Things You'll Need:
- Horse (preferably the one that is rushing)
- Simple snaffle bridle
- Ground rails
- Jump standards (for next step)
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Step 1
In the arena, set a ground pole up so that it is parallel to the long side of the arena, on the center line, so that you can use it in circles going either direction, like a figure 8. Set up standards on either side of it, but do not use the jump cups.
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Step 2
Mount your horse and start the first circle, on a loose rein. Walk over the pole, taking care to not grab the reins or excite the horse in any way. If the horse speeds up, keep the horse on the same circle (do not proceed to the other half of the figure 8) until they calmly walk over the pole in both directions on the circles.
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Step 3
Progress to a trot, the same way you did above, remembering to not speed up or anticipate the ground pole. Then you can work at a canter, but do not attempt to do a flying change, instead just keep on the circle and pop over the pole until your horse is calm.
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Step 4
After your horse is calmly performing steps 1-3, set the ground pole up as a small fence - the lowest that your standard will allow. Perform steps 1-3 again, this time with the small fence. The circle will keep your horse focused on the exercise and keep them from gaining too much speed and will get them calm and collected about jumping.
