Controlling a Strong Horse
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One of the most common problems many riders have is slowing down a horse that is a puller, or is very forward. The problem may be more noticeable after the horse has had a break, and has stored a little excess energy, like after this long winter we've had, when we haven't been able to ride as often as we'd like or our horses need. Some people like a forward horse, and as long as you are safely managing, that's good. However, others of us may like a slightly slower pace.
One of the most common solutions people resort to is using a more severe bit, so they have more 'whoa'. But, this is not really a solution. Bits may control your horse's body by making it more uncomfortable. But once it is used to this discomfort, a harsher bit has to be resorted to, and using more and more severe gear can result in more problems than a horse that is too forward.
Related: Why Are You Upgrading To A Stronger Bit
Related: The Bit Dictionary
Related: A Horses Guide on How to Train Your Human
Ideally, we need to control our horse's brain, not just its body. So while various nose bands, tie-downs, martingales and bits restrain our horses through physical means, they don't really address the one thing we must manage to have any real control; their minds. We need to teach our horses in a way that make them think that our ideas are their ideas. This is where understanding, partnership and patience are key.
Now if our horse is fresh after a winter of relative leisure, we know that consistent riding, probably with some schooling, will go a long way to leveling our horses out. There're a few other things to look at too. Is an extra layer of fat, or weight loss making its normally well fitting saddle pinch? Does the horse need a chiropractic adjustment? Or some dental work? Horses express physical pain and discomfort in ways that can easily be interpreted as behavioral problems. It wouldn't be fair to slap a harsh bit in a horse's mouth that may only add to its misery. Is the horse in its stall a lot? Maybe more turn out would be helpful. Maybe, it's a case of overfeeding — too much high-octane fuel. Cutting back on the concentrates, or switching to a less rich hay might solve the problem.
An adjustment here or there may be all it takes to solve the problem of a too-forward horse. If not however, it may be time to tackle the biggest problem most horses have--their rider. A seat position that says 'go' when you really want 'whoa' and mistimed or inexact cues can frustrate your horse. Some horses may shut down when they get confused, but some get excited and forward. This is where a good coach, who can help you really feel what is going on under you and help you reverse bad habits is invaluable. It is absolutely stunning to see a horse go from 'over the top', to calm and obedient within the space of a short lesson because their rider made slight adjustments to their position and aids.
For the horse's sake, it's never a mistake to go back to the basics, even if you have to start from the ground up. This means working on ground manners, learning to lunge obediently, not just flying in a circle, and schooling under saddle. Of course, none of these things are the instant fix we'd like. It may require a bit of work, understanding and patience to level your strong horse out. But this is how we build a partnership based on trust, rather than domination. |
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Vaulter101
The best part of this article is that the girl in the photo got "thrown over a jump" by a horse in western tack...
The best part of this article is that the girl in the photo got "thrown over a jump" by a horse in western tack...
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Apr 6, 2014
• 6,072 views
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