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...

Building respect through groundwork is the foundation of every great horse-human partnership. In this Kindergarten Q\&A, Michael Gascon explains why backing up, handling pressure, and working just outside the horse’s...

Discover the fundamentals of long lining and ground driving with Michael Gascon and Tito, a young Paso Fino colt. In this introductory session, Michael demonstrates how to safely teach left...

In Part 4 of the “Intro to Driving” series, Michael Gascon works with Amy, a young warmblood filly overcoming hesitation and shutdown behavior under harness. This session focuses on building...

Training a young foal starts with building trust and communication through simple, respectful steps. In this session, we introduce Dashi to leading using a halter and a butt rope, reinforcing...

Halter showing, or showmanship, is all about precision, control, and flawless communication between horse and handler. The goal is to create a robotic-like movement where the horse mirrors every step,...

Rollbacks on long lines are an essential horse training technique for improving control, responsiveness, and safety. By using long reins to guide a horse's movement, trainers can address problem behaviors...

Achieving balance and confidence in the saddle starts with stabilizing your lower leg. By keeping your heels down, aligning your shoulders behind your hips, and applying light pressure in your...

Ready to take your horse training to the next level? In this post, we dive into the basics of neck reining, using my colt, Mr. Rocket, as an example to...

Breaking pace in a gaited horse doesn’t require force or advanced techniques—it starts with softness, balance, and correct body control. When a horse is stiff through the face and body,...

Second grade in horse training is where the real learning begins—teaching your horse to stand still and stay calm no matter what’s going on. This stage focuses on desensitizing using...

Building a respectful bond with your horse starts from the ground up. By using a clear, step-by-step training system—from preschool groundwork to under-saddle readiness—you can develop trust, control, and clear...