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...

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,...

Did you know a breeching can help your gaited horse move with better collection and balance? In this post, Michael Gascon explains how this traditional mule tack, when fitted correctly,...

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 Day 1 training session with Nakaia, Michael Gascon demonstrates how to turn fear into focus by building respect through foundational groundwork and clear communication. By reinforcing softness in...