Lateral flexion under saddle is very similar to lateral flexion on the ground. The goal is to train your horse to respond to light pressure on the reins and keep pressure off the reins without you reminding him.
Lateral flexion is also the basis for the emergency stop or one-rein stop. This exercise is particularly important for energetic horses or spooky horses. Using the one-rein stop regularly and effectively leads to a horse that is respectful and stops on a dime.
Equipment
- Well fitted saddle
- Bridle with a snaffle bit (use a full cheek snaffle or attach a curb strap to prevent your horse from pulling the bit through his mouth)
- Strong supple reins
- Your horse should be able to flex laterally from the ground at anytime without resistance. If your horse is not able to do that yet continue practicing from the ground.
Description of the Exercise
- Mount up and get comfortable. (This exercise is great to do immediately after mounting up and last thing before you dismount)
- Take up both reins in your left hand.
- Keeping your right hand on the right rein, lift your left hand up past your left shoulder, slide your right hand down the right rein as far as you can comfortably and quickly.
- Bring your right hand to your right hip and hold it there. Your left hand should continue to hold both reins but your left rein should be loose so there is no contact with the bit. Make sure your right hand doesn't move. If it does grab a chunk of pant leg with the rein.
- Wait until your horse comes to a complete stop and relieves the pressure on the rein himself.
- When he moves his head to release the pressure on the rein drop the right rein and praise your horse.
My horse won't stop moving around, panics, or won't try to relieve the pressure on the reins.
Give your horse a little more time. He may just be having trouble making the connection. Also make sure you are not gripping with your legs. If your horse really just doesn't get it go back to working on the ground and make sure you have that exercise down solid before you reintroduce the exercise under saddle.
Final Words
Practice this exercise 5-10 times before you mount-up, after you mount-up while riding, before you dismount, and after you dismount. That means you should be doing this exercise 25-50 times each ride, especially while your horse is learning this exercise. By the end of one week most horses should be responding to your cues even if you are only holding the reins with your thumb and index finger. More stubborn horses may take longer, but keep with it. It took a long time for your horse to get that stubborn and it will take some time to undo it.
If you have any specific questions you can post comments or email me at miragesc03@gmail.com
Disclaimer: Horses are inherently dangerous and unpredictable. This blog is meant as a guide for horse handlers and is presented in the safest manner possible, however as the handler of the horse you must exercise your own judgment about the safety of yourself, your horse and others. Western Mirage Stable and its affiliates are not responsible or liable for any damage or injury resulting from the handling of any horse.
