stopping a psycho pony

[kaykell7]

today i was told when i pony was being naughty and not stopping the way to control it so it walks is to raise ure hands as well as giving the signals you normally would to slow down. aso when the opony goes to go fast again raise you hands again ( id ont no if this makes sense) but is this the right thing to do

[Wally]

It depends on why he isn't responding to your request to slow down in the first place.

Make sure you are not gripping up with your heels telling the horse to go faster and not knowing you are doing it.

There are 101 things which may be going wrong with you and your pony. It's hard to say without seeing both of you in action.

[Showjumper]

I was originally taught that raise the hands thing, but after talking to Sarah Fisher, I found it more effective and less uncomfortable for the horse to keep your hands low and gentle and your seat still and to use your voice to regain control.

[Dizzy]

I agree with the advise above, but with Showjumper's it does depend on the horses schooling. My youngster will respond to my seat and voice, but I have ridden others that need abit more convincing.

As Wally says, we would need to see you ride to pin point the problem. One of the most common faults is that the rider leans forward, pulls thier hands back towards thier tummy and falls forward making it difficult for the horse to stop.

You're seat aids are the most influencing aids you can give, but you must be able to relax and tighten, its the relax that the horse reads - if you remain tight the horse just reads tension and hasn't got a clue what you're asking.

Its combining your legs, seat, rein and voice aids- and getting the timing right. But your instructor is the best person to ask, explain to her that you're abit confused, if she's anything like my instructor she'll be only to pleased you're questioning her.

Lesley

[equinechikk]

If this is a constant problem, one thing you might try is a pair of grass reins in addition to your normal ones. These will keep the pony's head up so that he cannot pull you around.