In this article from Practical Horseman magazine, Olympian and accomplished Grand Prix rider David Marcus explains the importance of weight aids and how to apply them at every level of your horse’s training.

You can use your weight aids to help teach a young horse

• your leg and rein aids

• better balance on turns and circles

As your horse’s training advances, your weight aids will

• help reinforce your other aids when teaching new skills

• encourage more self-carriage and expression

David explains how to use weight aids with young horses just starting out, with First Level horses in the leg-yield and with Third Level horses in the half-pass.

BONUS IN THIS ISSUE: Minimize fly infestations by addressing the source, implementing specific stable-management practices and getting the most out of your fly spray.