Horse control seems simple only as long as the person does not move from theory to practice. And at that moment, everything changes completely. Perhaps the first problem that beginners face, after being able to climb into the saddle and start moving, is how to stop the horse.
Instructions
Step 1
Remember the basic rule: you cannot try to stop the horse by pulling on the reins with all your might. This is a basic mistake that almost everyone makes. It is enough just to pull them towards you. Otherwise, you will cause unnecessary inconvenience to the animal, without achieving the desired result.
Step 2
Don't just use the occasion. Not every trainer pays increased attention to this, but one of the principles of horse management is that any command, in addition to using the reins, involves some other action on the part of the rider. In case you want to stop the horse, you must also use the leg, pressing them harder against the horse's sides. Do not try to push the skin with them, just lower it below the heel, and the horse will feel more pressure. At the same time, move the center of gravity slightly back, leaning back due to the deflection in the lower back, and turn your shoulders (it is better if your posture remains perfect all the time).
Step 3
Pay attention to the position of your hands. They should not be raised or lowered too high, they should not be crossed or pushed too far forward, it is forbidden to bend the hands. There is only one position in which painless contact can be made between you and the horse through the reins, and you will have to memorize it until holding this position becomes automatic. It is necessary to focus on the line from the elbow to the bit: it must be straight.
Step 4
Calm down and group if the horse suddenly starts to move. Only then begin to apply the methods of stopping the horse known to you. Do not use a whip unnecessarily, especially if the horse is just scared. Moreover, in this situation, concentrate not on stopping the horse, but on staying in the saddle, especially if the classes are held in the gym: soon it will go from canter to walk on its own.
