This video shows a young horse just starting her journey and learning how to back up from the ground. When working with a young horse I go through a series of groundwork exercises each session together in preparation for ridden work. Asking the horse to back from a variety of positions is just one of those exercises. It is important to me that a horse understands clearly backing up with the lightest cue. Keep this rule in mind with horses: the individual that moves their feet is not in the leadership position. Simply put if my horse moves away from me when asked I am in a leadership position. If you find yourself moving out of your horses way, they are the leader. This is a sign of respect and is key to keeping you safe and your horse a willing partner. I speak a great deal about leadership roles because horses are herd animals and always looking to their leader for guidance, safety and reassurance. If your horse is leading you then you are at their whim and mercy and could find yourself in a dangerous position. I strive to be a fair and rewarding leader if my simple rules are met. Respect my space, give me your attention when we are together and I will reward every try you give!
Back to backing up now. This simple act could keep you out of harms way if your horse becomes frightened at something and instead of trying to run you down, they know to stay out of the leader’s space. This will make for a more enjoyable experience with your horse in general. They will lead better and more safely as well as become patient and attentive to your movements. If your horse has terrible ground manners it will transfer to disobedience under saddle in some way. Fix it on the ground first then transfer to ridden work!