Flexing in motion is one of the most important foundations in horse training. Just like a steering wheel keeps your car under control, flexing allows you to guide your horse’s...

Disengaging the hindquarters is one of the most powerful tools in horse training, especially for horses that buck, rear, or bolt. By controlling the head and asking the hind end...

Flexing is one of the most important foundations in horse training because it gives you a steering wheel before you ever ride off. By teaching your horse to soften and...

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...