The Basics

The Basics

5 Seasons

Refresh your knowledge on the basics with Brad Barkemeyer, Bud Lyon, Monique Potts, Al Dunning, Ken McNabb and Molly Powell.
*Use the dropdown box to discover more!
In The Basics series, expert trainers provide a comprehensive guide to the fundamental skills necessary for success in ranch riding and trail obstacles. Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your technique, these trainers cover essential concepts such as body positioning, proper use of reins, and effective communication with your horse. The series offers step-by-step instructions on navigating basic obstacles, including gates, logs, and other trail challenges. This methodical approach ensures that riders can build a strong foundation, enabling them to confidently progress to more advanced ranch trail tasks. This playlist is perfect for riders seeking to strengthen their core skills and enhance their performance in the show pen.

Subscribe Share
The Basics
  • Trailering: Using the Butt Bar

    Episode 1

    If your trailer has a butt bar here is when natural horsemanship instructor Monique Potts likes to attach it once the horse is in the trailer.

  • Trailer Loading Problems

    Episode 2

    Monique Potts works with a client who struggles with loading their horse into a trailer and breaks down how they can fix it.

  • Holding and Handling Your Horse for the Farrier

    Episode 3

    Does your horse dance around when you're holding him for the vet or farrier? Monique Potts shows you how you can practice handling your horse for the vet or farrier.

  • Petting Your Horse

    Episode 4

    Monique Potts explains how she likes to go about petting a horse and teaching her horse boundaries at the same time.

  • Bridling Your Horse With Monique Potts

    Episode 5

    Does your horse hate being bridled? Monique Potts shows you how you can help your horse get better at bridling.

  • Introducing Your Horse to Obstacles on the Ground

    Episode 6

    Before you attempt obstacles in the saddle, make sure you have control of your horse's feet on the ground. Monique Potts shows you how she likes to have her clients approach a new obstacle for the first time on the ground.

  • Introducing Your Horse to a Fly Mask

    Episode 7

    Does putting a fly mask on your horse always result in a fight? Natural horsemanship instructor Monique Potts demonstrates how she likes to desensitize her horse to a fly mask to avoid any fights.

  • Using the Mounting Block

    Episode 8

    Does your horse dance around when you try to put him next to a mounting block? Monique Potts shows you how she teaches a horse to stand where you need him to when it comes time to use a mounting block.

  • Using a Tarp and Rope on the Ground

    Episode 9

    Once your horse has basic groundwork skills you can incorporate a tarp and rope into your groundwork training to familiarize your horse with different obstacles.

  • Safely Worming a Horse

    Episode 10

    Some horses are very easy to worm or medicate, but others turn it into a fight. Monique Potts shares some tips on how she works with a horse to safely worm them or medicate them.

  • Trailering Your Horse in an Emergency

    Episode 11

    Prepare for an emergency, like wildfire evacuation, before they happen. Natural horsemanship Monique Potts explains the problems she came across when trying to load horses in a trailer during an evacuation and why you should prepare for these things and practice.

  • Handling Babies in a Pasture

    Episode 12

    Natural horsemanship instructor Monique Potts goes through the herd dynamics she sees with babies in the pasture and how she approaches them so they learn how to respect her boundaries and stay out of her personal space from a young age.

  • Using Fly Spray When Your Horse is Tied Up

    Episode 13

    Monique Potts explains how she likes to introduce a horse to fly spray when she's in a scenario where the horse might be tied up in a tack room or in his stall.

  • Pressure Points with a Four-Knot Halter

    Episode 14

    Do you use a rope halter? Learn why Monique Potts prefers the four-knot rope halter and how it helps her with her groundwork.

  • Introducing Your Horse to Clippers

    Episode 15

    Whether you clip your horse or not, it's always a great idea to desensitize him to things like horse clippers. Natural horsemanship instructor Monique Potts demonstrates how she introduces a horse to clippers and the importance of getting them comfortable around them.

  • Introducing Your Horse to Fly Spray

    Episode 16

    Does your horse jump out of skin when you go to spray him with fly spray? Learn how you can safely introduce your horse to fly spray so that it doesn't have to be a battle every time you go to use it.