All about the ancient tribes
To stop or slow down, we say “Whoa” (pronounced wo). Alternatively, some people say “Ho”, just how it looks. To get the horse moving, most people make a clicking sound with their cheek or tongue. It’s called a “click” or “cluck”.
The Pessoa will do this perfectly. I had the same problem with a pony and the physio recommend long reining in a Pessoa. It will work even better if you can find lots of hills, up and down. You will get very fit !!
You can start anytime from rising 3 onwards as long as you keep it simple. Bitting begins at around the same time, or earlier if you feel the need to. Just get a Vet to check in the mouth first, as there may be wolf teeth coming through which can be uncomfortable where the bit sits.
It teaches the horse the leg and rein aids and increases his balance by encouraging more use of his hind legs. It is easy to regulate the paces while making the horse obedient both on the circle and straight lines. Long-reining also teaches horses not to panic if a rider falls off.
For example, if you want to get her to go faster always use the term “lope” or “run” instead of using them interchangeably. You also need to make sure that you clearly say the words. Watch the tone and pitch of your voice. Keep them soft and gentle because your horse won’t respond to yelling or anger.
Cantering in the Pessoa is fine as long as it is fitted correctly! The Pessoa has four positions to choose from – the low position is ideal to introduce the horse to the system. The middle position helps the development of the upper neck muscles.
When you start using a Pessoa try to work your horse in frequent but short sessions, 5-6 times weekly. This allows you to achieve maximum benefit as quickly as possible. Take a before and after photograph to plot your progress.
I recommend that mouthing should take place for 10 to 12 sessions before saddling and riding. The knowing handler will vary the length of time according to the needs of the horse.
Take a long whip, stand back, and smack him in the butt, hard. Do NOT tap him. Stay well out of the way of his hind feet, as he may kick. Make sure he turns that head toward you before you let up.