In this post, Michael Gascon breaks down when and why to introduce a shank bit in your horse’s training. Using a five-year-old mare named Diva as an example, he explains...

Gaining control of your horse’s head is the first step to gaining control of their body—and their mind. In this blog post, we explore how teaching your horse to drop...

Flexing in motion is a crucial skill for developing softness, responsiveness, and control in your horse. Instead of attempting to flex both sides at once, it's best to start by...

Approaching obstacles with confidence starts with understanding your horse’s natural reactions and using clear, consistent cues. Instead of pulling back on the reins, sit deep in the saddle, release pressure,...

Setting high expectations for your horse’s behavior ensures consistency and reliability, no matter where you ride. By reinforcing respectful groundwork, you create a foundation that eliminates excuses and keeps your...

Rollbacks are an essential tool for improving control, addressing problem behaviors, and building a stronger connection with your horse. By disrupting negative patterns like bucking, rearing, or bolting, rollbacks shift...

Square Dancing is an advanced groundwork exercise that transforms your horse into a responsive and attentive partner. By guiding their movements with subtle cues, you establish control over their head,...

Learn how to safely remove your halter without taking off the bridle in this step-by-step guide. This technique is essential for maintaining control of your horse in high-stakes or everyday...

Teaching your horse to gait starts with building a solid foundation of calmness, confidence, and responsiveness. By focusing on relaxation and obedience first, you create a horse that's ready to...

Learning to control your horse in an open field doesn’t have to be intimidating. The key is redirecting their energy through gentle flexion and disengaging their hindquarters, rather than pulling...

Effective speed control is essential for a safe and enjoyable ride with your horse. This guide highlights techniques to manage your horse's pace by focusing on head control, clear communication,...

Struggling with a horse that's extra resistant or prone to bad behavior like bucking or rearing? In this guide, we break down Michael Gascon's systematic approach to softening a...