On 09/07/07, Judy Ryder <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: >> In natural horsemanship, how do we teach a horse to give to the bit? ... to tip his head left and right?<<
then:--- Wanda Lauscher <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: >> My limited understanding of this is that tipping the nose is a BIG no-no. What you want to achieve is for the horse to turn his head from the poll..<< The lateral flexion and giving to the bit are suppling exercises, not riding exercises. I do lateral flexion first from the ground in a halter, then graduate from the ground with the bit, and lastly in the saddle. I always ask my horse for lateral flexion in each direction several times after mounting and before ever taking the first step. I think this helps remind them that I am in charge from the saddle and it gets their minds focused before we set out on the trail. It also re-focuses them back on me when they get nervous on the trail. It's a reminder that I am there (they forget when they get nervous) and I'm in control, and they usually give a sigh and relax after flexing on the trail. It's something they know very well and thus, is reassuring to them. Susan in NV Nevermore Ranch http://users.oasisol.com/nevermore/ ____________________________________________________________________________________ Moody friends. Drama queens. Your life? Nope! - their life, your story. Play Sims Stories at Yahoo! Games. http://sims.yahoo.com/
