Poll Bending Info

Willow, I would not consider that pushing a horse too hard. That was an EXCELLENT run, I've watched that video so many times. By "Pushing your horse too hard", I would think that would be spurring them until their sides bleed, running the without proper flexing and warmup (Running cold), yanking and pulling on your bit so you tear up and harden your horses mouth, and a horse with a lot of heart is capable of running themselves to death (This doesn't happen much, but it IS possible)

A properly trained pole horse needs little help from you. It will do everything willing from light signals.

Alright, alright...it was just a question, don't blow your horn till it pops! But thanks for that, that helps alot :)

Pushing a horse to hard also varies from horse to horse... What is light pushing for one can be pushing to hard for another. You have to "listen" to your horse.

Yes, NdAppy. I agree with this too. Pushing a horse who is not in shape is dangeorus in itself. That, and even the fittest horses in the world have differant limits as to what they can take.

Many people try to turn their horses around the poles, but it's just a subtle movement. Barely any rein contact with the weave, mainly just leg cues for lead changes. Find a pro trainer that can help you!!

Maybe not for real competition pole bending, but the poles are handy to use while practicing serpentines at slower gaits, which does help build strength and balance.

Do you think a 20 year old standard bred can pole bend? Just a question that passed my mind :/