Performing Half Steps In-Hand
Groundwork
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13m
When the horse can perform all the smaller pieces easily, she is ready to try the actual half-steps. In this video, Michael picks up the contact, walks backwards first and then asks for the half-steps. Rewarding for a good attempt is to drop the reins, take the whip away (removing the pressure) and praise the horse profusely. He does several passes showing different parts of the training with both an established horse and one that is younger.
Up Next in Groundwork
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In-Hand Leg Yield
Especially with younger horses, Michael likes to introduce lateral work concepts on the ground before doing them under saddle. In this video, he explains and demonstrates executing a leg yield in-hand. It also gives him the opportunity to get an idea of how the horse feels before he gets on.
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In-Hand Shoulder-In
The next lateral movement Michael works with is shoulder-in. In this short video, he explains and demonstrates executing a shoulder-in. He does not look for the exact bend and position that he would want under saddle. Rather, he looks for an attempt and basic positioning to give him a place to st...
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In-Hand Haunches-In and Half Pass
Finally, Michael shows how to perform haunches-in and half pass from the ground. Haunches-in, in particular, can be difficult to execute because the person has to be on the outside and between the horse and the wall. Again, Michael looks for the horse to try the basics of the movements so she sta...
