Online Classes

Check out the pre-training checklist. Get started with the Video Modules. Or, book a free consultation with Monty Gywnne.

Book a free consultation with Monty Gwynne to determine the right path for you. Also be sure to check out the pre-training checklist.

Advanced training can be coached through private consultations with Monty Gwynne. Book your consultation here.

In-person clinics are offered on a case by case basis. Book a free consultation with Monty Gwynne to discuss your needs.

Put simply, positive reinforcement (R+) training uses a reward (food) to reinforce desired behaviors. This creates a positive association with the action and encourages repeat behavior. This approach is then paired with a clicker. The horse learns that hearing a click means the correct behavior was performed and a reward is coming - further reinforcing the behavior. Positive reinforcement means the horse can choose to perform an action – for a reward – and if not performed, no punishment will occur. It’s the responsibility of the trainer to look at what they can change in their own behaviors or body language to encourage the correct action from their horse. This method is scientifically proven to produce great results as well as an incredible bond with your horse.

Liberty horse training means the horses are loose, without a rope or reins and have the freedom to move around at will. This includes: the quality or state of being free the power to do as one pleases freedom from physical restraint the power of choice

You have done nothing “wrong”! Traditional, corrective methods of horse training have been around for generations – it’s how many of us were introduced to working with horses. In recent years, more scientific studies have been conducted that show positive reinforcement is a great, alternative way of training. This has been shown with dogs for years and is now becoming more common in the horse training world. And it’s never too late to change! Get started with the Video Modules.

It is never too late to change to positive reinforcement methods! Simply go back to basics using the methods taught in the Video Modules.

You are always training! Many people think that training begins when you’re on the saddle but the moment you are with your horse you are either training behavior you want or ignoring behavior you don’t. If you are somehow reinforcing behaviour that you're trying to ignore, this will encourage more. Also, if you "punish" the horse, this may escalate the behavior and present signs of frustration or aggression. If you are struggling, contact Monty Gwynne for a private consultation.

Least invasive minimally aversive (LIMA) is the training style used at Equispeak, set out by Dr Susan Friedman. LIMA describes a trainer or behavior consultant who uses the least intrusive, minimally aversive strategy, out of a set of humane and effective tactics, to succeed in achieving a training or behavior change objective. You can read more in this diagram.

It is important to note that any training method used incorrectly can cause tension and anxiety. For clicker training, the easiest way to prevent this is to start with lower value treats while focusing on timing and rate of reinforcement. Once the horse begins to learn they will get a reward, it's very important for trainers to reward in a timely manner. Withholding the reward is what can create frustration and anxiety. For example, if training is interrupted or an end-of-session protocol is not defined . Controlled enthusiasm is one of the best by-products of using positive reinforcement that we could ever hope for but you do need to feel and be safe. Equispeak Online Classes provides science-based training so that you can avoid common pitfalls and poor techniques.

Dynamic food delivery (DFD), or paying for position, is a big part of Equispeak Techniques. This involves using food as payment for correctly completing a task by either the trainer going to horse with the reward, or the horse comes to the trainer for the reward, before returning to the training area. This approach expands the horse's understanding of where they get paid, which allows trainers to use this method in many ways. DFD is a critical difference in Equispeak training compared to other programs.

Three top tips for hand feeding safely include: Feed away from your body Ensure you don't mistakenly "withhold" a reward i.e. by being distracted. It's important to reward in a timely manner to avoid frustration Start with protective contact i.e. stand the other side of a fence to provide space

This is a pain point for many of us. Ask yourself, do you like the way others train? Do you see a partnership with open communication between them and their horses? If you are asking about positive reinforcement (R+), then it may be because you are looking for an alternative method of training. Equispeak will help show you just how effective using food and R+ can be. Remember, just because something has always been done one way doesn’t mean it was the best or only way.

With positive reinforcement (R+), we build chains of behavior that become self-reinforcing but there is always a need to maintain the behavior. Therefore, there is always the need for a primary reinforcer like food. By building duration and behavior chains, the use of food becomes less frequent but there is always the need for a primary reinforcer to keep the behavior going. If in doubt, just ask yourself, would you work for free?

The reinforcement needs to be reinforcing for the learner - so while you might enjoy giving scratches or fuss, the horse might not. Food is a great primary reinforcer.

Licking and chewing can be a sign your horse is trying to relax after being in a stressed state. You may need to review your approach to see why it could be causing stress. If you're struggling, book a private consultation with Monty Gwynne.

The Online Classes provide a small, interactive space (with a maximum of 15 students) for you to learn and improve your skills with direct feedback. The Online Class will be open on CANVAS (online learning platform) for the specified duration. During this time, you will be able to: Progress through steps at your own pace Post videos of yourself*, when requested, to share with the class for feedback Participate in online discussion and comments You will not be expected to participate on specific days, however you must complete the tasks by the class end date. *Participants are required to post their videos to YouTube then submit the link to CANVAS for instructor assessment. Alternatively, you may use Vimeo or Google Drive. Please familiarize yourself with uploading content to these platforms prior to the start of the class. Detailed instructions will be shared once the class begins.

Complete the form to select and pay for your desired class. Once registered, you will receive an email with a link to join the class on CANVAS within two weeks of the start date. You may download the app to complete your registration or use a desktop PC.

You will not be expected to participate on specific days or times, however you must complete the tasks by the class end date.

Yes, you must complete all tasks by the class end date. After this time, your access to CANVAS will end. If you have missed tasks, you will need to register and pay for a future class.

The Online Classes are recommended for those with minimal prior experience of clicker training. This will help you develop your skills and find solutions to common training challenges. There are also three foundation classes so please inquire if in doubt. Find out more about the Equispeak Dance methodology.

Once registered, you will receive an email with a link to join the class on CANVAS within two weeks of the start date. You may download the app to complete your registration or use a desktop PC.

Online Class fees include access to CANVAS platform, educational material, teaching videos, discussion and personalized help with your training plan.

Some classes will have a pre-requisite so please inquire if in doubt. It is also recommended you complete the Video Modules first but this is not a requirement.