getting horse to respond to aids

In a month we r starting trail riding and I would like to get my horse responding to my leg and seat aids better (like turning from my leg and stopping from my seat) so that it will b easier to control him from the trails...he already does this a little bit but I would like to improve it A LOT. Does anyone know some quick easy exercises to get him listening a little better? I am not expecting to get it perfect since we don't have much time, but hopefully we can at least get it better. Thanks! :)

Try dropping all rein cues and start using ONLY leg and seat cues. Only use your reins as a aid to further get the cue across.

For example, ask to turn using leg and seat. Try to be as clear as possible. Use some very slight rein (if needed) to 'explain' the leg/seat cue.

It's extremely important that once you start such training, that you do not divert back to the old. Consistency is key to any and all horse training :)

To add to this. When you first start, make sure that you over exaggerate the cues so that he kinds gets the feel for them. Then lighten up after a while when you think he "gets it".

The only thing that can get you to where you want is time and practice.

You can also practice working from the ground and using the handle end of a whip in the area where you'd give the cue with your legs. I trained my horse that way. By the time I got into the saddle he knew the cues from me doing them from the ground and it as easy as pie.

Thx everyone! Im going to try some of this tomorro!

I agree with both twogeldings and Equestriun. Ask with your leg or butt cues then if no response tell with the reins. You'll both get it with time and practice and consistency.