In this episode of the On The Rail podcast, we discuss horse training techniques for working with yearlings and two-year-olds. Special guests Amber Duckett, Gavin Pope, and Megan Seehafer share their expertise on prepping young horses for in-hand trail and lunge line classes, emphasizing the importance of early training and balancing it with horse welfare.

Key topics include building trust, avoiding overworking, and ensuring positive show experiences. The conversation also delves into techniques for achieving effortless control and maneuvering, maintaining proper space and positioning, and teaching body commands for effective training.

Practical tips are provided for both professional trainers and DIY amateurs, highlighting essential skills like trot turns, handling mouthiness, and performing back-through exercises to excel in trail classes. The episode underscores the significance of first impressions, correct presentation in the show pen, and setting horses up for successful competitive maneuvers.

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00:00 Welcome and Housekeeping

03:50 Diving into In-and Trail

05:05 Training Techniques and Benefits

14:01 Balancing Training and Welfare

21:17 Deciding on Show Potential

32:00 Preparing Yearlings for Shows

42:03 Exposing Yearlings to Obstacles

45:49 Critical Thinking in Horse Training

47:22 Judges' Expectations for Yearling Classes

50:00 First Impressions in the Show Ring

52:56 Tips for Handling Yearlings

01:01:52 Addressing Mouthiness in Horses

01:08:40 Navigating Poles and Back Throughs

01:15:55 Final Tips for DIY Amateurs