Re-starting

[express_75]

Okay, so bought another sec d gelding at the cob sales, not much info given but so far hasn't put a foot wrong. Was broken in last year then turned away from September to May.
Since I've had him (just over 2 weeks) I've had his back done & he's been shod, also had my native pony saddle adjusted to fit him.
I've sat on him once then gave him a week off as suggested by the backman. His back & shoulders were in need of treatment & I'll have him seen to again as was very tight.
Walked him 4 miles in hand yesterday and he's a total Saint with anything encountered. Today I lunged him with tack on and afterward did some leaning on him and then got my helper to leg me up with the intention of sitting on him again. He got really upset and began reversing just as I was about to sit then looked petrified. Poor thing.
So do I treat him as if he's never been ridden before? He did some ridden shows last year and some hacking. That's all I know as the seller didn't want to keep in touch.
Any advice if be appreciated

 

[WelshD]

My pony has been restarted recently. The lady he went to did a lot of groundwork and long reining as if starting from scratch, building up the pony's confidence and strength but once rebacked the pony progressed much faster from there (if that makes sense)

 

[express_75]

My pony has been restarted recently. The lady he went to did a lot of groundwork and long reining as if starting from scratch, building up the pony's confidence and strength but once rebacked the pony progressed much faster from there (if that makes sense)

Thanks. Yes it makes sense. I'm currently doing lots of ground work with him & he's just so good about everything so I don't want to rush him and set us back. I suppose I just find him a bit nervous about the saddle & the initial getting on so I'm taking a few steps back.

 

[Pearlsasinger]

But you DID rush, you leaned over his back for the first time, then sat on him in the same session. You just need to slow down a bit and I am sure all will be well.