Horses, like children, can throw temper tantrums when they’re frustrated, confused, or testing boundaries. Bucking, rearing, or refusing cues often point to gaps in training and a lack of respect...

Training a hot horse to spin isn’t about wearing them out—it’s about engaging their mind. In this session, Michael Gascon works with Clark Gable, a high-RPM Paso Fino stallion, to...

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...

In this 5th Grade Q\&A session from the Horse Help Challenge, we dive into advancing your horse’s training through groundwork, flexing, and tie time—without ever stepping in the saddle. Learn...

Proper saddle pad fit is essential for your horse’s comfort and performance, especially when using a Western saddle. In this post, we walk through how to fit a CSI pad...

The Thunderdome is a high-energy, controlled chaos training method designed to help horses and riders thrive in unpredictable situations. By exposing horses to distractions like flying soccer balls, pool noodles,...

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...

Mounting your horse may seem simple, but doing it correctly is essential for safety, balance, and building trust. In this 4th-grade horsemanship lesson, Michael Gascon shares the key do's and...

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...

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...