Program Description
Welcome to Positive Horse Training's 8-week intensive programs, where you'll dive into Positive Reinforcement in a small group collective with Marina. Each level is open to up to 10 participants and is designed to give you the tools, confidence, and guidance you need to go out and train your own horse with +R.
During the guided 8-week program, you will learn how +R works (theory), how to set up a relaxed environment for training (including your horse’s demeanor), how to create a good training plan specific to your horse, how to troubleshoot when/if your plan isn’t working, and how to teach the 10 foundational behaviors to any horse.
These groups are for compassionate equestrians who want their horse to be excited and involved in their own training. We pair science with feel to create an ethical training program that focuses on making progress without compromising our relationship with our equine partners.
Throughout the 3 levels, you'll learn how to teach the 10 foundational behaviors that will give you and your horse a solid foundation and training regime with R+. This program is straightforward and to the point, designed to get you outside and making progress with your horse. It is best suited for equestrians who want practical tools, accountability, and camaraderie within a safe and supportive group. Throughout each of the levels, there are challenges for you to participate in to win prizes. Upon completion of both Level I and Level II, participants will be awarded their custom trophy buckle!
The three levels are designed to build upon each other. Participants who have completed Level I may then enroll in Level II. All of the levels may be taken multiple times for extra support.
In Level I You will learn...
Food manners in protected contact
Food manners in the pen
Duration
The Countdown
Targeting
Liberty Leading
Backing up
Self-haltering
Stationary Target
During enrollment, your membership will include:
Weekly group Zoom calls (Mondays or Tuesdays) facilitated by Marina
This is a time to share the highs and lows in your training week, ask any questions, and re-center for the upcoming week
Level I Video Library
Access the PHT Level I video library filled with training tutorials.
Messaging support with Marina
Monday-Saturday for training questions to ensure you're never alone or stuck on your journey
Video Feedback
You will receive feedback on your submitted videos and homework.
PHT intensive is for you if....
You want your horse to be excited to train with you
You are a compassionate equestrian who wants to learn how to add Positive Reinforcement to your training regime
You want to connect and establish friendships inside a safe, like-minded community
You are motivated but want support and accountability
You believe YOU are the best trainer for your horse and are ready to take your relationship to the next level
You want to WIN a trophy buckle! (Upon completion of Level II)
All students who complete Level I and Level II will be awarded a trophy buckle at the Virtual Awards Ceremony!
Student Feedback
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to use ONLY positive reinforcement to do this program?
No. Positive reinforcement is a powerful tool to add to your training skills, but we do not believe it is the ONLY way to ethically train. This program is for equestrians who want to learn how to properly use rewards in their training regime—whether you go full-send and aim to use mostly +R, or you use it for certain behaviors, you are welcome here!
What if I already know how to teach all of these behaviors with +R; can I still join?
Yes. Often times, we find ourselves lacking the accountability or inspiration to get outside and do the things that take consistency. There are plenty of resources out there, and sometimes you already know what to do. What PHT offers in addition to the video tutorials is accountability, weekly meetings, daily access to Marina, and—pending you complete Level II—a GORGEOUS BUCKLE!
What if I can't make the meetings or do the homework?
If there is a week where you can't make a meeting, that's okay. If you're unable to attend most of the meetings, I encourage you to wait until a better time to join. I want you to get the most out of these 8 weeks, and the community aspect of this program is KEY.
What is the homework like?
The homework involves watching the instructional videos and going out to implement them with your horse. You'll need to video yourself working with your horse each week and submit it for review and accountability.
I don’t have a horse, can I still join?
If you have access to a horse (whether it's yours or not), you can join. You will need to be able to work with this horse for 15 minutes a day, 4-5 days a week, to get the best results. Ideally, you're the main handler for this 8-week period.
I want to join mainly to win the buckle; should I still join?
To win a buckle, you must complete Level I and Level II. This includes attending most of the weekly meetings, doing the homework, and participating in the community.
