I was going to post a video but can’t figure out how, so here are a few snapshots from some successful ground driving. This exercise has made a huge difference in this mare! She’s much softer when riding and it’s helped her understand backing 100% better. I think we’re both more confident knowing we’ve worked out a lot of kinks on the ground before doing it the hard way under saddle. Last pic is after a great ride. 

Hey Richard! I’m watching the Softening the Older Horse series in preparation to use it with a 12 year old mare I’m restarting. 

Have you had any success in using a side pull/bitless bridle doing the ground driving and other exercises? This mare is extremely unhappy in a bit and it’s something we’re going to work through, but it’s going to take some time and I’m hoping it won’t hold up our progress with this program. She’s great riding in a loping hackamore so she’s pretty responsive without a bit. I figured the side pull would simulate pressure more similar to a bit. 

I was going to try it and just wanted to know what your thoughts/experiences were. Thanks!

Hey there! I’m coming back to the B1 program after some time off and am loving all of the series. Just wanted to say thank you for the great content!! Can’t get enough of it and am excited to start using it with one new horse, and tune up the other guys. Thank you again!