Step 22- Common Problems with Focus & Bend (FAB)

We often hear that it’s valuable to observe people making mistakes, as it can be a more effective way to learn. While Warwick can explain what might go wrong, sometimes seeing it happen serves as a better teacher. In our video library, there are clinic videos and virtual lesson videos available, organized in a separate section following a process order. However, when Robyn began teaching Rey the “Leading with Energy” exercise, it unexpectedly turned into a highly instructive video series.  We decided to do the same thing with Focus & Bend. 

For this reason, we encourage you to watch the video of their initial day working together and see if it resonates with your own experiences.

We understand that every horse is unique, and Rey is no exception. He presents his own set of challenges and quirks, just as your horse does in its own distinctive way. However, by watching the video, you can observe how we tackle some of the more common issues related to this exercise, often connected to the human’s body control and understanding the necessary steps for the horse to perform the exercise correctly.

After watching, go out and work on this exercise again. Don’t skip watching these videos because you don’t have any perceived problems.  Having this information is important so you know what to do if a problem arises. 

Consider whether you can relate to any of the problems that Robyn encountered. It’s essential to remember that Robyn made several mistakes, even though she is married to Warwick. So, be kind to yourself and grant yourself some patience and practice as you work through this exercise. Mastery takes time and learning from your mistakes is part of the process.

If you encounter any problems with the Focus & Bend, work on them until they are solved and then go back to the Focus & Bend exercise. 

You will continue working on the Focus & Bend exercise to the left until your horse goes off around you, off of the point (not having to use the flag) every time and maintains the correct bend.  Then you will keep them walking around you (we are not lunging them, but they are going to circle around you). This will be a tool you can use if you ever need to show a vet your horse in a circle – we do not teach it for that purpose, we teach it for collision avoidance purposes and to get them to read your energy, amongst other things.