Horse Training
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The Thunderdome: Horse Desensitization Training for Real-World Confidence
The Thunderdome is a controlled horse training environment designed to prepare horses and riders for unexpected movement, distractions, and pressure. Through obstacle work, group riding, games, and changes of direction,...
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Do's And Don'ts Of 1st Grade - Undivided Attention
First Grade training, as taught by Michael Gascon, focuses on developing undivided attention and respect through intentional groundwork—not traditional lunging. By using proper hand positions, close proximity, and clear body...
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Bits Intro Video #2
In this deep dive into Part 2 of Michael Gascon’s bit series, we explore how bit design affects communication, responsiveness, and training efficiency. Michael explains why pressure isn’t about punishment—it’s...
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Getting Your Horse's Attention With Belle Day 1
In this training session with Belle, a tense Standardbred pacer, Michael Gascon demonstrates how to transform stiffness and anxiety into softness and gait. By focusing on poll flexion, timing, and...
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Do’s And Don’ts Of 9th Grade - Flexing In Motion
Flexing in motion is a vital skill for developing softness, balance, and responsiveness in gaited horses. In this blog post, Michael Gascon breaks down the do’s and don’ts of lateral...
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How To Make Any Horse An Obstacle Horse
Want to make your horse calm, confident, and obstacle-ready? The key is patience training through daily tying routines and environmental exposure. In this blog post, Michael Gascon shares simple yet...
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Neck Reining Part 3
In Neck Reining Part 3, Michael Gascon continues the journey of teaching Rocky, a Rocky Percheron cross, how to respond confidently to one-handed cues. This session focuses on blending rein,...
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Getting A Better Stop
Want to improve your horse’s stop? In this blog post, we break down the key steps to developing a responsive, respectful stop—whether you're working on a basic halt or building...
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Do's And Don'ts of Preschool
Preschool is the crucial first step in colt starting, where a horse’s respect, responsiveness, and mindset are evaluated before any saddle work begins. In this phase, Michael Gascon uses free...
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Benefits Of Using A Solid Bridle On Your Horse
Using a solid bridle on your horse can dramatically improve consistency, confidence, and control—especially for gaited horses. Unlike a snaffle, a solid mouthpiece helps align the horse’s head, neck, and...
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Power Of A Circle With Chance
Struggling with a spooky or overly athletic horse? The Power of a Circle exercise, taught by Michael Gascon and demonstrated with Chance, helps refocus your horse’s energy and improve their...
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Do's And Don'ts Of 11th Grade - Push Obstacles
Mastering 11th grade "push obstacles" is all about building confidence, control, and clear communication with your horse. In this stage, you'll learn how to guide your horse through fear of...
