5 Basics Every Horse Should Know: Part 5
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Video © 2008 Georgia Peck Schafer
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Disclaimer:
Horseback riding is potentially dangerous. Wear an equestrian safety helmet. Minors should be supervised by an adult at all times. Be around horses and ride at your own risk. I am not responsible for any harm or damages you may incur.

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Training Your Horse to Back

Do not practice backing your horse until AFTER he can do the other 4 basics almost perfectly! The reason for this is that a rider can mistakenly teach a horse some very bad habits, if they practice backing before the horse has become really soft and responsive. Even worse than becoming resistant, the horse might begin rearing as an evasive tactic.

 

Backing up is maneuver is often a part of Horsemanship and Equitation patterns at horse shows and it is a part of every Western Pleasure and Hunter Under Saddle class. It is an important part of many Trail Class patterns.

For best results with asking your horse to back, LESS IS MORE. Use your hands very softly and use your legs as the "gas pedal."

Begin practicing this on the ground, and practice it 15 times DAILY until the horse can do it almost perfectly.

You must be very patient and allow the horse time to understand what you are asking for. Be sure to praise the horse for doing the exercise correctly. In the beginning, the horse will be sloppy at this; the horse will improve a little bit with each new practice session.


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