far more sensible approach

When it comes time to break a horse, the Havasupai have a simpler, far more sensible approach than western cowboys. They lead the horse out to a deep section of the stream, next to a large rock. Then the rider climbs from the rock onto the horse. In the deep water of the creek the horse is unable to buck and put up much of a fight. After a couple of days of repeating this process, the horse is broken and ready to ride.

Greg Witt

Exploring Havasupai: A Guide to the Heart of the Grand Canyon. Menasha Ridge Press. 2010. p.37