Turning your horse effectively is a challenge many riders face. Riders often rely too heavily on the inside rein, which can lead to imbalances and ineffective turns. Here I’ll help you master the correct aids and body positioning for smooth, balanced turns.
The Correct Aids for Turning
The primary aids for turning are your inside leg at the girth and your outside rein. These work together to guide your horse:
- Inside leg: Encourages your horse’s body to bend and provides impulsion.
- Outside rein: Controls the shoulders and maintains alignment on the circle or turn.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
- Overusing the Inside Rein
Many riders try to turn by pulling on the inside rein. This often causes the horse’s head to turn inward while their body drifts outward. To correct this, focus on using your outside rein and leg to prevent the body from drifting out.
- Neglecting the Outside Aids
Without proper support from the outside aids, your horse’s shoulders may drift out. Ensure your outside rein and leg guide the horse throughout the movement.
- Unbalanced Body Position
Riders may twist their body in the turn, disrupting their horse’s balance. Keep your shoulders parallel to the horse’s shoulders while your hips stay aligned with their back.
Practice Turning Without the Inside Rein
A great exercise to refine your aids is to practice turning with only your outside rein and inside leg. At the walk:
- Begin a circle using your opening inside rein, inside leg and outside rein.
- Gradually give on the inside rein, proving to yourself that it’s not necessary for turning.
- Repeat in both directions to build confidence and control.
Start at the Walk
Mastering the turn begins at the walk, where you can focus on precision without the added momentum of the trot or canter. Once you’re confident at the walk, progress to faster gaits while maintaining the same principles.
Key Takeaways
Turning your horse correctly relies on the harmony of inside leg and outside rein, supported by correct alignment. Avoid the common pitfall of overusing the inside rein, and practice exercises that emphasize the importance of outside aids. By mastering these techniques, you’ll achieve smooth, balanced, and effective turns.
Happy riding!
Amelia
