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10/17/01
KEEP THE FAITH
Just riding. Tempest is beginning to show
me that the subtle cues that I have been giving are beginning
to show up. Today she showed me that she can execute a side pass
while walking along the logging road. The sequence of cues are
close the front door, keep her body straight and ask her to move
away from either leg. It really feels good when the hind leg
moves laterally away from my leg.
The development of this skill opens up
many new skills. She can now open and close the gate and remain
settled.
I have ridden her 15 times as of today.
The ride was 7½ miles long and took slightly over two
hours. She walked, trotted and loped with easy transitions. Her
departures are beginning to feel good. Keeping it as simple as
possible, I ask her to transition from the trot into the lope
on the correct lead. I just lift the rein of the lead I want,
cluck and bump with the outside leg. She can do it because she
understands right rein, right foot, etc. She does it easily,
consistently executes it and remains settled. Settle on a slack
rein. I can't over emphasize the importance of contact, no contact.
When she feels my hands she knows something is supposed to happen.
Everything is soft, quiet and consistent, therefore she knows
what to do. Wait for her to respond, give her a chance to be
correct or incorrect, then, fix it if needed. To fix it, just
try again. Keep riding and wait.
10/28/01
- IN & OUT of the ZONE |
