by Michelle | Jan 8, 2012 | Problem Solving, Training
This drill benefits a horse that want to “float”, “drift” or “leak” out of a turn with its outside shoulder. This drill pushes that shoulder back to the inside. How: At each barrel, ask your horse to reverse arc around the complete barrel turn. Straighten him and...
by Michelle | Jan 7, 2012 | Problem Solving, Training
Use this drill to instill rate into your barrel horse through repetition. He will learn to listen to your cues. How: Place 2 barrels about 50-70 feet apart. At a trot, approach one of the barrels. When you get to the point where you want to rate – walk. Ask for your...
by Michelle | Jan 7, 2012 | Problem Solving, Training
This helps to learn the collection and preparation needed to turn a barrel properly. It will help you and your horse become more in tune with each other. How: Only an arena with fences is needed for this drill. At a trot, move down the arena. Once you get to the...
by Michelle | Jan 7, 2012 | Problem Solving, Training
Young horses or really sensitive horses may think you mean “swap leads” when you pick up with that inside rein. Repeating this and riding them to stay in the correct lead will help them to hold that lead and now be swapping back and forth. How: Start this drill by...
by Michelle | Jan 7, 2012 | Problem Solving, Training
With no starting and stopping point this is a great drill to help avoid and help to cure any alleyway problems. The repetition helps gain consistency. How: Set up two barrel patterns like the diagram shows. They can be whatever size you want but I wouldn’t recommend...