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.
It’s no fun to ride a horse that needs to be pushed constantly to stay…
Whether it’s showmanship, horsemanship, trail, western riding or ranch classes, pattern competition helps show a…
A fast-stopping horse sliding into a cloud of dust is an icon for western riding.…
To compete in reining or working cow horse competitions, your horse will need to turn…
Welcome to Horse Illustrated’s weekly installment of the Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, offered in partnership with the…
Imagine an entire month dedicated to celebrating adoptable horses: For the past four years, the month of May has been…
Horses in the guest ranch industry come from varied breeds and backgrounds. Learn more about them. The scenery may be…
Thanks to a rail down by overnight leader Tom McEwen (GBR) on the 13-year-old German Warmblood gelding JL Dublin, a…
In a day of heat, then rain, followed by blazing sun, the sun indeed shone brightest on the British riders…
Tom McEwen of Great Britain had a big day under beautiful skies at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Ky.,…