Frame and Horse Stretches???

Question

How do i out my horse into a frame? (what is the easiest and most efective way?)

what are some good stretches that i can do with my horse before riding/jumping???

Answer 1

A frame is a general term for "contact".  Contact is not something that is easy nor is it a simple concept.  Dependant on your experience, contact can or cannot be difficult to acheive for you and your horse.  It ultimatley comes from quiet hands and at times, a little reinforcement on your behalf to encourage a long and low frame.  Sometimes, a little inside leg and inside reign (perhaps a little squeeze) will entice your horse to supple on the inside and drop his/her nose into a relaxed, long and low head set.  Ideally you want to have your horse going long and low/relaxed and then work on having your horse move up and into the bit.  Ideally, working with a coach on a consistant basis will help you with this important detail in your riding.  Typing the explanation can at times be difficult bc it can be a rather complicated explanation.

As far as stretches you can do, You can gently pull each front leg forward and hold it for 10-15 seconds, have a treat and have your horse stretch around either side of their body and you can do this to to have your horse stand still and stretch out straight to reach for a treat.  You can also stretch the back legs by pulling them gently as if you were going to pick the back feet, and pull them gently back and hold for about 10-15 seconds as well.  Of course, assuming your horse isnt a kicker.  Sometimes it takes a horse a minute or so to relax so ideally, the more relxed your horse, the more beneficial the stretch.

Good Luck :)