I had an experience with a rider recently that really got me thinking…

How long do you wait?

The lesson’s objective was to demonstrate varied seat positions on uneven terrain during a trail ride. 

A little background – this particular rider has been learning 2 point little by little over many lessons. I have been using several approaches including visuals and specific verbal prompting but each lesson revealed the physical prompting and a verbal countdown to return to the seated position as the key for execution.

I gave the lesson overview explaining how 2 point can support her horse’s movement going up hills. 

We started our lesson in the ring with warm-up exercises and skill practice. I typically start my review by giving the minimal support I think my student needs and continue to layer over more support as needed. 

Nothing was happening. 

Slowly and carefully I continue to includ all the things that had been successful in the past.

With each attempt, I smile with positive encouragement. I know she can do it, but, I also know it’s hard for her.

Still nothing.

With time ticking and the pressure of not wanting the rider to feel like they are failing I suggest we make our way out the trail knowing that I will be able to find a “win” to highlight somewhere along the way.

I draw attention to the upcoming hill as we approach. My plan was to stop on the hill and ask at the halt if they wanted to try some 2 point to support her horse.

Then unexpectedly, THE RIDER SUDDENLY STANDS UP IN 2 POINT AS WE START UP THE HILL!!

Not only was I very impressed by the comprehension and retention, but for this rider, getting into a 2 point position while the horse was walking is a big physical challenge.

So in all this, I wonder. How does one know how long to wait?

It doesn’t matter if it’s a human, a horse or heck, even a computer – it all takes time to process!