Training
Strong horse that rushes off
Need some help with a strong horse that rushes off. I have a horse who easily gets very strong and rushes off, especially in canter, and also coming down to trot or walk. He's a trotter too so he isn't super schooled yet, but he does know the basics. I'm wondering if anyone knows an exercise or something you can do that doesn't need any kit or an arena, so you could maybe do it out on a hack. Any tips?
Answers from HayHay's experts
In general, rushing or a hot horse is a behaviour that can come from many things. It may be that the horse is positively charged, or the opposite, stressed or frightened, or that the horse does not understand its job.
Your horse may be rushing in canter because he finds it hard to balance there, which is not unusual. It is worth working on the canter from the ground, in lungeing for example. If you ride out, cantering uphill to begin with can make it easier for him. Build strength in the canter by working on changes of tempo, with the aim of being able to bring the speed down so the horse does not need to rely on speed to keep his balance 😊
Elise Lindman
Sports Psychologist
