teaching to move forward under saddle

Question
I have a 4 year old paint stud, that I got 2 years ago. he was abused by his previous owner, but since I befriended him he will do anything for me, except go forward when i'm in the saddle. When I get on him, he just stands there.(no matter how hard I kick him. When I pullon the reins he either backs up or turns, he doesn't take a single step forward. I've tried having someone lead him, but once they go away, he stops. HELP!

Answer
Hello Anna,

Thank you for your question.


I hope this can help you.

What I want you to try is when you are ready for your horse to walk off in the forward motion first relax, pull one rein as if you are going to turn your horse (this knocks the horse off balance and encourages him to move his feet), then tap him on the shoulder (or hindquarters if your can reach the area comfortably and with out knocking your body position off)  with a riding crop. Continually tap him until he responds to the que by moving forward. Remember when the horse starts to move forward release the rein pressure or he will start to turn or will start pulling against the rein.


Make sure you are not applying rein pressure when you are asking him to move forward in some cases this could be the reason the horse is backing up.

Also before you start working your horse make sure he or she is warmed up and ready to work. Make sure you have done your flexing exercises it will make training under saddle a bit easier when the horse is already warm, flexible, and ready to learn.


Thanks again for your question...

Please keep me posted on your progress.


Thanks,

Geneva