How to make a horse walk where it doesn't want to go?

[Sylvie-1]

I have a lesson tomorrow and because it's going to be sunny we'll be hacking in the woods. I know I'm going to get put on a pony that I don't like very much because my favourite plays up to much and my second favourite is deemed too forward.

This pony is really clever and he is constantly thinking about where he wants to walk and makes his own path avoiding puddles and mud but getting me caught in trees in the process.
How do I make him go the way I want to go?

 

[Equi]

Ask your teacher for tips. It will all come down to lateral movement and if the pony doesn't know that, it won't work. If it does, then you need to ask the teacher to show you how to do that.

Alternatively learn to duck, its great practice for TREC lol

 

[Keith_Beef]

I've been on horses that don't like to walk into mud or into puddles, and I've been out with somebody else on a horse that has the same aversions...

When we're on a path that's wide enough, I let the horse find his own path, especially if we're going up or down a steep slope or if the ground is very uneven (lots of stones or rocks, or lots of tree roots); the horse takes care of where he puts his feet and I concentrate on ducking under branches.

On a narrow path, the horse will perhaps refuse to go into deep mud or a puddle, but can't go off the path... so what can you do? It helps if there's another in the group who can show that there's no danger in stepping into the mud or puddle. And sometimes it can help to turn around or back up, and then come at it at a trot, especially if there are friends on the other side.

 

[Shay]

Some horses don't like to walk in mud or puddles. Mostly its not a problem. Speak to your instructor and tell them that you are worried riding this particular pony and would like some help with him. Make sure you are wearing proper Johds (don't hack in shorts) and a long sleeved top to keep you from scratches. As you get more effective in your riding you will be able to influence him better - but for right now just ask for help.

 

[Sylvie-1]

Thank you all for replying, last week he managed to wedge me between two trees and it twisted my knee so I'm a bit wary about riding him.

I know it's my fault not his, I just really want to be a better rider

 

[Keith_Beef]

Make sure you are wearing proper Johds (don't hack in shorts) and a long sleeved top to keep you from scratches.

On trail rides, I always wear long sleeves, and if it's cool enough I'll wear my Barbour jacket just for the sleeves; we have a lot of dog roses and brambles, and hawthorn and black locust trees.

 

[ycbm]

The mistake most beginners make is that they turn the horse's head in the direction of the puddle they want the horse to walk through so that they don't get mashed by a tree. You need to turn the head away from the direction you want it to move and push it over with your leg. And if the horse is moving towards a tree, turn the head towards the tree and push it away with your leg.

I hope that helps on your next hack.