The best way to train a young horse is to listen to him and to ask him to speak to you. Each day ask him a new question then listen and see if he can answer. For example, ask him to lengthen his stride at the trot or canter, then collect, then lengthen again. If he can answer your question, you’re making progress. If he can’t, slow down and go back a step. Remember that while you may be applying a structured process, each horse has his own personality, physical build, mental ability—and each horse grows at his own pace.

It can be challenging to be this patient. The worst thing you can do to a young horse is be too human: to have set goals or a schedule for winning blue ribbons. Don’t impose your own dreams and timelines on him. Give him the chance to bloom.

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