retraining w/out being mean

Question
I have a horse around 7 years old. I previously had a bad trainer who told me to use heavy bits, spurs, and to seesaw. Finally (after about 1 year) I realized I had only established having my horse dislike me:( We have a deeper connection now and I would like to progress. I would just like an idea of where to start him off. I plan to do english, jumping,maybe even some dressage to change things up. He pretty much knows only how to walk trot canter. I have not been using much contact for fear I will do him wrong again. I would like to establish a nice bend, collection, and later go on to bigger things. Any ideas of where to begin? When it gets nicer out Im hoping to trailer to a different barn for good lessons, but until then I would like to do something meaningful. Thank you

Answer
Hi Kelly,

Thank you for your question and congrats for being open to trying new methods with your horse and leaving your last trainer. Sounds like you are already off to a great start! First thing I would suggest is have your horses teeth checked and make sure his overall health is good. Next I'd go back to the basics. I'd begin by putting him in a smooth snaffle and doing some roundpen work and lunge line work. First just start by letting him get used to the bit, then gradually you can start working him off it on the ground, lots of flexion and transitions, to get him using himself well. When he is comfortable with the ground work, I'd start in a controlled space, a round pen would be ideal and just start at a walk. Ask him to give to the bit each way and allow him to get used to contact with the bit, that does not result in pain or fear. This may take a few rides or a few months, depends on the horse. When asking for collection, remember it all comes from your seat and legs and his hind end. Ideally you want to drive him into the bit and keep him in front of your leg, versus just picking up the reins and getting contact, which would stop your forward impulsion and that collection you seek. Lots of walk and trot transitions are a great way to start. Be sure to reward him often and remember he'll be using muscles he's never used before, so keep the sessions short at first. If you encounter him bracing against the bit, go back to some ground work, don't ever pull against him, that will only give him something to brace against. It sounds like you've got a great trusting relationship going with your horse now, so with a bit of subtle encouragement and praise, you'll have a smooth, collected, round horse in no time. Please let me know if you have any questions.

Happy Trails,

Jen