Horseback Riding
Horse Training Articles from Nancy Butler
Don't forget your Basic Training
by Nancy Butler (continued
from page one)
This is usually the time when most of us run low on patience, we know they know how to move, they have let us mount, and they know how to move off pressure, but they just stand there while we release, kiss, bump etc... Now is the time to take a deep breath, and remember not to undo all the hard work you've already done by pressuring this little guy. It will come, trust me.
Trust in your training so far, and trust in your horse. Once he starts moving do not ask him to stop, if he gets silly or excited, let him feel your weight as he moves without restricting him too much. When he is relaxed, ask for your whoa. As long as he thinks about stopping that's good.
You can move him towards the round pen to help encourage what you wanted. Let him soak it up. Take a five minute break, and then start all over again, and don't be surprised if you actually have to start all over again. That's okay, just take your time, and repeat, repeat, and repeat, and always stay constantly correct.
Remember to teach, and don't force the lesson, and always stop before you need to, making sure to end the training session on a positive moment. Even if you only have to work for ten minutes, and you are getting what you ask for, then stop. Don't push yourself or your horse too hard. Make sure you have a great time with that young horse, and your rewards will end up great.
As always... if you have any questions or comments on this article, any I've written in the past two years, or something completely different, feel free to contact me here.