SubscribeGift a Sub
Enable cache 100

Lateral Flexion

LATERAL FLEXION – Working with your horse in-hand on a lead line, stand at his side at the girth area. Take a few seconds to play the Friendly Game; give your horse a little scratch or a rub to let him know all is well. Then increase your energy, so your horse knows that you’re about to ask him something. Take a little feel of the lead line and hold it out to the side, about 18 inches from the withers. Gently ask your horse to bring his head around without tugging or pulling hard. Acknowledge his slightest attempt by releasing immediately, and then ask again. This exercise will eventually lead to asking your horse to stretch his nose to your toe when you’re in the saddle. The process requires you to achieve relaxed flexion an inch at a time. Give yourself a few weeks to see how little it takes to ask your horse to bend and give his head. The more quickly you release, the lighter your horse will become. 



Back to 10-minute Tips >>

View Comments

Recent Posts

Vet Adventures: Lady Catherine de Bourgh

It was late on a Saturday when the photo popped up on my phone. It was a laceration at the…

9 hours ago

Ultimate Guide to Ulcers

Equine ulcers are a significant concern for many horse owners. Ulcers can affect all types of horses and have a…

5 days ago

ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week: Vision of Elias

Welcome to Horse Illustrated’s weekly installment of the Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, offered in partnership with the…

5 days ago

Fall Equestrian Gear Round-Up

It’s full-on fall here in western Pennsylvania. As the leaves change, the air turns crisp, and the puddles in my…

6 days ago

The Complete Guide to Parts of a Western Saddle — Plus a Quiz

Get to know the essential parts of a western saddle with this comprehensive guide. Plus, have some fun testing your…

1 week ago

8 Horse Feeding Mistakes to Avoid

Informed horse owners would never intentionally do something that could cause their horse to colic. Yet many owners unwittingly follow…

1 week ago