The Young Horse

and life becomes more pleasant for them. I am also asked if the benefits of this exercise will transfer over to other riders. Yes but only for a few minutes because when the rider overuses the forward aids these colderblooded types will usually go back to their old ways of just putting up with the rider and shutting down.
Tips for Success
Squeeze lightly with the seat and leg aids then lightly tap with a riding crop until the horse goes forward. When he does move forward release the squeezing and tapping and just ride forward. If the light squeeze doesnt work dont squeeze harder and begin kicking and thus take over the responsibility for forwardness.
Dont overuse your seat and leg aids when the horse moves out. Ive actually seen wear marks on the sides of horses whose riders have taken over the full responsibility for the forwardness and selfcarriage.
Dont do too many circles and tight turns.
Avoid conflicting aids for example asking to go forward with one set of aids while pulling back on the reins at the same time.
Dont kick the horse to go as it will shorten the stride rather than lengthen it. Ive never seen a jockey kick a horse to go.
Use light rhythmical tapping that slowly intensifies rather than one big tap on the rump with a crop. You need pressure that the horse can beat to make him more responsive rather than causing him to tense up in anticipation of one powerful tap.