Ideas needed to get a horse going forward!

[ChestnutConvert]

I have a 5 yr old that hasn't done much so is basically a bit like a 3/4 yr old. He hs a lazy streak and i need some ideas to make him more off the leg.
I know i need to keep things interestng so i vary the work that we do, inm and out of the saddle.

Any tips of getting him off my leg and working more forward??

 

[ghostie]

I find hacking out with some forward going fizzy ponies (pref ridden by the kind of kids that whiz everywhete) can do wonders

 

[GeeUp&Go]

Sounds basic, but is he in a mild bit, so he can actually move forwards?

Also, I am a big fan of galloping horses to perky them up, even with youngsters (as long as you can stop!!). Some of my best schooling happens after hes down 10 gallops up the field!

i also school in the field, so they are a bit fresher and the "freedom" makes them move on a bit better - Itll probably be easier for a baby to keep his balance in a big space, too.

Just a few ideas. xxx

 

[GeeUp&Go]

and ditto hacking with fizzy ponies/horses!

 

[AmyMay]

I have a 5 yr old that hasn't done much so is basically a bit like a 3/4 yr old. He hs a lazy streak and i need some ideas to make him more off the leg.

Then he's quite probably not lazy, simply uneducated........

 

[jeeve]

1. Don't ride in an arena or small space - ride out in big open paddocks, with others or not
2. Pick a focus in the distance - ride to it, stop let him rest for a minute or two, pick another focus, don't let your focus waiver - have as much life and energy as you can possibly muster in your body
3. Teach your horse the go forward lesson on the ground, and in the saddle, with a whip to back you up, if needs be.

 

[Zimzim]

Hacking out will get him going more forwards and encourage him to stride out and build up confidence.

Long-reining helps too, encourages them to go forwards, I do this before I get on any of my youngsters and they seem to respect my leg aids better and happily work forwards when ridden.