Struggling with a stiff or distracted horse under saddle? In this 9th Grade Q\&A session, horse trainer Michael Gascon shares practical tips for improving flexing in motion, softening resistance, and...

Struggling to get your hot or sensitive horse to walk calmly? In this post, Michael Gascon shares a powerful yet gentle technique called the spiral, designed to redirect your horse’s...

Using a solid bridle on your gaited horse offers two major benefits: improved responsiveness and enhanced collection. Unlike snaffle bits, a solid bar bit provides consistent, pinch-free contact that helps...

Disengaging the shoulders from the ground is a key step in developing full-body control and respect in your horse. In this 10th-grade lesson, Michael Gascon demonstrates how to use forward...

Disengaging the hindquarters is a key safety and control skill every horse trainer should master. In this 8th-grade horsemanship lesson, Michael Gascon demonstrates how to teach a horse to move...

In this training session, Michael Gascon works with Smokey, a naturally pacey gaited horse, using his foundational Respect Series to improve softness, control, and gait. By focusing on groundwork, stop-and-backup...

When your horse fails "first grade" training, it’s not a failure—it’s a chance to adapt your approach. In this session, Michael Gascon works with Smokey, a stiff and resistant horse,...

In this session from Michael Gascon’s Respect Series with Monty, we dive into the step-by-step process of teaching horses to back and side pass with softness and precision. Through consistent...

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...

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...

In this advanced horsemanship Q\&A, Michael Gascon breaks down the essential techniques for teaching horses to disengage their shoulders—a key 10th-grade skill. Using a combination of groundwork and saddle work,...

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...