Going Big vs. Going Wrong: Resetting Awareness Without Crossing the Line
- Loz
- May 10
- 2 min read
Ethical Horse Training Check-ins
Ever felt your horse tune you out mid‑training session? Sometimes a clear, decisive cue—what riders call “going big”—can reset awareness and keep you safe. But when does that cross into harsh, abusive training? The difference lies in intent, timing, and welfare.
Core Message
“Going big” should never mean punishment. It’s about clarity, not fear. Horses learn through pressure and release, but if the pressure becomes relentless, confusing, or driven by frustration, it erodes trust and welfare.
✅ Checklist: Are You Staying Ethical?
| Am I correcting for safety or clarity—not venting frustration? |
| Did I release pressure the moment the horse tried? (Even a small try counts.) |
| Was my cue scaled to the situation, not exaggerated out of anger? |
| Do I use the same signals every time, so the horse understands? |
| Is my horse showing signs of fear (wide eyes and/or whites showing, trembling) or understanding (softening, licking, chewing)? |
| After the correction, did I return to calm, positive interaction? Did I give my horse space and time to process? |
| Am I avoiding excessive force, harsh equipment, or prolonged pressure? (Not physically hitting the horse or "tearing it to shreds" because it didn't answer the question you asked the way you wanted it to.) |
| Is my horse confident and willing, not shut down or anxious? |
| Would I be comfortable explaining my method to a vet, coach, other riders, or a welfare inspector? |
| Did the horse leave the session clearer, not fearful? |
🚩 Major Red Flags
You feel angry or frustrated and escalate force (nothing wrong with quitting for the day and coming back tomorrow with a gentle grooming session with your horse instead... what are you trying to prove by pushing or escalating with your behaviour in this state?).
The horse shows fear responses: trembling, whites of eyes, bolting, shutting down.
You use harsh equipment or prolonged pressure to “make a point.”
You justify it as “discipline” or “showing who’s boss.”
You ignore welfare signs because “it works.”
Why This Is Never Okay
Abusive training is not something to be proud of—it’s massively frowned upon in the equestrian world. In recent years, high-profile Olympic riders have been banned and publicly shamed for crossing welfare lines. These cases are a wake-up call: our sport will not tolerate cruelty. Every rider, from grassroots to elite, must uphold welfare standards. Your reputation—and your horse’s trust—depend on it.
Closing Thought
Training should build trust and clarity, never fear. If you’re unsure, pause and ask: “Am I teaching or am I punishing?” Your horse’s welfare—and your partnership—depends on that answer.
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