Category: Riding Lessons

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A Pattern For Speed and Directional Control

Maintaining a consistent speed and changing directions at the cue of the rider are two basics that all horse should know and respond to. However, many horses will anticipate what the rider wants, or worse completely ignore the rider’s cues. Sometimes cues may be confusing to the horse such as constant contact on the reins, yet the horse is expected to stop when pressure is applied. This pattern will separate specific cues, making the correct response easy and the wrong one hard. Doing so allows the horse to figure out exactly what is wanted of him. Continue reading A Pattern For Speed and Directional Control

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Teaching Haunches In

Haunches in provides another element of control over the horse’s body. This comes after you have already established the basic cues and can yield the hindquarters from the halt, both with your horse’s neck bent and straight. Haunches in is one of the easiest lateral movements to teach and I like to teach this lesson to my horses first, followed by other exercises like leg yielding and shoulder in. Teaching haunches in is also the first exercise used to start teaching canter departures from a walk. Continue reading Teaching Haunches In

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Bridleless Riding Part 1

To achieve controlled bridleless riding you must rely on your entire body to steer your horse instead rein cues. To start teaching this, you need to use your legs and seat to cue your horse before using the reins on a regular basis. Even if you never plan to ride your horse bridleless, teaching him to stop and steer using your seat and legs can help you advance and eliminate the need for strong rein cues. Continue reading Bridleless Riding Part 1

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Canter Departures From the Walk

Transitions between gaits are more difficult for a horse to preform as it takes strength and coordination, as well as a good understanding of your aids. This lesson allows your horse to become more adjustable and collected, adding to his repertoire of cues as well as preparing him for events where this exercise is asked for, such as hunter under saddle classes and dressage tests. Continue reading Canter Departures From the Walk

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Cloverleaf Pattern

This pattern is just as it sounds, a four leaf clover. Great for improving your horse’s steering and will balance out a horse’s speed so he stays at a consistent pace. Fast horses will slow down and lazy horses will speed up. All around, the cloverleaf is a good pattern for every type of horse. Continue reading Cloverleaf Pattern