New Method of Horsemanship Including the Breaking and Training of Horses, with Instructions for Obtaining a Good Seat. Book Summary

Key Lessons from The New Method of Horsemanship

1. Observation and Understanding: Wickham stresses that the first step in training is to understand the horse. This involves careful observation of the horse's body language, natural behaviors, and instincts. Understanding fear, curiosity, and comfort allows the trainer to approach the horse calmly and build trust. For example, recognizing subtle signs of stress can prevent the horse from becoming panicked during handling.

2. Kindness and Positive Reinforcement: The "New Method" fundamentally rejects harsh driving or fear-based techniques. Instead, it advocates for kindness, patience, and rewarding the horse for willingly cooperating. Rewards don't have to be overt treats; praise, a gentle pat, or simply allowing the horse to continue an activity it enjoys can reinforce desired behavior. A lesson involves desensitizing a horse to a saddle pad by letting it sniff and investigate the object calmly without pressure, then rewarding its curiosity.

3. Respect and Partnership: Training is presented as a mutual exchange, not a one-sided command system. The trainer must earn the horse's respect through consistent, fair, and confident handling. A horse that respects its handler is more likely to listen, learn quickly, and willingly perform tasks. This involves clear communication and fair expectations.

4. Progressive Steps and Building Blocks: Wickham emphasizes starting with simple exercises and gradually building complexity. The horse should be taught to respond to aids (cues) in a step-by-step manner, allowing it to succeed and build confidence at each stage. For instance, teaching collection (engagement of the hindquarters) starts with very subtle cues and only progresses once the horse demonstrates understanding.

5. Achieving a Good Seat: The book dedicates significant content to riding. A "good seat" is defined as balanced, relaxed, and harmonious with the horse's movement. This requires the rider to develop core strength, flexibility, and awareness. The method suggests exercises on the ground and under saddle that help the rider understand the horse's needs and respond appropriately with aids, ensuring the horse moves freely without tension.

Is This Book Fit For Me?

• If you are interested in horse training or riding and value principles of kindness and respect for animals.
• If you want to understand the fundamentals of horse behavior and psychology.
• If you are learning to ride and want to understand how your position (seat) affects the horse.
• If you are interested in historical perspectives on equestrian methods.
• If you are looking for an early example of modern, positive-method training philosophy.
• Note: Some anatomical references and language might be dated. A sensitivity towards animal welfare is crucial.

Yes, the core principles outlined in "The New Method of Horsemanship" still matter today. The emphasis on observation, understanding horse behavior, respecting the animal's nature, and using positive reinforcement forms the foundation of many modern, ethical training approaches. The concept of building a partnership based on trust and clear communication remains central to effective and humane horsemanship. While specific techniques and detailed anatomical knowledge have evolved (modern books often provide updated information), the underlying philosophy of treating horses kindly while achieving results is timeless.

Therefore, I suggest reading:

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The Thinking Horse's Training by Linda Tellington-Jones