How do you teach neck reining?

[Kokopelli]

I just started playing polocrosse on Koko and would like to teach him how to neck rein, he turns very well from body position and leg but I'm sure neck reining will be good to know

I taught my old games pony years ago to do it but I honestly can't remember how I taught him :/

 

[ironhorse]

We have to teach the western horses cos like you, we ride one handed.
If he'll turn from your leg and seat that's a great start. Then as you apply the outside leg you need to lay the outside rein against his neck -hmm it's easier with split reins, but you'll manage!
See if you can ride down the three quarter line of the school and put in some little circles just using the outside rein and your leg, then ride straight for a few strides before the next circle. Only use your inside rein as a quick correction if you go off course, then release it again.
If you really want some expert tuition, how about a lesson with Shane Borland - he played polocrosse for South Africa and is now a top western trainer.
Have a look at www.borlandquarterhorses.co.uk - he's just outside Warwick.

 

[Kokopelli]

We have to teach the western horses cos like you, we ride one handed.
If he'll turn from your leg and seat that's a great start. Then as you apply the outside leg you need to lay the outside rein against his neck -hmm it's easier with split reins, but you'll manage!
See if you can ride down the three quarter line of the school and put in some little circles just using the outside rein and your leg, then ride straight for a few strides before the next circle. Only use your inside rein as a quick correction if you go off course, then release it again.
If you really want some expert tuition, how about a lesson with Shane Borland - he played polocrosse for South Africa and is now a top western trainer.
Have a look at www.borlandquarterhorses.co.uk - he's just outside Warwick.

Thankyou IH That's really helpful I'll try it tomorrow when I school him. I might get a lesson with him for christmas as he does look very good.

 

[fluffalina]

it can be useful to use a little direct rein too - use the outside rein first and then reinforce with the inside rein which will be more easily understood at first, and they will begin to know what coming next. It's also helpful as you want the horse to look in the direction of travel and this will encourage the nose to tip in the right direction.