Watch the Video Here or continue reading below!
When it comes to horseback riding, clear communication is key. One of the most effective ways to communicate with your horse is through the reins, using a method called the “three buttons.” This simple technique—flexing the head, disengaging the hindquarters, and moving the shoulders—provides clear cues that your horse will easily understand, helping you maintain control and communicate more effectively. Let’s dive into each button and how you can use it to your advantage.
1. The Flex Button: Controlling the Head
The first button you need to master is the flex button, which involves controlling the horse’s head. Flexing the horse is the foundation for controlling the rest of its body.
How to Use the Flex Button:
To flex your horse, hold the reins with one hand and keep your body balanced and straight. Without leaning forward, gently pull one rein toward your body, bringing the horse’s head toward your pocket. When the horse gives to the pressure, immediately release. The key here is to maintain a balanced position while allowing the horse to respond to the cue.
Controlling the head is essential because it sets the stage for controlling the horse’s hindquarters and shoulders. You need to master this button before moving on to the others.
2. The Hindquarters Button: Disengaging the Hindquarters
The second button is about controlling the hindquarters. Disengaging the hindquarters is a crucial maneuver that allows you to stop, slow down, or change directions more effectively.
How to Use the Hindquarters Button:
After flexing the horse’s head, the next step is to shift your focus to the horse’s hindquarters. With the reins, gently pull the horse’s face toward you, then direct your attention to the hip. By pulling the reins toward the horse’s hip, you’ll encourage the hindquarters to disengage, which helps the horse pivot or stop moving forward.
This technique is similar to a one rein stop, where you pull one rein to halt the horse. It’s a powerful tool to use in emergencies or when you need quick control.
3. The Shoulders Button: Moving the Shoulders
The final button focuses on controlling the shoulders. This is especially useful when you need to guide your horse through turns or lateral movements.
How to Use the Shoulders Button:
To move your horse’s shoulders, first bring its head toward the shoulder you want to move. Then, direct the reins toward that shoulder, asking the horse to move sideways. Your free hand can help guide the horse, especially if it’s new to this movement. You won’t always see the front feet crossing over from the saddle, but you’ll notice the horse moving laterally instead of just forward.
This button helps you perform more advanced maneuvers and gives you greater control over your horse’s direction.
Why These Three Buttons Work
The brilliance of the three buttons lies in their simplicity. Whether you're riding a seasoned horse or one that's still learning, these three basic cues—head, hindquarters, and shoulders—are universally understood by all horses. They allow you to maintain control while keeping your communication clear and consistent.
Michael Glasgow, a seasoned horse trainer, stresses that by keeping these cues simple, you make it easier for both rider and horse to understand each other. No matter if you’re working with a Fjord, a Tennessee Walker, or even a pony, the horse will respond to these straightforward commands.
Conclusion
Mastering the three buttons on the reins—flexing the head, disengaging the hindquarters, and controlling the shoulders—is a game-changer for any rider. These simple techniques will help you maintain control, navigate complex maneuvers, and build a stronger connection with your horse. By focusing on clear, simple cues, you’ll be able to ride with more confidence and precision.
So, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, remember these three buttons next time you saddle up: flex the head, disengage the hindquarters, and move the shoulders. Keep it simple, stay balanced, and enjoy your ride!
