Confused about how to establish a steady contact with your horse? In this video, I’m working with my husband, Germán, and a young mare, Poppy, to walk you through the fundamentals of establishing that elusive, consistent yet soft feel in the reins.
Contact is one of the trickiest elements of riding, especially with young or green horses. It is so important because it gives you control over energy, balance, turning, and transitions. Inconsistent contact can make everything feel unbalanced, while a steady connection creates harmony and clarity. If you’re struggling with curling, fussiness, or an unsteady connection, take my free 30-second Contact & Connection Quiz. It will help you pinpoint the issue and give you a custom plan to move forward. Take the quiz here.
Start with Forward
Before anything else, get your horse going forward. Without energy, there’s nothing to connect to. Focus on a clear rhythm, and ride forward into a soft hand. Check-in with your position—maintain a straight line from elbow to bit, with elastic elbows that follow the motion.
Ride the Right Tempo
Contact improves when your horse moves in a steady, active tempo. Too slow, and they won’t reach into the rein; too fast, and balance is lost. Find the tempo that feels forward but in balance and controlled.
Use Inside Leg to Outside Rein
Once you’ve established forward with energy and tempo, ride on a circle and push your horse gently from your inside leg into the outside rein. This helps stabilize the contact and creates flow through the body. If your horse gets fussy, ride more forward—most contact issues start with a lack of energy.
Reward Steadiness
When your horse offers a steady connection, reward them. Walk, give a pat, or take a break. These moments teach your horse that steadiness is the right answer.
I hope these tips help give you a better idea of what a steady contact is and how to achieve it with your horse.
Happy Riding!
Amelia
P.S. If you want to better understand your horse’s specific contact challenges, don’t forget to take my free Contact & Connection Quiz. It’s quick and will guide you to a tailored training plan that fits your horse’s needs. Take the quiz here.
