Go backward to go forward

I recently read a post by Howards Hooves and Hounds about the importance of backing up to build a better forward horse.  This was such a good reminder.  Does your horse back up with a relaxed and straight body position?  Can your horse even back?  

Why backing your horse regularly is important

Backing up requires the horse to use the muscles in the hind end.  The horse learns to bring the back legs up and under himself.  This strengthens the back and hind end and teaches the horse to be light on the forehand.  

Because the movement naturally lifts the back and stretches the stomach muscles it also benefits horses with back and stifle issues.

How to teach your horse to back up

From the ground: (Tools: halter and dressage whip or other training aid)

With your free hand place gentle pressure on the bridge of your horse’s nose while thinking of the horse backing up.  The moment your horse thinks about taking a step backwards, reward by releasing the pressure.  Continue this until the horse will back up several steps with just light pressure on the nose from your hand our the halter.

If the horse won’t respond to the pressure, use the dressage whip to tap on the leg. The goal is to start so light that your pressure is just a whisper.  Then increase until the desired response is achieved.

After a few lessons, if the horse will back but does not move until the pressure is increased, assess your release of pressure.  You need to make sure the release happens as soon as the horse begins to move.  Once the horse moves just one step at the slightest pressure you can increase the requirement slowly until the horse will move backwards at a relaxed steady pace until the pressure stops.  

In the saddle: 

When a horse braces it cannot back up.  Start by traveling forward, yield the hind end and then ask for a step backward.  If the horse takes a step backward, release the rein pressure and reward the horse with a stroke of the neck.  If the horse braces and cannot step back, ask the horse to go forward again until it is relaxed, yield the hind end again and then ask for a step backward. Repeat this process until the horse catches onto the idea and will backward with a relaxed frame.  

Interested in video instruction? Equestrian Coach has a great video to help you work through any issues with backing your horse up. Use coupon code uponahorse for 10% off.