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Neck Reining Part 1

Neck Reining Part 1

Training Tips

Watch the Video Here or continue reading below

Are you ready to elevate your horse training skills? Today, we’re diving into the foundational steps of neck reining. With my equine partner, Mr. Rocket—a young Percheron-Rocky Mountain cross colt—we’ll explore how to transition your horse from two-handed riding to one-handed mastery. This shift opens up a world of possibilities, from mounted archery to roping, polo, and more. Let’s get started!

Why Neck Reining Matters

The Benefits of Riding One-Handed

  • Versatility: A free hand allows you to engage in various disciplines like roping or archery.

  • Precision: Mastering one-handed riding enhances your horse’s responsiveness and your control.

  • Safety: With better steering, you can navigate challenging situations with confidence.


Step 1: Understanding the Starting Point

Where Your Horse Is Now

Many horses begin their training with two-handed riding. Whether you’re working with a young colt, a gaited horse, or an English-trained horse, this method focuses on direct rein cues. For instance:

  • To turn right, you pull the right rein, directing the horse’s head.

While effective, this approach primarily steers through the head rather than engaging the shoulders—a key difference we’ll address.


Step 2: Introducing Pivoting

The Foundation of Neck Reining

Pivoting is the cornerstone of neck reining. Here’s how to start:

  1. Visual Cue: Look in the direction you want to turn (e.g., right).

  2. Outside Rein Warning: Begin using the outside rein as a cue before applying the inside rein.

  3. Reinforcement: Apply outside leg pressure to guide the turn.

By adding slight pressure with the outside rein, you teach your horse to steer with its shoulders rather than over-flexing the head.


Step 3: Shaping the Response

Building Shoulder Control

As your horse begins to understand the pivoting cue, focus on these adjustments:

  • Use the outside rein as a boundary, preventing the horse from over-flexing.

  • Open the inside rein less, encouraging the horse to rely on the outside rein for direction.

  • Reward the correct response by immediately releasing pressure.


Step 4: Transitioning to One-Handed Riding

From Two Hands to One

Once your horse shows consistent progress, begin riding one-handed:

  1. Directional Cues: Use the hand corresponding to the turn direction (e.g., right hand for a right turn).

  2. Return to Neutral: After turning, bring your hand back to the withers to signal straight movement.

  3. Leg Aids: Reinforce turns with precise leg pressure.

If your horse over-corrects or gets stuck, use gentle bumps with the rein to guide them.


Setting Up for Success

Repetition and Clarity

Success comes from clear, consistent training. Practice turning in the same direction multiple times before switching. This repetition helps your horse anticipate and understand the desired response.

Preparation Matters

Each layer of training builds on the last. A well-prepared horse moves seamlessly through each stage, making the transition to one-handed riding smoother and more enjoyable.


Conclusion

Mastering neck reining transforms your riding experience. It enhances communication, opens up new disciplines, and builds a stronger bond between you and your horse. With consistent practice, your two-handed horse will soon excel as a one-handed partner. Stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll take these skills to the next level!

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Promotional image featuring Michael Gascon with his horse, used to promote the Horse Safety Free PDF Checklist. Encouraging horse enthusiasts to download the checklist for essential safety tips and guidelines.

HOW SAFE IS YOUR HORSE?

Can you control every part of his body, even if he’s scared or unsure?

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.

The only requirement? The desire to learn more and have FUN with your horse.

HOW CAN WE HELP YOU HAVE FUN WITH YOUR HORSE?