Western Horseman
Magazine
Review
January 2002
 		  
 		  
Classroom in the Corral, Vols. 1-4

In this four-video series Indiana trainer Dan Bowman uses a common-sense approach to explain how understanding the way horses think can help riders better communicate with and teach their horses.

In volume 1, Round Pen Junction, Bowman introduces three basic concepts by which horses learn: advance and release, pressure and release, and direct and drive. While working a horse in a round pen, Bowman discusses equine body language.

In volume 2, Horsin' Around on the Ground, Bowman does ground work with a halter-broke 2-year-old filly, teaching her to back up and bend, introducing her to longeing, and sacking her out with various objects.

In Volume 3, Speaking From the Saddle, Bowman		   emphasizes keeping in mind how a horse interprets a riders aids. Bowman begins with how to saddle and bridle a horse and continues with riding basics such as stopping, backing, and sidepassing.

In volume 4, Unplug Your Horse, Bowman solves some common problems by letting the horse teach himself out of bad habits through pressure and release techniques. Some of the topics covered include hobbling, standing still, and spookiness.
Bowman has a quiet approach to training horses and a common-sense way of teaching riders. He provides through explanations of what he's doing and why, and also discusses why the horse reacts the way he does.
A valuable resource for beginning riders, those new to training young horses, or anyone who wants to learn more about how horses interpret the actions of humans.

Western Horseman Magazine