how do you go about breaking/backing a youngster?

[gonebananas]

Whats your routine? Do you do it a particular way different to everyone else? I know some people use the NH methods of join up etc. Just generally curious to how everyone else backs their youngsters.

Also what bits do you start them in?

 

[pixiebee]

I started off getting them used to tack, then leanig over there back in the stable until the were comfy. Then with someone holding, very slowly put my leg over and sit up slowly. When they are happy with all that, I then progress to walking with someone leading. You can either teach stop, .left right etc by longreining or riding with someone holding them on a longish rope so as they follow the leader, you can give a voice signal and command at the same time. I started mine off in a peewee bit. Simple and good for steering. They also seem to like the sweet iron. I dont care much for those bit with keys on as I think it can make some horses fussy.

 

[celia]

Establish voice commands in hand and/or on the lunge - 'whoa' being the most important! Get them comfortable with the tack then start leaning over, jumping next to, standing on block, etc etc. Then walk + trot with rider on the lunge - rider gradually taking over the commands, then it's time to get rid of the lunge line. Once they're used to the aids and completely confident in the school get them out hacking round the fields and down quiet lanes, sometimes in company, sometimes alone. Everything else is built on from there. Everyone will have their own systems but I think the basics behind them are the same. The most important thing IMO is to take your time and make sure every stage is properly established before you ask for anything more.