08/11/2025
Great to see Pony Club Australia are teaching the next generation about equine behaviour in the context of sporting disciplines ๐
Itโs important for all horse trainers and riders to learn how to identify the flight response.
For centuries, the worldโs best trainers have emphasised the importance of rhythm and straightness โ what we now call self-carriage. A horse that maintains his own rhythm and line shows confidence and relaxation. By contrast, a horse that accelerates suddenly or without being asked โ whether under saddle or in hand โ is likely showing a fear response.
A common example is the jumping horse that rushes towards a fence. This behaviour is often mistaken for enthusiasm or a โlove of jumpingโ, but in reality, itโs a sign of anxiety. When early training is rushed or unclear, the horse learns to associate fences with fear. The obstacle becomes a trigger to run โ both toward and away from it.
Physiologically, a horse showing a strong flight response on a cross-country course has a blood profile similar to one fleeing from predators. Thatโs why training for rhythm and self-maintenance of speed is essential for both welfare and rider safety. The jump should never cause acceleration; the horse must be trained to maintain a steady rhythm and tempo on his own.
In dressage โ and across all disciplines โ we should recognise tension as a sign of fear, not excitement or energy. The great classical masters understood this deeply:
โช๏ธ Quickening legs signal the flight response.
โช๏ธ A hollow back reflects tension and fear.
โช๏ธ True impulsion comes only from calm, progressive training.
Understanding the difference between rhythm and rush protects both horse and rider โ and ensures training remains fair, ethical, and safe.
