Shoulder Up Backing – Counter Release

This gets a horse really soft in the face for backing, helps them become very aware of where their feet are and gets them very maneuverable.   Similar to hip in backing drill with a different release point. How: Before beginning, your horse should be good at backing...

Rate Repeat

Use this drill to instill rate into your barrel horse through repetition. He will learn to listen to your cues. How: Place 2 barrels about 50-70 feet apart. At a trot, approach one of the barrels. When you get to the point where you want to rate – walk. Ask for your...

4 Corner Rate

This helps to learn the collection and preparation needed to turn a barrel properly. It will help you and your horse become more in tune with each other. How: Only an arena with fences is needed for this drill. At a trot, move down the arena. Once you get to the...

Continuous Barrel Pattern

With no starting and stopping point this is a great drill to help avoid and help to cure any alleyway problems. The repetition helps gain consistency. How: Set up two barrel patterns like the diagram shows. They can be whatever size you want but I wouldn’t recommend...

Double One Way

This drill will help a horse that tries to crowd the barrel. But also emphasizes the turn for one that needs it. Great drill for nice correct turns. In this drill you will turn all three barrels the same direction and you will turn each barrel twice. How: Approach the...