Killing Birds

Today started the beginning of my Lexington training trip. I'll be here until Thursday so I'll be able to work with Cody before our shows so we both can improve and keep in check with each other.

As I started warming up, Susan was telling me about her weekend were she got to ride with the incredible Caroline Roffman. She started off by saying that she "Killed birds" this past weekend. Fortunately, she and Caroline did not actually kill birds, but used it as a metaphor to help remember that holding the reins are like holding birds, careful to not squeeze them too hard without allowing them to get loose. However, when your horse gets strong or heavy in the bridle, it is necessary to kill those birds by firmly squeezing the reins until your horse softens in the jaw and gives. 

So, Susan passed this training tool onto me to use with Cody. Might I say that "Killing Birds" is a fantastic thought to use when training any horse! It really helped me visualize and rethink how I am holding and using the reins.

Aside from "Killing Birds", I also worked on feeling the weight from the reins in my elbow. I have a habit of letting my wrists absorb the shock from the reins when, really, it should be traveling up my forearm and into my elbow. This is where I should back it up by having heavy elbows. I think I have almost conquered my arm problems, now onto my Tourette's leg. 

I am super pleased with both Cody and I's progress from not only the past couple months, but from the years I've been riding him. I never thought I would be at the point where I am now with Cody still strong by my side.