Institute for Advanced Equine Studies
bridging the gap between the natural herd dynamic and the domesticated world
Advanced Equine Studies Membership
Enjoy flexible learning with unlimited access to all lessons. Engage directly with Kerry through "Kerry’s Corner". Join us as we explore and advance the future of equine education together!
We cannot remove any animal from its instinctive, inherent environment and place it into ours without expecting aspects of assimilation trauma as collateral. Especially with mutually dependent herd animals like horses, it is selfish to interpret their world solely through our lens. Where natural instinct resists domestication, our only course is to prioritize their needs over our desires. Bridging the gap between emotion and intellect requires us to divest ourselves of ego, remain sensitive to the inherent truth that is herd psychology, and take our view from the hoof. Welcome to the Institute for Advanced Equine Studies. I’m Kerry M. Thomas, founder and creator. It is a privilege to have you here with me, for it means that, like myself, you share a desire to learn, discover, achieve, and be part of a brighter future. A future that transcends our current understanding as we blaze new trails into the unknown. The study of herd dynamics and the intricacies of behavioral genetics are the composition of equine psychology. The unraveling of these fascinating mysteries is my life’s passion, and herein, I share with you my life’s work. Blending the art of horsemanship with the science of nature forms the core of my philosophy—principles that I believe lay the foundation for a pioneering and groundbreaking approach to equine education. This work transcends all equestrian disciplines because we are starting with the horse, discovering “who” the horse is so that we can better accommodate “what” they can become. The horse must come before the discipline. My mission is to continue advancing new concepts and research for the improvement of the equine industry through a deeper understanding of horses' inherent nature and continue to expand our appreciation of the herd-wired psychology. As this institute grows, my goal is to cultivate a community of forward-thinking, innovative minds whose work will be brought here for the benefit of all. Together, we will create a place where new ideas are thoughtfully presented, respectfully considered, and rigorously studied, fostering an environment of continuous learning and discovery. As a student here, you will have the opportunity to access what many consider to be the most unique and innovative educational content available anywhere in the world. I’ve dedicated my life to providing resources that deepen your understanding and elevate your practice. From in-depth lectures and written modules to video-based real case studies, together, we’ll explore every facet of equine psychology, behavior, and training. We’ll delve into the intricacies of Equine PTSD and Trauma, Sensory Soundness and Mapping, Herd Psychology and Hierarchical Structure, and advanced Training and Coaching methodologies, to name but a few. New content and modules will continuously be added, expanding your learning opportunities as we push the envelope of innovation forward. Though we are at the inception of this journey, my vision for the Institute extends far beyond this online learning platform. I am committed to creating a dedicated facility for learning and research—a real educational farm and stable where advanced training and lessons can take place. This future facility will serve as a hub for both learning and innovation, bringing together intrepid thinkers and scholars from various areas of the equestrian world to complement the work and research I’ve pioneered and together forge new paths forward. At the Institute for Advanced Equine Studies, my goal is to build a place of learning unlike anything available today. My focus spans from furthering our understanding of emotional stress and its impact on the physical horse, developing protocols to offset the stress of herd isolation, promoting human-horse emotional wellness, to advancing high-level athletic training and coaching. By merging human and horse psychology, intentions, and tendencies, I aim to foster a deeper understanding of our unique relationship with horses. As a student, you’ll not only have access to an extensive library of cutting-edge material but also be among the first to engage with new releases as they become available. I’m dedicated to ensuring your knowledge remains at the forefront of equine science and psychology. The Institute for Advanced Equine Studies reflects my personal commitment to providing an educational experience that is as dynamic and evolving as the very subjects we study. We will continue to develop and introduce new, innovative course modules as they are completed. From ongoing modules like OTTB Re-Coaching the Mind to Equine PTSD and Navigating Trauma and the A View from the Hoof series, we are just getting started. As well, lessons and modules such as Real Case Studies and Sensory Soundness and Sensory Mapping, Psychological Pace, and much more will continue to expand as we push the boundaries of equine education. Our tuition and subscription fees are designed to be sensitive to your need to be fiscally responsible while accommodating your passion for learning. An initial tuition fee gets you started on your first month, and once you’re a student, your discounted monthly fee kicks in. You will have unlimited, total access to everything we offer now and everything that becomes available while you’re enrolled. This allows you the flexibility to pick and choose which modules and lessons you want to focus on, or you can choose explore bits of them all depending on what your personal goals are. You are in control of your learning pace. As a student, you will also automatically become a member of Kerry’s Corner, a community where you can connect with me directly, engage with other students, receive updates on upcoming content, participate in Q&A sessions, access webinars, and much more that I haven’t even thought of yet—all included with your student subscription. And so that you never feel trapped or locked in, you have the freedom to cancel your subscription at any time. I look forward to welcoming you to this special place—a safe space for learning and exploration, where everyone can feel comfortable sharing, learning at their own pace, and making new discoveries alongside me. For we grow best when we grow together! Your Friend, Kerry M. Thomas Disclaimer: The Institute for Advanced Equine Studies and Kerry’s Corner community are intended to be safe zones for learning, sharing, and growing together—a tranquil space where we can all learn collectively. Kindness, thoughtful discourse, and respectful interactions are the standards we uphold and expect from all members of our community. We reserve the right to terminate any student subscription without notice should any form of intolerance or insolence be exhibited, whether in word or action, without reimbursement. Your monthly subscription will automatically renew until canceled.
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The Mind of the Horse
Video Analysis and Coaching Real Case Studies
Few things are more fascinating than unraveling the mysteries within the mind of the horse. Laced through the intricacies of the herd-wired psychology are both strength and vulnerability. It is within this binding fabric of herd dynamics where the idiosyncrasies of sensory soundness are revealed. All the horse was, is, and can become is defined by the operating system, running the machine. Welcome to an educational journey like no other, where you’ll gain hands-on learning through real-life case studies. In this series, I will guide you through both the strengths and vulnerabilities of various horses, from the common and familiar to the uncommon and perplexing. Each case will provide detailed video analysis and training insights, offering you a comprehensive view of equine psychology and behavior. These are real cases with real stories, raw and unscripted encompassing a range of needs, disciplines and horses. From elite-level athletes seeking their full potential to learning relationship skills that help the horses we love realize harmony within their environment, and contentment with their peers. Each moment will unfold in an impromptu environment, combing video footage, verbal instruction and written analysis to offer the student a unique opportunity for learning and discovery. You’ll share in the journey as I evaluate, coach, and work to create psychologically enriching, interactive processes between horse and rider. With every new case that comes across my desk my first step forward is speaking with the person or persons directly involved, letting them share with me their ‘about this horse’ personal narratives. This is an essential part of my process regardless of the case. Sensitive to human emotion, horses are often a reflection of their environment. I need to hear and feel the perspective of the human story before I begin to interview the horse itself. Why is this so important? It comes down to the synergy of communication. How we as humans communicate our intentions to the horse must follow how the horse communicates with the world around them. No relationship can be strengthened without this cooperation; we must be the bridge not the block. With this unique opportunity you may well find yourself to be at once a student and instructor, applying what you’re learning to your own daily experiences. From subtle nuances to profound breakthroughs, you will journey through the mind of the horse and discover ways of unlocking your horse’s potential while unlocking the potential within yourself. Horsemanship is not itself a physical action, it is the pursuit of knowledge measured by the thoughtfulness of the acts that follow. When you have a pure and sincere love for horses, your pursuit of that knowledge and desire for personal growth is limited only by the freedom you allow yourself, in the pursuit of them. This unique course complements the efforts in that pursuit.~kmt Module Overview and Details - Real Case Studies in Sensory Soundness, Enrichment Coaching, Sensory Mapping, - These are real case studies. You will share in the entire process as it develops, learning invaluable insights and practical applications with each new discovery, failure, and triumph. Type of Instruction - Video Analysis: Detailed breakdowns of coaching and assessment sessions. - Written Analysis: Comprehensive written guides, tips, and instructions as companion pieces to each video. - In case studies with a full written analysis of the horse, you will have access to the report for study. - Verbal Instructions: In most cases, you will get the verbal instructions as I give them. However, as these are real cases, we must be sensitive to the horse and client; thus, not all video footage will have fully audible coach-to-client instructions and conversations. Each video will be accompanied by a written breakdown of my findings along with coaching tips to enhance your learning experience. Instruction Modules This educational course is designed to offer a progressive learning experience through real case studies on a variety of cases. Each module will include video footage accompanied by written material to enhance your understanding and application of the concepts discussed, providing you with both visual and written learning tools. Case studies may contain one module or several. In cases that are developing and ongoing, both the number of modules and the timing of their availability here on the school platform are subject to the many factors of life with horses that we are all familiar with. Each case will have an introduction where you will learn if it is expected to be an ongoing case study of more than one module or if it is a single module or individual lesson format. Unique Learning Follow the ongoing psychological coaching and development of a real horse, observing and learning from its journey starting from the first analysis session. As the horse progresses, new modules will be released, allowing you to continuously build on your knowledge and skills. This unique opportunity lets you work through the horses’ strengths and weaknesses to create and apply enrichment coaching based on the horse’s unique herd dynamic. You will learn tips and gain practical knowledge on evaluation processes, sensory mapping, and discover how to generate enrichment programs based on “who” the horse is—the operating system running the machine. Target Audience - Level: Suitable for learners from novice to advanced levels. Learning Outcomes, Summary of Expectations By participating in this course, you will: - Gain insights into evaluating and assessing equine strengths and vulnerabilities. - Learn effective training techniques through practical, real-world examples. - Receive coaching tips and instructions aimed for practical application in your own training scenarios. - Gain practical knowledge of Sensory Soundness, Sensory Unsoundness and Sensory Mapping. - Learn the effects of emotional stress on physical action and mapping the distribution of emotional energy. Enrollment Options Each module will be uniquely priced and available as an individual purchase, allowing you to tailor your learning experience to your needs and schedule. Choose to follow the complete journey of the case study or choose to select the modules that interest you the most. My goal is to provide both valuable and accessible opportunities for you to gain comprehensive knowledge and insights in a cost-effective way with significant intellectual ROI. More There is a Sensory Soundness Map digital download available, which is recommended but required. Join me in this educational adventure and enhance your equine training skills through a dynamic and interactive learning experience. Kerry M Thomas
A View From The Hoof
Lead Mare Lecture 2
The true nature of the Lead Mare is as complex as it is mysterious, an enigma that weaves through the very fabric of herd life. In this lecture, we embark on a journey to unravel the psychological intricacies of these powerful figures, who serve as the keystone glue holding the herd construct together. To truly grasp the essence of the Lead Mare, we must delve into two fundamental aspects: the primary role she plays within the herd and the intricate psychological profile that empowers her to fulfill this role with unwavering authority and grace. This dual understanding not only deepens our insight into the Lead Mare's unique position but also reveals the keys to building, strengthening, and sustaining a meaningful relationship with her—a relationship founded on respect, trust, and emotional communication. As we continue our exploration of herd psychology, we will gain a fresh perspective, viewing the world through the eyes of the Lead Mare, and uncovering the subtle yet profound ways in which she influences the dynamics of the herd. Join us as we take our view from the hoof and explore the commanding presence of the Lead Mare, whose silent leadership shapes the very soul of the herd. Available Resources: -Lecture One; The Family Structure -Sensory Soundness Map Digital Download
A View From The Hoof
Lecture One Family Stucture
Horses thrive on emotional harmony and social contentment within their herds. The natural structure of a herd is shaped by these emotional bonds rather than just the number of horses. Horses often adapt to changing roles as needed, sometimes fulfilling multiple roles simultaneously. Understanding how horses adapt to their environment requires recognizing the importance of their herd dynamics and their ability to adjust to both environmental and situational changes. Part One, Herd Structure: Lecture One: The Family Group Chapter 1; Intention; the Power, the Pressure, the Purpose Chapter 2; Understanding Body Language Lecture Seven: Herd-Psychology; Creating a Natural Herd in a Domesticated World Part Two, Behavioral Genetics Lecture One: The Nature of Breeding Lecture Two: Training Colts - Strengths and Vulnerabilities, Nature of IHD Lecture Three: Training Fillies – Strengths and Vulnerabilities, the Nature of GHD Lecture Four: Training Older Horses; Learned Behaviors V/S Natural Tendency Lecture Five: Therapy Horses, the Psychology of Emotional Compatibility Lecture Six: Equine PTSD, Navigating Trauma Chapter 1; The Nature of Trauma Chapter 2; The Nature of PTSD Chapter 3; New Beginnings, Soothing the Wounded Mind
Understanding Sensory Soundness
Mapping the Senses; an Expedition Through the Mind of the Horse
Lesson One Educational Module One
We must be sensitive to the reality that we are asking the herd-wired prey species constructed by nature, to fit into a world, built by man... I wrote this course for you. You're here because I dare say that like me you have an inquisitive nature and a desire to learn. It is important to me that I share and teach, in the best way I know how, what took me 30 plus years of study, trial and error, to realize. Life is an experience best lived through the senses; when we connect emotionally with our horses, the bond we feel becomes a relationship we value. My goal is to help you peer through the window of the unknown, into a place where what is felt is more authentic than what is seen; this is your invitation inside the mind of the horse. Nothing has more influence on their lives than does their unique sensory soundness; every physical expression an extension of emotion. Everything they were, are, and can become, hinges upon it. My objective with this course is to give you a pure understanding of what it means to be sensory sound, what the sensory sequence is, how it works and introduce you to the fundamentals of charting a horses sensitivities. In order to achieve this, we will tap into the mysteries of the equine psyche which cleared the path that led to the discovery of Sensory Mapping, opening the doorway to a whole new world. This is a unique opportunity to enhance your understanding and strengthen your appreciation of the intricate and beautiful nature that defines the horses we love. Sensory "cartography" is as fascinating as it is revealing, marking the places where the physical world meets the emotional horse gives a visual representation to the before unseen. Mapping the senses brings the horse to life like never before. I invite you to come along on this expedition of discovery and journey with me as we investigate how the operating system, runs the machine. ~ Kerry M Thomas This course comprises 12 individual lessons each becoming available the moment they are ready for release. Each lesson will be offered individually to allow you to learn at your own pace and pay as you go for convenience. Subscribe to the website and get alerted when each new course is available. *First Lesson for, Understanding Sensory Soundness; Mapping the Senses, Available Now!
Understanding Sensory Soundness
Lesson Two Educational Module Two
Psychological Pace and the Equine Athlete
A Guide to Understanding the Speed of Perception
“Where distance is a measurement in time, athletic aptitude is a measure of duration.” kmt
Welcome to the second lesson in our "Understanding Sensory Soundness" series, crafted to delve deeper into the intricate world of equine psychology. In this module, we begin to explore the foundational principles of interpretive ratio. Here is the trailhead where we begin to peer through the enigma of time, its perception and how it manifests through a horse's sensory system. We explore the concept of duration over distance and the critical role interpretive rate plays in the accumulation of stress and overall performance capacity. The first step to mapping the sensory system and discovering the true nature of Sensory Soundness is by taking a view from the hoof. This lesson module evolved as an extension of my ongoing work in evaluating horse-athletes in creating coaching programs that fit their psychological patterns and sensory aptitudes. It became clear to me, as I began work on Lesson Two, that on our road through the mind of the horse there are many stops, and my recent discoveries in this area play such a significant role in the horse’s domesticated life, that going forward without their inclusiveness would be like removing an important chapter from a book. To understand the context of sensory soundness is to gain an appreciation for the totality of its impact. Module Two serves as a prequel to the previously planned and outlined, now Module Three. The fundamentals of interpretative ratio that you are about to be introduced to are in my opinion among the most profound discoveries of my life. Setting the stage through your expanding knowledge of it we travel together along this engaging road of mystery. Whether you ride for pleasure, are in pursuit of a gold medal, or seeking that Grade 1 win on the track, this introduction to the concepts of duration v/s distance, sensory soundness v/s sensory unsoundness, and the impact you have on performance aptitude relative to them, will upgrade and uplift your ability to understand and emotionally connect, with any horse. In this module can be found: In-depth Insights: Discover how a horse’s sensory soundness affects their ability to process environmental stimuli and maintain focus under pressure. Practical Knowledge: Learn how actionable strategies to enhance your horse’s sensory efficiency will ensure peak performance and mental resilience. Expert Guidance: Benefit from Kerry’s extensive expertise and pioneering research in equine athletic psychology and the sensory processes that mitigate the heavy weight of emotional stress. This lesson module is designed to empower you with the knowledge to improve your horse’s competitive edge by understanding and leveraging their sensory strengths. Join me on this journey to elevate your equine partnership and unlock new levels of performance. Thank You! ~ Kerry
The Art of Visual Handicapping
Identifying Athletes
by Kerry M Thomas
“The ability to compete is an attribute of physical talent, being competitive is an aptitude of psychology.” kmt Course Type: Master Class / Informational / Educational Presentation Style: Written, Reference Guide Extras: Downloadable Takeaways Resources: Glossary of Terminology and Phrases free at www.kerrymthomas.com Kentucky Derby Analysis free archives in the About/Bio at www.kerrymthomas.com Supplementary Courses: A View from the Hoof Understanding Sensory Soundness Total Chapters: Eleven Welcome to: The Art of Visual Handicapping; Identifying Athletes In the dynamic world of equine sports, where the success of every decision from selecting a horse to placing a bet, hinges on gaining an advantage, delving into the operating system running the machine is essential. Within the enigmatic depths of their psyche lie the keys to discerning their true nature — separating the vulnerable from the confident, the dependent from the capable. This journey into the psychology of performance isn't merely a learning opportunity increasing the advantages of the betting public; it's a vital compass for anyone in search of or wanting to better understand the behavioral characteristics found within the elite horse-athlete. Characteristics which transcend every discipline. Join me in exploring the world of the horse, through the horse’s view of the world. Who is this course for? This is an innovative course at once transcending traditional boundaries while presenting an exciting learning opportunity suitable for everyone who has ever been fascinated with the world of elite equine athletes. This comprehensive educational is not just for betting enthusiasts – it's a game-changer for anyone wanting to learn how to separate the athletic horse from the horse athlete. Created to empower individuals at every level of expertise, from casual riders to seasoned professionals, this course offers a unique opportunity to delve deep into the inner workings of the equine mind. Whether you're looking to gain a competitive edge in handicapping or simply eager to broaden your horizons by strengthening your understanding of performance psychology, this course is your ticket to visually recognizing true potential within the horse. Become a Student, Be Empowered Potential students can expect to gain a profound understanding of the intricate relationship between the psychology of performance and the identification of talent in equestrian sports. Here's some of what you can anticipate from your learning experience. 1. Insight into the Psychological Dynamics of Equine Performance: By exploring the depths of the equine psyche, students will uncover the fundamental principles that drive athletic performance beyond physical attributes. Students will learn how to distinguish between mere competitiveness and the psychological aptitude that sets elite horse athletes apart. 2. A Comprehensive Approach to Handicapping and Talent Identification: This course offers a holistic perspective on handicapping by delving into the psychological aspects that influence performance. Students will gain essential tools and strategies to identify expressions of true talent, whether for betting purposes or simply for a deeper appreciation of equine athleticism. 3. Transcending Traditional Boundaries: This innovative course breaks through traditional boundaries by offering valuable insights that extend beyond the realm of betting. Students from various backgrounds, including horse enthusiasts, casual riders, and seasoned professionals, will find immense value in understanding the behavioral characteristics of elite equine athletes. 4. Empowerment at Every Level of Expertise: Whether students are novices or seasoned professionals, this course caters to individuals at every stage of their equestrian journey. As a student you will gain the knowledge and confidence to recognize and appreciate the nuances of equine behavior, empowering you to make informed decisions while enriching your overall experience with horses. 5. Enhanced Competitive Edge and Broadened Horizons: For betting enthusiasts, this course provides a unique opportunity to gain a competitive edge by deciphering the psychology behind horse performance. However, it also offers a broader educational experience for anyone eager to deepen their understanding of performance psychology and unlock the true potential within the horse. By enrolling in this course, scholars will embark on a transformative journey into the world of equine psychology, gaining invaluable insights that will not only enrich your betting endeavors but deepen your appreciation for the artistry and athleticism of horses.
Welcome to Open Range, Extended Studies:
Where Learning Meets Adventure!
Exclusive starter bundle before Open Range moves to Membership.
Open Range, Extended Studies is an innovative bundle of 3 'Short-Lectures’ offering a wealth of knowledge. Available to you for 90 days, we are setting you free to explore an Open Range of learning and discovery. Dive into topics you won't find anywhere else, curated to elevate both your equestrian skills and your inner wisdom.
Soon you will be able to join us as a monthly member to get exclusive Open Range Lectures & research essays.
Sensory Soundness Reference Map
Your Comprehensive Tool For Sensory Assessment
Unlock a revolutionary perspective on equine psychology with the Sensory Soundness Map, available as a digital download. Measuring 8" x 11", this groundbreaking reference guide is designed to offer a fresh, insightful view of your horses. Perfect as a stand-alone resource, it also serves as a valuable accessory to all our online education modules and pioneering services, all for less than 20 Dollars (US Currency). Included with your download is the comprehensive sensory map legend, enhancing your understanding of this unique tool and its essential role in comprehending how horses perceive their environment. The Sensory Soundness Map is a one-of-a-kind creation in the equestrian world, born from years of herd dynamic and behavioral genetic research by renowned expert Kerry M. Thomas. Once purchased, there is no limit to the number of copies you can print.It’s yours to keep and continually utilize. Assign a map to each of your horses, or incorporate it into your teaching materials to enrich your students’ learning experience. Dive deep into the world of equine sensory soundness and elevate your horsemanship with this unparalleled resource. Which zones are your horses strong points? Which zones do they show vulnerability? Use this map to track and monitor, and to serve as a guide to proper interaction guide for anyone working with your horse!