Mike Clinton
Introduction to American Shetland Ponies
American Shetland Ponies, also known as ASPs, are a breed of small, sturdy horses that have been bred in the United States since the early 20th century. These ponies are known for their versatility, intelligence, and friendly personalities, making them a popular choice for riders of all ages and skill levels.
While American Shetland Ponies are small in size, typically standing no more than 46 inches tall, they are strong and muscular enough to carry adult riders. However, before they can be ridden, these ponies must undergo a rigorous training process that includes both ground work and saddle training.
Basic Training for American Shetland Ponies
The first step in training an American Shetland Pony is to establish a basic foundation of trust and respect. This involves spending time with the pony, grooming and caring for them, and teaching them to respond to basic commands such as "halt," "walk," and "trot."
During this stage of training, the pony is also introduced to a halter and lead rope, which are used to control and guide them while on the ground. This basic training lays the groundwork for more advanced training in the future.
Ground Work for American Shetland Ponies
In addition to basic training, American Shetland Ponies must undergo extensive ground work to ensure they are comfortable and confident in their interactions with humans. Ground work includes exercises such as lunging, in which the pony is led in a circle on a long rope, and long-lining, in which the pony is guided through a series of movements using two long ropes attached to a special harness.
Ground work is essential for teaching the pony how to respond to commands from the rider, as well as for building the pony’s strength and balance.
Saddle Training for American Shetland Ponies
Once the pony has mastered basic training and ground work, they are ready to begin saddle training. This involves introducing the pony to a saddle and bridle, as well as to the weight and feel of a rider on their back.
Saddle training is a gradual process that begins with the pony being led around with a saddle on their back, and gradually progresses to walking, trotting, and cantering under saddle.
Rein Training for American Shetland Ponies
Rein training is an essential component of riding training for American Shetland Ponies. This involves teaching the pony to respond to rein cues from the rider, such as pulling on the reins to turn or stop.
Rein training is typically done in conjunction with saddle training, as the pony learns to respond to rein cues while being ridden.
Lunging and Long-Lining for American Shetland Ponies
In addition to ground work, American Shetland Ponies may also be trained through lunging and long-lining exercises. These exercises help to build the pony’s strength and balance, as well as to improve their responsiveness to commands from the rider.
Lunging and long-lining exercises involve guiding the pony through a series of movements while on a long rope, or two long ropes attached to a specially designed harness.
Trail Riding for American Shetland Ponies
Once the pony has been trained in basic riding skills, they may be introduced to trail riding. This involves riding the pony through a variety of terrain, including hills, valleys, and wooded areas.
Trail riding helps to build the pony’s confidence and endurance, as well as to expose them to new sights, sounds, and smells.
Jumping Training for American Shetland Ponies
Jumping training is an optional component of training for American Shetland Ponies, but can be a fun and challenging skill for both pony and rider. This involves teaching the pony to jump over fences and other obstacles, either in an arena or out on the trail.
Jumping training requires careful attention to safety, as well as a gradual and patient approach to teaching the pony to jump.
Dressage Training for American Shetland Ponies
Dressage training is another optional component of training for American Shetland Ponies. This involves teaching the pony to perform a series of precise and intricate movements, such as pirouettes and flying changes.
Dressage training requires a high level of skill and patience, and is typically reserved for experienced riders and trainers.
Conclusion: American Shetland Ponies as Riding Horses
In conclusion, American Shetland Ponies are versatile and intelligent horses that make excellent riding companions for riders of all ages and skill levels. However, before they can be ridden, these ponies must undergo a rigorous training process that includes basic training, ground work, saddle training, rein training, lunging and long-lining, trail riding, jumping training, and dressage training.
By taking a patient and gradual approach to training, riders and trainers can help American Shetland Ponies develop the skills and confidence they need to be successful riding horses.