i don't think she understands?

[NuttyMare]

well Chantella sometimes just stops in the lesson. I'm not one to kick a young horse but I was squeezing with my legs and asking her to go forward but she wasn't responding, so i gave her a kick (almost like poking her and saying "oi, you") but she didn't respond to either. By now my instructor was literally screaming at me to smack her with the whip, I really didn't want to but I did 3 or 4 times (waiting for a response each time) but nothing happen. It's almost as if she doesn't know what it means? She just stood there, until she eventually decided to walk forward due to her own decision (i had given up smacking her, plus my instructor wasn't looking so it was an added bonus ;))

I only ride once a week, but do you think it's a rider fault or a horse fault? If so how can I help it?

[shandy84]

It's normal for a baby to occasionally plant themselves it is sometimes a test sometimes confusion.

You should not hit her as she is young and may be confused and you should never punish confusion

You should sit tight and continuee to push on (not kick) until she moves she will get bored before too long.

It is actually nobodies fault just a young horse thing, one of the disadvantages of having such a young horse teach people to ride

[RachelEvent]

Ditto what shandy has just said..

By keeping your leg in place and at a slightly uncomfortable pressure (eg. a 'squeeze') and then releasing when Chantella walks forward (however slightly) it is teaching her that when your leg is on, her response must be to move forwards, before the pressure is released.

Not her fault, not your fault :)

Rachel xx

[Jay.o]

When Mysy has her stubbon streak in a hack, usually I just sit on top and wait her out with a continual pressure until she moves forwards, releasing as soon as she does - just like Rachel described. Whacking and kicking Chantella wont help her in her schooling or you in your riding. Patience is one of the biggest things that is needed when riding, even more with a baby.

I'm not one to kick a young horse

You shouldnt be kicking any horse, young or not. I know horses can sometimes be lazy/stubbon/whatever, but they will respect you more if you ask first, then tell (with a firm squeeze or tickle with a whip).

Is Chantella four?? I am sure thats what you said. How long has she been backed and what's her trianing like? Why a four year old is in a riding school and being used for lessons is beyond me :rolleyes:

But for next time, ask her first with a squeeze, release as soon as she moves forwards. Do you have a schooling whip to hand when you ride? Backing up your leg with a tickle (note: not a tap/smack) if she doesnt move when asked.

[NuttyMare]

right thanks guys, i just hope carolyn doesn't eat me for it :D