This next maneuver is a little different. In this case I've run the halter lead from the right, over her nose to the left. I am "holding" her with contact from my left leg and asking her to bend her neck without shifting her weight. If you notice her feet, she is stepping out both in front and in behind, pivoting around me as the dead center of the pivot. This maneuver is good for balance and will help her learn to bend around my leg. |
There are all sorts of variations to these maneuvers that you can try. We like to break up the
walking and trotting with some leg work. This helps the horses learn balance and helps prevent them from
becoming "forwardaholics." The idea is to be patient, suggest the movement through aids and
supporting balance and leg contact, and let the horse find the right response. Keep it light and effortless. Once the
horse is handy on "flat ground," introduce some poles and other obstacles, first on the line and then in
the saddle. Make this learning experience varied and fun for both you and the horse.
Not bad for an 18 month old's first day! |
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