Two common mistakes that I see in the back-up are poor timing of the release and asking the horse to go forward too soon afterward.
Proper timing involves releasing the pressure on the horse’s mouth while he is still moving backward. For example, if your horse is standing still and you apply one pound of pressure evenly to both reins, he should back up. If he doesn’t, then continue to hold the pressure, even though he may chew the bit, pull on the reins or show other signs of resistance. As soon as he begins to take a step, preferably while his foot is in the air, release the reins. If you release after your horse has completed the step and has lost backward motion, you’re too late.
Once you’ve backed up, you have two choices: Stand for two to three minutes, or turn your horse at least 180 degrees before moving forward. Avoid going directly forward after the stop because horses generally like to go forward more than they like to back up and will learn to anticipate this, eventually moving forward before they’re asked to.
Back to Horsemanship Tips from Stacy Westfall >>
This article originally appeared in the May 2012 issue of Horse Illustrated. Click here to subscribe.
I had just flopped onto my couch, remote in hand. Sunny, one of my teenage daughters, breezed through the front…
For successful saddle fitting, it is as important to address the dynamic stability of the rider as it is the…
Economically speaking, 2023 was a less than banner year for most Americans, and charitable organizations that rely on public donations…
Welcome to Horse Illustrated’s weekly installment of the Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, offered in partnership with the…
After growing up horsey, Nancy still held on to her identity as a “horse girl” even when she hadn’t ridden…
Welcome to Barn Banter, the official podcast of Horse Illustrated. In Barn Banter episode 29, hosts Susan Friedland and Horse Illustrated…