Horse Training: Lead Changes and Departures

In this video, made possible by extension specialists at the Louisiana State University Ag Center, Clint Depew discusses teaching a young horse in training to perform a lead change and lead departures.
For more horse information, check out www.extension.org/horses.

[@NaomiGarcia]

I have been watching eXhorses for about an hour now. Just wanted to say these videos are some of the best explained training videos available. Thank you so much!

[@sirwaltymay]

Love the thorough demonstration. Thank you

[@Lordsangels03]

This guy is really good! I never have thought of this before!

[@stevecohan]

Thank you. Well explained. Well demonstrated.

[@Horseshowproductions]

Just before you put your leg on, their nose should also be slightly tipped towards the inside. Some horses confuse the leg cue as a speed-up cue, so counteract that urge for her by engaging your reins. If you have her mouth soft and she is bridled up, then she will learn to stay steady. I also exaggerate the inside leg coming off (we call it, "opening the door") if both legs are on, she may think it is a cue to speed up. Your post is a year old so I hope that you have worked it all out by now.

[@mikematsumoto]

Thank you soooo much for this video!!!

[@TrueBlueStablesLLC]

Just wondering what your cue to for the lope departure is. The horse obviously clearly understands it. It's so subtle that I can't see it. Do you lean forward in the saddle a bit, or squeeze a little with your seat, or??? Thank you!

[@Brogers87]

I once new an amazing speed event horse a couple years back. Big, gorgeous paint gelding. And man could he run! But he started backing up all the time, even in the middle of running a pattern at a show. Is there another way to relax your horse than backing up? I was told the trainer used the same technique(backing to relax) so the horse eventually started backing up on his own from anxiety no matter where he was. Have you seen this? Do you have any info or suggestions about this?

[@lastchancetodazle]

@Brogers87 Hey are you still having some problems with the horse backing up? I would like to offer some help if you still are. I knew a couple of horses that did this, and worked them through it.

[@yankeejims]

She reminds me of a mare I used to ride, Sammy.

[@desidariuserasmus4728]

I think the horse is a tad tired... :)