Breaking up pace in gaited horses starts with one simple foundation: control of the head. In this session from Michael Gascon’s Respect Series with Smokey – Day 2, we see...

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 6th Grade Q&A clinic, horse trainer Michael Gascon answers real questions about stopping techniques, turning on green horses, halter fit, and riding bitless. He shares practical tips to...

Learning to rope while riding one-handed is a great way to test your horsemanship and take your training to the next level. In this beginner-friendly intro to roping, Michael Gascon...

Struggling with a spooky or overly athletic horse? The Power of a Circle exercise, taught by Michael Gascon and demonstrated with Chance, helps refocus your horse’s energy and improve their...

Want your horse to canter with ease and confidence? This blog explores how mastering hip control and riding on a loose rein can dramatically improve your horse’s balance, responsiveness, and...

Riding a spooky, young, athletic horse can feel intimidating, but success comes from redirecting energy—not resisting it. By using soft, one-rein redirection and keeping your horse moving forward, you can...

In this final session of the Horse Hop Challenge, Michael Gascon answers rider questions about speed transitions, collection, and solving common riding issues. He explains how to cue downward transitions...

Confidence in the saddle isn’t about fearlessness—it’s about preparation and control. From mastering your seat to gaining full control of your horse’s head and hindquarters, every small step builds trust...

In Part 2 of Michael Gascon's neck reining series, he continues working with Rocket, a Rocky Mountain Horse, to build softness, responsiveness, and one-handed control. This session emphasizes the importance...

Opening and closing a gate on horseback doesn’t have to be complicated—even if your horse is green or unpolished. In this post, Michael Gascon demonstrates a simple, safe method using...

A strong backup is essential for improving your horse’s balance, collection, and responsiveness. In this guide, we break down how to teach your horse to guide while backing up using...