We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.
Course image
Shane Ransley

Although this course can be done totally online to speed up your progress through this course it is best to get coaching from us as you go through the course so feel free to ask questions.

As you move from step to step it is important for you and your horse to be confident.

Even if you have an educated horse going through all the videos and checklists will help build your relationship and improve your horses range of movement not to mention some fun as you complete a whole list.

Main goals for each checklist:

Read more

Although this course can be done totally online to speed up your progress through this course it is best to get coaching from us as you go through the course so feel free to ask questions.

As you move from step to step it is important for you and your horse to be confident.

Even if you have an educated horse going through all the videos and checklists will help build your relationship and improve your horses range of movement not to mention some fun as you complete a whole list.

Main goals for each checklist:

Halter training- Teach your horse to follow a feel and think its the way through tasks, have a positive attitude and give things a try even if they are unsure.

First bareback rides- To build your horses confidence with someone on their back and to follow a feel of your reins and your body.

First saddled ride- To build confidence with a rider at faster gaits and to develop confident, relaxed forward.

Impulsion Groundwork checklist- Groundwork to develop communication and tasks to get your horse using its back before you get on. Range of movement.

Impulsion Ridden checklist- Riding tasks using the southern cross pattern to encourage your horse to use its body balanced through turns and transitions.

Collection checklist- Riding tasks much like the impulsion checklists but now with a deeper flexion, softer rein and more development of your horse's fitness and strength.

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • We teach caring people how to train horses in clear supported steps.
  • Although this course can be done totaly online to speed up your progress through this course it is best to get coaching from us. feel free to message me.
  • As you move from step to step it is important for you and your horse to be confident.
  • This course is designed to get your horses foundations solid so you can be as safe and successful as possible..

Syllabus

A paradigm-shifting interview with Shane and Meredith about the Quantum Savvy Horsemanship principals and how to apply them.
Interview with Shane and Meredith Ransley
Read more

Quite often when we have horses in to work on their impulsion or collection we find that riding them is not what they need most. Some horses just disagree with any requests and others just push against us and get around on their front end. All these problems can be fixed long before getting on them. Halter training is one of the most overlooked part of your horse's education, I am sharing a video and checklist with you so you can make sure your horses halter training foundations are up to scratch. Have fun and enjoy the list and the benefits it will have on your riding tasks. Shane Ransley

Ollie needs to find a home but no one wants a horse that won't load. There are some great quotes and thoughts for you in here even if your horse is a good loader. There is also a checklist attached to the post for you to download and print so you can give it a go. Thanks to http://www.quantumsavvy.com

Balance your horse before riding. Unbalanced horses are very common and people just get used to riding them. Go through this series of checklists and see if your horse can do these tasks. I have attached a link where you can find the checklist for printing so you can make sure your horse's foundations are solid. This will avoid safety and performance problems down the track.

How to develop your horses mind and body through a positive range of movement

Save this course

Create your own learning path. Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
Save

Career center

Learners who complete Horse Training Checklists, Groundwork and Riding. will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Horse Trainer
A Horse Trainer develops equines through conditioning, behavioral modification, and fostering harmonious partnerships. This course provides a robust foundation for aspiring and current horse trainers, emphasizing safety and success from groundwork to advanced riding. It covers crucial stages like teaching a horse to "follow a feel" with a "positive attitude" during halter training, and building comprehensive confidence during "first bareback rides" and "first saddled ride" at faster gaits. The curriculum details "Impulsion Groundwork" to develop communication and encourage using the horse's back, alongside "Impulsion Ridden checklist" with the "southern cross pattern" for balance, and "Collection checklist" for deeper flexion. This course helps build a professional’s capacity to nurture a horse's mind and body through a positive range of movement, vital for effective horse training.
Natural Horsemanship Clinician
A Natural Horsemanship Clinician teaches horse owners and trainers methods based on understanding equine psychology, communication, and building trust. This course is an outstanding preparation for a natural horsemanship clinician, as it is directly rooted in "Quantum Savvy Horsemanship principals." It deeply emphasizes teaching horses to "follow a feel" and promoting a "positive attitude," alongside rewarding the "try" and building confidence through clear, supported steps. The curriculum's focus on foundational "Halter training," "Impulsion Groundwork" for communication, and developing a horse's "mind and body through a positive range of movement" aligns perfectly with natural horsemanship philosophies. This course helps clinicians foster strong relationships, ensuring safety and developing confident, responsive horses and empowered owners.
Riding Instructor
A Riding Instructor teaches students of all levels to ride, emphasizing safety, communication, and skill development, often using trained horses. This course offers an exceptional understanding of horse mechanics and suitable training progression, invaluable for a riding instructor. It provides clear insights into establishing "solid foundations" for both horse and rider confidence, critical when teaching. The curriculum covers essential ridden tasks such as "first bareback rides" and "first saddled ride," focusing on developing "confident, relaxed forward" gaits. Furthermore, the detailed "Impulsion Ridden checklist" and "Collection checklist," which refine balance and body use, offer a comprehensive framework for teaching advanced concepts. This course helps build the skills to develop "caring people" into effective riders, fostering successful human-equine partnerships.
Professional Rider
A Professional Rider dedicates their career to riding multiple horses daily for competition, showing, or sales, requiring exceptional skills and a deep understanding of equine performance. This course offers comprehensive preparation for a professional rider, honing crucial abilities. It covers developing "confident, relaxed forward" gaits at speed, essential for any discipline. The course provides detailed instruction on balancing a horse through both groundwork and ridden tasks, including the "Impulsion Ridden checklist" using the "southern cross pattern" for body balance through turns. Furthermore, the "Collection checklist" focusing on deeper flexion, a softer rein, and developing horse fitness and strength, is fundamental for achieving peak performance. This course helps build the nuanced communication and physical mastery required to excel as a professional rider.
Equestrian Coach
An Equestrian Coach guides riders and their horses to achieve higher levels of performance, often in competitive disciplines. This course provides a profound understanding of equine biomechanics and progressive training, making it highly relevant for an equestrian coach. It delves into advanced ridden tasks such as the "Impulsion Ridden checklist," utilizing the "southern cross pattern" to encourage balanced body use through turns and transitions. The "Collection checklist" further refines skills with deeper flexion and a softer rein, enhancing the horse's fitness and strength. Moreover, the course emphasizes balancing a horse before and during riding, crucial for optimizing gaites and preventing performance problems. Understanding how to develop a horse's mind and body through a positive range of movement, as taught here, is fundamental for achieving peak equestrian performance.
Equine Specialist
An Equine Specialist works in various settings, handling, conditioning, and assisting horses in areas like therapy, breeding, or performance. This course provides a robust skill set essential for an equine specialist, ensuring horses are well-mannered, safe, and productive. It emphasizes building "solid foundations" for safety and success, beginning with "Halter training" to teach horses to "follow a feel" with a "positive attitude." The program covers developing a horse's confidence with a rider through "first bareback rides" and "first saddled ride," crucial for versatile handling. Detailed groundwork to develop communication and a horse's "range of movement" before riding, along with balancing techniques, helps facilitate a comprehensive understanding. This course enables specialists to foster positive relationships and enhance a horse's mind and body through systematic, confidence-building steps.
Equine Behavior Consultant
An Equine Behavior Consultant specializes in assessing and modifying undesirable horse behaviors, fostering better understanding between horses and humans. This course provides an excellent foundation for an equine behavior consultant by deeply emphasizing understanding a horse's perspective. It teaches principles like rewarding the "try" and fostering a "positive attitude," central to effective behavior modification strategies. The curriculum's focus on "Halter training" to help a horse "follow a feel and think its the way through tasks," and building confidence through gradual steps (e.g., "first bareback rides"), directly addresses the root causes of many behavioral challenges. The course helps professionals develop a positive relationship with horses, ensuring safety and success by applying clear, supported training steps that enhance mental and physical well-being.
Stable Manager
A Stable Manager oversees the daily operations of an equestrian facility, including horse care, staff supervision, and often coordinating training schedules. This course is highly beneficial for a stable manager, offering insights into effective horse management and welfare. The emphasis on establishing "solid foundations" for safety and success is paramount for managing a stable environment. Understanding "Halter training" to ensure horses "follow a feel" with a "positive attitude" is critical for staff handling and for maintaining a safe facility. The course's detailed checklists for groundwork, impulsion, and ridden tasks help a manager assess horse training needs, communicate effectively with trainers, and ensure that all equines are receiving appropriate, progressive care. This knowledge fosters a confident and well-managed equine environment.
Trail Guide Equine Operations
A Trail Guide in Equine Operations leads groups of riders on horseback, ensuring safety, enjoyment, and proper horse management in various outdoor environments. This course is highly beneficial, as it instills the critical principles for developing reliable, safe mounts and managing riders. It emphasizes building "solid foundations" in horses for safety and success, which is paramount when navigating trails. The course focuses on developing a horse's confidence with a rider, achieving "confident, relaxed forward" movement at faster gaits, and balancing them in all gaits. Furthermore, the systematic approach to "Halter training" and "Impulsion Groundwork" ensures horses are responsive and well-behaved, vital for handling diverse situations encountered on guided rides. This course helps guides build safe, trusting relationships with horses and riders.
Equine Facility Manager
An Equine Facility Manager oversees the entire operation of an equestrian center, including property, staff, client relations, and ensuring high standards of horse care and training. This course is highly relevant for an equine facility manager by providing a foundational understanding of horse training and welfare. The emphasis on building "solid foundations" for safety and success is critical for managing a thriving and secure environment. Understanding the course's detailed checklists for "Halter training," groundwork, and various ridden tasks allows managers to effectively assess training programs, communicate with trainers, and ensure the well-being and appropriate development of all horses under their care. This knowledge helps managers foster a confident, productive, and well-maintained equestrian facility.
Horse Handler
A Horse Handler provides essential daily care and safe interaction, preparing horses for various activities or other professionals. This course may be useful for a horse handler by instilling fundamental practices for safe and effective equine interaction. The course's emphasis on building "solid foundations" and ensuring confidence for both horse and handler is crucial for daily tasks. Specifically, the "Halter training" checklist, designed to help a horse "follow a feel" with a "positive attitude" and "give things a try even if they are unsure," is directly applicable. Understanding how to develop a horse's confidence with a rider, even through initial bareback and saddled rides, helps handlers anticipate and manage equine responses, contributing to a secure and cooperative environment for both people and horses.
Horse Sales Agent
A Horse Sales Agent connects buyers with suitable equines, requiring a strong understanding of horse temperament, training level, and potential. This course may be useful for a horse sales agent by providing a detailed framework for evaluating a horse's preparedness and prospects. The curriculum's focus on establishing "solid foundations" for safety and success, from "Halter training" to advanced ridden tasks, allows agents to accurately assess a horse's true capabilities. Understanding the progression from "first bareback rides" to achieving "confident, relaxed forward" through "Impulsion Ridden checklist" allows for precise communication regarding a horse's training journey. This course helps agents speak knowledgeably about a horse's development, fostering trust and making informed recommendations to clients.
Equine Therapist Assistant
An Equine Therapist Assistant supports credentialed therapists by safely handling horses, implementing prescribed exercise programs, and monitoring progress. This course may be useful for an equine therapist assistant, particularly due to its detailed focus on enhancing a horse's physical capabilities and mental well-being. The curriculum emphasizes "Impulsion Groundwork" and "Impulsion Ridden checklist" to improve a horse's "range of movement" and develop their back. This directly aligns with rehabilitation and conditioning goals. Understanding how to develop a horse's "mind and body through a positive range of movement" through clear, supported steps provides a practical background for implementing therapeutic protocols. The course's emphasis on building confidence and positive attitude in horses also contributes to a cooperative environment crucial for effective therapy. Requires an advanced degree for therapy, but this course helps with the assistant role.
Equine Event Coordinator
An Equine Event Coordinator organizes and manages horse shows, clinics, or competitions, requiring an understanding of equestrian disciplines and horse welfare needs. This course may be useful for an equine event coordinator by providing valuable insights into the preparation and expected performance of horses and riders. Knowledge of how to build "solid foundations" for safety and success, as detailed in the course, can inform event design, arena setup, and participant guidelines. Understanding the progression from basic groundwork and "Halter training" to advanced ridden tasks like "Impulsion Ridden checklist" helps in structuring appropriate classes and ensuring fair competition suitable for various training levels. This course helps coordinators anticipate the needs of participants, contributing to well-run and safe equestrian events.
Equine Reproduction Specialist Assistant
An Equine Reproduction Specialist Assistant supports veterinarians or breeding managers in handling and preparing valuable breeding stock for reproductive procedures. This course may be useful for an equine reproduction specialist assistant, as it focuses on developing strong foundational handling skills, paramount when working with high-value animals. The curriculum's emphasis on "Halter training" to ensure a horse "follow a feel" with a "positive attitude" and "give things a try even if they are unsure" is directly applicable to managing horses safely and cooperatively during sensitive procedures. The course also develops confidence in both the horse and handler, which is critical for minimizing stress and ensuring the well-being of breeding equines. This comprehensive understanding of equine behavior and handling contributes significantly to a safe and efficient breeding environment.

Reading list

We've selected 31 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Horse Training Checklists, Groundwork and Riding..
Takes an interdisciplinary approach to animal welfare, natural science, and philosophy to gain a comprehensive understanding of it and its major themes. It also provides an overview of a variety of perspectives and debates within the field.
This widely respected and highly cited textbook in animal behavior, providing a comprehensive overview with a strong evolutionary focus. It is commonly used in undergraduate and graduate programs and serves as an excellent reference for professionals. The book is valuable for gaining a broad understanding and deepening knowledge in the field.
Provides a collection of essays on a variety of topics in animal welfare science. It is written by leading experts in the field and provides a comprehensive overview of current research and thinking.
Provides a foundational understanding of animal welfare, with chapters on philosophical and ethical perspectives, methods to assess welfare, and case studies in animal agriculture and research.
Is considered a classic and helped define the field of behavioural ecology, a key area within animal behavior. The latest edition includes updated information and examples, extending its relevance beyond just animals to include microbes and plants. It is essential reading for students focusing on the ecological and evolutionary aspects of behavior.
This handbook provides a comprehensive overview of the field of animal welfare, with chapters covering a wide range of topics from history and philosophy to ethical issues and practical applications.
This textbook provides a comprehensive introduction to the principles of animal learning and cognition. It covers foundational concepts and recent developments in the field, making it suitable for undergraduate and graduate students. It is particularly useful for understanding the mechanisms underlying animal behavior.
A classic introductory textbook that provides a clear and concise overview of animal behavior, structured around Tinbergen's four questions. It covers a broad range of topics from the neural basis of behavior to social interactions. is suitable for introductory courses and offers a strong foundation for further study.
Provides an in-depth analysis of the behavioral mechanisms that underpin ecological and evolutionary processes. It is suitable for advanced undergraduate and graduate students and researchers interested in the intricate links between behavior, ecology, and evolution. It offers a deeper and more technical understanding of the subject.
Delves into the fascinating world of animal cognition and challenges traditional views on animal intelligence. Written by a leading primatologist, it explores contemporary topics in animal behavior and is accessible to a broad audience. It is excellent for gaining a deeper understanding of the complexities of animal minds.
Exploring the emotional lives of animals, this book discusses contemporary research on animal emotions and their implications. It provides insights into the subjective experiences of animals and is relevant to discussions on animal welfare. is valuable for deepening understanding and exploring current topics.
Provides a practical guide to improving the welfare of animals in meat production systems. Grandin world-renowned expert on animal welfare and her book is based on her extensive experience in the field.
A seminal work that presents a gene-centered view of evolution, which has profoundly influenced the study of animal behavior, particularly in understanding altruism and social behavior. While not solely focused on behavior, its theoretical framework is crucial for a deeper understanding of the evolutionary basis of animal actions. This classic that provides valuable background knowledge.
Series and related texts focus on the science and ethics of animal welfare across various species. It is highly relevant to the course topics on animal welfare and provides a deeper understanding of the concerns and considerations for animals managed by humans. It valuable resource for exploring contemporary issues in animal behavior and welfare.
Is written by scientists with knowledge and expertise in the welfare of chickens and covers species-specific needs and the latest research.
Temple Grandin offers a unique perspective on animal behavior, drawing on her experiences with autism. The book provides insights into how animals perceive the world and is particularly relevant for understanding animal behavior from a different cognitive framework. It valuable read for gaining a broader understanding and exploring different viewpoints.
Explores the complex inner lives of animals, focusing on their thoughts, feelings, and cultures. It presents compelling evidence for animal sentience and is highly relevant to contemporary discussions in animal behavior and welfare. It is an engaging read for anyone interested in deepening their understanding of animal cognition and emotion.
Focusing on the remarkable intelligence and behavior of birds, this book explores a wide range of cognitive abilities. It is an excellent example of contemporary research in animal behavior, highlighting the diversity of intelligence across the animal kingdom. is great for exploring specific examples of complex animal behavior.
A practical guide to the methods and techniques used in studying animal behavior. is essential for students conducting research in the field, providing valuable information on experimental design and data collection. It serves as a useful reference tool for anyone involved in animal behavior studies.
Introduces readers to a horse training method called clicker training. It is based on the principles of positive reinforcement and can be used to train horses of all ages and levels.
Introduces readers to a horse training method called TTEAM (Tellington-Jones Equine Awareness Method). It gentle and effective method that can be used to train horses of all ages and levels.
Provides a comprehensive guide to horse training, covering topics such as halter breaking, groundwork, and riding. It is suitable for horse owners of all levels.
Provides a comprehensive overview of horse training, covering topics such as halter breaking, groundwork, and riding. It is suitable for horse owners of all levels.
Frans de Waal explores the biological roots of empathy in animals, challenging the view of nature as purely competitive. touches on contemporary topics in animal behavior and sociality, offering insights into cooperative behaviors and their evolution. It's a thought-provoking read that adds depth to the understanding of animal social dynamics.
Introduces readers to a horse training method called Downunder Horsemanship. It method that emphasizes building a relationship with the horse based on trust and respect.
A comprehensive look at the behavior of domestic cats, covering their social structure, communication, and interactions with humans. is valuable for those interested in the behavior of a common companion animal and is relevant to the course topics on animal behavior and welfare.
A classic work by one of the founders of ethology, this book offers charming anecdotes and insightful observations on animal behavior. While an older publication, it provides a historical perspective and highlights the importance of naturalistic observation. It valuable read for understanding the origins of the field.
Provides a basic overview of horse training, covering topics such as halter breaking, groundwork, and riding. It is suitable for beginner horse owners.

Share

Help others find this course page by sharing it with your friends and followers:

Similar courses

Here are nine courses similar to Horse Training Checklists, Groundwork and Riding..
Introduction to Genetics and Evolution
Most relevant
The Changing Status and Perception of Animals
Most relevant
The Truth About Cats and Dogs
Most relevant
Animal Welfare in the Clinic
Most relevant
Animal Behaviour and Welfare
Most relevant
Chimpanzee Behavior and Conservation
Most relevant
Equine Bodywork for Beginners Module 1: The Neck
Most relevant
4 Secrets to Unlocking the Power of Connection with Horses
Most relevant
Tracking and the Art of Observation - Fundamentals
Most relevant

Udemy Buyer Protection & Guarantee

Verified partner policies & purchase protections

Global Marketplace Leader
Free Trial & Audit

Free Lecture Previews

Free preview video lectures available for all courses; optional 7-day free trial on Personal Plan subscriptions (cancel before trial ends to avoid conversion).

Return & Refund Policy

30-Day Money-Back Guarantee

30-day money-back guarantee on all eligible individual course purchases (provided course content has not been substantially consumed or downloaded). Subscription fees are non-refundable once billed.

Buyer Protections

Verified Academic & Industry Partner

Lifetime access to purchased individual courses and future updates, verifiable certificate of completion, and direct student Q&A forums.

Key Purchase Protections
30-day 100% money-back guarantee on course purchases
Lifetime access on web, mobile, and offline
Certificate of completion included with purchase
Direct instructor Q&A and active student community
OpenCourser Verified Partner Policy details last reviewed: 2026-10-22
Our mission

OpenCourser helps millions of learners each year. People visit us to learn workspace skills, ace their exams, and nurture their curiosity.

Our extensive catalog contains over 50,000 courses and twice as many books. Browse by search, by topic, or even by career interests. We'll match you to the right resources quickly.

Find this site helpful? Tell a friend about us.

Affiliate disclosure

We're supported by our community of learners. When you purchase or subscribe to courses and programs or purchase books, we may earn a commission from our partners.

Your purchases help us maintain our catalog and keep our servers humming without ads.

Thank you for supporting OpenCourser.

© 2016 - 2025 OpenCourser