Like trying to drive with the handbrake on...

[dwi]

D is now working in a nice consistent contact in walk and trot and some of the time in canter. She's soft onto the bit and apart from when she's gawping at the pheasant pen she is happy to flex through her neck.

Our sticking point is that she is slow beyond belief when working in a contact. She sees contact/impulsion as a bit of an either/or and no amount of threats and kicking seems to persuade her to combine the two. She's physically capable of it, as has been proved when RI flicks a lunge whip at her bottom, she just chooses not to.

Any tips?

 

[diggerbez]

i'm sure you know this but you really need to try not to nag. i'd rather give one almighty pony club boot and then keep legs still than constant kicking. how do you feel about spurs?

 

[Louby]

Hi, agree with diggerbez. Its hard not too as my boy will do as much as he wants too unless pushed. I was taught that a horse can feel a fly land on it so should feel and go off the slightest aid and to squeeze like hes a toothpaste tube

I know but that was the explanation given

. If you dont get a reaction thaen back it up with your schooling whip. After a few attempts they do get the idea.