Connection Training: The Heart and Science of Positive Horse Training

by Hannah Weston, Rachel Bedingfield, Loni Loftus (Foreword)

Connection Training's approach creates the best experience for the horse, based on the science of learning and equine emotions. We focus on building positive emotions around you and the training, such as relaxation, confidence and willingness. These emotions create safe, happy horses who are a joy to train, ride and handle. In this book, you will
> How emotions drive your horse's behaviour and why training from an emotional perspective makes so much sense. > How to solve problems in handling, healthcare and loading. > How to teach healthy postural engagement through gymnastic groundwork in a fun and positive way your horse will love. > How to make riding rewarding, safe and fun for both of you. Following the guidance in this book, you can solve your problems, achieve your goals and create a wonderful equine partner for life. "Connection Training has transformed my life with horses after 30+ years of ownership. The focus is on your connection with the horse and that is what I have been searching for all this time! Once you get that then trust builds and suddenly all things seem possible."
Lynne Hockney UK "As a clinical animal behaviourist and university lecturer I am regularly asked for recommended reading around equine training and the science behind it; this text would definitely be on my essential reading list. Crafted into a volume that seamlessly combines the science of behavioural ethology with the practice of training, this book consistently champions the ultimate aim; to provide optimally for the welfare of our domesticated equines in all our interactions with them."
Extract from the foreword
by Loni Loftus
MSc, BSc(Hons), PgAEd, CAB
Head of Equine Operations, RSPCA About the Authors
Hannah Weston and Rachel Bedingfield are pioneers in combining equine ethology, the science of equine emotions and positive horse training techniques. They are passionate about helping leisure horse owners to connect with their horse and achieve their goals, whether that's being able to ride confidently, teach healthy movement and lateral exercises or help a frightened rescue to overcome fear. Their training approach is soft, gentle and always puts the horse first. Rachel brings the science and theory and Hannah brings the real-world practice. Together, they are a great team, combining a firm base of knowledge and understanding with step-by-step exercises and techniques you can use with your horse. www.connectiontraining.com

Genres: Horses, Nonfiction, Dogs, Science

318 pages, Paperback

Published November 9, 2019

Reviews

[Dani · Rating 5 out of 5]

Any equestrian should read this book and take it all to heart. I've read and re-read multiple times since picking it up. My copy is highlighted and notated all over the place. I really appreciate the effort, research, and heart work that went into this book and it's methods.

[Lisa Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

I could not recommend this book enough, if you want to train your horses with positive methods. Her books and videos are so inspiring and really emphasizing the positive relationship with horses.

Please, please, if you have horses - or any animals - please read this book, or any other books with positive reinforcement training.

Absolutely a top book.

[Chantal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Magnificent. Dives deeper into horses emotional systems and training tips & exercises when working with positive reinforcement. It not only focuses on said exercises, but also on relaxation and connection. Whether you're struggling with an unmotivated horse or one that's easily hyper-areoused; you will learn at least a thing or two from this book! Cannot recommend it enough and am a true fan.

[Sammi · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was awesome! So much good information. I would highly recommend it!

[Emmy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Definitely one of my favourites this year on the subject of horses. I wish I'd read this book years ago and would recommend it to any equestrian to learn more about the science of how horses learn.

[Goele Lousbergh · Rating 5 out of 5]

My only remark would be that some chapters deserve to be a complete, separate book. But maybe Hannah and Rachel got the hang of it now and we can expect more? :-)