Bits Leaning

[Charlotte150]

Hello, I have a 6 year old and he is becoming very heavy on the riders hands ,as he was badly schooled he has found this as a way of balance re schooling him isn't a problem its just getting him to pick his head up I can cope with it as I am able to hold him but and gradually get him to lift his head up and of my hands but when younger children ride him he un-nerves them by putting all his weight into their hands and then he continues to do it more.Has anyone else had the same problem or got any suggestions on bits or anything?
Thank you
All suggestions greatly received.

 

[nosenseofdirection]

This is probably not what you are supposed to do, but I would drop the reins once or twice so he learns he can't rely on them for balance! Only in the school where he will not get hurt if he stumbles. Other than that, lots of transitions to get him off his forehand, maybe a bit of hill work out hacking to strengthen his back end and get him using it more do he balances himself better. Good luck!

 

[Suziq77]

Totally agree with the transitions and hill work out hacking to get him using his back end. He needs to learn to carry himself, use his hocks to push from behind and lift his back. The more work you can do like that the better and it should then become easier for him in the school.

I sometimes use a magennis snaffle to combat the tendency to lean in the school but that is always in conjunction with an experienced pair of eyes on the ground. Bits on their own won't solve the problem - the tendency can be to go stronger and stronger when what is really needed is to get the youngster using themselves properly.

I also lunge with two reins or use a pessoa or a chambon, depending on the horse in question, after consultation with the same pair of eyes that watches me ride the horse.