Lesson update - getting the horses respect

[kiwigirl]

Well about lesson 13 and today was about getting my horses respect and really getting to know her.

So started with just some work leading her, getting her to follow me and stop and then some stuff on making sure she wasn't getting in my personal space - all really interesting and made me feel more the boss!

Then lots of walk,halt,trot transitions to really get the feel of what aids she needs. I know this sounds basic but it has been really helpful as Suzie is sensitive to aids and hard to stop! This would be my 6th lesson on her.

On the leg position front, no comments from my RI and when I asked she said it looked good probably due to the fact I was concentrating on other things! Woo Hoo!

My hands were being picked on the most today so I guess that will be the next thing!

I am happy doing all this ground work but a part of me would of expected by now to be cantering around the ring!

[Teehee]

Sounds like good progress to me!

I have two ponies & I'm a new owner... at first I was worried about the riding them... but now I feel more comfortable doing the ground work... the riding can wait!!! I see they are respecting me... and if I can get them to obey from the ground... then I'll have more of a chance of them obeying from their backs!!! :)

I totally understand how you rather be cantering away in the wind!!! :D Me too! But, it will all come in time... I'd rather spend a couple months more doing ground work, than jump on them the first day and expect a strange animal to obey ... for sure in my case I'd end up doing flying lessons!!! :(

[teddypony]

You sound like you are doing great! It always seems like you should be moving faster than you should, just wait on the canter, it will come with time and you will find all the other work you are doing will pay off when you start canter work. Good luck !:)