Lesson #4 - 1/29/06

1) Inside hand constant, outside hand take & release.
2) Keep my hands still! He can't go on bit if I am moving my hands all around.
3) Canter: - bend to inside (harder to bend him to left)
- inside leg at girth
- outside leg back
- use voice command
- Don't let him run out - start over
- only go 5-6 nice strides, then regroup
- Sit straight & deep
- Keep head aligned - no nose poking out
- work in circles
- I need to be in better shape to keep him all together (turns out I was holding my breath)
- I need to be real consistent
- No following with hand!
4) Worked with Marcie on German martingale
5) Mercury needs to gain weight -people will talk
6) When he throws tantrums, ignore and keep going. Yell if he is very bad.
7) Leg position: constant pressure, but have to figure out how much. Boots should have worn spot at top and ankle.
8) Mercury's breastplate needs to be tightened.
9) His right hind leg is off (Bob said can feel at slow trot, not as much at regular trot). But he needs to work through it.
10) Noseband on 3rd hole.
11) Get D rings for saddle.
12) Keep him moving in corners and bent. Work on bend.
13) Bob thinks Mercury is spoiled. Make him work harder. (Rode him & fought.)
14) Get USEF tests.
15) Saddle: put on, walk, tighten, walk, tighten. His saddle doesn't fit - needs more padding - riser or padded pad.
16) Pinkie on bucking straps (Janis' idea)
17) Lift inside hip for canter.
18) Breathing