using a crop

[Elaine]

When I use a crop, I do alittle tap behind my leg. But, it unbalances me when the horse shoots forward. Does anyone know how I can keep my balance? thanks

[Rozejewelz]

Try giving the horse a whack on the shoulder instead ,it will get them moving just the same and you can easily keep hold of the crop and keep good balance

[Sharon H]

If your horse is shooting forward to the extent that you lose your balance, you are using the crop too hard. If you 'whack' the horse on it's shoulder, it will not understand what you are hitting it for. You should be using the crop to re-inforce your leg aid if necessary, if you hit it on the shoulder your horse will never learn to respond to your legs. Have you tried a dressage whip, you can usually use these without having to move your hands at all, just a quick flick should do the job.

[Elaine]

Thank you for the replies. I would just like to point out that I would NEVER hit the horse with force when I am riding. What I have been doing is more tapping my leg and the saddle for the sound. But this horse seems to respond a little to well. It seems that when I bring my arm back I loose my balance. I never hit the horse hard, ever. As for a dressage whip, i can't use it because I jump and it would get in the way.

[Wally]

Try a long schooling whip, long enough so you do not have to let go of a rein and whack the horse behind your leg.

Open your hand slightly to the side and tickle the horse behind your leg. This way you are not making big movements and you should loose your balance less.

[Sharon H]

Sorry I didn't mean to upset you! If your horse responds so well to the light use of the whip, why won't he respond to your leg in the same way? I'm not getting at you, just asking? I would also try some exercises to improve your balance.

[Emmaa]

Whenever I use a crop I put the reins in one hand (usually the right hand, because I am right handed) and put my left behind me, then I tap-tap on the horses behind. Because as my instructor says, you want the movement to come from behind, and not in front, so I don't tap them on their shoulders. Good luck,
Emmaa -:p-

[Emmaa]

Whenever I use a crop I put the reins in one hand (usually the right hand, because I am right handed) and put my left behind me, then I tap-tap on the horses behind. Because as my instructor says, you want the movement to come from behind, and not in front, so I don't tap them on their shoulders. Good luck,
Emmaa -:p-