#11: Dressage For EVERY Body with Patrick King

In this episode of The Optimized Equine Podcast, Tamara Lee Barrett interviews Patrick King, a renowned horse trainer and clinician who promotes Classical Principles for Modern Riders. They discuss the concept of 'Corner Turners,’ the importance of athletic relaxation for horses and humans to become effective learners, and the horses' desire for leadership in many aspects of their lives. Patrick shares his journey through various influences in his career, including his transition from Western to Dressage training, and emphasizes the significance of collaboration and continuous learning. The conversation also touches on “The Masters” in horsemanship, the purpose of advanced movements, airs above of the ground, and the evolving relationship between horses and humans throughout time.

* Learn more about Tamara Lee Barrett on Instagram, Facebook and at bit.ly/OasisEq

Patrick King Horsemanship & Dressage can be found on Instagram, Facebook, and at www.pkhorsemanship.com and www.academyforclassicalhorsemanship.com *

Takeaways

Relaxation is essential for effective learning in horses.

Leadership in training requires a clear plan and agenda.

The horse's confidence as a learner is a trainer's primary responsibility.

Intent behind the training is crucial for inspiring horses.

Collaboration among professionals enhances learning and growth.

Teaching is an art that requires experimentation and adaptation.

Continuous improvement is vital in both horse training and personal development.

The relationship with horses is about mutual benefit and understanding.

Advanced movements in dressage serve to develop the horse's strength and balance.

The journey of horsemanship is ongoing and ever-evolving.

Chapters

00:00:35 Defining Corner Turners

00:01:40 Introduction to Patrick King

00:03:55 Defining Relaxation in Horse Training and Its Value

00:05:52 A Shift In The Horse Industry

00:06:45 The Importance of Leadership

00:09:54 How Your Horse Feels About Himself When He’s With You (Tom Curtin)

00:12:56 Patrick’s Western Roots and Discovering Ray Hunt

00:14:22 The First Day On The Ranch With Ray & Caroline

00:16:43 Making a Horse That’s Good For Us VS. Making Us Good For The Horse

00:19:22 Can You Pet The Horse For The Horse, Rather Than For You

00:20:25 Allowing The Horse To Present Their Anxiety Aids In Letting It Go

00:24:05 Another Corner Turner For Patrick

00:26:40 Honest, Open Dialogue: A Key Component To Horse & Human Relationships

00:27:38 professional or Professional?

00:30:19 Patrick’s Inspiring And Adaptable Teaching Techniques

00:33:40 Dressage Is For Everybody (And Patrick Walks The Walk!)

00:36:01 Patrick’s Evolving Social Media Presence

00:40:36 The Value Of Planting The Seed And Walking Away VS. Tending To The Seed Daily

00:42:30 Turning The Corner To Dressage

00:44:59 Mark Russel And Learning to BE Together, Not Just DOING Together.

00:46:51 Body Control For The Sake Of Body Control VS. Bringing Value To The Horses’ Mind & Body

00:50:01 Obedience VS. Acceptance: “Just Because You Can Put The Body In A Place Doesn’t Mean That They’re OK Being There.”

00:53:07 “Asking” Or “Telling” In Horse Training

00:56:39 Another Corner Turner: Charles de Kunffy

00:59:30 Riding A Horse To Soundness

01:02:58 Patrick’s Role As A Learner

01:05:25 The Muddy Middle

01:07:24 Evolution Beyond The Masters?

01:12:12 The Art Of Optimization In Horsemanship Is A Beautiful Thing

01:17:24 Horses Role In Human Evolution: “The World That Horse Is Helping Us Conquer Is The One That Lives Between Our Ears”

01:19:20 How To Connect with Patrick King Horsemanship & Dressage