In the Driver’s Seat

It’s extremely important to preserve space for your horse on the rail during Western pleasure classes. The goal is to get your horse shown as best you can. But if you’re bottled up in a jumble of horses, that’s not possible. You must be able to maneuver your horse through tight spots, out into the open of the arena, and back to the rail without sacrificing your horse’s performance. Here I’ll give you four things to work on at home and four tactics to put to use at shows for smooth sailing on and off the rail.

AT HOME

Technique is best developed at home where pressure is less intense for both you and your horse. You can take your time, use two hands when you need to, and address any issue that arises. In a perfect setting, you have barnmates who can ride the rail with you as you practice to set up situations that might arise when you show in Western pleasure. Here are four elements to master that will give you