How to Get a OTTB to Pick Up the Right Lead
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This is an excerpt from “The Fundamentals of Flatwork: Basic” which is part of Bernie Traurig’s American Hunter Jumper Forward Riding System. In this chapter Bernie goes over how to ask a green or young horse to pick up the canter.
“The Fundamentals of Flatwork: Basic” is the first of a 3 part series outlining a simple, progressive method of flatwork for all jumping disciplines. “Basic” focuses on the training of a young or inexperienced horse with the aim to achieve obedience to light rein and leg aids, and assumes the rider is familiar with the proper techniques of riding and jumping. But you do not have to be a highly experienced or seasoned rider because Bernie’s strategies are clear, straight-forward, classic and timeless. The Basic level highlights his favorite exercises that can be incorporated into anyone’s training program.
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When I start one off the track, I canter tracking right more than left in the beginning to encourage them to relax and learn to canter rather than gallop. If I have trouble with one lead more than the other I begin on the easier lead and ask for a flying change to the more difficult lead to prevent anxiety over picking up the more difficult lead.
Geoff,
Thanks so much for your reply. I’m pleased to say we have had much improvement. I have found that as well as asking for the right lead canter depart facing towards home, asking for it just as we go over a ground pole or a low cavaletti has helped him to engage his hind end and he will willing pick up the right lead. Also watching videos here has taught me to open my right rein, looking to the right as we come over the pole has helped him as well. This website is genius! I’ve have learned so much in such a little time. I’ve been ridding for over 35 years and have never felt so connected with a horse. Thank-you! – Angela
Thanks so much for your comment Angela. So glad to hear it and our videos have been helpful to you. Good luck will all your riding!
I am working with an OTTB newly off the track. She has had several months to unwind and we are working on walking to the right, which has her very confused. How do I get her to push her right shoulder in to eventually round up on the bit? She literally goes sideways, blocking her right shoulder out. Thanks!
Hi Laura, thanks for your question. You might find Bernie’s video on “Riding in the Bit” helpful. http://www.equestriancoach.com/content/riding-bit
He also had a blog post on how to stop a horse from falling out through their shoulder. http://equestriancoachblog.com/how-to-stop-a-horse-from-falling-out-through-its-shoulder/
I hope these help! Good luck.