The Great Nurtural Bitless Experiment: Starting Under Saddle
Pictures to come.
Introduction:
RJ is a young CWHBA warmblood, seeking a future career in show-jumping and low-level dressage. He has a curious attitude, but has typical behaviour of a horse his age- he can be stubborn and easily confused. We will be logging his progress each year as he progresses through training- bitless.
2009: Groundword, Backing
RJ is too young to be 'ridden', but he is the perfect age to hop on and get him accustomed to the feeling of the rider and basic cues. His 'workload', for lack of a better term, was very light so there isn't too much to report on this year. Having said that:
Using the Nurtural bitless bridle, RJ has been introduced to ground-driving, ponying, light lunging, free work, and getting used to the signals transmitted through the bridle and reins. This year was his first year with a rider aboard.
The initial backing went smoothly, with nothing but positive results- absolutely no anxiety or 'misbehaviours'. Throughout the year, he went on about two 5 to 10 minute walking sessions under saddle, getting used to pressure and leg aids.
The results have been wonderful. RJ is already learning to carry himself properly, and is accepting the bridle well. He has worn a bit, as he will need to be competed with a bit until rule changes occur, but he has not yet been ridden with one. Next year, he will be hacked out and introduced to light trotting.
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