Teaching rein back

[fluffy_betty]

How do you do it?

I know how to ask for it, and when I ask my mare I feel like she knows what I want, but she just won't actually step back. Then I end up using my legs more to encourage her and she gives up and walks forward.

I've tried on the ground and I have to really shove her, shes a very bargy mare and I think this is part of the problem.

Any tips?:confused:

[JamesJackson]

If she doesn't do it willingly on the ground, then you've got no hope up top. Sort it out on the ground first (she just sounds rude from what you've said), then repeat mounted.

When you do, use the horse's natural claustrophobia to help - ride the horse into a corner of the school, into a wall, whatever, then ask to go backwards.

[Skib]

I did it using the instructions in Mark Rashid's book Horses Dont Lie. It is in the chapter called Finding the Try.
But from what you describe, you could stick with your own method. As soon as you feel her "try" even the glimmer of a shift, release and praise her.
Then maybe walk a step or two forward.

Then ask again. No need to get the cue any stronger.
One of the difficulties (for conventional riders) is recognising the first trial step a horse gives as being true backing up and appreciating it.
The first real backward step you get may well be going slightly sideways. But as long as there is backwards movement there, just release to tell her she is getting the idea.
Then add further steps. You can straighten it up once she has got the idea and is fluent.

Allow yourself and the horse plenty of time. Say nine minutes? Or even 16 minutes. I have to do this out hacking with an escort, often reminding an RS horse whom I taught years ago and who hasnt done it since. Give your horse time to learn. They are not as quick at learning as we humans are.

You never ever need to increase the pressure. Just give the release.
Pity you are in Kent. Not closer.

[eventerbabe]

if i were you i'd try on the ground using a verbal command and an arm cue. when halted, move to face your horse (relatively close in!), raise your arms and say back. Wiggle and wave your arms if necessary and combine with a gentle push on their chest if it helps gett her moving, they soon get the gist. I've found the advantage of teaching my youngster this way is that he'll move 'back' with either cue. as soon as you get a few steps of backward motion walk on and praise.

Undersaddle, lighten your seat, push forward with the leg but restrict with the hand. But i reckon once she's got the gist on the ground, undersaddle will be no bother :)

[AengusOg]

I agree with Skib re. not increasing the pressure...........you should just hold the rein 'against' her so that she has to decide that moving back (even a little offer) is what you are asking for........then you must immediately release the rein as a reward for compliance.

Teaching it on the ground should be the same........but you may have to stand in front of her and hold the bit either side of her face. Again, try not to push her, as she will resist, but rather hold the bit so that she has to move back to find the release.

Often a slight vibration on the reins, when mounted, is enough to give them a cue.

You're not actually trying to pull/push them backwards....more giving them a choice between standing feeling slightly uncomfortable, or yielding.