Cowboy Bob's Questions and Answers – page 49 – How can I keep my horse from cutting corners?


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QUESTION:

Bob,

I’m having a bit of a problem with my horse and I was wondering if you could give me any suggestions. Lately in the indoor arena, when I ask him to lope, he’s been really cutting corners. I’ve been using my legs to try and get him to return to the rail, and that stops him from cutting even further, but I can’t get him to return to the rail. His head will be angled all the way to the wall and he’ll be running the other way.

– L. S.

ANSWER:

Try seeing the problem from your horse’s point of view. Remember, he has as much mass as some compact cars. At a lope, he may be traveling at 15 m.p.h.

Now, put yourself in his position: You’re driving a compact car at 15 m.p.h toward a right-angle turn… how tight do you want to take the corner? Remember also that with you on board, your horse’s center of gravity is more like that of a top-heavy van than a compact. See my point? His actions are simple defensive driving tactics.

Here are some things that may help both of you:

  • Slow down your rate of speed to the point at which your horse feels comfortable making the corner where you want him to. Then gradually increase the speed while asking him to stay on the same course of travel.
  • Make sure you’re doing everything you can to help him negotiate the turn. Are you shifting your hips toward the inside of the turn, placing more weight on the inside stirrup, and turning your head and shoulders so your eyes are following the desired path? (From your description, I get the strong impression that you’re cuing him to give you a leg yield on the rail rather than a tight turn in the corner.) As I mention in one of my other web site answers, I differ with many instructors regarding placement of the outside leg on a turn. Most folks will tell you to move your leg back and press in. I prefer to move my leg forward and press in. Pressure to the rear will tend to push his hind quarters to the inside of the turn. Pressing on his shoulder will push his front end into the turn.