All-around

Training and problem solving become easier when you use methods that build connection and trust with your horse.

Many amateur and youth riders struggle with slowing from a lope to a jog or walk, especially in the show pen when their nerves can get the best of them. A rushed transition always looks sloppy and costs you points on your scorecard. I’m going to share with you a simple method for acing your downward lope transitions every time. You can practice at home to master it, then put it to use in the show pen. Soon it’ll become second nature.

Unhappy with your horse’s lazy backup? Activate his hind end to solve this frustrating problem.

Is your problem a horse that lopes too fast? Learn why he does it and how you can slow down a fast lope.

Negativity in your riding will keep you from reaching your goals.

When done properly, an L-shaped back-through in a trail pattern should look almost effortless. Acing this type of maneuver requires hours of practice, teaching your horse to back with ease and cadence while listening to a combination of your hand, leg, and seat cues.

The difference between first and second place in horsemanship classes lies in the details of your horsemanship position. One of those small items that’s easily overlooked when you’re showing is your upper-body position—especially your free arm and hand and both of your shoulders. Keeping these small details top of mind every time you ride means they’ll become second nature in the saddle.

Learn how to control your horse’s speed and direction with subtle riding cues.

Use this exercise to prepare your horse to stay straight through all of your lead changes.

If you show in the trail class, you’re probably quite familiar with the rope gate obstacle. It’s easy for show management to transport and set up, and it’s forgiving when it comes to working the obstacle. But now we’re seeing the metal trail gate return to the show pen, which adds another item to prepare to face in a class.

Working a rope gate for the trail class requires style and finesse. Here are pointers for earning high marks.