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Western Beginner 15 min

Western Pivot on the Forehand

Focus: Lateral Work, Responsiveness, Control

Equipment: 2 cones or markers

Arena Diagram

Arena diagram for Western Pivot on the Forehand

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. At the halt, ask the horse to move its hindquarters around its forehand.
  2. To pivot right (move haunches to the right), apply your left leg behind the girth.
  3. The front feet should stay nearly stationary while the hind feet cross over and around.
  4. The rein hand stays quiet — don't pull the horse's head to the side.
  5. Complete a 180-degree turn (half-pivot), then walk forward. Repeat in the other direction.
  6. Build to full 360-degree pivots on the forehand.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • The horse walking forward through the pivot instead of keeping the forehand still.
  • Using rein to turn instead of leg to push the haunches.
  • The forehand walking a large circle instead of staying in place.
  • Not rewarding small steps in the right direction.

Variations & Progressions

  • Use the pivot to position your horse at a gate.
  • Chain: pivot on forehand, walk 10 steps, pivot on haunches.
  • Practice pivots from both sides for equal training.
Tip: The pivot on the forehand teaches the horse to respect your leg. It's the western version of the turn on the forehand.

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