Ex racehorse and teaching leg aids

[Aabri]

I have just started reschooling an ex racehorse. He is sweet and seems willing but does not understand the leg aids.

I am trying to keep the sessions very short and want to create building blocks so he doesn't get confused and frustrated when he doesn't understand what I am asking.

My question is about how I can reinforce the leg aids without having to use the whip harshly as I don't want to instil tension and fear when being ridden? I guess longeing and teaching voice commands is a good place to start then taking it into the saddle but I just wanted to know if anybody with experience with ex racers could give me any ideas or what they may have done in the past.

Thanks for any help

 

[Dry Rot]

There's another thread on starting horses which is quite interesting. Maybe post there?

I don't think harsh treatment ever teaches anything much but teaching voice commands sounds good to me.

 

[Charlie007]

I have just started re training my ex racer. MY problem is my lower leg nags him forward so I'm having to be tough with myself by sending him forward, getting a reaction then leaving him alone. We had our first lesson on monday, I schooled him again last night and he is already getting the jist. Second lesson this coming Monday so I hope my trainer notices a difference!! Good luck with your horse, they really are fantastic horses x

 

[stormox]

Ive schooled a few, I lunge them and teach them that a click with the tongue meeans 'move forward' or 'more impulsion' then when theyv learnt the voice commands use them when riding and introduce leg aids in conjunction with voice.
I certainly wouldnt re-enforce with a whip!!! The reaction you create is one you have to deal with, and a jag in the mouth because he took off wudnt be fair. TBs are usually very responsive once they understand whats wanted.