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In this 7th Grade Q & A session, horse trainer Michael Gascon – The Horse Guru – shared valuable insights into horsemanship, answering rider questions and demonstrating practical exercises. The focus was on spirals, softness, groundwork, and the importance of asking for more from your horse. This clinic was part of the Horse Hope Challenge, designed to motivate riders to keep progressing in their training journey.
Why Spirals Are a Rider’s Best Friend
One of the main exercises highlighted was the spiral, which Michael describes as his favorite tool for softening a horse. The spiral begins with a large circle and gradually becomes smaller, guiding the horse to give through one rein at a time. Since a horse is strongest when pulling in a straight line, spiraling them off-center makes it much harder for them to brace or resist.
Spirals encourage the horse to soften their face, unlock their body, and pay attention to the rider. By creating this crooked position, riders gain more control without relying on strength, which is especially important when working with horses that tend to lock up, rear, or bolt.
Correcting Common Problems with Spirals
Many riders encounter challenges when first introducing spirals. One common issue is a horse that anticipates the backup and locks its face. In this situation, the answer lies in persistence with pulsating pressure and well-timed release. Another common mistake occurs when horses over-flex, bringing their head too far around, sometimes even toward the rider’s boot. To correct this, Michael emphasizes that a horse should never be flexed past the point of the shoulder and chest. This position prevents the horse from hiding from pressure and ensures that the feet must move in response.
The Power of the Big Release
A major principle reinforced in the Q & A was the importance of the release. Horses learn by finding relief from pressure, so giving a “big release” at the right moment is critical. If a horse even leans back in response to pressure, that effort should be rewarded by softening the rein. Holding on too long “rides out the try,” teaching the horse that its effort was not the right answer.
Good horsemanship depends on fairness. Every time a horse makes an effort, however small, the rider should acknowledge it with release. This consistent timing encourages softness, builds trust, and keeps the horse motivated to try again.
Should You Ask for More?
Another common rider question is whether to be satisfied with a horse’s slower or minimal responses. Michael’s advice is clear: always ask for more. Progress is the foundation of good horsemanship. If the horse already understands the exercise, the rider should aim for a quicker response, a softer feel, or a smoother execution. Without this consistent push for improvement, horses can become dull, lazy, and inattentive. By always expecting progress, riders keep their horses sharp, engaged, and willing.
Spirals as a Trail Tool
Several riders commented on how useful spirals can be on the trail, especially when dealing with a horse that wants to rush ahead to catch up with the group. Spirals interrupt that forward pull and redirect the horse’s focus without relying on strength.
When asked whether it matters which direction the spiral is performed, Michael explained that both sides are important. However, he recommends spending more time on whichever side feels stiffer, comparing it to working the rust out of a hinge until it moves smoothly. The goal is not equal repetition, but rather eliminating resistance wherever it exists.
Interpreting Your Horse’s Expression
At times, horses will pin their ears or show displeasure during exercises like the spiral. Riders often wonder whether they should stop in response. Michael advises against it. As long as the horse is responding safely, its opinion does not determine the work. Allowing the horse’s mood to dictate the ride only reinforces resistance. Horses must learn to respond consistently on good days, bad days, hot days, or cold days.
How Far Should a Horse Back Up?
When it comes to backing, Michael recommends asking for just a little more than the horse is comfortable giving. In the beginning, this may only be a step or two. Over time, riders should gradually expect more. The more consistently a horse is backed, the softer they become and the better their stop develops. Backing is not just about movement in reverse; it is about building a foundation of responsiveness and respect.
Tack Considerations: Bridle vs. Halter
Some riders notice that their horses spiral well in a bridle but resist when switched to a halter. Michael suggests checking the placement of the clips and knots. If the halter is clipped too low or rides up the horse’s face, the pressure will not be effective. The higher the clip, the more pressure it creates. He also stresses the importance of avoiding a tug-of-war. Instead of using muscle, riders should rely on persistence and timing—creating friction with small, repeated cues until the horse softens.
Spirals on the Ground
Finally, the Q & A touched on groundwork. While spirals can be practiced from the ground, riders should avoid grabbing the halter directly. Instead, work outside the horse’s bubble using pulsating pressure. The same rules apply: ask with clarity, release immediately when the horse tries, and avoid pulling steadily, which only causes confusion and resistance.
Final Thoughts
The 7th Grade Q & A emphasized some of the most important lessons in horsemanship: spirals build softness, release is everything, and progress should always be the goal. Whether in the arena, on the trail, or during groundwork, riders must learn to use persistence, timing, and fairness to help their horses improve. By asking for just a little more each day and rewarding every effort with release, you create a horse that is softer, more respectful, and ultimately happier in the partnership.
