using a whip in a dressage test...

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wench

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after my horse decided to have a tantrum in a dressage test on sunday.

Going to another one on saturday, and hoping that he wont do the same. But this time i was thinking about taking a whip in with me (I never have used one in dressage test before), so I can give him a flick with it if needed.

What would a judge think to that (I'm not talking about belting him, just trying to tell him he is being very naughty)
 
As long as you are discreet with it then it is absolutely fine. One think to remember though is, dont change the whip into other hand when changing the rein, looks untidy in a test, and also, dont salute with the whip in your hand!
 
what's the point of carry whip unless you have intendion of using it ................ IMO you shouldn't use whip in same fashion as you would whilst schooling, but can defo use as back up your leg aids
Have you thought about spurs instead??????
 
I have never used spurs before, and the horse hasnt had anyone riding him with spurs on in the last two years, so prob not a good idea.

Was just an idea to see if it would stop him acting like a toddler having a tantrum
 
i prefer spurs route, as again they are only a back up aid and leaves you hands free and if he's more off leg should stop peeing around in test and you can start with nice kind ones
tongue.gif
 
I can understand people saying what is the point in carrying a whip if you dont need one - my horse doesnt need a whip, but sometimes, just to have one there as back up, also so they will know if you are carrying a whip so may be more respectful. I had to start riding in spurs for a championships as we werent allowed to carry a whip, but some horses really dont like them, and if you havent ridden your horse in them before and you are competing this weekend, i would stick with what you both know, then maybe after the weekend, practice in spurs and get used to them. The last thing you want is to wear them at the weekend, and the horse be even worse because he isnt used to them.
 
I have bought some Mark Todd roller ball spurs recently. My horse is thin skinned and was marked by normal spurs. I hasten to add not from 'overuse'(!) as my other horse never ever had a mark and my aids are same for both. These new spurs are ace. The horse knows they are there but no marking whatsoever. I think they are recommended for horses never having had a spur and the ones that are upset by normal ones
 
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