The culmination of these two cultures has produced a tremendously effective, powerful, and respectful way of training horses that turns heads as well as making changes of heart. For Nakoa, training is all mental. He believes mental discipline in a horse begins with mental discipline in a person, and consistency is the key. It all starts on the ground. Getting a horse mentally right on the ground translates into better results when saddled.
Mental awareness creates respect.
From the newest weanlings to road warriors in any breed or discipline, this Hawaiian horseman asserts that a horse s level of respect for a rider begins on the ground. He gains the respect of a horse using equipment most people have in their backyard- a horse, a halter, and a soft cotton lead rope. This unique technique is the beginning of all of Nakoa s training processes. It is also the step to which he returns when problems arise. Putting the horse in the closet is a matter of baby steps.