04/19/2022
Why 60 Days?
When we talk about keys to success in any field there are often a handful of recurring themes. Good habits, consistency, and putting in the work are usually at the top of the list.
So how does this apply to c**t starting you may wonder? I am so glad you asked! Let’s start at the beginning. What exactly is training? Training is defined as the act of teaching a person or animal a skill or behaviour. Training horses to do anything boils down to creating positive behaviours that are driven by a repetitive reaction to pressure - whether that be leg, hand, voice, seat or otherwise. When well trained, a horse’s reactions should be consistent and easy to recreate. Sounds a bit like a habit doesn’t?
Research around habits and performance is nothing new. One message on the topic however, seems to stay the same: it takes time and consistency to form habits. How much time and consistency you may ask? Between 18 and 256 days in most cases! But on average, it takes approximately 60 days of consistent reinforcement to establish an automatic reaction.
So, if the goal of the trainer is to establish safe, effective and useful early habits in a young horse, what does this all mean?
Let your trainer have the time. Give them those 60 days it takes to create more consistent results. Give your c**ts the chance to develop a strong foundation for success. Let your horse experience consistency in one program while they are developing their understanding of pressure. Let your trainer put the work in that will set your horse up with the skills and connections to move forward successfully.
As an owner, trust that 60 day process.
📸 Red Dog Imagery - Fine art by Libby Humeniuk