How to Train Horses That Only Want to Run

In the wild, horses have a speedy defense. They learn to run from the moment they are born. However, new horse trainers and owners can make a common mistake, assuming that horses naturally understand that pain from the bit means to slow down. Trainers use a horse's reins to teach it how to speed up, slow down or stop, either by releasing or placing pressure on the bit in the animal's mouth. Shops sell sharper bits, which solve the problem for a short time but won't train the horse effectively.

Instructions

    • 1

      Train your horse to stop in response to light pressure on the reins. Begin by standing next to the horse. Pull both reins lightly to get the horse to step backward. Gradually increase the pressure until the horse complies. As soon as it does, release the pressure. Build up to making the horse take several steps back at a time.

    • 2

      Walk alongside the horse with its bridle on. Lightly pull the reins, increasing pressure until the animal stops and steps backward. Release the pressure when it does. Repeat this many times until the horse halts in response to light pressure on the reins. Try this running alongside the horse at a trot. If you always release pressure the instant the horse stops, it will soon begin to stop with light pressure.

    • 3

      Pull the reins lightly while sitting on the horse, to indicate that the horse should step backward. Walk a few steps with the horse, then make the horse stop. You should be comfortable with gently increasing pressure and releasing when it complies.

    • 4

      Progress to trotting a few steps and making the horse stop. To indicate the animal should go forward, rise off the saddle slightly and squeeze the horse lightly with both of your legs. After a few steps, stop, let your weight fall onto the saddle and pull the reins lightly.

    • 5

      Command the horse to stop if it tries to rush or move faster than you, then release pressure. Ride the horse forward and continue the process of constantly stopping the animal, to train it to respond to your control.