Use Of The Rein Aids

I am often asked if it is correct to ride with a loose rein or if contact should be maintained. The different riding disciplines have different ways of using rein aids, however, in discussing the rein aids, it is best to start with the basics. It is important to understand the use of the reins and what rein movement means. Reins are aids used to direct a horse. The left and right reins tell the horse where we want to go.

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Is Your Horse Really Broke?

My daughter has spent the last two years as assistant trainer to one of the National Reined Cow Horse Associations million-dollar riders. While she was home for Christmas we had the opportunity to ride together. This was my chance to “debrief” her. While we were working some young horses on a flag (a mechanical cow), she said, “Dad, I’ve really learned how important it is to get a horse “broke through their body.”

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Teaching A Horse To Ground Tie

Teaching a horse to ground tie is one of the easiest commands to train. I’ve seen some elaborate ways of teaching a horse to ground tie. Some trainers put a line on the halter and a second line between the front legs and through a surcingle. If the horse moves forward, the trainer pulls on the lines. Some trainers tie the horse to an object on the ground which teaches the horse where it needs to stand. I use a much more simple method.

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Training Outside The Box, Part 13

If you have spent much time in the saddle, chances are you have come across a horse that pins it ears while being ridden. Whether you are riding such a horse, or you are riding in a group that includes this kind of horse, you know how unpleasant it can be. More importantly, the aggressive, ear-pinning horse can be dangerous.

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No Short Cuts

Training a horse is like building a house. If you want to build a house, you need a strong foundation underneath. You can erect the building, paint the walls, and hang the curtains. Yet if there is no foundation, you’ll have problems when the storms come. Choosing paint colors and curtains is fun. Concrete and rebar are much less exciting. One thing is for sure: it’s a lot easier to put in a solid foundation prior to the house being built.

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Flying Lead Changes

Flying lead changes… just the mention will chill the blood of many experienced riders. This month, we are going to break down the fundamentals of flying lead changes and simplify them. With the right foundation in place, they are not that hard!

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