tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2008699381019452064.post6412170219736209757..comments2023-10-18T09:19:09.191-05:00Comments on Smooth Sailin' Agility: Continuing Education?Smooth Sailin Agilityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08424384642355314743noreply@blogger.comBlogger2125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2008699381019452064.post-91280262180821755152010-04-28T00:00:41.859-05:002010-04-28T00:00:41.859-05:00One of the issues is that if you're just start...One of the issues is that if you're just starting out and don't have any equipment of your own, you're basically at the mercy of your instructors.<br /><br />For example, I'm very much interested in 2x2 weaves to help train entries, but nobody else where I train has them or wants to try them, and I don't have the wherewithal to buy them myself. I'm also interested in the Weave-A-Matics, to change the angle of the weaves. My dog is 23.5" at the withers and hops the poles instead of single striding. I guess it doesn't <i>really</i> matter, but I'd rather have her single stride. The only weaves at the training facility (and the only method taught) is channel weaves. They work, but you're kind of left in the dark if you want to try something else - especially if you can't afford your own equipment like me.<br /><br />The same goes for contacts - I'd like to train a quick release (if not full running contact) but that's a big no-no where I train. I love the trainers and I'm not interested in switching training facilities, but like I said, you're kind of required to follow the methods of the instructors even if you, the student, are aware of other methods and is willing to change and explore.Amy / Layla the Malamutehttps://www.blogger.com/profile/17483472323529793052noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2008699381019452064.post-62631503491701528162010-04-27T08:34:22.249-05:002010-04-27T08:34:22.249-05:00Very good points! It's the same in obedience. ...Very good points! It's the same in obedience. Methods have evolved drastically, making the sport both more fun to train and ultra-competitive at the same time. I can't imagine still training like I did back in the 70s! TG for everyone who has shared ideas and helped me through the years! Being open to change and new methods can be hard sometimes but if my dog will benefit from it, then I'm there!tervnmalhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/16059486741282674657noreply@blogger.com