Understanding Resistance in Horses by D/C - Resistance Series #1

Dennis Cappel
Jun 23
2 min read

Updated: Jun 24

Clear Mental Horsemanship with Dennis Cappel

What is resistance? When it comes to working with horses, resistance shows up in many ways. A horse resists first in their mind with their thoughts that can manifest in their body. In my experience, most resistance stems from one core issue: lack of understanding.

That is why clarity in both what you are asking and how you are asking is the most powerful tool you have for overcoming resistance.

The first step is simply recognizing when resistance has shown up. And that is not always easy as sometimes it is subtle. For example, if you are riding a horse that is unsure, you may feel they resist moving forward. They will make you work harder than you should have to using your body to get more forward motion. It might even feel like you are having to pick the horse up with every step. When that happens, make no mistake, they are now in control. This is where the problem lies!

If we can help a horse feel free and confident to go forward, that puts us back in the driver’s seat. Forward motion is just one place where resistance can show up. You can experience it in turning, speeding up, slowing down, or riding into unfamiliar places along with sights, sounds, or smells can all trigger resistance.

Why, because it is in a horse’s nature to stay safe. They will do anything to avoid what feels like the unknown. So, keep in mind resistance is not personal. It is not the horse being stubborn just to frustrate you. It is just what horses do.

So that means it is up to us to learn what the horse needs at that moment to help them understand. And when understanding is reestablished, resistance will disappear. In its place, you will experience flow, ease, and freedom of movement.

This is what I call the sweet spot when a horse is comfortable, connected, and willing. Take mental note; When the horse has found it, allow them to feel the absence of you “not” squeezing more with your legs or pulling on the reins. Here is where the horse gets to relax and enjoy the peace of the task at hand as understanding for them is achieved.

The beauty of it is, they stop looking for ways to resist you and start searching for ways to stay in that place of harmony with you.

Mindful Riding,

Dennis Cappel - Master Horseman

www.cappeltrainingandshoeng.com