Don’t Over look the Walk!

Don’t overlook the walk!

During the winter months, when the days get colder and we may not be able to do as much intense work, it’s a great time to spend some extra time training the walk.

The walk is a gait we don’t always spend enough time working on because, frankly, it can be boring! But the score for the walk is just as important as your canter depart or a line of changes.

Start by allowing your horse to stretch the neck long and low. Then, as you gradually shorten the reins, pay close attention to any tension your horse may develop. Tension can cause the back to stiffen, which can result in a lateral walk or a shortened stride.

While working on the walk, take time to halt and ask your horse to stand quietly. Remember, there are two centerlines in the test that require an immobile halt.

And what about the rein-back?

A client of mine watched the World Equestrian Games and commented that many of the rides didn’t have a particularly good-quality rein-back. That observation really stuck with me.

I work with my horses so that they take one deliberate step back and then stand quietly. Once I have control of that individual step, I can begin asking for multiple steps while maintaining the same quality and control.

The walk, halt, and rein-back may not be the most exciting movements to train—and frankly, they’re boring!

But these are the movements where we can add points.

Take advantage of those “boring” moments. The little details can make a big difference in your score.