Tom thumb bit Question

Question

I ride my horse in a Tom Thumb bit and i heard that those are harsh. He has lots of energy and wants to go really quickly so I end up walking him the whole time. when I ask him to slow down at the trot he will swing his butt into the center of the arena and will go sideways. is that because i am using to much leg? (He is very responsive to the leg) he will also munch on the bit even when i ride him, i would like to transfer him in to a snaffle bit but what kind?

Thanks, E.

P.S. i ride english

Answer 1

i would definitely transfer to a snaffle.

and if you dont already...lunge him.

he sounds pretty hot.

Answer 2

It sound like its the bit. Try a snaffle with a flash nose band(one that crosses in the front), a bitless bridle or a american gag bit with a regular snaffle briddle.

Answer 3

A wonder bit could be a good choice for you. You can put the reins on the big center ring to have it act like a true snaffle, or you can attach the reins to the lower ring to give you more control.

David

http://gentlenaturalhorseman.blogspot.co...

Answer 4

Switch to a snaffle bit...I prefer the full cheek snaffle for training, since it helps with lateral work.  The Tom Thumb is actually a type of curb because of the shanks, and is more severe because of the combination of jointed mouthpiece and leverage.  

I would get him off of the rail to work on slowing his trot, and don't allow him back on the rail unless he is collected and moving at a slower pace. Just sit deep and leg him forward to get him to bring is hindquarter under him.  When you feel his back elevate he'll lighten on his forehand, and then you can give light signals on the reins as you continue to deepen your seat until he slows his trot...he will feel more light on his feet at this point, and then you can take him to the rail...as long as he maintains this movement, keep him on the rail.  Anytime he speeds up, take him back to the center of the arena.  Additionally, you should take advantage of his responsivenes to your leg cues and have him do shoulder in and out exercises, and two track him.  these make him all the more supple and give you better ability to control his movement and speed.  The lateral rein cues for this work shouldn't be done in a shanked bit, so the full cheek snaffle will be best.

Answer 5

Your horse has a lot of energy. When he swings his butt into the arena as you described, he is just being bad. You're probably letting him get away with it thus escalating the situation. It sounds like you have way too much horse for your riding ability. Also there is no doubt that he can sense your fear and is taking advantage of you. You need to consult with a trainer before more bad habits develop.

Answer 6

I would suggest a Kimberwick...here is a link that shows a picture of one and how it works.  

http://horses.about.com/od/choosingandus...

I imagine he swings his butt in because he isn't receiving leg aids on both sides equally, and/or you are turning him into the rail to help slow him down.  In addition to your changing bits, I would go back to a round pen/more confined area and start over with the better bit and acquiring/maintaining a balanced seat...and practice keeping him between your feet, seat and hands at all times.  You will see an immediate improvement with the other bit, just make sure that you have adjusted up high enough that it isn't floating around in there, he needs to reach for it and it needs to be there when he does.

One more thing:  You know why those bits are called Tom Thumbs?  THEY SUCK!   Just a teeny, tiny joke, I apologize.

Answer 7

I agree with Bobbi!!!!! That bit gives mixed signals. It does have the nutt cracker effect. I do not own one nor  use one. I do not like them! I would change the bit.

Answer 8

I use a Mylar D ring snaffle bit for my hot english/barrel horse and he love it. It doesnt pinch their mouth. I have to turn him out/lunge him every once in a while to be fair too him, and I think you should as well to get the beans out of him.