I had a zoom call with some students recently, and I was struck by how many were turning their horses like cars! This is a mistake we all make in the beginning but it is important not to turn your horse like a car because it throws them off balance!
One of the most common mistakes I see is riders trying to turn when their reins are too long. This is problematic because rather than making subtle rein aids to turn your horse, you have to do big exaggerated movement with your arms to communicate with your horse!
The second mistake is the aforementioned “car turn” where your outside hand comes up and over the horses’ neck as if you were turning the steering wheel.
The correct way to turn is as follows. If we’re coming down the rail and want to turn right.
- Close outside rein for a half-halt
- Use your outside leg and rein to push the horse away from the rail
- Open the inside rein away from the neck to get the horse flexing in the direction of travel
- Execute a perfect turn!
The aid is much more subtle when done correctly and it is important to remember that ideally your horse is turning more from your leg and seat and less from the rein aids.
Another mistake I encounter a lot is riders leaning in the turns like they are riding a bicycle! Learning into your turns will cause the horse to fall to the inside and go on the forehand.
If you’re having trouble with getting your horse to turn, here is another video that might help you.
Have a look at this video and let me know if you find it helpful in the comments!
