Instructors and pessoa's...?

XmisshorsestyleX

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My instructor advised me against using a pessoa but im unsure whether she knows what the benefits are, shes very anti gadget, good old fashioned type and says the gadget will only work when it is on it wont solve any ridden problems. Which to an extent I would agree, but surely it helps the horse develop the correct muscle to be able to step through in ridden work. My horse happily lunges in one very loosely, seeking a contact and stepping through. This is what I like about pessoas, there is no pressure used to "pin" the horse down, but more of a point in the right direction.
So im wondering what do all your trainers think about Pessoa's?
Does anyone have the same view as my instructor, id like to hear your side aswell.

Thanks in advance
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All mine love them - as you say it builds up the correct muscles and teaches them to carry themselves in the correct way - without forcing them down.
 
I was told to use one by the vet as it builds the correct muscle and strengthens the back. I haven't ridden my horse since the vet put us on a 12 lunging programme but we're hoping to see an improvement in ridden work due to him carrying himself better.
The vet also commented that with regular use the horse will learn to lunge in the correct outline even without the pessoa.
 
My vet advised me to use one, he uses one on his horses to build up muscle after being laid off work - if its good enough for him its good enough for me...
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yep I argee with everything said. I like the fact that it takes the pressure of a horse because they can go in a correct way of going without a rider. It can also help with issues such as straightness and a horse relunctant to accept a contact...
 
It was my instructor who recommended using one and my horses chiropractor (who is also a BHSAI and been round Badminton) says they are fantastic and told me to carry on using one as shes uses it with all her horses.....think she can ride??!! ha ha ha!
 
Your not alone, my instructor doesn't really like them. She's a fantastic rider and instructor and very into complementory therapies being a qualified equine massues (sp??) and healer, she thinks that with time and effort you can make your horse work naturally and correctly on the lunge without the pessoa (getting the same results).

I can really see why there useful though and would use one myself.
 
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