It builds up muscle, discipline, and gets them used to guiding and traveling. I usually don't start a colt under saddle training until at least 22 months and then it is interchanged with driving to make for a good work-out program. This also keeps the young colts attention span open for more input. I've been Blessed with the love and respect of horses and for horses. I first try and establish a relationship that I can build on.
Every horse has a story, just like people.
When two parties come together in a bond of complete unity wonderful things, no miracle things are possible. Then smile and tell them that it takes an open heart, mind and attitude and lots and lots of hard work. That training horses or any animal for that matter is not for an ego trip. Its not for a control issue, or wanting to be a big shot. Training and starting horses is just like teaching our children.