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How To Slow Down In An Open Field

How To Slow Down In An Open Field

Training Tips

Watch the Video Here or continue reading below

Learning how to control your horse in an open field is essential for every rider. Open spaces can be intimidating, but the techniques used here will help you maintain control without relying on heavy rein pressure. Here’s how to get your horse to slow down and stay relaxed in a big open field.

The Misconception About Open Fields

Many riders believe that a big open field causes a horse to run away. However, the open field itself isn’t the problem. The issue often lies in the level of control you have over your horse. If you can’t control your horse in an open field, it’s a sign you didn’t have full control in more confined spaces, such as a round pen or arena.

The Key to Slowing Down

Slowing your horse down in an open field isn’t about pulling back on the reins. Instead, it’s about redirecting their energy. Here are the steps to achieve this:

Step 1: Flex the Head

Start by ensuring your horse flexes well in both directions. Gently ask for their head to move left and right. This softens the horse and establishes your control over their head movement.

Step 2: Move the Hindquarters

Once your horse’s head is flexible, practice moving their hindquarters. Taking away their hind end power helps to prevent bucking, bolting, or rearing. When a horse’s hindquarters are disengaged, they lose their ability to push forward with force.

Step 3: Use Loose Reins

Let your horse move off on a loose rein. If they speed up without your cue, redirect them by pulling their head to one side and creating a circle. This technique discourages running or bolting by making straight lines less appealing, as that’s where they feel most powerful.

Redirecting With Purpose

When your horse speeds up, avoid pulling straight back on the reins. Instead:

  • Redirect to the Right: Touch and release the rein, guiding their head to the right while encouraging them forward.

  • Redirect to the Left: Switch sides once your horse softens on the first side. Use your outside hand to slide down the rein and gently pull their head to the left, creating a circle.

Repeat this process until the horse learns that every time they try to speed up, you will redirect their energy. This technique makes slowing down their idea, not yours.

Practice at All Gaits

Consistency is crucial. Practice these techniques at different gaits—walk, trot, canter, and even gallop. The goal is to teach your horse that they cannot run away, no matter the speed or setting. Keep your reins loose, as tightening them can create resistance and anxiety.

Why This Works

Straight lines are where a horse’s power comes from. By redirecting them into circles, you neutralize that power. Over time, your horse will stop trying to speed up and will naturally maintain a relaxed pace, even in a wide-open field.

Final Thoughts

If your horse can’t handle an open field, it’s a sign of incomplete training. Focus on controlling the head and hindquarters, then practice redirecting their energy in a calm, purposeful way. By using these techniques, you’ll achieve a new level of horsemanship and be able to ride confidently anywhere.

Try this method and share your results—we’d love to hear how it works for you! See you in the next post.

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HOW SAFE IS YOUR HORSE?

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There are some specific things that I believe every horse should be able to do before they are considered completely safe to ride. So that you can see how safe your horse is to ride, I’ve created this FREE Horse Safety Checklist.

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Meet The Author: Michael Gascon!

I'm a 5th-generation, world-renowned horse trainer. My training methods have given tens-of-thousands of people a direct, no B.S. guide to training their horse to create more confidence, more fulfillment, and more enjoyable times with their four-legged friends.

As riders, we all want our horses to achieve their potential, but many people struggle with the process to get there.

I'm here to help you achieve maximum performance, relaxation, and focus by teaching you The Language Of The Horse.

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