Establish lateral flexion on both sides, You want your horse to be calm, mentally present, and can easily go from one side to other. Get one side good then the other.
Lateral Flexion
Success Tips:
- Get one side good before the other.
- Make sure hands are near thigh.
- Reward small, itty bitty, tries.
- Ensure the horse is relaxed in that arena/area before mounting.
- Mount the horse by the place he would want to be the most (usually the gate).
Common Problems/Mistakes:
- Leaving the round pen too early: The horse needs to be quite relaxed under saddle
- Pulling too hard, forcing the horses head around.
- Your hands should not be up by your chest.
- Horse is not mentally present, LF is “trick”.