TTEAM BODYWORK
The bodywork consists of body exercises and touches (TTouch) that can be
used in either specific areas or all over the body. The basic TTouch that
most people recognise is done by
using a one and a quarter circle applied to the body using the hands and
fingers. These ‘circles’ move the skin in a clockwise motion to
activate cellular function in order to increase communication and
understanding between horse and handler. Clockwise circles tend to
integrate and strengthen the horse. The TTouch is not as invasive as
massage. A pressure scale ranging from 1 to 10 is used depending on the
acceptance of the horse, the area of the body that is being worked and
also depending on the desired effect. There are other Ttouch moves
made with sliding or lifting motions.
The TTouch can be used to encourage relaxation and increase a sense of
awareness in the horse. A body exploration can be used to identify areas
in the horses body that may be tense, sore, tight and uncomfortable which
will then highlight areas requiring attention.
TTEAM ground exercises encompass leading exercises and the use of poles
and obstacles to improve awareness, balance and co-ordination. Groundwork
is the perfect opportunity to interact with your horse in a positive way,
whilst influencing how he uses his body. Ground exercises are also an
excellent way to encourage a horse to be more willing whilst instilling
confidence in him.
Groundwork consists of a range of different leading positions that have
been named after a variety of animals which makes them easier to remember.
The various leading positions can be used not only for obedience but also
to help a horse understand what is being asked of them. Groundwork can
also be carried out with a rider on board which gives the added advantage
of the handler guiding the horse while the rider gives the signals to
which you want him to become accustom to. The obstacles used range from
various pole configurations to plastic sheets all of which build upon the
horses learning experience and help them to deal with new situations
safely when they arise. The obstacles are also designed to be made easier
if the horse is having difficulties which again will boost confidence.
A body wrap* and body rope is used in ground exercises to give the horse
an increased awareness of his body. Various configurations can be used
depending on what you want to target. Body wraps or ropes have been
effective in easing anxiety and with horses that are strung-out as they
can often connect their body and be more aware of themselves which can be
comforting for them. Issues such as engagement can be helped with a body
rope and wrap and also horses who drag their toes, kick or do not use
their hind quarters well can benefit from groundwork using the body wrap
or rope.
*Before using either a body wrap or rope it is essential that the horse is
prepared for the new sensation and feel. A body wrap or rope should never
be applied without a helper and before a horse has accepted the feeling.
TTEAM RIDING EXERCISES
TTEAM has developed a number of unique training tools to help encourage
and help horses reach their potential as kindly and effectively as
possible. Such tools include the lindell, which is a bitless bridle that
can be used to give the horse a different sensation when being ridden. It
can also be used for horses that cannot carry a bit for whatever reason
but still need to be ridden. It also offers the rider a new experience and
unique way to communicate with their horse.
The TTEAM Balance Rein has proven extremely effective for a variety of
issues ranging from horses that fall onto the forehand to horses rushing
fences. The Balance Rein is designed to lie at the base of the neck where
it can help to rebalance a horse. It also encourages horse to bring their
backs up and to lengthen and to round their neck.
The TTEAM Neckring is made of lariat rope that is stiff but still allows
flexibility. It is useful to help guide horses and encourage them to be
more flexible when asked to turn. It can also be used from the ground by a
handler to allow the rider to concentrate on giving the signals to help
the horse understand and learn quicker. After initial training and
guidance, the bridle can then be replaced periodically with the Neckring
in order to give both horse and rider a new experience of riding
bridleless and the benefits it can offer.
TTEAM riding exercises can help horses that: Pull
- Go above the bit - Stick behind the vertical - Have difficulty slowing - Rush fences
- Are out of balance - Are fearful -
Shy - Stumble
Time and time again TTEAM and TTOUCH have been able to provide effective
solutions for a number of situations and problems. As a result of the
interest that has been generated, research into the effects of TTEAM and
TTOUCH is constantly being conducted. This research ranges from master
degree theses to research funded by Linda Tellington-Jones’ non-profit
organisation, Animal Ambassadors.
|
