training

Trail obstacle challenges are so much fun! They put you and your horse’s communication and trust to the test. From natural obstacles like creeks and fallen logs to man-made ones like pool noodles and tarps, there are a bunch of unique and interesting ideas available. You can create your own course with a collection of...

It doesn’t matter what discipline you ride, circles are good for every horse and rider! In certain competitions like western dressage tests or reining patterns, the horse must complete a circle. Riding a perfectly round circle is much harder than one might imagine. The horse cannot drift in or out and must have the right...

Every trainer knows the importance of groundwork. Through various exercises, you can improve your communication and relationship with your horse. This can then be transferred to your under saddle work. It will also make your horse easier to handle and more responsive. One exercise in particular will teach your horse to be obedient and listen...

It’s inevitable! Almost all horses spook at some point or another. Some are definitely more spooky than others, but regardless you need to know to maintain your composure when it happens. A spook is when your horse becomes frightened of something. It could be a plastic bag, road sign, or even a deer or jogger....

Mustang Magic is a one-of-a-kind competition that illustrates the beauty and trainability of mustang horses. This event was held January 18th through 20th this year at the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo. The best trainers and their horses competed for cash and prizes. There were approximately 25 adult trainers. Each one spent roughly 100...

Mounted shooting is a thrilling sport that is fast-growing! More and more riders are taking an interest in it. With beginner levels, any rider can try their hand at it. In this discipline, riders work their way through a shooting pattern aboard their horse. It requires good horsemanship, a quiet horse, and steady hand. Getting...

Teaching your horse to collect under saddle is a great skill. It can take years of physical development for your horse to master collection. It’s a total body transformation! Your horse’s center of gravity shifts backwards and they become lighter on their forehand. While the idea may sound intimidating, there are plenty of simple exercises...

The flag is an important part of training your horse, especially if you hope for them to have a career in cutting. Many cow horse trainers call these devices mechanical cows. They teach your horse to respond to a moving object. The flag will stop, start, and change directions sporadically. This can be helpful in...