Marie-therese Meade

Perfect! The article is really insightful, thanks very much!

I’ve never used spurs, I know myself I don’t have a steady enough lower leg to use them correctly, nor am I riding at a level that requires them. As for a crop I rarely use one, but I sometimes use a schooling whip as an extension of my arm/leg!

Having a strong core and quads/hamstring muscles will also help, so you’ll be able to stay on position without tiring and dropping your hands to stay balanced!
Lots of trotting, grid work and practicing jumping position while just on the flat will help!

I used to flick mine on the nose! It doesn’t hurt but it still let’s him no it’s not ok!

Hey! So if my boy gets a bit bargey and pulls I normally bring him back to a halt straight away and make him stand there for 10seconds. If he does manage to pull me a few strides, I’ll back him up to where he pulled, make him stand for 10seconds then start again. If he’s being very bold and pulling to the stable, I’ll walk him in a big circle beside the stable until he no longer pulls me towards it. Then I let him in!

All excellent advice! I’ll add that when my youngster tries pulling me along I bring him back to the point that he started rushing, and keep bringing him back until he realises it’s quicker to just behave!

Is the barn dark? Any weird smells? She could just think she can get away with it either. Is it a new thing that’s developed recently?

I agree with ignoring them. Because all they want is treats or attention and scolding is still giving them attention! They’ll realise eventually!