Ep 97: Using Roping to Establish Feel, Timing & Balance
When I first started out as a trainer, the only thing I trained was rope horses. While I still train a lot of horses that go on to excel in various roping disciplines, I've learned that the techniques I use to train roping horses are beneficial for horses in other disciplines as well.
The calf sled is a tool that we use to help a horse learn proper positioning and speed control behind a moving object.
Horses are naturally curious, so when you place a moving object in front of them, they lock their focus onto that object. When horses are concentrating on a moving object, it gives them a reason to speed up or slow down. This is extremely beneficial for both rope horses and barrel horses, as it teaches them the feel of your body when you ask them to rate.
When I am working horses on a calf sled or pen roping, I also work on their body position behind the moving object. I always want my horse’s body to be in line with the tail head of the calf, both during the run and during the stop. When a horse learns to keep their body square with an object, it helps ensure that all five body parts are in alignment and working together.
Much like the moving object gives our horse something to focus on, roping gives us something to focus on as well. When we have something else for our hands to concentrate on, like a rope, we don’t micromanage our reins as much. When we slow our rein hand down, we give our horse time to find the answer just from the feel of our bodies.
Whether you are a roper and want to try out these techniques, or if you know a roper who could practice these methods on your horse, I believe these exercises can be incredibly beneficial for horses in any discipline. Even if you are not planning to rope on your horse competitively, trying a new exercise can help stimulate the horse both physically and mentally.
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