R+ training vs. traditional horse training: what’s the difference?

R+ training vs. traditional horse training: what’s the difference?

When it comes to horse training, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Over the years, methods have evolved — and one that’s gaining more attention for its effectiveness and horse-friendly philosophy is R+ training, or Positive Reinforcement training.

So, how is R+ different from traditional methods? And why are more riders choosing it? Let’s break it down.

What is R+ training?

R+ training focuses on rewarding the horse for desired behavior, rather than correcting mistakes through pressure or punishment.

• The “+” in R+ stands for “positive,” meaning we add something the horse likes — such as a treat, a scratch in a favorite spot, or a verbal cue like “good boy” — immediately after they do the right thing.
  
• The horse learns to associate the behavior with something pleasant, which increases their willingness to repeat it.

Traditional training in a nutshell

Traditional methods often rely on pressure and release — applying pressure (through reins, legs, or voice) to encourage a behavior and then releasing the pressure when the horse responds correctly. This can work well in experienced hands, but it usually focuses more on avoiding discomfort than actively seeking a reward.

Key differences between R+ and traditional training

Aspect

Motivation

Emotional Response

Learning Pace

Relationship

Mistakes

R+ (Positive Reinforcement)

Horse works to earn a reward

Builds curiosity, confidence, and enthusiasm

Often faster for specific tasks

Focuses on trust and mutual communication

Seen as part of learning; no penalty

Traditional Training

Horse works to avoid discomfort

Can create compliance, sometimes with tension

Depends on horse and trainer’s skill

Can still build trust, but less centered on horse’s choice
May lead to increased pressure until correct response is given

Benefits of R+ training

1. Stronger bond – horses often become more eager to interact with their trainer, seeking the “game” of earning rewards.
   
2. Less stress, more confidence – by removing the fear of making mistakes, horses feel safer to try new things.
   
3. Clear communication – rewards given at the exact right moment make it crystal-clear to the horse what behavior was correct.
   
4. Improved motivation – instead of simply following cues, the horse actively participates, which often leads to better performance.
   
5. Better for sensitive or nervous horses – R+ can help rehabilitate horses with past trauma by making training feel positive and safe.

A balanced approach

At Lincourt Stables, we believe every horse is an individual. While R+ can be a powerful training tool, we also understand that blending it thoughtfully with other humane methods can offer the best results. It’s not about one method being “right” and the other “wrong” — it’s about finding the approach that keeps the horse happy, healthy, and willing.

Bottom line: Positive Reinforcement training is more than just giving treats — it’s about building trust, clarity, and joy in the training process. Whether you’re teaching a horse to load calmly into a trailer or refining dressage movements, R+ can turn training into a shared conversation instead of a one-sided demand.