Gatekeeping Science

So we were talking about this common trend of gatekeeping in the horse training world and i wanted to elaborate. Professionals like to use vague, wishywashy language that hides what they are doing tangibly, making it something unattainable by those trying to learn. They try to appear like they have a special quality, some magic, energy, or vibration that makes them uniquely able to connect with and train horses in a way that is better than other people.

But let's be real here. I have a herd of rescue horses and a crowd of random kids (mamg of whom are neurodivergent) who train and reach extremely difficult goals, and who build truly incredible and special relationships. They aren't magic (but it can look and feel that way). They just understand the basics of how to reach and communicate with horses.

Remember no matter what language a trainer uses, the results they're achieving, are done with tangible, concrete, measurable, and repeatable actions. Whether they are using body language, energy, vibrations, tools, treats, cuddles, or anything else, it all falls within classical and operant conditioning. Whether they have behavioral or relationship goals, they're achieving it within the classical and operant bubbles.

Its not just using cold science to train, the science is the analysis of the art and emotional work. Its the artful, emotional connection built with a basic understanding of how to utilize the science appropriately.