metal Free Mouths > Training Syllabus

Training Syllabus

Transition to Bitless is best achieved with a controlled and structured program. Both rider and horse will be learning a new way of communicating, and a sound knowledge as well as fine tuning of skills will ensure that the experience is great for all parties.

As your safety and the well being of you and your horse is our prime objective, Transition to Bitless lessons will involve the following:

Theory Briefing (An overview of what will be experienced)

Introduction to MFM and handouts of Dr Robert Cook's articles to be read later.
The concept of moving off pressure.
Yielding.
Steering and Brakes - an overview.
Different options of head gear for horses.
One rein stops.
Calvary stops.
Breathing out stops.
Sack of spuds stops.
Steering in more detail. Front end yields and rear end yields, the power of focus and 'look' where you want to go.
Trust.

Practical Session (On the ground and in the saddle excercises)

Different options of head gear for horses.
Correct fitting of head gear.
Rein Options.
The state of the horse?
Body language and Energy.
Teaching the horse to move off pressure.
Front and Hind end yields.
Neck yields from the ground.
Backing the horse from the ground.
Engaging the horse's mind.
Mounting when the horse is ready.
Yields.
Backing.
Going forward.
Passenger lesson.
Steering.
Brakes, the different types and when you might want to use them.
Fine Tuning 'Control'. Pulling or Pulsing?
Trust.

Riding in a bridle or halter (as opposed to riding in a bitted bridle) is something we can all do for the horse's benefit. There has been much written about the benefits of this way of riding. Many horse people all over the world now choose to ride this way. The range of head gear is extensive and is giving riders a choice of much kinder ways of communicating with their horses.

If you are wondering if this is for you and your horse: if you know deep down that a bit, at best, must be uncomfortable, and at worst may cause extreme pain and do damage to the horse, then maybe it's time to explore this as a good option for you and your equine partner.

Glenn and Kelly
Phone 02 6071 0210
Email info@waterfallcreek.com.au