Understanding Resistance in Horses by D/C - Resistance Series #6

Dennis Cappel
Jul 28
1 min read

Clear Mental Horsemanship with Dennis Cappel

The Block in the Middle: Softening a Resistant Ribcage – Resistance series part 6

When it comes to the horse’s ribcage, resistance here can be subtle but very significant. The ribcage is the central part of the horse’s body; it’s the bridge between the front and the hind. If the ribs are braced, tight, or pushing against your leg, the horse will struggle to bend, move laterally, or even go straight with balance and ease.

A braced ribcage blocks the free flow of energy through the body. You might feel like the front end is going one way and the hind is trailing behind or swinging out. You may also notice the horse resisting your leg or feeling disconnected through the middle.

Softening the ribcage is not about making the horse “give” to your leg; it’s about helping the horse relax through the center of their body so they can carry themselves in balance. This requires timing, feel, and an awareness of how pressure influences the horse’s whole body, not just the spot you’re touching.

You want the horse to allow their body to flow around your inside leg, not push into it or away from it. The goal is a soft, yielding ribcage that allows for unity between the front end and the hindquarters, creating harmony through the whole horse.

Mindful Riding,

Dennis Cappel - Master Horseman

www.cappeltrainingandshoeng.com