IHTC

In Hand Dressage Courses

A zest of classicism and a large body of science.

Progress at your own speed

In Hand Biomechanics Dressage Course

SPECIAL ONLINE IHTC PRICE

1600.USD

Exercise therapy is accepted in human therapeutic as one of the most efficient therapy. Exercise therapy exists in equine; it is the Science of Motion®. Many talk about therapy in motion but are not valid because the fundamental problem is that to be effective, exercise therapy demands to adjust riding and training techniques to actual knowledge. Half-pass executed through traditional equitation will not rehabilitate a horse form the sacroiliac problem. Viewed from the Science of Motion® approach, the coordination of the horse's physique allowing the horse to benefit from the move, half-pass develops and coordinates the muscular system of the horse's thoracic spine and consequent flexion of the thoracolumbar spine. In many instances, Sacroiliac strain originates from dysfunction of the horse thoracolumbar spine. While the conventional approach focuses on the lesion, the Science of Motion® approach corrects the source of the kinematics abnormality stressing the joint.

The online horse training course is actually the experience of applying the knowledge from the studies in real life. The course supports the student in their application of the studies through the forum where direct access to JLC and his students are given for the purpose of answering questions and evaluating the applied work through videos posted.

Therapy in motion is not a complement to static therapies; it is the next generation of therapy/ It has to be done in motion as muscles tendons, fascia, do not work under the principle of release and relaxation but instead nuances in tone. It is a response to forces and forces are internal, limbs actions and external, gravity, inertia, and movements, including riders. Motion is also necessary at the level of the nervous system. Motion therapy is the next step. JLC

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In Hand Dressage Therapy Course

(Having “In Hand” the knowledge necessary for a successful reeducation).

A New Idea

When you enter the IHTC, you feel that you are one century ahead of all other programs. But when you realize that the IHTC program is about the practical application of actual knowledge, you take conscience that the other programs are indeed, one century behind.

The thought was to have “In Hand”, all the knowledge necessary for the complex task of educating or reeducating a horse. When we move from conception to creation, it became apparent that precisely, in order to work “In-Hand” all the knowledge necessary for a successful reeducation, it was essential for the therapists to understand how riding techniques create injuries. It was also critical for the rider to explore in hand techniques where limbs kinematics abnormalities are corrected through sophisticated education of the horse’s vertebral column mechanism. To be complete, the course needs to provide simultaneously both, the in hand and riding perspective and this is the direction that we are taking. 

Not only principles and formulas scleroses the riders’ talent but doctrines and clichés also alter the horse’s potential. Albert Einstein wrote, “if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will spend its whole life believing that it is stupid.” As well, if you train a horse for sophisticated athletic performances with simplistic training techniques, the horse will spend his whole life struggling with performances for which he is not athletically prepared. Einstein also reflected,

“Everything should be made as simple as possible but not simpler.” Most equestrian theories are simpler counting on the horse’s talent to compensate for the inaptness of the horse’s education. The outcome of course is lameness. Instead, why not enhance the horse’s talent and also propensity to remain sound upgrading riding and training techniques to actual knowledge of the equine physiology?

The answer is a course which is not about making the horse do it but instead how the horse does it. The IHTC focusses on preparing efficiently the horse’s physique for the athletic demands of the performance. The outcome is a horse performing at its utmost potential and remaining sound. When a performance is thought in terms of optimal muscular development and coordination, the outcome is not only preserving soundness but also restoring soundness. Repetitive abnormal stress causes injury and correcting the root cause of the abnormal stress is the most efficient therapy. “The gait abnormality created by a specific lesion is the gait abnormality that causes the lesion.” (James Rooney, Biomechanics of lameness in horses - 1969).

The work "in hand" dressage therapy course condenses decades or researches, experiments and practical applications. There is only one syllable between simple and simpler and without adequate knowledge simple is simpler. We do not pretend that the horse’s biological mechanism is simple, but it can be clearly explained. We do not pretend that riding efficiently is simple but it can be learned. We do not pretend that reeducating a horse is simple. Accepting the complexity of a problem is a decisive step toward resolving it. In most instances a horse’s can be reeducated if we move away from the riding and training principles that created the problem.

The work "in hand" dressage therapy course approaches your education from three different angles, biomechanics, practical application, and cases studies. The cases studies demonstrate how reeducations are achieved addressing the root causes of abnormal stresses. The main course, the practical application working in hand and/or riding the horse, familiarizes you with advanced concept, demonstrating that these advanced concepts are not out of reach but instead, are easily understandable with concentration and ethic. The word ethic is used in reference to the fact that the horse will suffer if we don’t have a sound understanding of the horse’s functional anatomy and therefore, the ability to prepare the horse’s physique for the athletic demand of the performance. This education is the task of the biomechanical study presented with each installment.

Since we have followed Einstein’s teaching all along, we should end this introduction with another thought of the greatest mind ever. “The true sign of intelligence is not knowledge but imagination.” Through art, science, experience, sensitivity, humor and the practical application of pertinent discoveries, the IHTC challenges your creativity. The art of riding demands intelligence and intuition. Both are deadened by traditional approaches. Read us with intelligence and then, apply us believing in your intuition and you will succeed.      

For those who have the opportunity to benefit from Jean Luc’s personal instruction, the IHTC is the absolute best complement. Muscles and bone actively remodel in response to change in exercise. Adaptation is necessary practically on a daily basis. Training formulas are generalities. A horse is an individual entity. Success relies on the rider’s ability to analyze the horse’s difficulties, which demands sound and updated understanding of the equine biological mechanism.

The work "in hand" dressage therapy course is a 8 package in hand dressage biomechanical course program.  The online private group with Jean Luc answering questions has added a great deal more knowledge , videos for IHTC memembers only and we are with you each step via private group.The course is actually the experience of applying the knowledge from the studies in real life. The course supports the student in their application of the studies through the forum where direct access to JLC.

The DVD mail order course can be purchased in one single payment of $3100.00, which is the most economical approach.

The second option is a monthly payment of $442.00. (8 mths)

The third solution is a purchase at a frequency that tailors your finances,  The price of each package is $450.00.

The online version is $2700. USD full payment and mthly subscription is $350.

(Scroll towards bottom of page for payment)

The Equine Work In Hand

We have created a in-hand techniques educating the horse’s vertebral column mechanism. The technique is inspired by General Decarpentry’s idea, (Academic Equitation, 1949) but has been greatly furthered and enhanced through experience gained preparing equine athletes for the higher level of performances and through research studies presenting a totally new understanding of the equine vertebral column mechanism.

The journey started with a dramatic rehabilitation problem. The horse recovered from a fracture of the right hind leg coffin bone. It is through the friendship of a horse and a man that the fundamental discovery that has rendered this technique so effective has been made. A horse does have the capacity to fell and follow change in muscle tone and movements of the trainer back even when the trainer is walking by the horse side. The DVD “One Hand on his Shoulder”, which is part of the IHTC’s first DVD package (not the oinline version) is the story of this fundamental discovery.

Through this dynamic relationship, a horse can correct and refine the work of his vertebral column mechanism and consequently correct limbs kinematics abnormalities causing injuries and lameness. All along this course, it will be demonstrated again and again that at the contrary of conventional beliefs, back issues are not the outcome of hocks problems or other limbs disorders but instead, back problems are the root cause of most limbs kinematics abnormalities and consequent injuries.

Of course, a sophisticated education is necessary. Even if the horse responds naturally to adjustments of the trainer’s back, there are many reasons such as speed, or weight on the bit, that will annihilate the horse’s perception. The in hand education of the IHTC guides you step by step through this subtle education.      

A Better Equitation

Proper functioning of the horse’s thoracolumbar spine is essentially dynamic. Gaits and performances cannot be created through greater amplitude of the horse’s vertebral column movements but instead through greater sophistication in the coordination of numerous and minuscule muscles’ contractions and compensatory contractions. Such orchestration is mostly influenced by subtle adjustments of the rider’s back. Once one has experienced working in hand the feeling of a horse adjusting the work of his vertebral column to nuances in muscle tone of the trainer back muscles, one can evolve to an equitation based on minute movements and sophisticated adjustments of the rider’s back. “The biomechanics of the vertebral column, although very complex, are of vital importance because they form the basis of all body’s movements,” (Leo B. Jeffcott, Natural rigidity of the horse’s backbone , 1980) The biomechanics of the horse’s vertebral column and consequent limbs’ kinematics can effectively be corrected. The condition evidently is that the rider’s vertebral column works in agreement with the biomechanics of the horse’s vertebral column. This is a better equitation.   

    

 

In Hand Dressage Therapy Course (IHTC) is designed for Veternarians, therapists anxious to further their knowledge as well as riders/trainers interested in extending their ability to reeducate horses and prevent injuries. IHTC provides both, knowledge and the practical application of knowledge.

Three  studies,  – “In Hand Technique” – “Equine biomechanics and corrective biomechanics” – “Case study”

The In Hand Technique is the zest of classicism. (FIrst 6 mths, then 2 for 7 and 8 -1)

-The technique is inspired from General Decarpentry’s Academic Equitation and updated to actual knowledge of the equine physiology.

-This specific in hand technique allows accessing and influencing the horse’s vertebral column mechanism. (Most limbs kinematics abnormalities originate from improper functioning of the horse’s thoracolumbar spine).

- instructive videos teach first the basic and then, the many subtleties of the technique. (It does not take long to teach the basics, however, there is a lot more to this technique than walking next to the horse performing some movements. The in hand education focuses on achieving sophisticated control of the horse’s vertebral column mechanism.)

The continuing education series (biomechanics) explains,

- How the horse’s physique is designed to work, (functional horse).

- Kinematics abnormalities leading to injuries

- Kinematics abnormalities created by training misconceptions.

For instance, the first study explains and demonstrates the hind and front limbs braking and propulsive activities, how they can be modified and enhanced. The next study focuses on the management and forward transmission of the thrust generated by the hind legs forward through the vertebral column, etc.

The case studies are not necessarily about in hand work. Their purpose is to demonstrate analytic and thought processes leading to the source of the kinematics abnormality causing injury. No successful therapy can be completed without addressing the root of the problem. However, it is not always easy to identify the source of the kinematic abnormalities.

-The  time frame selected for this course, allows time to gradually master the technique. The in hand technique is sophisticated and demands practice.

-The course can be started anytime. The  course starts at the date of purchase. The three  studies, “In hand Education”, “Biomechanics and Corrective Biomechanics”, and “Case Studies”, follows a progressive order of difficulty.

-Studies are DVDs (shipped via UPS) and PDF files .

Also a private  group for questions to Jean Luc.

On the private group Jean Luc answers questions daily and much information and help is on the forum. Extra documents and videos are on the private forum.

-The course provides information that cannot be found anywhere else. Some of the videos and documents are exclusive to the IHTC.

DVD mail order course (online course below)

Fees and conditions.

Single annual payment, $3100.00

Monthly DVD subscription payment, $442.00 per month. (8 months cost $3536.00)

Buy one  DVD course at a time $450.00 Plus Shipping

 

IHTC DVD

IHTC 1 IHTC 2 IHTC 3 IHTC 4 IHTC 5 IHTC 6 IHTC 7 IHTC 8

Fees includes shipments.

Studies are mailed on a course section .

Payments can be made through PayPal, jeanluc@scienceofmotion.com

or by check to Jean Luc Cornille.

370 Crooked Creek Road

Eatonton, GA 31024

                                                        

The first DVD package will come with the DVD “One Hand on his Shoulder”.

If you have any question, please contact Helyn, helyn@scienceofmotion.com

Tel, 706-485-1217

We have created the IHTC dressage biomechanics course online as well.

The documents are emailed to you.The videos can viewed online and DL.

contact Helyn@scienceofmotion.com for more information.

SPECICAL ONLINE IHTC COURSE PRICE

Buy one online course at a time

Price is $385. USD per course

(once you have purchased all 8 you then are invited to the private forum)

Subscribe online course 8 mthly payments of  $350.

With a subscription you are invited the private group limited to 5 years. A subscription to private forum after 5 yrs is available.

Once you have paid please email helyn@scienceofmotion.com for set up instructions

I will approve and move you to the group then send you the link to the video page and email you the documents.

As well if you are on Facebook will add you to the private complementary group for questions and discussions with Jean Luc.

Enjoy the journey!

Questions? contact helyn@scienceofmotion.com

No refunds

  Testimonials

What I have discovered from working with you for many years is that training "up the levels" so to speak is nothing more but also nothing less than refining the basic coordination which gives the horse at each level of its development the balance and body control to perform at its athletic ability at that moment in its development. Each time we work together and you help me refine my horse's bend and balance it reminds me of learning to find bend and balance when I first started. What is different is that you are not helping me find bend and balance anymore but helping me take the bend and balance to the level my horse needs to advance in their body control to do a more and more sophisticated performance.

For example, in preparing my horse for the flying change, you are directing me to be even more exact about getting the bend before asking a canter depart. She can depart on an OK bend but you are directing me to ask for the departure on the optimal bend. From there it is not far to walk and ask the other bend and canter depart. Since the optimal bend is not a dramatized bend but a bend slightly in the direction the change from bend to bend is small but small does not mean meaningless. Instead the small change has powerful implications for the flying change. In order to do one tempis, the horse does not have time to change from extreme bend to extreme bend. Instead, a bend that is just barely a bend is easier to change from bend to bend but the horse must be very lifted through the thoracic to allow the flexion of the pelvis necessary for a change without lifting the croup.

This work is fascinating and also different than what I ever imagined it to be. I thought that once I learned to bend my horse that all bend was the same. I did not understand there are nuances in bend. I understand now that from day one you are preparing your horses for the upper level movements by asking them for the coordination necessary for those movements but at the level of development where they are. Since working on the forehand is not conducive to performing upper level movements, you do not train your horses in degrees such that you allow them to work on their forehands when they are young and then attempt to balance them as they get older. You teach them from day one to lighten their forehand through managing the work with their back from day one. Of course, it is at the level of balance appropriate for their developmental stage but it is never below what they are capable of. This is very ethical as they learn the basis for all movements from the start.

Ronda Hanning

Soundness Creates Beauty

My Jade and I are sending heartfelt thanks for you and Jean Luc for all of the knowledge, encouragement, and love that you share with all of us on the IHTC.  Your willingness to stand up for the horse and share all of the experience and wisdom you have is such a wonderful gift to us.  Your unwavering commitment and steadfastness is an example for us all.  Especially, we are thankful for inspiring us to invest in the Samba saddle.  It came to us in the middle of January and we have been riding it since then.  It is all the difference in the world, allowing us to continue to move forward.

We were especially thankful for all  that you teach and the new saddle  today as we hacked out in the woods behind where we board.  It was magical – she was so balanced, as was I, in her movement.  We were matched, back-to-back, as we wandered the woods and open pasture.  All I felt when she jumped the shallow ditch was suppleness and controlled power, being able to be with her in the movement.  The magic was that neither of us do much jumping at all, hardly ever.  And when she has done that in the past, it was everything I could do to stay balanced with her.  Having the right tool always makes everything so much easier.

You have helped us so much, in so many ways, too innumerable to count.  My horse was a rescue and a rehab project.  I am late to riding, and still would be considered green.  But without the Science of Motion, neither my horse nor I would be able to accomplish what we did together today.  Thank you from the bottom of both our hearts.

Marge Nickels

Tina's and Bridget Jones story

Tina here: Introducing Bridget Jones aka “BJ” American Drum horse age 16-17. Named Bridget Jones because we “love her just the way she is” – well until SOM – now we want to change her biomechanics ;) I waited some 45 years to have a horse, I longed for one as far back I can remember. It’s is time to say - Thank you Jean Luc and Helyn from the bottom of my heart. I promised myself I will not post until I read every single post in this forum starting with year 2012. I had so many questions I was hoping I can find the answers. It exceeded my expectations. It’s done, I read it all, every single post. I also hesitated to post publically for JLC says “doing better” is not what he accept he wants soundness and we are still on the way to recover.

It’s a long story, I am what they call “green on green” I started to ride at age 47. For 2.5 years I followed advice of professionals, even FEI trainer/judge, vets and ferries. I documented 3 years in photos and videos on almost daily basis of BJ’s life. On March 1st 2017 I turn my back on everything and had nowhere to turn to, but I refused to do the same thing over again. It was making no sense and I knew it, I just did not have solution to follow. I found JLC by looking for T/L junction on web. I have ordered 90 books by masters and 35 of them I read 2x, I felt I did not understand. Then finally SOM. I knew there is something terribly wrong with the FEI way for after every lesson (for 1.5 years I leased a warmblood to ride 3 x per week while BJ is recovering) I was telling at home to my husband/groom/astrophysicist: “I would never dance like that” (I know what real athlete is, I was an athlete in my youth training 2x a day achieving international and national class in Latin-American and Ballroom). I will keep it short even though I am very angry at the system. I tried many techniques and nothing worked until SOM.

JLC you did it! You saved my horse and now we are riding and I will let BJ to determine what is the celling. I wanted to write all my frustrations here, but I will leave it in the past that’s where it belongs. One video documents BJ improvement doing SOM at hand/lunging from March to September 2017 and the other summarize it overall 3 years till September 2017. I mix my own food and now we feed her much more to get muscles she is huge about 1800 lb. This year we had no colic, no meds no painkillers not even supplements like adequan. BJ used to have colic all the time ended up in surgery in 2016. She has been diagnosed with double ring bone-both front feet, arteritis in hocks and immune mediated illness pemphigus coronitis among other illnesses which we had to pull through. Then followed horrendous accident in fall 2016 and after that it all just went down to abyss.

You girls are all special people as I read your posts, I felt/shared your frustration, admired your successes and it helped me to go on, curve my emotions so I did not have to post to whine. I have been peeling off layers of protective mechanism. I have engineering degree that’s how I knew there is something really wrong with the way they all perceive or rather do not perceive gravitational effect and other forces around us. I will follow up soon with some riding vid/progress when I feel we are doing well enogh in riding. For first time in 3 years I am enjoying alive, self-thinking, fairly healthy horse. On the video she still have inverted rotation and now I am teaching myself to ride. I would love to experience again in my life the beauty of movement when 2 bodies are in synch but this time it will be horse (drum horse) instead of male dance partner.

Note: yes, like I don’t know, she is a draft so If any of you have one of these comments on draft horse or their movement trust me, I know balance/elegance/dance better than many and I heard all such comments already. I know you are different crowd, just sayin… ;)

Finally, thank you for all the post and questions girls. Helyn and JLC you made my dream of 45 year in waiting possible to continue. Thank you both.

Ronda Hanning:The Paradigm Shift

We, as SOM students, often speak of the paradigm shift to which SOM has introduced us. We speak of the shift from the model of the horse as a bow and string to the model of a horse as a complex system in which the kinematics of the legs originate in the back. We speak of the shift from the Pavlovian model of the horse to the model of the horse as an intelligent, sentient being capable of thinking as a partner. We speak of the shift from the model of the aids making the horse do it to the model of the horse following our subtle changes in tone and energy.

The paradigm shift is supported by modern science, and proven through application which can be replicated over and over. Jean Luc Cornille has rehabilitated horse after horse with navicular, kissing spine, sacroiliac damages, etc. through sound application of this paradigm.

Acquiring accurate facts about the physiology of the horse and the forces acting on both horse and rider is part of the shift. The usefulness of those facts is theoretical only,  unless they are applied. The successful application of the knowledge requires one final paradigm shift. In fact, I propose that this one paradigm shift I am going to discuss is the most important one. Even more important than whether you know the facts about physiology and the forces acting on it. It is the shift between the standard thinking model, which is egocentric, and the critical thinking model, which is the style of thinking that has been the foundation of all of the enlightened progresses that we enjoy.

Critical thinking approaches all things as if they are a continuous research. It is a process of asking a question; accumulating information; using that information to take an action; reflecting on the result of the action, then asking another question, accumulating information, using that information to take an action, etc. There is no place in this process for the egocentric view. The egocentric view is exclusionary, whereas the Critical thinking process is an inclusionary view. The egocentric view asks the question, “How is this relevant to me?” The Critical Thinking view asks the question, “Is this relevant to the purpose I have decided?”

Let me give an example: In my example Rider 1 and Rider 2 have the same technical knowledge (SOM knowledge). Rider 1 and Rider 2 have the same technical ability. In fact, Rider 1 and Rider 2 are the same person but Rider 1 rides using egocentric thinking and Rider 2 rides using critical thinking.

Both riders are presented with the following situation.  The horse develops tension during the work which results in avoidance behavior that becomes a significant barrier such as refusal to move, intense shying or bolting, etc.

Rider 1 is frustrated because they wanted to get some actual work done that day. They do not understand why the horse is acting this way since what they asked of the horse was not difficult. They think that the horse is just wanting to avoid the work. They did everything right in what they were asking but their horse refused to listen, comply, try, etc. They decide that they cannot end the session until they let the horse know that they can control the avoidance behavior. Now, the session is no longer about preparing the horse for the athletic demand of the move but instead about showing the horse who is boss. A part of their mind is whispering to them that this is not the way to proceed but another part of their mind is louder. It tells the rider that if they don’t nip this in the bud the horse will think that it can get away with this tomorrow. Rider 1 goes home frustrated, angry, discouraged, etc. They review their SOM knowledge determined to do it better tomorrow. The next ride they are on a mission to “do SOM riding” and get it right!.

Rider 2 is aware that tension is escalating. Rider 2 has applied all the knowledge they have and yet the horse is getting worse to the point of extreme evasion. Rider 2 also cannot explain the intense behavior from the standpoint of the difficulty of the work or the misapplication of the work as Rider 2, like Rider 1, applied the knowledge the best they could and tried to keep the work within the ability of the horse as they perceived it. Rider 2 considers the current situation and evaluates the potential to prepare the horse for the athletic demand that is asked. Rider 2 recognizes that the potential for that quality of work is not there. Rider 2 gets off the horse and goes home. Rider 2 reflects on the ride and analyzes it in order to prepare for the next day's ride. Rider 2’s reflection on their ride includes reflection on whether the prerequisites for doing useful work were there. If they were not, Rider 2 commits to establishing those prerequisites tomorrow before expecting useful work to begin. If they were there but the work deteriorated as the session went on Rider 2 looks at all possible angles for why this happened. Rider 2 recognizes, as one of the possibilities, that a small detail in the beginning that was missed grew into the large evasion at the end. The large evasion seems like an overreaction to the small detail, but, Rider 2, unlike Rider 1, does not judge themselves or the horse for that they treat it as useful information that can inform them for tomorrow’s ride. Rider 2 plans on paying even closer attention to small details early on. They determine that they may be able to get useful work done tomorrow by being more precise. They will pay attention to the result of this and adapt their session accordingly. If the increased precision is useful but brings the blood pressure up, they will keep the session short or add long breaks. If the increased precision is useful and the horse can keep going they will build on that and ask more with movements to further the coordination. Rider 2’s process of reflection on today’s ride is part of the information gathering step which then leads to a plan of action, which leads to application of the action, which leads to evaluation of the result, which leads to the gathering or information, which leads to a plan of action, etc.

Egocentric thinking has as its goal for us to be good, or right or powerful or validated in some way. Critical thinking has as its goal finding solutions to problems and answers to questions to apply for a well defined purpose. I invite you to examine how you define the purpose of your riding and training. Then examine the thoughts you use to fulfill that purpose. Is your thinking, clear, accurate, precise, relevant to the situation, deep (treating a situation appropriately for the complexity), broad (are there any sacred thoughts you are unwilling to give up?) and logical? Or are there elements of your thinking that are unclear, inaccurate, imprecise, irrelevant, shallow, narrow or illogical?

I propose that our thinking process is more important to riding and training our horses than the knowledge acquired through our SOM education. In fact, I propose that an SOM student who does not shift their thinking will be less successful than a rider that is ignorant of the facts but utilizes critical thinking when riding. Indeed, JLC is an example of a rider that did not have the facts that are available today but has always been a high level thinker, naturally gravitating to asking questions and experimenting. He achieved results that were later explained by science but it wasn’t the science that allowed him to achieve the results. It is his thought process that did it!

JLC warns us to not take the new knowledge and try to meld it with the old ways. You may think that you have completely accepted the SOM education and you are not combining the old with the new. But, if you are using the new information with a thinking process that has not evolved, you are attempting to combine the two. I wish that the awareness of correct information would make the existence of incorrect thinking impossible but it does not. Unfortunately, the existence of incorrect thinking negates the effects of correct information.  I have observed this in my own life. At first I did not realize how important the change in thinking is to the application of the knowledge. I thought the knowledge would direct the application. But, the application actually happens at the level of thought and not at the level of doing. Thought comes before doing. Egocentric thought is stagnant and limited. Critical thought is dynamic and creative. Your thought is reflected in your doing. If you are stuck, look to your thoughts and free yourself. Open your mind, redefine your purpose, practice being clear and accurate in your thinking. The more often you practice the more natural it becomes. You begin to realize that the rewards of the egocentric thought system are shallow and easily lost. The rewards of the critical thinking process are continuous and deeply satisfying!

JLC says of the work he teaches, “It is a research!” 

Susan Hopf:As a conscientious instructor and trainer for close to 30 years I have always looked toward advances in both the physical and emotional understanding of horses. Experience is a great teacher but only if you have a mind open enough to keep looking for additional knowledge as experience, too, can lead to deception.

I first discovered Jean Luc Cornille as an author in the old Dressage & CT magazine. Science based articles discussed – from the perspective of biomechanic function - many of the movements and ideology of what was then called Classical Dressage. Within a few paragraphs I realized that much of what I thought I knew was being challenged – thank goodness – finally some real answers. Putting this well-studied knowledge to use in my training programs brought answers to some age-old questions and debates regarding balance, forward and collection and brought improvement to all the horses and students with whom I shared this new knowledge.

Fast forward a few years and Jean Luc Cornille introduces Science of Motion to the horse world. Much of what he published a decade or so previously was no longer accurate (what???) and he was the first to admit that much of what he thought he knew was no longer up to date. I found this inspiring – that such an esteemed equestrian, biomechanic researcher and articulate author could dismiss all that he presented before and all in an effort to advance our relationships with and the schooling of our horses. Through continuous study, Science of Motion and Jean Luc Cornille, has brought to light and continues to advance the understanding of equine kinematic and biomechanic function. Not the least of which is a profound connection between the coordination of the spinal column of the horse and the functioning of all equine movement. Enter this world and you will quickly discover that the education includes how to apply this knowledge to build an incredible equine athlete and/or how to rehabilitate many ills once thought to end the horse’s career.

Although a complex study, the work that blossoms from the knowledge is easier to apply then all the “aid systems” previously put into practice. The horse can feel subtle shifts in the tone of the human body – particularly a shift in control of our own spinal column. Once you learn how to control your own body and where to stand this new work in-hand provides incredible results. I have rehabilitated many racehorses and have not found one to be hesitant to return to quiet contemplative work when allowed to walk next to me with “One Hand on the Shoulder” (a wonderfully inspiring Science of Motion video with which to begin one’s journey). Take this into the saddle and an incredible transformation occurs - in feeling and ability to further each horse's well being.

Jean Luc Cornille along with partner Helyn tirelessly study and document all new research, freely sharing much with anyone interested in truly learning how best to work with our noble equine friends. My horses, my clients, both two and four-footed have all improved in soundness and level of understanding. Science of Motion has been called a paradigm shift in equine understanding and so it is. A kinder, gentler approach to horse training based on real science and a true understanding of abilities of horses to think and contribute to their relationships with us – their stewards. Susan Hopf

10 years ago I began my journey with Limage.  He was as gentle and willing as he was beautiful.  I started his dressage training at 4 and we slowly moved up the lower levels.  Even after 7 years riding and training with top clinicians and reading every book I could, dressage training still felt like a secret code that I still had to crack.  I often wondered why the best horses in the Grand Prix arena looked unhappy and under muscled.  I wondered why each trainer I rode with had a different techniques for the same mediocre results.  I wondered why my horse and I hit a wall in our progress, despite saddle changes, trainer changes, supplement changes, farrier changes, bit changes.  Surely I had addressed everything.  I knew there had to be someone with the answers.  The Science of Motion has not only provided the answers, but the answers are scientific and not based on belief.  The Science of Motion has taught me to use my mind and body to guide my horse in a better balance. The practical application of my new knowledge  goes far beyond the primitive techniques and opinions of all other trainers.  The re-education of  Limage from mediocre gaits to developing superior gaits while maintaining soundness has been far more satisfying than and a silly blue ribbon.

Cherie Turner -Middleburg, VA

I could probably start a journal blog regarding how many horses have changed their behavior, movement, and overall physique using the SOM method of training. I have chosen one horse in particular as an educational and emotional testimony.

           His owner of almost two years was feeling pressure to give up on his horse that he had purchased for himself. Basically as soon as they brought him home, he was hard to handle, would buck whenever the saddle was tightened, would buck when longed and ridden. They sought several opinions from different veterinarians, farriers, as well as trainers. One vet said the wither  was broken since the x-ray revealed wedges in the dorsal vertebrae, another opinion revealed navicular and ulcers. They were also told the shoes were too tight, restricting blood flow. The final opinion was done at a University where they performed a full body nuclear scan. They determined that none of the previous diagnosis were correct. They found three areas of concern in his S.I and neck areas. These areas were injected with silicon.

              As time passed, the horse was losing hair, developing rashes and showing worse signs of stressful and violent behavior. He was constantly biting at his hind legs, and had seriously thrown his owner off. When I first met this Q.H. gelding, he pinned his ears at me and would not allow me to even pet him. He was underweight even though his owners were feeding him everything the vet suggested, he has an amazing barn to live in and two friends to live with.

                  I began the SOM work with him the first lesson. I was new to the IHTC but had been studying any article JLC had ever posted on his website, and attended two clinics. The horse would twist his hind legs when walking, and showed signs of soreness on every part of his body. By the third lesson, I was able to ride the horse. He had such inverted rotation in his spine that you felt as though the saddle was slipping left. He also was restricted mentally and physically using muscle memory to protect him from pain.

                   He has been on a strict exercise program of six days per week, for two months. Using all the corrective exercises I have learned in the IHTC course, the horse is the sweetest, boldest, most responsive to no aids, no cues, horse in the barn. No one can believe his previous history.

                   I believe all training I have performed in the past was superficial. The SOM course has taught me to address abnormalities causing soreness and behavior issues, not just labeling the horse “ disobedient to the aids”  It becomes a true priveledge to help a horse overcome his defense mechanism and enjoy being loved and ridden. His owners love for him kept him from being passed on as a “problem “or “unintelligent “horse.

                      “All our knowledge has it’s origins in our perceptions “

                                                                          -Leonardo Davinci

                    Not only does this class provide a higher level of understanding, it also allows me to ask questions to Jean Luc directly regarding any issues that come up with   any of the horses I am training. It is a true priveledge to receive his advice and Bravo’s with our questions and comments. I also feel surrounded by very positive new horse friends. Although I have not personally met any of them, it is so rewarding to read all the posts of advice and encouragement as we all learn together through our successes and mistakes.

  Thank you Jean Luc and Helyn for sharing your knowledge and love for the horses.

                                -Kristie Cotton

Dear Helyn and Jean Luc,

  I have include 3 pics the first on the left is a in 2013 just after getting Mocha, then October 2014 ( the wheelbarrow look ) but more muscle and then a couple of weeks ago on the right feel free to use or not use , xx )

I sincerely want to thank you for the IHTC and  SOM,  there are not enough words to show how much improvement Mocha and I have made.   I had tried all the traditional approaches, I had  read every book on dressage that I could  , all the old masters are on my shelves, now finally I have found the answer in the IHTC.  Because no one else could answer the questions, the hard questions, backed by the truth - the reality of the horse and how it really function

When I bought Mocha  three years ago he had been trained western,  for 10 years, he did not know any dressage or how to move correctly,  his hooves were uneven angles ,  his muscling was weak, and very uneven , he had a chronic lung infection,  he was unable to manage the walk trot  transition without throwing himself into it,   he was so very heavy on the forehand a  dressage wheelbarrow,   he had damage to a front leg tendon,  he left his left hoof too long on the ground as his weight past over it,    he constantly clipped the backs of his fetlocks with his hind hooves,  his left side of his back muscles has damage,  he was very very wary of the bit and would constantly throw his bridle off with force as you were riding him, (  which was unnerving ), he disliked entering the arena,   a legacy I believe of incorrect riding and training, where no one had understood his kinematic abnormalities and being  stallion he had been subjected to total subservience or else, his true character was very hidden.

To ride he was awful the entire ride was one long argument,   hard to get on, then difficult to ride a correct bend, or a straight line , he would zigzag rather than walk straight , he avoided any contact by reefing the reins or curling his neck he became difficult to slow down and stop or he would stop abruptly and slam his front legs on the ground and continue striking the ground, he tried rearing, bucking,  anything to avoid being ridden in the arena, outside he was difficult and head strong , frankly when I joined the course I was at my wits end !

I  even considered gelding him but then thought I will start afresh with the straightness issue,  once I started researching this, I found no one could explain exactly what was happening with the horse, the books and the internet were full of anomalies, old wives tales, and unsubstantiated statements and very un-clear flowery descriptive words which meant nothing  , which was how I found Jean Luc Cornille, someone who could explain in technical terms backed up by real knowledge from well researched studies and scientists, what was happening inside my horse .

The improvements started immediately, with the knowledge provided from the IHTC I was able to understand what Mocha was doing, and why he was doing it and what I needed to do , the questions I needed to ask him so that he would work out for himself the correct coordination of his body , with the new knowledge I am able to work at being a better rider, my balance and ability "to feel the horses thoughts " ( a quote from JLC ) has needed a lot of work.

Now 12 months into the IHTC, Mocha is a happy, athletic, healthy  16 year old Andalusian stallion.  He seems younger than when I got him , his muscling has improved ,  he is light and beautiful to ride, , he is lifting in the withers/ trunk,  he rides a beautiful bend,  his straightness is no longer an issue, he is happy with his bit ( just an eggbut snaffle ) as a light as a feather, working now on correct half pass , there is no horse like him his character and initiative and intelligence has been awakened and he is the most gentle, kind partner , he has improved me as a person and a rider thanks to SOM.

If someone had told me that I, just an average rider could change a 15 year old opinionated stallion with average movement into the horse he is today,  on his way to being a world class mover with a magnificent character, I simply wouldn't have believed it possible , and it wasn't possible without  JLCs invaluable knowledge and help via the IHTC , I can’t stress how much I recommend this course.

Pictures tell a thousand words and we will always be a work in progress, but the journey now is so enjoyable. Tracey Yates

Above Before photos

After IHTC

Hi Jean Luc, I wanted to drop you a note to tell you all the good news about Lyric.  Many years ago Lyric was diagnosed with Navicular Syndrome.  She was about 12 at the time and my vet said " She was done"   I didn't believe it!  After all, a "Syndrome" is just a collection of signs  and symptoms characteristic of a condition.  Well I promptly fired my vet and took her to the University at Auburn and they did radiographs and said the problem was that she had negative palmer angels in both front feet.  She had a -4 degrees on the left and -3 degrees on the right.  They recommended that we shoe her with wedges and putty to compensate for the angle discrepancies.  Well that did seem to help and she was "sort of" sound for several years until she tore a suspensory on the left front.  That is when I brought her to you.  So here is the good news part.  Over the last two years since I joined IHTC  I learned to changed the way I ride and train my horse, keeping her balanced, light, straight and off her front end.  And over the course of the two years my farrier has been able to decrease the degree angles of the wedges significantly. It has taken two years and we did it very slowly with the help of radiographic evidence, but we have gone from 4 degrees on the left front to 1 degree, and on the the right from 3 degrees to just regular shoeing.  The reason I'm writing you today is that I had her shod yesterday and my farrier said that if she continues the way she has been going she will be a straight forward shoeing very soon.  This is a miracle because she has been wearing wedges for seven years and I have had her radiographed twice a year with no change in the palmer angles until I changed my way of riding.  Lyric is sounder now at 19 than she was at 12.  Not only that, she looks amazing!  Her top line looks great, the hollow places behind her withers have filled in and she moving better than she ever has.  No one can believe she is 19. As far as I'm concerned Lyric is my "once in a lifetime" horse.  I could not afford to replace her and I wouldn't want to.  She has become the horse I always dreamed she could be and I have become the rider she always dreamed I could be.  :)  I couldn't be happier so I just wanted to share this exciting news with you. Thank you Jean Luc.   You gave me my beautiful horse back! With much gratitude, April

Tiffany Fairfield

Good Morning ,

                                                       

Claudine (Claudine is on theI HTC as well)was the one who helped me make the choice to buy this horse and I am glad she did.

When I bought him he was so heavy in the hand and when I sat on him it felt like I was going to fall off his neck he was so "down hill" , To Ride him he was like a log so stiff and heavy on his feet , now he is a dream to ride he is light and soft you don't hear his feet hitting the ground where as before it sounded like thunder coming your way . I am new to the forum but I have been watching for some time the Public Facebook page and with the help of Cladine I have a very different horse now . I know you don't like to use names so I emailed this to you so that I can find out from you if this is appropriate or not .

One other thing with this horse is when I bought him there was a small discrepancy on the X-ray in the font coffin joint , the vet told me its ok if it starts to cause a problem we can inject it .......Claudine told me no we "fix" it with correct work , the vet came back 1 year later and asked me which foot it was , I didn't tell him I asked him to look and tell me ....well he could not find anything he still doesn't know which foot it was as I have the X-rays , so he asked to X-ray again to make sure and still there was nothing , this shadow so to say was gone  .  This is not a bad vet , he only get to come to us here in Indonesia once in awhile so he does what he can .

I have no words to converse how grateful I am for SOM and for my dear Friend Claudine , it has changed my world for the horses I have ......and there are 8 of them .

I only have jumping videos of him and again I am not so sure that they are the best ones to show , he is amazing I am quite hopeless at jumping but I do love it and he is very helpful , if you think its alright I could share them .

Many thanks

Dana Harrison IHTC Member

I have old video of Nathan taken right when he “broke” down and am planning on taking new video as soon as he develops a bit more strength. 

He is entirely a different horse. He is proud and light and playful and happy. Free in his movement and his view of the world. It’s so beautiful to accompany him. In-hand, under saddle, playing in his pasture.

Vet’s “release from rehab” said “sound, with free flowing movement.”

Our process now is learning to translate the JLC SOM language from ground into riding. With no echo of fractured voices or ego-command. It is pure joy to be with him in the pink light of the mountains. In peace and connection. No one to judge us.

I feel him in my pelvis. Feel him release memory of contracted pain. With each release, he exhales. His confidence grows bigger, his trust soars, he steps up into his own potential.

None of where Nathan is or is going could have been possible without JLC and SOM. As for me. I feel like a tiny bird flying with him, privileged by the journey, amazed by the views.

I kept noticing how there is such a huge disconnect between the "ideals" talked about by riders and trainers and the results that I saw in their horses. More often than not, horses and riders would not progress beyond 1st level and when they did, the riding did not look graceful or easy. The ideals were not evident in what I was seeing. My own journey in trying to apply those ideals to my own riding was just as stuck. I felt like I was always chasing my tail. When I became aware of SOM I was blown away. Suddenly, the explanation for what I was seeing and experiencing was very clear. It is a paradigm shift. It is not a new spin on an old phrase it is a whole new phrase! Ronda Hanning

Jean Luc Cornille and SOM is the real deal. I have been teaching and training for close to 30 years - first in Combined Training and then in Classical Dressage. I have always continued my education as a teacher and trainer which led me to this obviously brilliant evolution in equine schooling. My clients - both horse and human - never fail to improve - both in knowledge and ability. Although re-learning is a complex process, as is the studying of the functional anatomy and biomechanics of equines, what is gained is immense. The increased knowledge and fresh perspective advanced by Cornille and SOM makes the re-education of both horse and rider easy compared to the nonsense that is endlessly marketed without any basis in reality as we now know it. As theory after theory failed to fulfill the lofty expectations within any available definition of dressage the answers I kept searching for were and continue to be found here at Science of Motion and the In-hand Therapy Course. I struggle daily trying to wake up the local horse community - the hardest struggle is convincing those that continue to train with people that never get them past the most basic level of riding and partnership. Students are loyal - to a fault sometimes. To those that continue to support teachers and trainers that do not advance their students or their horses I always urge them to ask a simple question - "When was the last time you (the trainer) took a lesson and what sort of scientific information do you bring to my lesson?" Trainers and teachers that continue to perpetuate antiquated knowledge are the most dangerous out there - their students do not know any better - they most certainly should. Science of Motion is the best education out there - bar none. Susan Hopf

When I signed up for JL's course it was my last hope in finding the key to unlock my mare's difficult behavior, and I knew going in it wasn't going to be an over night process, no gimmicks or quick fixes. I had to put the time into studying and commit myself to JL's course of experience and studies and I could only hope someone I'd never met could help me. Like everyone signing up for this course, it's a lonely path we're embarking on, and we only have JL and each other to share our frustrations, stumbling blocks and joys of success and break throughs with. Two years have flown by and finally I've had a huge break through with my horse. My last few rides have been wonderful, I understand the circle bent to the outside and have developed the patience and feel to wait for her to lift herself up, then I get a wonderful sitting trot. She is now listening to my back and doing a collected walk and the trot is getting better. Tonight, since it's cold I just worked in hand and now that she is listening to my back under saddle she is listening in-hand as well. We actually had a halt without her pulling and creeping forward. We haven't argued in days and I hope I'm not jinxing myself when I say I think those days are behind us. I'm not sure why my break through has occurred now, I think I've found my neutral balance and she likes it. So, if you're struggling or hit a wall and think your horse won't get it be patient, stay positive and wait for it, they will figure it out, don't give up. If it wasn't for everyone in the group sharing I would have felt very alone and probably given up. So, thanks JL and everyone for all your posts. Gads, this sounds so corny, but I'm so extremely grateful to all of you.Monica Gray

I was thinking about JL and his work. It occurred to me: He (as Chazot calls him) treats us: riders, trainers, owners, and professionals the way he treats the horse. Which is really saying something, as so many treat their horses better than the humans around them.

JL engages our intelligence the same way he engages the intelligence of the horse. He encourages us to push our boundaries to find a better way for our horses and for us. He believes in us, and believes that we are capable of so much more than we might have ever thought we were capable of. Even when we go off track, get stuck, get frustrated, resort to old ways, get confused and even despair, he has a way to guide us to the path. His patience is amazing. I've watched him (and heard him with me!), patiently, endlessly, and thoughtfully show the way for both horse and rider to achieve efficiency and ease and get us all unstuck. He makes it all make sense. I remember once playing Pictionary with someone who drew a circle and pointed at it repeatedly as if I would know what it meant. Made no sense whatsoever. Working this way, I never feel belittled, foolish or dumb. So I can really try to let go of what I knew for what I want to know. It feels safe to learn this way, so I can go in with no defenses raised. The same applies to our approach to the horse.

He knows we are smart -- the way he knows that horses are smart. He acknowledges that our way may be simple but not easy. This way is not for everyone, as not everyone is yet ready to evolve. But we grow in ourselves and for the benefit of our horses. I'm happy to see the numbers increasing. It's been a really wonderful education as Andrea said that makes heading to the arena exciting and the most fun adventure on a daily basis. Even when we are stuck -- we become enabled to "un-stuck" ourselves.

We are freed from theory. We are grounded in science and the knowledge of what is provided here in IHTC. What worked today might need a different approach tomorrow. It is ok that we change the training according to what will best help the horse. We are developing into thinking educators of our horses. We are encouraged to intuitively and thoughtfully approach a training question grounded in the education we get here.

I am excited and even nervous to head down south for more. I'd always like to think "I'm there -- I've got it!" Because that implies some security. There is some freedom in letting that go. To recognize the value of the journey and not the final destination. So I look forward to adding deeper layers to my education.

Integrity is a word that often comes to my mind as I work, train and teach. It seems to encompass a lot of what JL is about, and what I want to be about in my own body, my work with the horse, and the work with the people I help.

The support of this group could not be more positive, and I value being a part of this community more than most anything I've ever experienced in the equestrian world.

It takes me a while to sort out my thoughts and what I think I know about what I learned. My favorite quote from my grandmother is "I'm not sure I understand all I know about that," so I hope I'll be able to share what I gain.

For now -- one more thanks for all of you, and for JLC, Helyn, the horses of SOM (and Bretelle, because I always have to add Bretelle…) for making all of this happen. This may all sound kind of maudlin gooshiness, but it's a warm gooshy and I just wanted to share it. My posts can't all be tragic! Jennifer Vance

Wow.  There's just so much to talk with you about in regard to the In Hand Therapy Course...

I guess to answer your first question, yes, I use the information every single time I work with my horse.  Or other horses for that matter.  The depth of the material is amazing...Jennifer Vance

I am just the average horse owner and always trained my own horses. I have done clinics and lessons with a LOT of different Professionals over the years along with whatever self-help resources I could afford. I always keep my horses for their lifetime, usually raising them from weanlings.

In the equestrian world, especially the competitive world, it seems to be a very common practice to take a horse to a certain point then get rid of it and buy a different horse, or in other words attempt to solve the more complex problems with a different horse.

In my case that is not an option, it is a lifetime commitment with the horse, they are not only a partner, but a part of my family.

I had hit that dreaded wall with one my current horses, where he was very unhappy in his work, a history of being unsound as was predicted early on as he has less than ideal conformation. All of my local Professionals were at a loss for answers. It was not that they are not trying to provide the traditional services, it was just that these systems were failing to work. They suggested pasture pet or trail horse and get another horse, a more talented one that can compete and take you up the levels. The only problem was, I wanted my current horse to be my partner.

I was so sad. I thought this can't be the end, he is only 8yrs old?

I had invested so much over many years in the highest level instructors, vets, holistic practitioners, saddle fitters, chiropractors, books, DVDs and various other techniques, that were supposed to be all for the good of the horse. Yet he was so unhappy, so lame, so NOT what I knew and hoped he could be.

I had this feeling that he still wanted to do more than sit in a field all day and even if he did, will he be in pain as he gets older, are we now on a pain management track for the next 20yrs? So many questions, very few answers? At least no answers that I was ready to accept at that point.

I remember telling one of my instructors, I'm not ready to give up on him yet. I know there has to be someone out there that knows how to help us, someone that specializes in lame or specific weaknesses. She graciously wished me luck and commended me for my stubbornness and loyalty to him.

Then my search began online, I started researching his particular weakness and lameness and stumbled onto the science of motion website. I thought, I have nothing left to lose, so I emailed Helyn Cornille and she responded and asked if I had any video. I sent the video and Jean Luc reviewed it and in a 6min video, he saw what the horse's problems were. He was kind enough not to point out all of mine; well not at that point. In 4yrs under saddle no other professional even suspected what he saw in 6min. I found that alone pretty amazing.

Jean Luc invited me to come to a 2-day clinic and thought they could fit me in. The problem was the clinic location was 6hours from my home. I was really nervous on what to do? Then I took a leap of faith and went to the clinic. It was the best two days I have ever spent with any Master Horse person, so much knowledge, so much kindness and most of all so much hope! For the first time in a really long time my horse was a little happier in his work, a little sounder in his movement. I knew after the first lesson, this was where we belong. My brain was a little overwhelmed, because I was not used to thinking so much, but my heart was very happy.

Jean Luc is a very humble and modest person, even though he has many Medals at the highest level of competition and trained countless horses to the highest levels of competition. He is simply the smartest horse person I have ever met. He is not a sit in the corner and bark orders kind of instructor, he is a very hands on or even get on and feel the horse type of person. He explains very patiently everything in great detail, not his opinions, but facts.

The students and horses in this program are all on a path to becoming truly educated, becoming independent thinking, not reliant on a system of movements and scores of 1-10 success or failure. We humans are learning to prepare the horse for the demands we ask, not demanding the horse perform a task he is unprepared for. The horses are learning how to carry us in the most efficient way and best way possible, both with and without the rider.

Even with all of his current knowledge Jean Luc has a thirst for knowledge and continues to learn and explore new and better ways, through scientific research and real life applications and passes that knowledge on to us.

The best part of all is that we are all growing to become our own trainers and learn how to listen to the horse and create balance and comfort. The horses in return are becoming sound, light, happy and in my horses case a couple of real show offs.

3yrs later and both of my horses look forward to working and learning new things. They used to hide in the stall corner, butt facing outward and that always made me sad, but now they both push on the stall door wanting to be the first one to be worked in-hand or ridden and that makes me the happiest person in the world.SW

I was also looking for a way to help my horse. He has had a long history of lameness which I firmly believe had their origins in his early training. I felt that there were problems in his back but no one could ever really tell me. Then we found he has cervical arthritis and I was told that long and low was the way to go. It was not and my horse's stifles went out. The thing was that no vet or training system I knew could put together why my poor horse was falling apart. I read about SOM on a post on the massage board of CoTh. So I went to the SOM website and started reading about horses with similar lameness issues being successfully rehabbed with this approach. The more I read, the more it made sense to me. For the first time the whole horse was being taken into account and I could see clearly the genesis of my horse's lamenesses.

I'm slow making progress because of my own lameness issues (arthritic hip), but I have only found a wealth of support here. I hope I can make a difference for my horse, but even if I can't bring him back to soundness, I can never look at things the same way. I am in this for a long term change.Sara Tardanico

 I've always loved horses and have always wanted to understand them, inside and out. I love riding and working with horses but have always wanted to know why I was doing what I was doing. When I found SOM, the knowlege of "why" was there. No more guessing and wondering. There are real answers based on the truth of science and the horses reasons for doing what they do. It takes Jean Luc's experience blended with the science to point toward the truth that the horse either confirms or doesn't. I was tired of guessing if what I was doing was right, only to find out from instructors that it probably wasn't but they could not tell me why. Jodi Seaton

I

Let me back track a little to give you a better understanding...

I began riding 35 years ago.  I became a massage therapist almost 15 years ago.  -I'm a licensed massage therapist and my practice revolves around massage therapy for both horses and horsemen.  I'm an equine veterinary technician and I've been blessed with the  good fortune of working with some of the best equine sports medicine veterinarians in the country.  Continuing education is incredibly important to me. Once a year, almost every year for the past 15 or so years, I've traveled across the country searching for the best, most up to date courses on equine anatomy, physiology, sports medicine & rehabilitation, saddle fitting, etc. etc.

The area I live in has a fairly high population of professional horsemen from a wide range of disciplines.-From flat racing and steeplechase to polo, carriage driving, eventers, dressage, etc.  We even have a few eventers who are veterans of the Olympic Team.  -As you can imagine, there's no shortage of options for clinics and lessons.

Trust me, the only reason I'm telling you all this is to point out the fact that I've done my homework in regard to my choice to study with Jean Luc.

This calibre of education is very, very difficult to find.  Yes you can certainly find pearls of wisdom

with various horsemen and/or veterinarians.  But as I said, the depth and the quality of education Jean Luc is offering is priceless.  I've been trying to find a program like this for years.  You'd be hard pressed to find someone who not only understands anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, and equine psychology as well as he does BUT ALSO has a gift for teaching and sharing it.  AND has the career riding experiences that he has.

As I mentioned, there are numerous riding instructors in my area.  And again, very, very few of them can train a horse, especially to the higher levels and keep the horse happy and sound.  That's honestly what I love the most about studying with Jean Luc.  As a vet tech and a massage therapist, I can't tell you how often I hear clients talking about joint injections.  It's almost a given that horses who are competing end up having their hocks and stifles injected.  That's just not a path I want to travel with my horse.  -Too often as a massage therapist I have felt the muscular strain and fatigue that's the "accepted" result of many training programs.  I was looking for a much more educated approach...an approach that would offer a stronger, healthier horse.  I wanted a training philosophy I could feel confident in passing along to my clients.  I want to be helpful to them and to their horses in offering rehabilitation options if they do have injuries. -I'm guessing you've either met or seen photos of the Cornille's horse, Chazot?  -take a look at the muscular development from the time he left the race track and first arrived at their farm to the way he's built and carries himself today.Those pictures will tell you alot.

Yes, I've been to numerous clinics that Jean Luc has taught here in Pennsylvania and I've traveled to Georgia for I believe the 3rd Immersion Clinic.

In fact, we're in the processing of organizing another clinic here in PA, hopefully early this spring.  The information is certainly not difficult to understand.  -You do need to be open to the fact that many of the training philosophies we were taught as young riders has been proven to simplynot be true.  You're going to learn new concepts.  If you're going to attend an Immersion Clinic, depending on how confident you are in equine anatomy, I would suggest brushing up on it before you go.  There's alot of information presented throughout the weekend and it will be much easier to absorb and process if anatomy is second nature.

But seriously, there is no need to take my word for any of this.  Spend some time riding with Jean Luc.  Your horse will tell you he's happy.

And your horse should have the final say!

Kindest regards and very best of luck to you!

D.P

I recommend IHTC to anyone who will listen and even to some that won't! Why? Because the "proof is in the pudding". I was introduced to JLC by a friend who had seen my horse struggle with lameness issues over many years. My favorite phrase to my horse was "pick a leg" I have spent many thousands of dollars with vets and trainers and not one of them could look at the "whole horse" I knew what I was seeing, even at the highest levels was wrong. I took my mare to JLC to see if he could help me develop a rehabilitation program for her after two very bad injuries and almost two years of down time. When I got to his farm, he had three of the most beautiful, fit and well maintained horses I've ever seen. They made my horse look like a runt! She is almost 18 hands! JLC's horses were huge and fit!! After spending a week at JLC's farm riding and learning, I realized I had only scratched the surface. That time spent with JLC awakened a thirst in me to learn more. I joined IHTC shortly there after, and I have been transformed. JLC has been so generous with me in regards to his time and knowledge and the private group is a continuos source of information. Its like getting a lesson every day. My understanding of the biomechanics has improved my riding ten fold. My horse is sound for the first time in two years and she looks amazing.April Taylor

Most of those of us currently enrolled would be considered the freshman class. We are the Beta version, hence the current cost. I am an Equine Therapist, so for me the concentration is on performing the work in hand, as compared to the riders in the group who will focus on the work from in the saddle. The science of equine  motion is the same regardless.  We have a private group which serves as both a forum and support group. The variety of questions is great because other people are always coming up with things you might not think of and that broadens the experience. Some of us have become regular friends on the private group as well, so that we can chat outside of the forum. We all keep an eye out for when Jean Luc is doing a clinic in our area so we can see the well spring of SOM in action. For me it is not easy and I have seen some of the DVD's multiple times and still go back to them. It is rewarding though, when you go back and realize how much more you see. What is really amazing though is the way you begin to experience seeing a horse. It is kind of funny when you see a horse standing there and you find yourself thinking, move already so I can see what kind of horse you are. I am not a rider, but even I can watch someone bouncing all over the place at the trot  and wonder when the horse is going to go lame, because I see it as a biomechanical issue. LW

Hello, As a recent graduate of veterinary school at the ripe age of 52, I just wanted to comment on science of motion. I went to veterinary college specifically looking for the sort of approach you have developed for rehabilitating horses and for preventing injury in the first place. It is what I imagined doing as veterinarian. For four years as a student I looked for someone would even acknowledge that such an approach was possible let alone had any idea how to go about it. Helping a friend recently trying to rehab a horse with an SI dysfunction led me randomly on a search that allowed me to discover scienceofmotion. Speaking as a veterinarian and lover of horses, I am so thankful that you have dedicated your lives to creating this body of information and are willing to share it with the world. Best wishes, Dr. Timothy Rogers DVM

Welcome, and we thought we were on to something with the immersion clinics, IHTC adds a new dimension. If immersion brought technicolor to your world with horses get ready for surround sound and 3D. Louis Wild

The first month's packet is wonderful as it is going even deeper into the knowledge needed to really understand the kematics of the horse. I have even found that studying it, I can look up scientific articles describing the way muscles work which help me to start to grasp the whole concept.

The more I see and learn, the more I am convinced that this is the only way to truly help the rider help the horse. They are the ones that have constant contact with the horse and in order to try and show them this true way, one must have an indisputable knowledge of the scientific facts regarding the horses biomechanics. The In Hand Therapy seems the best way to help the rider help the horse. RC

Hi Helyn and JLC.

I received the IHTC3 dvd and look forward to watching it.  Thank you for sending that and all the other great information.  I very much appreciate all the support as I learn this new way of thinking and working with my horses.  It's nice that if an issue arises you'll send the information I need to support me rather than making me wait.  :)

I'm having so much fun applying these ideas to the horses I have to work with here this spring. 

What you have put together totally meshes with what I have been intuitively feeling compelled to do with the horses I've had in for rehab.  I could see the negative results of common training practices, but didn't have the confidence or information to back up what I believed to be true.   I'd find glimpses of philosophy that supported my ideas but the bulk of what's out there and accepted does not.  It's particularly frustrating when you find people who have a lot of clout or good reputation who are contributing to perpetuating the myths.

I'm super excited about my young horse - Rio.  I've only had him for a few years - he's a lusitano arabian cross.   He was trained pretty hard as a youngster (he's only 7 now) and when I got him I was seeing signs of developing lameness in his right front and both hinds.  Every trainer I've worked with has told me he has no impulsion, he's lazy and he's challenging me…. every time I would do as suggested and push him to go faster than his natural cadence he would get sore, his back would start to look strange and he would get sullen and shut down.  Every fiber of my being said that this is not a lazy or defiant horse - that there was something I needed to do differently to support him properly and then he'd give me all of himself willingly.  He's had several months off because I wasn't making progress - stopped seeking input from local trainers a long time ago…. - he's built very uphill (in a pretty exaggerated way)  very high set neck and pretty upright shoulders.  His withers dropped off very steeply, creating this odd dip where the withers join the back - so his back looked like it was going downhill into the base of his withers….  He also had that sort of goose butt look from the rear - very slab sided - no nice round hindquarters…  he looked obese because of the way he carried his belly.  If I asked him to go fast forward he would start to develop that dip in front of the SI…. I've done maybe 5 sessions of work in hand in the last two weeks and immediately started to see nice changes.  Yesterday I hopped on him bareback for the first time in months and he was great. He was able to go so slowly that I could feel each foot touch the ground and stay for a moment - his back is totally changed.  He finally looks like he supposed to look - nice top line and nice round hind end.  He is more balanced and comfortable in his work and just hanging out.  Thank you so much for showing me the key to helping this lovely horse be comfortable and sound!  I can't wait to see what he's capable of now!!!

Sincerely.

AD

I love getting my videos every month from the Science of Motion In Hand Therapy Course. This is month three of an amazing year long educational course. The information is transforming everything I have ever been taught about training horses. My mare is changing every day....and so are the tools that I am using to help her be a balanced, happy, willing partner. LD

I had to share that I had a light bulb moment last night. In so many ways, I think many of us know and fully understand that the archaic nature of the common, everyday horse training, is ineffective in so many ways. I think it is human nature to be competitive and, on the surface, see somebody who can walk/trot/canter their horse and think, hey, why can't I do that? I have a horse that is so smart that he was YELLING at me for 2 years that I needed to get my act together before I will walk under saddle, but I couldn't hear him because we never had a conversation... it was all on my terms at that moment. That is how I felt deep down inside for so long about Duke. I compared him to others around me, and it was never good enough, which I am so ashamed to admit now. We have been working on SLOW and walk for a few months now, and I really had a pity party for myself when I saw others around me whizzing around the arena on their horses who were so much "better" in their minds. I was hanging onto my old notions, and by doing so, I was inhibiting my progression. I know deep down that just because they are moving physically forward, they are most likely rushed forward and are not producing any sort of physical benefit. They see me, on my horse at a walk in a double bridle-- how crazy-- and are thinking to themselves how stupid that girl must be. At first, I let insecurities affect my mood and have me question that, is what I am doing with Duke really enough? YES, the answer is YES. I realized last night... which I hate to admit, I am only really fully understanding now, that because of my reach of knowledge and immersion into Science of Motion, I have created a different lens by which I see, think, feel, touch, and analyze my horses, and ultimately, others. It's like the rose colored shades have been removed for me, finally, and I am so very happy with what I am doing and experiencing. I am so enjoying this journey and the endless possibilities that you both have given me. It is painful, on the other hand, to see the "3rd Level Dressage Horses" who are so "good and better" than my Duke and Chipper, have riders who are so self-centered that they can't see the light of day, but, with these shades removed, I have been able to separate myself and realize that that group of people and myself are not in the same category, and most likely will never be. Time to stop comparing ourselves. The competition is with themselves. Thank you for helping me to realize this most basic ideology. IHTC really and truly helps me to realize that there ARE others out there like myself, and while we may be few and far between right now, we will make a difference where it matters!

Have a great day-

JS

I sing the praises of IHTC to anyone who will listen. I firmly believe that anyone that teaches or trains should be required to have this level of education – as well as become licensed in some way. Those that teach themselves can only benefit from such an advanced education. Since horses are no longer required to carry our burdens it is folly to expect them to carry our egos. (I have stated this many times in much of my writings) Science such as presented in IHTC assures us that when we school our horses we are first doing no harm and are, in fact, developing horses’ bodies and minds in order to ease their burden while carrying a rider – to bring less than that to any horse, in this age when riding is a pursuit of pleasure or sport, denies the horse a life of comfort and true partnership. IHTC is the future of equine stewardship – but available now. Susan Hopf

I recommend SOM and IHTC to anyone who shows a genuine interest in what I am doing. Although I have zero zip zilch background in anatomy or physiology or biomechanics or anything even remotely related, I find the IHTC material challenging, engaging, accessible and one heck of a ride! I am an educated person, but no genius by any stretch. If someone wants to know a thing strongly enough, they will move heaven and earth to reach it. I wanted a better way. As Rosemary pointed out, I was first attracted by the website. I saw a brief session of a clinic in December, but the sound was not great so I could not understand much of what was being said. It did prompt me to go to the SOM website. Which strangely enough showed me a video I had seen on UTube a couple of years ago of a nice man working his horse in hand. I had always remembered the perfect rhythm they had together (It's that guy!!!, I thought). The website is indeed full of enough information, given freely, that if one is truly interested they will seek more. How could one not want to know more? SOM and IHTC accepts that working with horses is a process of individuals working in partnership. Every relationship is unique. The common framework is the foundation in understanding rider/horse biomechanics, and the integrity of the horse's physiology and its function that must always be respected and shaped with empathy and educated understanding. An added bonus: as students, we are treated with great respect and encouraged to use our minds as well as our intuition that is such a critical part of us that yearns to be in harmony with that of the horse. Ultimately, I believe that the horses will be the proof of the work and what IHTC teaches. Those that are willing to open their eyes and minds will come. I hope that eventually this work will hit critical mass -- a tipping point. New ideas are condemned, dismissed, and then what everybody knows, right? Jennifer Vance