Rein-Back Self-Assessment - August 2025

🏇 Rein-Back Self-Assessment

Discover your starting point and focus areas for August's journey

Be honest but kind to yourself - this is about growth, not judgment!

I understand what the rein-back is and why it's valuable for collection

My horse backs up reliably from the ground with light pressure

I can consistently get my horse to shift weight backward when I ask

I have adequate space and good footing to practice backing safely

My horse will take 2-3 steps back when asked under saddle

My horse doesn't resist or get anxious about backing requests

My horse lifts their front feet clearly (not dragging them)

I remember to reward with forward movement after backing

I can feel/hear a clear two-beat rhythm in the backing

I can see diagonal pairs moving together (not four-beat shuffling)

My horse keeps their withers up and poll above withers while backing

The backing has consistent tempo (not rushing or dragging)

My horse backs in a straight line without drifting sideways

We can back 6+ steps while maintaining quality

My horse responds to light aids (not heavy rein pressure)

I can stop the backing precisely when I want to

I can feel improved collection in forward gaits after backing

We've successfully backed over poles or on gentle slopes

My horse can back on gentle curves or in shoulder-in position

I can combine backing with lateral work from previous months

Get started today before this once in a lifetime opportunity expires.