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The training of a horse is never finished; trainer Trent Normandin works with horses of any age. Just like people, horses can develop bad habits or get lazy. It is important to continually work with a horse if the rider wants the horse to mature as a mount. For instance, a horse that is broken to the saddle will not necessarily jump a fence; he must be trained to jump.
One common area Trent works on with horses of all ages is teaching them to put their heads down. Most horses have a natural tendency to hold their heads up high, especially when they are being ridden. However, when a horse's head is tucked down towards his chest, he is easier to control. This is because the bit in the horse's mouth hits the pressure points when his head is down. Therefore, a rider wants the horse to lower his head. This is much easier said than done, especially with stubborn horses.
Trent uses the process of "bitting down," which is done without a rider. He takes the reins and brings them through the horse's legs, underneath the chest. Then he ties the reins onto the stirrups and urges the horse into a trot. If the horse gives in to the pressure exerted, then he will drop his head. Many horses take a little while to learn that it is easier to give in than fight. Eventually, though, the horse will learn to drop his head.
One reason Trent uses this method is because the rider does not have to fight against the horse's strength; the horse is fighting against himself. Also, this method will work with even very stubborn horses.
