Ok, you are going to visit someone at their house. You walk up to the door and just lean on that door bell, just press press press, use the door knocker over and over. What sort of greeting do you think you will get when your friend opens the door? The same greeting you will get from your horse when you give an aid over and over again, like using your leg leg leg, spur spur spur, or driving your seat into him over and over.

Ring the bell and wait a stride or two. If noone answers, then give it again more concretely.

I have always been successful using how you drive a car to how you ride (and safely). For example: I bring my riders to a HALT. OK…so the horse understands what you want, please put him in PARK!! Others:

Do not tailgate! Pass with plenty of room! Do not cut off the other driver!!
For showing: THE RAIL IS YOUR FRIEND!!! (Keeps exhibitors from running all over the middle of the ring and only have one side open to error).

I’m sure I have more … I use so many in my clinics … upcoming clinic is Equine Affaire in November at West Springfield, MA.

Chris Cassenti is a trainer hosting a clinic in the 2008 equine affair (Please visit our web site: www.chrislar.com)