The proper signals/aids

[sbuckland]

For years I have read books and magazines and asked experts, and so far haven't been able to get a clear picture of what it is I would like to know. Basically, I think it would be a good idea to learn exactly what aids to give for asking various parts of the horse to move in various directions - and why. Books use technical phrases like dropping in at the shoulder - and never actually say what that means, or about supporting with the outside rein - supporting - ? When I am out riding I like to pracice the bits that I do know, but am confused about when to use the left and when the right leg - and am constantly given confusing and contradictory advice!
I think that once I understand the theory it will all become clear and I will be able to do it without thinking, like driving a car. But some logical explanations, as to why, would really help!

Am I the only confused one?

[Mike]

I know what you mean, I found there are many terms thrown around that no one ever seems to explain what they mean or how to do it. I suspect if you push many people they are only using them because they heard someone else using them.

The most logical explanation of aids and how to do them that I've come across is in Heather's book. She explains exactly what to do, how to learn to feel it and why the aids work. Just follow the Featured Book link at the bottom of this page to get some more details about the book. I'm sure it will go a long way to answering many of your questions.

[Maci]

I know, it all seems confusing at first, but once you get it, it'll all come second nature to you! But I'll try to help you as clear as I can!

1) When ever you want to go to the next pace (or gait) sqeeze with both of your legs. Except in a canter, where you squeeze with the inside leg where it is, and the outside leg, you have to move it behind it's normal position (behind the girth) and squeeze. And when you want to come down from a pace, add a bit more weight in the saddle (put a bit more weight in your butt.)

2) To turn, push (which ever leg would be on the inside when you turn that specific way) your leg on the horse's side, and pull with you inside rein, and direct their head the way you want to turn.

3) To get them to move over (say, closer to the fence in the riding space) slightly point their head to where you want to move over, and push your opposite leg, which moves over their body.

I hope this helped and made it clear enough for you! If it didn't, you can check on this website. Just remember one thing, look where you want to go, and by doing that, you subconsciusly direct the horse (by shifting your weight, which tells them where you want to go, just by the position you are like on them.).

It Takes Time, But I Hope I've Helped A Bit!
Maci :)

[Mossy]

Heather's Book. It is BRILLIANT.

[Danni]

I have to agree with Mike and Mossy - Heather's book is a mine of good, easy to understand information. Equally her first video (also called Enlightened Equitation) is fantastic. I recommend that you try to obtain it. It is distributed by Feedmark in the UK. I am really looking forward to the next one. Does anyone know when it is due for release ?

[Heather]

HI Danni,

The next video won't be out till next year. The first one put me in hospital with pneumonia earlier this year, due to the very tight editing deadline. It was total overload on top of all of my other work, and so the six weeks that I had left free over the summer to get the next video done, had to be shelved due to potponed courses that had to be honoured.

So, we already have some quite good stuff in the can for the next one, but need to do another couple of days shooting. Rest assured, New Rider will be the first to know when it is due for release!




Heather

[Danni]

Thanks for the quick response Heather. I'm sorry to hear that you were ill. I've had pneumonia...and I wouldn't wish it on my worst enemy. Looking forward very much to the next video.