The Secret to Sustainable Horse Training: Self-Carriage and the German Training Pyramid

Self-carriage is a term often heard in equestrian circles, but what does it truly mean? For equine physiotherapists, riders, and trainers alike, self-carriage is a cornerstone of sound, sustainable training. It represents more than just good movement - it’s about the horse being physically and mentally balanced, engaged, and able to carry itself without relying on the rider for constant support.

Achieving true self-carriage doesn’t happen overnight. It requires systematic development of the horse’s body and mind. That’s where the German Scales of Training come in - a time-tested framework used worldwide to train horses ethically and effectively.

In this blog, we’ll explore what self-carriage is, why it’s vital for long-term performance and health, and how the German Training Scale helps build it step-by-step.

What Is Self-Carriage?

Self-carriage refers to a horse’s ability to maintain its posture, balance, and rhythm without constant input or correction from the rider. A horse in self-carriage moves forward with energy, balance, and lightness, maintaining engagement of the hindquarters and soft contact with the bit.

Signs of self-carriage include:

• A consistent, rhythmic gait

• Engagement of the hind end

• Relaxed but active topline

• Light and steady contact

• Freedom and expression in movement

Why is this important physiotherapeutically?

When a horse is in self-carriage, its musculoskeletal system is working efficiently. There's reduced strain on joints, ligaments, and muscles, particularly the back, neck, and forelimbs. Over time, this helps prevent injury, build core strength, and support long-term soundness.

The German Scales of Training: A Roadmap to Self-Carriage

The German Scales of Training (also known as the Training Pyramid) provide a structured approach to developing a horse's physical and mental capabilities. Each stage builds upon the previous, gradually leading to the ultimate goal: self-carriage and collection.

Rhythm (Takt)

A horse in rhythm moves with a consistent tempo and regular footfalls in each gait. Without rhythm, there's no foundation for balance or relaxation.

Physio insight: Regular rhythm helps to build muscular symmetry and coordination - essential for injury prevention.

Relaxation (Losgelassenheit)

Relaxation involves both mental calmness and physical looseness. A relaxed horse will have a swinging back, a soft jaw, and a supple body.

Why it matters: Tension can lead to compensation and muscular restriction. Relaxation allows for correct muscle development and a healthy range of motion.

Contact (Anlehnung)

True contact is the result of energy flowing from the hindquarters, over the back, into a soft and accepting rein connection. It's not about pulling or holding the head down.

Physio link: Steady, correct contact encourages correct posture and muscle engagement, especially through the topline and core.

Impulsion (Schwung)

Impulsion is controlled, elastic energy generated from the hindquarters. It’s what gives movement power and expression without rushing.

Therapeutic benefit: Proper impulsion activates the horse’s gluteals, hamstrings, and abdominal muscles - key for supporting the spine and avoiding overload of the forehand.

Straightness (Geraderichtung)

Straightness means that the horse moves evenly on both reins, with the hind legs stepping in line with the front legs. It’s essential for balance and true engagement.

Importance for rehab and prevention: Many horses naturally favour one side, leading to asymmetries. Training straightness helps correct muscular imbalances and prevents overuse injuries.

Collection (Versammlung)

In collection, the horse shifts more weight to the hindquarters, lifts the forehand, and moves with more elevation and engagement. This is where true self-carriage shines.

Physiotherapy perspective: Collection is the ultimate expression of a strong, balanced, and supple horse. It indicates full-body integration and core strength.

Self-Carriage: The Outcome of Correct Training

Self-carriage is not a single step on the pyramid - it’s the result of correct work through all the stages. It can’t be forced or faked; it must be developed through consistent, ethical, and biomechanically sound training.

As an equine physiotherapist, I see firsthand the physical toll that incorrect or rushed training can take: sore backs, stiff necks, uneven musculature, and chronic lameness. By following the German Scales of Training, riders can develop horses that are not only beautiful to watch but strong, sound, and happy in their work.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re schooling a young horse, bringing an older horse back into work, or managing a performance horse’s long-term health, training with self-carriage in mind is key. The German Scales of Training offer a clear, compassionate path toward that goal.

If your horse struggles with tension, imbalance, or physical asymmetries, physiotherapy and training guidance tailored to you can help. As a qualified animal physiotherapist, I’m here to support your horse’s journey to strength, balance, and self-carriage.

Interested in helping your horse move better, feel better, and perform better?

Contact me for a consultation or physiotherapy session 07842412830 or email loiciajohnson@msn.com