Are you having trouble turning? Is your horse drifting? Are you pulling on the inside rein with little success? You’re not alone! Many riders encounter this issue, and the more you pull on the inside rein, the more your horse over-bends and drifts to the outside. In this video, we’ll explore why this happens and share a simple, effective trick to regain control.
Over-bending occurs when a rider relies too heavily on the inside rein to steer, neglecting the crucial role of the outside aids. While the inside rein creates flexion, it’s the outside rein, leg, and upper thigh that turn your horse’s body and maintain balance. When these aids are forgotten, your horse may turn its head inward but the body will drift outward, disrupting the circle or line of travel.
This not only throws your horse off balance but also places them on the forehand, making steering and maintaining a rhythm more challenging.
If your horse starts to over-bend and drift to the outside, try this simple exercise:
- Small Circle Reset – If you feel like you can’t turn left, first redirect your horse to the right and ride a small circle to reestablish control over the right rein and right leg.
- Return to the Left – After completing the small circle, guide your horse back to the left, but avoid over-bending. Focus on keeping your horse slightly straighter or even a subtle counter-flexion. This helps engage the outside rein and prevents your horse’s shoulder from drifting outward.
By using this technique, you’ll regain control of your horse’s shoulders and bring them back into alignment. The key to proper turning lies in mastering your outside aids (and inside aids!). Here’s a quick refresher on how to use your aids to turn and bend your horse properly:
- Outside Rein: To turn and prevent your horse from drifting outward.
- Outside Leg (Behind the Girth): Encourages your horse to stay on track and prevents the hindquarters from swinging out.
- Outside Upper Thigh: Adds subtle guidance to maintain your horse’s balance and direction.
- Inside Leg: Moves your horse over into the outside aids.
- Inside Rein: Asks your horse for a little flexion in the direction of the bend.
When applied correctly, these aids work together to create smooth, controlled turns and circles.
Understanding the importance of your outside aids and using corrective exercises like small circles can transform how your horse responds during rides. These adjustments not only improve steering but also promote balance and harmony between horse and rider.
Happy Riding!
Amelia
P.S. Just a friendly reminder that today is the LAST day Amelia’s Ultimate Groundwork Superpack is being offered. This is TWO masterclasses in one and includes an awesome bonus of a two-month free trial in Strides with Amelia! Learn more and join the course here.
