Introduction
Side passing under saddle is an important skill in many disciplines including western pleasure, reining and trail riding. Side passing refers to lateral movements in which the horse moves sideways in response to the rider’s cues. Side passing is a great way for horses to be more flexible and responsive. It can also be used to maneuver the horse around tight spaces or obstacles. This article will show you how to teach your horse to side pass under saddle.
Getting Started
Before teaching a horse how to side pass, it’s important that they are comfortable in their saddle. Begin by having your horse trot and walk in a straight line. Next, introduce turns and circles. You can then work on the side pass once the horse is familiar with these movements.
The Foundation: Building
Start by giving the side pass during the walk. Begin by asking the horse sideways to follow your leg cue. To get the horse to move sideways, you can use both verbal and hand cues. It may be necessary to apply some pressure to get your horse to move. However, you should release the pressure immediately the horse starts to move. You can ask for more if the horse is starting to move off your leg cue. You can ask the horse to move to the side and then ask for the opposite direction. This will make it easier for the horse to understand the concept behind the side pass.
Speed –
You can increase speed once the horse is used to the side pass during the walk. Begin by asking the horse sideways to trot. You may need to apply some pressure, just like with the walk to get the horse moving. But, be sure to let go as soon as the horse starts to move. You can ask for more if the horse is comfortable doing the trot side to side. You can ask the horse to move a little further to the side and then ask him to go in the opposite direction. This will make it easier for the horse to understand the concept behind the side pass at trot.
All of it together
You can combine the trot and walk once the horse has mastered the side pass. Begin by asking your horse to walk sideways, then move into a trot. This will allow the horse to understand the concept of side passes at different speeds. It is also possible to start to introduce more complicated movements. Ask your horse to turn in a figure eight or serpentine pattern. Ask the horse to turn sideways to avoid obstacles and tight spaces.
Conclusion
It is useful for all disciplines to teach horses how to side pass under saddle. This is a great skill to improve the horse’s responsiveness and suppleness. It can also be used for maneuvering the horse around tight spaces or obstacles. Start by teaching a horse how to side pass at the walk. Then, add speed. You can combine the trot and walk to get the horse comfortable with side passes.
FAQs
Q: How long does it take for a horse to learn side pass?
A: It all depends on the horse and rider. It can take several weeks to train a horse to side pass.
Q: What’s the point of teaching a horse how to side pass?
A: Teaching a horse how to side pass is meant to improve the horse’s flexibility and responsiveness. It also helps the horse maneuver around tight spaces and obstacles.