Questions

Video # 315 and Question # 340: Kaley has a question (with video), about his horse's jumping form, and whether or not his horse might still have upper level potential, despite the form he shows now as a green horse.
Jun 29, 2018

I would like to ask your opinion regarding a horses natural jumping technique and how much it can be improved. I can set fences at home to get him jumping with better technique but then we go to a show and he reverts to jumping like this. He had been having 4 to 5 rails every round. How much can a horses jumping technique be improved? My feeling has always been that you can improve what they naturally have to an extent but you're not going to turn a "3" into a "10". And right now I think he's a 3 or 4. (Kaley) (Click on Video or Question Title above (in blue) to read the answer and the critique of this video)

Question # 339: Kayla has another question about how to stay with her horse's motion over jumps.
Jun 9, 2018

I feel like I land really heavily on the saddle on the back side of fences. Watching some of my videos (like the one I sent you a couple weeks ago), it doesn’t look like my leg is too far back, but I perpetually feel behind the motion when we land. I did shorten my stirrups and that has helped a little, but I feel like there’s a crucial piece that I’m missing in either my muscle tone or my position that would fix it, or at least help? (Kayla)

Hi Kayla!

The rider's ability to smoothly stay with the horse's motion over jumps requires these 5 things: (Click on Question Title above (in blue) to read full answer)

Question # 338: Nancy has a question about one of her legs, which tends to be too far back.
Jun 7, 2018

One of my lower legs tends to be too far back. I have been told to get it forward by the girth, but I feel crooked when I place more weight in that heel even though I was told that corrected the problem. Not sure if muscle memory needs to be relearned... eventually it will feel normal? Or if the problem may be coming from up higher in my hip and seat. (Nancy)

Hi Nancy!

This is a common problem! Very few humans are natually symmetrical to begin with. And many of the things that we do every day only serve to make us even more one sided! Think of how you... (Click on Question Title above (in blue) to read full entry)

Video # 314, and Question # 337: Lauren has a question (with video) about her new OTTB mare.
Jun 7, 2018

I just got this ottb mare, who came off the track last year. She's hot but not out of control. But if I relax my seat and loosen my reins she is wanting to go into the next gait. She won't relax. She's very tense, but not in a scared way. No transitions or anything. Almost like she is still on the track. I did alot of circles, big and little. When she begins the circle she quiets down and gives her head but coming out of the circle (Or the other side of the circle) she speeds right back up. Do you have any advice on getting her to relax, and quiet down? I feel like our whole ride was half halts. Also during our circle she will fall to the outside, so i close my outside leg a little more and then she falls inside. Maybe im asking for the bend/turn the wrong way? (Lauren) (Click on Video or Question title above (in blue) to read the answer and the critique of this video)

Question # 336: Kelly has a question about an OTTB that she is trying.
Jun 3, 2018

I’m looking at an ottb, and put him through some trot poles today. I believe it’s his first time over poles under saddle. He tripped over them and knocked them every. Single. Time. How do you feel about that in terms of jumping potential? I have lunged him over a couple of jumps, small only and he jumped ok. Other factors are super temperament and good looking, moves well, very active hind end. (Kelly)

Hi Kelly!

This is actually pretty common... especially for highly strung TBs! Very often they have to learn how to slow their mind up to actually be able to think about what their feet are doing. Here are a few ideas to help him learn this. (Click on Question Title above (in blue) to read full answer)

Video # 313, and Question # 335: Kayla is riding in a jumping lesson, and wants to know why she got jumped out of the tack on the first jump!
May 25, 2018

I was wondering why I got caught in the rear on the backside of the first jump? (Kayla) (Click on Video or Question Title above (in blue) to read the critique of this video, and the answer to the question)

Question # 334: Kayla has a question about how to go about training the horse to do the more difficult lateral movements that require the horse to move in the direction of the bend.
May 9, 2018

We actually managed a couple good steps of a walk pirouette the other day and it was super exciting! It’s also very hard. Is there any way to help teach a horse to look and move the way his haunches are pointing, except the obvious “by little degrees at a time?” (Kayla)

Hi Kayla!

How fun to feel some good steps of a walk pirouette for the first time! Yes, it can be a challenge at first to teach the horse any of the lateral movements that require them to move into the direction of the bend. The way I like to introduce this concept to them is... (Click on Question Title above (in blue) to read full answer)

Question # 333: Kayla has a question about core/ab exercises for her horse.
May 4, 2018

What are some good core/ab exercises for my horse? The vet says his back is in good shape, but his abs are weak, and we should work on getting those stronger as soon as we can to keep from ruining his back down the road.

Also, the last couple days I’ve noticed the little triangle muscles at the base of his neck (right in front of his withers) working differently at different times. When I ride him with his neck flat and out in front, they only work a little bit, and they don’t work at all when he’s giraffe-ing or when he tucks his nose even if he’s on the vertical. They seem to work quite a bit though at some other times. Are those muscles an okay indicator of whether or not he’s using his topline? (Kayla)

Hi Kayla!

It is so good to hear a vet say that! As having a strong core is just as important to horses as it is to people. It is one of the secrets to being able to maintain a happy and healthy back, and to be able to access the horse's full power. First I want you to read this article on strength training for the equine athlete. This article will give you a comprehensive strength training program, and outline all the various tools available for building a strong equine athlete. And the 2 core specific exercises that I will add to that are: (Click on Question Title above (in blue) to read full answer)

Question # 332: Ellen is having some difficulties when trotting fences.
Apr 28, 2018

My gelding who wants to rush and jump long (or big) REFUSES to trot over ANYTHING. He gets completely discombobulated, has tantrums, throws his head up, won’t go forward etc. What can I do to make him trot? (Ellen)

Hi Ellen!

The first thing I would recommend is that you read this article to try to figure out what specificlaly is causing your horse to want to rush his fences. The article also gives specific exercises for the different possible causes of rushing.

While some of the exercises mentioned will help with all types of rushers, the best results will come when you have identified why your horse is rushing. As a horse that is rushing out of nerves or anxiety will often get worse with harsh corrections, while the horse that is showing a lack of respect for his rider's aids may need those strong corrections. If you are unsure as to why your horse is rushing, maybe you can send me a video, so I can help you figure it out?

Other things I would recommend are... (Click on Question Title above (in blue) to read full answer)

Video # 312 and Question # 331: This is Rachael!
Apr 17, 2018

This is my just-turned-four year old OTTB who is just starting into work after having a 6 month letdown post racing. The last 2 times I rode him, he was thinking about rounding and holding a steady contact to my hands. I was wondering if there are any tips/exercises I should be doing to help him learn to keep it more consistent? I know a lot of it is muscling, so I haven't been pushing very hard. I just don't want the head bobbing to become a habit. I am thinking of taking him to a schooling dressage show for Intro level just to get some experience in a few weeks. Any help would be appreciated :) Thanks! (Rachael) (Click on Video or Question Title above (in blue) to read the answer)

Question # 330: Kayla has a question about how to avoid the chair seat problem.
Mar 24, 2018

How to find the balance between a chair seat and my new tendency to lean too far forward. Whenever I sit up straight, I fall way back on my butt again. I am finally getting back to the gym and I’ve been doing a lot of stretching because I know my hips are tight, but I swear it’s impossible to sit up straight on my seat bones and not have my feet out in front of me. (Kayla)

Hi Kayla!

You are correct in that a rider's tight hip flexors often cause the problem of the hard to fix "chair seat." Read this article for some ideas on how to help stretch them while in the saddle. The "legs away" and the "walking exercise" are two that will help with this specific problem. (Click on Question Title above (in blue) to read full answer)

Video # 311 and Question # 329: Kayla is practicing BN test A, and has a few questions.
Mar 21, 2018

We practiced the BN test A twice today, and most of what needed work was actually our trot transitions (excluding the horrible miss of our left lead departure... oops). Is making those better just a matter of my position through them being better? Also, his hip has a tendency to fall out to the left in our halts. Is that because he's crooked going into them? (Kayla) (Click on Video or Question Title above (in blue) to read the answer and the critique of this video)

Question # 328: Kayla has a question about trotting fences.
Mar 10, 2018

We have been trying to trot more of our fences, but even at 2’, my horse still tries to treat them like trot poles, and mows them down every time. At a canter, he’s fantastic and jumping really well and carefully, but that whole jumping-from-a-trot thing seems to be lost on him. How do I teach him differently? (Kayla)

Hi Kayla!

With horses that tend to be expert "energy conservationists", getting them to jump well over little fences from the trot can be quite difficult! I always say that it is a great test of the rider's skill to create a good jump over little fences, as many horses don't try very hard. Here are a few things you can try! (Click on Question Title above (in blue) to read full answer)

Question # 327: Kayla has a question about how long a rider might get away with doing their Dressage in a Jumping saddle
Mar 7, 2018

At what level do you stop being able to use your jump saddle for your dressage test? I’ve finally found two saddles that both fit my horse really well, but I can only afford one, and one is most definitely a jump saddle, not even an all purpose. I don’t know what to do. (Kayla)

Hi Kayla!

I am sure a lot of other riders will be silently thanking you for this question, as I bet there are a lot of riders in your situation - where you are just getting into Eventing without having a budget that would allow you to just go and buy anything that you want!

My answer to your question is... (Click on Question Title above (in blue) to read full answer)

Question # 326: Ellen has a question about her horse becoming barn sour and threatening to rear.
Feb 10, 2018

My gelding who has always been my most consistent, reliable and easy going horse has decided at times he doesn’t want to go forward. It’s happened several times on the trail and now at home. A lot of it is being barn sour. He hasn’t gone up- yet. But I can feel it. It scares the crap out of me but I’ve been insisting he turn and move his haunches ie I bring his head as close to my knee as possible and kick his haunches over. Multiple times both directions. What are your suggestions? (Ellen)

Hi Ellen!

You definitely have the right idea of... (Click on Question Title above (in blue) to read full answer)

Video # 309 and Question # 325: Kayla is finding it difficult to keep her horse on the aids in walk to halt transitions.
Feb 4, 2018

We just cannot finish our halts connected. Even if I ease him into them (so I don't get hung up on "right now" and pull), or even leave the reins with big loops in them, he always hollows/comes above the bit in that last stride. I feel like it's primarily because I've just always let him get away with halting terribly, but now that it's so ingrained, I'm having a terrible time undoing it. We spent 45 minutes working on that on Friday, and we only got one decent halt. I'm at a loss. Is it something I'm doing wrong? Or just a matter of working on it for a while and insisting that he maintains the connection, and making a big deal of him when he does? (Kayla)

Hi Kayla!

This is actually a fairly common problem! At least to some degree. Walk to halt transitions tend to really point out any issues or weaknesses that horse and rider may have with downward transitions. What I would suggest to you is to... (Click on Question or Video Title above (in blue) to read the answer to this question)

Question # 324: How do you transfer the better position from riding with no stirrups into riding with them again?
Jan 21, 2018

...I actually ride without them (in the saddle and bareback) quite a bit, so I don’t have any issues riding without them. But then I go back to my stirrups (mainly in dressage) and I either lose my stirrups constantly or feel like they’re way short and I start to brace/stand up in them (it’s not so much an issue when jumping because I’m in two point most of the time). Can I just do my dressage tests with no stirrups? 😂 (Kayla)

Hi Kayla!

You are certainly not alone! Many riders find it easier to sit without stirrups in Dressage, and probably quite a few riders would prefer to do their tests without them! But that is not yet allowed, unfortunately.

The reason it can be more difficult for riders to sit well on the flat with stirrups than without is because... (Click on Question Title above (in blue) to read full answer)

Video # 108 and Question # 323: Kayla has a question (with video) about her horses tendency to fall out through his right shoulder when going to the left.
Jan 3, 2018

My horse is super bendy going to the left, but he runs right through the outside rein. In our flatwork today, I was trying to get him to step into it before we made our downward transitions from canter to trot, and he would immediately hollow (both vertically and horizontally) and just run sideways, no matter how much I tried to bring his shoulders back. I used the lightest leg aid I could, but it didn't seem to matter. To the right, he doesn't bend as well, but that outside rein actually means something, and he seems to be comfortable stepping up into that one, just not going left.

I added links to all of our videos from today, but our big fiasco was on our attempts at left lead transitions, however, I'm sure you can probably see where I'm wrong in any of them. I'm sure it's something I'm doing wrong, whether with my body position (I caught myself leaning left HARD in the lead departures), or with my hands, but I don't have any idea what, or how to fix it. He also seems to be twisting his head to the outside when we go left, but I'm not sure if he actually is or if it's an illusion because of the way his mane lies (and I can't see the muscle bulge if he's doing it both ways). (Kayla)

Hi Kayla!

What you are describing is actually very common! Most horses have a natural tendency to over bend their necks to the left. This causes them to lean on their right shoulder. And once a horse is heavy on their outside shoulder, they cannot respond properly to your turning aids, no matter how much they want to! (Click on Video or Question Title above (in blue) to read full answer and the critique of this video)

Question # 322: Kayla has some new jumps and has a question about what to set up for a green horse.
Jan 1, 2018

I finally have enough parts to make 10 jumps (with standards)! I’ve also got some odds and ends that I jump (12” high piece of pipe, cross rail set up with cable spools, etc), but these will be my first “real” jumps that look like a stadium round. I’ve got about 25 acres to set them up in, so I can space them way out for a sort-of-cross-country school, but I would really like some advice on how to set them up in a smaller area to simulate a stadium course. And if you know a few good exercises offhand for us super-greenies to work on, that’d be awesome too (especially ones for a horse who doesn’t seem to mind if he knocks down every pole in the pen 🙄). Thanks!! (Kayla)

Hi Kayla!

How exciting that you have some new jumps to work with! That's always fun! First I want you to read this entry on how to... (Click on Question Title above (in blue) to read full answer)

Video # 107 and Question # 321: Kellyn has a question about her lovely OTTB, along with a video
Jan 1, 2018

This is Maverick, a 9 year old TB I took off the track last year, and the half brother to my 2016 RRP Thoroughbred Makeover horse, Bauer. Maverick was supposed to be my 2017 RRP project but he's a bit delicate minded and we weren't ready to go.

So we're plugging along at home, taking our time and working on basics. Very very slowly. He has (I think) some balance issues and there are moments when he sort of loses his back end on turns (see video). When this happens he panics and gets a bit wild. We've been working on large circles and big figure 8's at home for months and have made a very small amount of progress. He can't handle serpentines or lateral work right now without losing his mind (he's rather dramatic and prone to going airborne). What other exercises can we do that would help this issue without getting him frustrated?

I've ruled out physical issues - he has no previous injuries, clean x-rays, good teeth, and no chiropractic issues. He is prone to ulcers and has been on ulcer treatment for a year now. (Kellyn)

Hi Kellyn!

The first thing I have to say is... (Click on Video or Question Title above (in blue) to read full answer and the critique of this video)

Video # 106 and Question # 320: Kayla asks if her horse looks to be accepting the bit as she lunges him in side reins.
Dec 11, 2017

(Click on Video Title above (in blue) to read the answer and the critique of this video)

Question # 319: Question about your advice to do lots of transitions back and forth from trot to canter to loosen up a horse's back...
Dec 9, 2017

...This only works well if your horse can do the transitions correctly, right? So what if your horse is so anxious and tense about them that you can't do them right? (Kayla)

Hi Kayla!

You are quite correct, in that transitions are only productive if they are done well! So if you are struggling to do good trot/canter/trot transitions, I would advise that you... (Click on Question Title above (in blue) to read full answer)

Question # 318: My horse and I are continuing on in training and he has really become much more balanced over all in the show jumping. Before he used to land and have such a large canter stride that it seemed like most of my focus was...
Oct 21, 2017

...getting him re-balanced between the fences. My coach is now wanting me to carry a bit more pace throughout the show jumping in preparation for moving up to Prelim in the future and I am having a hard time figuring out the balance of covering more ground, trying not to always pick at him and wait for the shorter spot and yet having him balanced enough so that we don't take down a pole. (Susanne)

Hi Susanne!

First of all, how exciting that you are getting ready to move up to Prelim! Woot woot!! But I do know exactly what you are talking about... the faster you need to go, the harder it can be to keep that canter well packaged.

This can be especially true with a horse like yours, who tends to push really hard with his hind legs! The key will be to teach him how to... (Click on Question Title above (in blue) to read full answer)

Question # 317: My mare ALWAYS lands on the right lead after a jump...
Sep 22, 2017

...Sometimes I can get the left lead if I am trying really hard but in a show environment I can't get it. She does not know how to do flying changes yet. It does not seem to help that she is quite balanced counter cantering on the right lead so she has little incentive to switch. Do you have suggestions of exercises we can do to practice getting the left lead and suggestions on how to go about teaching her flying changes? (Or should I worry about that? She's currently competing at novice but we're getting ready to move up to training). Thanks in advance! (Kayla)

Hi Kayla!

When a horse always lands from jumps on one canter lead they are showing you that they are using one hind leg more strongly than the other when they push off over the jump. Think about a car with one tire that is low on air. The car will tend to lean and pull one direction, no matter what you do as a driver, until you can make the tires even (straightness.)

There are several different possible causes for a horse to push off unevenly behind when jumping... (Click on Question Title above (in blue) to read full answer)

Question # 316: My horse is afraid of ditches in competition. When schooling I give him time to see ditch and walk around it he will jump right over. But in an event he will stop at a new ditch...
Aug 23, 2017

...My question is how do I get him used to ditches he can't see before hand? Some trainers tell me to be more aggressive... but that seems wrong if he's truly scared? (Kristin)

Hi Kristin!

This can be a fairly common problem for horses that start out with a strong fear of whatever their particular "bugaboo" fence is - ditches, water, trakehners, etc. Most, but not all, horses will come around with time, experience, and training. Here are a few things you can try: (Click on Question Title above (in blue) to read full answer)

Question # 315: My half halts seem to work pretty well on the flat, but between jumps my horse tends to blow me off. He fights the bit and just keeps going at whatever speed he wants. What can I do to make him listen to me? (Aimee)
Aug 8, 2017

Hi Aimee!

This is a very common problem! Many horses get excited about jumping, and tend not to hear their rider's aids as easily as they do on the flat. With horses like this, riders need to make a conscious effort to show their horses how to apply their flatwork to their jumping... (Click on Question Title above (in blue) to read full answer)

Question # 314 and Video # 99: This is Susanne!
May 23, 2017

I really feel like my horse has continued to improve as far as his ability to sit and compact his canter step, his lead changes have also gotten smother with less extravagance and better balance. I am trying to sit in the saddle and keep my shoulders back before the jumps like you suggested and I do feel like that is helping him hold himself together better and also trying to be less rigid with my arms which is hard!! I wanted you to take a look at this video because I have a really hard time feeling like I am staying with him through the gymnastics, he has so much power and thrust and he is rushing a bit and I want to be with him, not against him so any tips you might have on what I need to do with my body to be in better balance with him would be great! (Susanne) (Click on Question or Video Title above (in blue) to read the answer and critique of this video)

Question # 313, and photo # 77: Rachel has a quick question about which ring to use on the surcingle for lunging in side reins.
May 9, 2017

I am not sure which rings I should use on the surcingle when lunging or working in the round pen in side reins. (Rachel) (Click on Question or Photo Title above (in blue) to read the answer)

Question # 312, and Photo # 76: Kellyn has a question about her horse's tendency to get in too close to the jumps and jump in poor form.
May 6, 2017

My horse has a tendency to get in too close to the base of the jumps, particularly when he gets tired. The last picture in this email is where he got in very close and sort of went straight up with his shoulders. He still clears the jumps somehow but it's not pretty. Any suggestions on exercises to make him more comfortable jumping from a slightly longer & more appropriate distance? (Kellyn) (Click on Question or Photo Title above (in blue) to read the answer)

Question # 311: After reading your article on whether to look for a distance or focus on the quality of the canter, I have a few questions for you....
Mar 17, 2017

...Do you think it applies equally to xc and stadium? I mean do you ride the same with just a different canter or can you try to be more accurate in show jumping without messing up your horses initiative? Also, if you do have a good canter and your line is good and you can see moving up or holding slightly would improve your take off spot, can you do anything? Or do you really just let the horse deal with it. Or by leaving them alone to they learn to do it themselves? (Anonymous)

These are great questions, as I think so many riders are confused and unsure about this subject, with so many different and opposing opinions out there. You can definitely... (Click on Question Title above (in blue) to read full answer)

Question # 310: What's best way to teach your horse to maintain a steady rhythm? My horse has issues with this. (Chris)
Mar 15, 2017

Hi Chris!

Many horses have this problem! When a horse is having trouble maintaining the rhythm in their gaits, usually one or both of these things is happening... (Click on Question Title above (in blue) to read full answer)

Question # 309, and Video # 97: This is Susanne!
Mar 7, 2017

We have been working on our canter all winter and I do feel like my ability to compress his stride is improving. I wanted to send you a recent video of us jumping, I can get him back and balanced after the fences but it takes me several strides and as he gets more excited about jumping I noticed that he likes to lunge forward in the last stride to the jump jumping at vs. up and over. I have read your article about how to get your horse to spend more time in the air and I will use all of those suggestions at home. Just wanted to see if you have any other tips or things that we need to address. (Susanne)
(Click on Question or Video Title above (in blue) to read the answer and critique of this video)

Question # 308: Wondering if I could get some advice on choosing a bit to try for a horse of mine. He's an ottb who is not far into retraining and is a fantastic horse with a great brain but I'm a bit stumped on what to try for a bit....
Mar 6, 2017

...In the walk and trot he is light as a feather. Maintains an incredible contact for the amount of training he has had and is soft in the hands and very responsive. When we get into canter, he maintains his connection and pace but becomes a bit of a freight train. He isn't "hanging" on the bit and diving down, but is just very strong, and has a tendency to lose his right shoulder when passing the by the entry gate. He will try to "bolt" (not full bolt but really cock his shoulder out and drift) towards the gate even when on a 20m circle on the opposite end of the arena. Even with a VERY strong outside rein and really putting on the leg, I feel he could break for the gate if he really wanted to and I don't have full control. With how gentle, willing, and soft he is in the walk and trot I hate to "upgrade" to some of the stronger bits, and wondering if there is something you know of that will give a little more control and help shut down his shoulder without being consistently harsh. (Samantha)

Hi Samantha!

From what you are saying, my advice would be to... (Click on Question Title above (in blue) to read full answer)

Question # 307: I am getting ready to start my youngster under saddle. What bit do you recommend for starting a young horse? (Karen)
Feb 5, 2017

Hi Karen!

My preferred bit for starting young horses is... (Click on Question Title above (in blue) to read full answer)

Question # 306: Do you recommend getting a pure showjumping coach or an eventing coach to help with showjumping issues? (Ashleigh)
Jan 22, 2017

Hi Ashleigh!

I think that riders who have access to a really good Eventing coach do better when they train all 3 phases with that trainer. Because when working with Eventing horses and riders, all 3 phases have to be trained with the other phases in mind. What do I mean by traning with all three phases in mind? (Click on Question Title above (in blue) to read full answer)

Question # 305: My question is about arena footing depth. I have a small indoor arena (75x75) that recently got new sand footing. Seems to me though that it is too deep in the areas which I ride most. Currently it is 6-8 inches deep...
Jan 1, 2017

...and even deeper when I groom it after use. Now that it is drying out more it is very difficult to do flat work and even jumping is getting difficult . What would be the ideal depth of the footing for both the above formentioned activities and what is best way to maintain the sand footing? (Robyn)

Hi Robyn,

Please stop riding in that arena immediately! Sand that is 6 to 8 inches deep is way too dangerous to be working your horse in. There are some disciplines who prefer working in excessively deep sand, but it is very risky, and I would never advise it. The risk of tendon or ligament strain or even a major injury is just far too high. The correct depth of sand for a riding arena is... (Click on Question Title above (in blue) to read full answer)

Question # 304: So I have recently acquired an off track standardbred pacer. We are in the works of trotting only, and not pacing, before we even attempt the canter. The plan is for him to event lower level...
Nov 16, 2016

...maybe just pony club... although he would probably be stronger in dressage. He has free jumped beautifully though so I am hopeful! I have only about four rides on him ATM due to some health issues resolving when I adopted him... So since a lot of our work is trot and ground pole work to build up his muscles, I have been beating myself up because I cannot, for the life of me, sit his trot! I by no means am the best rider the world, but I do take pride in being able to sit a pretty bouncy trot, from my old QH mare to my warmblood mare who has so much suspension she will throw you out of the saddle at the trot. I have worked hard to accomplish this. But I cannot manage with him! Do any of you have any tips on helping myself to sit his trot?! If I ask him to slow down too much he goes into the pace again just because his muscles aren't ready for slower work yet... (Shelby)

Hi Shelby!

The first thought that comes to my mind is... (Click on Question Title above (in blue) to read full answer)

Question # 303: My horse is SO lazy, I have such a hard time getting her to go forward. She exhausts me nearly every time I ride her. Although she is better once we really get jumping courses...
Nov 14, 2016

...I already use spurs and a whip, but when I use either she either ignores me or pins her ears and threatens to buck. How can I get her more motivated? (Susan)

Hi Susan!

This is a great question, as it is SO important for your horse to be (and stay!) in front of your leg. Not much can be achieved without it! Those that don't truly have it, yet are working on more advanced concepts are only fooling themselves. They will only continue to struggle until they go back and fill in that big hole in their horse's foundation. (Click on Question Title above (in blue) to read full answer)

Question # 302, and Video # 96: I have a question about confidence. My horse is 8 but had about 6 months off when I was pregnant in 2015. Since coming back I feel like he has been spookier then he used to be. Before I could trust him to jump anything...
Oct 18, 2016

... Now he will sometimes have a look at the first three fences even if they are nothing out of the normal and I feel like I really have to ride him forward to get that adrenaline going to help out his confidence. I don't think this problem is physical, as he feels great, and my vet has checked him out thoroughly. What do you suggest? (Susanne)

Hi Susanne!

I'm glad you sent some videos along with this question, as even though he doesn't look particularly spooky or backed off in these videos, I can get a much more clear picture of what is going on... (Click on Question or Video Title above (in blue) to read full answer)

Question # 301: Do you have any advice, suggestions for us older riders that suffer from chronic back & hip issues? I feel I am well past my peak as a competitive rider and as I age I lose more and more "ability." Help. Please. (Nancy)
Oct 14, 2016

Hi Nancy!

I totally hear what you are saying... it sucks to get older! Aging riders often have to deal with chronic pain and stiffness from past falls and injuries, in addition to the "normal" problems of aging. I think that many of the ideas to keep older horses going strong will benefit riders as well! (Click on Question Title above (in blue) to read full answer)

Question # 300: Do leads matter when riding XC? (Ellen)
Oct 2, 2016

Hi Ellen!

When galloping along between fences - no, not really. Although the ability to switch to the inside lead to make an upcoming turn will certainly make it easier to keep the horse balanced (and less likely to slip and fall around turns.) But there is an important point here that I want to bring up... something that most riders never think of, and can make a difference in their horse's soundness... (Click on Question Title above (in blue) to read full answer)

Question # 299: My OTTB was recently diagnosed with some major back pain associated with saddle fit (I guess two different saddle fitters looking at it 4 different times wasn't enough!)....
Sep 19, 2016

...The vets recommended chiropractic adjustment, acupuncture and some other therapies, as well as work on strengthening his back and core since it is underdeveloped due to pain from the saddle (my saddle is too big for his back, it sits past his last rib). He has always been adjusted regularly, and we are working on easing him into acupuncture (so far he is not a fan) with the help of some other therapies to help relieve his tension. My question is, do you have any groundwork exercises to improve his back and core strength until I find a saddle that fits him better? My current plan is to hand walk him up and down long gradual hills 3 times a week with maybe some lunging 2x a week between those days. He is in decent shape other than his back, and we are shooting for a schooling show and clinic 5 weeks out contingent on finding a better saddle and his comfort/strength level. We would shoot to do a Combined Test at Beginner Novice, we have competed successfully through Novice I just don't want to push the height so close to his reconditioning. Once we find a new saddle, I plan on implementing your other exercises recommended for building a topline and for horses with tense backs, I just want to start on the ground so we don't lose too much conditioning! Thank you so much! (Natalie)

Hi Natalie!

Sorry to hear that your horse has become sore in his back! The key to building back strength, whether in or out of the saddle, is to make sure the horse is really using those muscles when he moves. This can be surprisingly hard, as horses can be experts at holding their lower back muscles still and tight while moving... (Click on Question Title above (in blue) to read full answer)

Question # 298: Your tip of the day about the walk made me think about this question.... I have a nice warmblood mare that I have started and I am only doing exercises in the walk for the first year on her back to give her time to grow...
Aug 31, 2016

...We have done lateral moments and walked through some cavalettii and been on lots of trail rides. Are there any other exercises or things I can teach her at the walk? (Jen)

Hi Jen!

This sounds like a good plan, to do much of your work at the walk with a growing young horse. This way you can educate and strengthen the horse, while putting as little stress on their body as possible. Two of my favorite exercises to do in the walk are... (Click on Question Title above (in blue) to read full answer)

Question # 297: Suggestions for how to figure out when you're ready for a double bridle and also how to possibly figure out which curb? I currently ride in a French link snaffle bradoon. (Jennifer)
Aug 21, 2016

Hi Jennifer!

You can probably ask 10 different trainers this question, and get 10 completely different answers. I am of the opinion that... (Click on Question Title above (in blue) to read full answer)

Question # 296: I have a question about "bitting up" versus moving up....
Aug 15, 2016

...This past weekend I took my 9 year old OTTB to a schooling show, we have been schooling Novice but I decided to compete at Beginner Novice since our cross country experience is limited and we don't get much opportunity to school XC with a coach. Dressage was tense, but good enough for a 34.7. He has been relatively quiet in stadium, but in this particular case he was very difficult to keep from running at the fences, the only line that held him was the 2 stride. Cross Country was exhausting, in between jumps he would put his head down and just lean and try to take off. He didn't back off of any of the obstacles even the ones that were placed on a very awkward line. In the past at shows he's been a bit green on xc, the fences back him off a little and he tended to keep his head up. What do you think the best course of action is after a ride like this? While we did well at this competition, I don't think this is a good way to continue! I don't know that the Novice jumps would have backed him off any, and I don't think he would have actually made a couple of the turns on that track the way he was going! I've never used a gag, so I would rather stay away from bitting up that much if you think its appropriate in this situation. Thank you for your help!! (Natalie)

Hi Natalie!

It is not uncommon for Event horses to... (Click on Question Title above (in blue) to read full answer)

Question # 295: I am just getting into Eventing after about 10 years of riding in the H/J world. What advice do you have for me? Things I need to focus on, etc? (Jesse)
Aug 2, 2016

Hi Jesse!

Welcome to the wonderful world of Eventing! There is nothing like it, you will be totally addicted! First of all, check out this entry on how to get started in Eventing. That will lots of information that you will need to make the switch. And as for things that you may need to focus on in terms of your riding... the biggest thing that Hunter or Jumper riders need to think about as they switch to Eventing is... (Click on Question Title above (in blue) to read full answer)

Question # 294 and Video # 92: My question is about banks, specifically jumping down....
Jul 21, 2016

...I don't know exactly what my body should be doing and I know that I don't release the reins enough as I jump down. Often in courses the down bank is followed by a jump to test your accuracy and control which makes me hold onto the reins even more as my horse has a big jump and a big stride and I am always afraid that I won't be able to get back in touch with him if I let the reins go. This video clip is of us schooling this weekend, the bank is at about the 56 second mark. My horse is a lovely, honest, athletic type and I want to be able to do him justice, he is very forgiving but I know if I keep hitting him in the mouth at every bank he is going to start thinking about whether or not it is worth jumping! (Susanne)

Hi Susanne!

First of all, I have to say how much I love your horse! He looks like a game athlete, and I love his natural balance at the gallop. And you two look to be a very well matched team. I see a lot of trust and understanding betweeen the two of you. On to your question about jumping down banks... (Click on Question or Video Title above (in blue) to read full answer)

Question # 293: So I'm bringing along a young horse. I have been trying to go slow with him, keep jumps small while he grows. He's in his five year old year now. My question is, what is a good guideline for heights you should be jumping at certain ages?
Jul 18, 2016

...He's in his five year old year now. My question is, what is a good guideline for heights you should be jumping at certain ages? He's mostly doing BN height right now, but has schooled up to 3'3 easily while messing around. I didn't want to take it any higher though, he is so willing but I don't want to do too much too soon. (Holly)

Hi Holly!

This is a subject that not many people can agree on! The best advice I have for you is to... (Click on Question Title above (in blue) to read full answer)

Question # 292: Is a stop or turnout at a jump considered a disobedience or a spook? And do you believe some "spooks" are really just excuses to misbehave not truly fear? (Nancy)
Jul 11, 2016

Hi Nancy!

This is a great question, as I am sure many riders can relate to the "cheeky" type of horse that is a silly spooker, and will sometimes use a spook as a way to try to get out of jumping a fence that you know they are not truly afraid of. The best way to handle spooky behavior at jumps is... (Click on Question Title above (in blue) to read full answer)

Question # 291: I want to get my mare to PSG in Dressage, and I'm dabbling again in jumping at novice level. I've been riding her Dressage for the last 5 years, with hardly any jumping. I ride mostly off of seat and thigh aids, with very little lower leg,
Jul 5, 2016

...as she is nicely forward. My jumping instructor says I am pinching with my knee and thigh, and need to put my calves on my horse. But she is pretty narrow, so this is hard. And I am worried about losing the sensitivity she has towards my calf aids if I keep my calves too much on her sides. How can I work on my leg for jumping without losing my horse's sensitivity to the leg? (Jennifer)

Hi Jennifer!

It's great that you are doing some cross training and jumping your Dressage horse! You will probably find that your Dressage work only improves, as the variety will help her to enjoy her work even more!

You raise a very interesting question... If you have trained your Dressage horse to be so forward thinking and "hot" to the leg, how do you develop or practice a jumping position with your lower leg on without losing that sensitivity? (Click on Question Title above (in blue) to read full answer)

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