as it should be done, your horsey must become supple to your hand through his jaw and poll, as well as through his whole body. It’s Horsey 101. (It’s also balance, collection, looseness, connection, impulsion…)
But getting back to my Friesian Percheron friend. Just to give you an idea of this adolescent moose, I can just see over his withers standing next to him. When that great big, clunky head greets you at the door, he says,“You here to visit?” You say: “Here with pie!”
The front end—way out there in front, is not connected to the hind end—way back out there. If it were, when you used the reins to stop, something would happen behind. Nothing happens. Riding a runaway plow.
The first week of training, I led him around in the bridle. Leading him with just the rope halter was like he led me, well kinda shoved me outa the way in a lovingly personal, gentle giant kinda way. I didn’t take it personal, but I did do something about it. Horses have to learn to rate themselves with you, both riding, and on the ground while leading.
I always stride faster than they do because I want to pick the speed, so they learn to follow. It’s an easy way to become the leader.
It’s a great opportunity to show your horse you are in charge and he can relax with that. “Life is good” is really about developing that concept. You lead, they follow.* That’s what makes confident horses (and riders).
Bringing your level of horsemanship up (so your horse can cope with you) always means you have made the decision to educate yourself—to climb out of that stale box your in.** Nobody’s ever asked ya to be slick enough to slide on barb wire, right? No excuses. Be strong to the finish, and just eat yer spinach (or kale), and ride up the trail again!
* With giant sized feet, staying light on yer feet means keeping yer toes.
** A-gah-gah-gah-gah-gah-gah!? ~ Popeye