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