Denver Equestrians

How do I get my horse connected and taking contact on the outside rein? A tip from Jane Savoie

1. DO NOT make the mistake of picking up the reins and "hand riding" (holding the outside rein and flexing the inside rein). You must first create the ENERGY FROM BEHIND.

2. CREATE energy first, and then contain the energy with a closed outside hand while keeping the neck straight by flexing the inside rein. Train yourself to use your legs BEFORE you use your hands.

3. Walk on a loose rein for 5-10 minutes to let your horse?s muscles warm-up and to

adjust to your weight on his back.

4. Next, go on a 20m circle and pick up a contact with his mouth, but DON'T try to put

him on the bit in the walk. Go into the rising trot and continue on the circle.

5.Then, create energy from behind by closing both of your legs and asking him to go

more forward toward a "lengthening" for 7 or 8 strides. Then slow down again. Do this

several times until he associates closing your legs with going more forward.

6. Once he goes willingly forward from your legs, START your "lengthening". After

you feel him surge forward for 1 or 2 strides, you can use the reins. (i.e. close your

outside hand in a fist and give and take on the inside rein).

7. When he surges forward THROUGH your closed outside rein, you'll have a good

connection with the outside rein and your horse will be on the bit correctly from back to

front.