by Sheri Spencer

Created on: August 06, 2008   Last Updated: June 25, 2009

It is through centuries of trial and error, training successes and failures, and effective riding that led to the understanding of the training scale. It is not a list that was drawn up and followed; first it had to be discovered and understood. The training scale is a formula for riders of all disciplines to understand the priorities for successful training. It is often drawn a pyramid, for the basics must by firmly in place to create a strong foundation for future achievement. Successful training is not directly focused on winning ribbons, but rather to achieve harmony through a gradual development of challenge for the horse's athleticism and mental capacity. By following the guidelines of the training scale, a rider will find a healthier, happier, more athletic partner. Then, if it is that rider's ambition, the ribbons will come.

There are several variations on the precise words of the scale, but generally, it is as follows:
1. Rhythm/Forward
2. Suppleness/Relaxation
3. Contact/Acceptance of Bit
4. Straightness
5. Impulsion/Engagement
6. Collection

These steps are not necessarily to be focused on one at a time. While developing consistent rhythm, for example, a rider should already be considering suppleness and trying to maintain relaxation of the horse as he accustoms to the bit. However, the expectations should be limited to allow the horse, particularly the young horse, time to adjust and get used to each new progression. The scale also provides the rider an understanding of priority. A rider should not demand acceptance of the bit if the horse is traveling in an irregular rhythm and has little desire to move.

1. Developing & Understanding Rhythm & Forward

It is a common misconception to believe that going fast is forward. The tempo, or speed, of the gait should be regular and consistent. Speed should be unchanging. A horse traveling forward will have freely flowing gaits. A general guide is to observe the tracks and see that the hind feet are "tracking up" (the hind foot lands in the same print as the forefoot for walk and trot, and is parallel to the print of the forefoot in the canter). This is a good rule of thumb to check that the horse is indeed traveling correctly over his back, and is beginning to have engagement through the hindquarters. The hind foot tends to be longer and more angular than the rounder fore foot, and so can be identified if there is lack of engagement (not tracking up), or even over tracking (where the hind foot lands beyond the print

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