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...

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...

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...

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...

Speed transitions on a gaited horse are all about clarity, consistency, and timing. In this training session, Michael Gascon demonstrates how to create smooth, responsive transitions from slow gait to...

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...

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,...

Curious about the unique tack used in Paso Fino training and competition? In this informative guide, Michael Gascon breaks down the Paso-specific bits, hackamores, and double-rein setup that...

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...