slow down

Question
I have a wonderful 14 yr.old paint gelding.Had him for 4 years and enjoy trail riding around our property.He really is a joy to be around and is very willing. He was quite well trained at one time, then sat idle for 5 or 6 years before I got him.I do not ride every day, but I at least groom him daily.I may ride 2 or 3 days in a row then not for a week then perhaps every other day.I ride western and use a wonder bit or an eggbut snaffle.I have a 40 foot round pen.My problem is most of the time he speeds at the walk almost to the point where it isnt enjoyable. I sometimes ride him in the round pen first and we do a one rein stop when he starts to pick up speed. Some times it helps , other times he seems confused as to what I want him to do, which is slow down and enjoy the scenery.When this happens he gets even quicker. By this I mean he takes faster shorter strides, and the head comes up a little higher.I sit a little deeper and do turns   to try and get him focused again but as times it just doesnt work. He does not jig or break into a trot, nor does he misbehave by bucking. It just seems that he tries to rush through what is being asked of him and becomes very fustrated.I would like any advice on how to slow him down and get his attention when he gets like this .His teeth are done yearly too. I do not think it is a bit issue as he seems to tolerate them well. Any advice will be well appreciated. thanks ,, Marie

Answer
Hi Marie!

This is very simple to fix.  I would longe him at all 3 gaits before every ride and even on days you cannot ride.  Have him perform everything on voice commands including collection of his gaits....this is what is important to you on your rides, right?  So give him some training to fall back on when you want him to collect under saddle.

Longeing will keep his body fit and his mind focused on you, tire him out for a calm ride and teach him the cues  you want to use to communicate your desires, no matter how subtle.  Such as "walk slower, please".

Correct longeing exercises can work out the kinks in a training enviroment so you can enjoy the ride!

Good luck and remember to always wear an ASTM/SEI approved helmet!

Solange