The concept of vertical flexion. Dennis & Jess Day 23

The video discusses the concept of vertical flexion in horse riding, which involves the horse releasing to bit pressure and flexing at the poll. The rider needs to learn how to properly engage the horse's mouth and control different zones of the horse's body to achieve the desired results. The video also covers the mechanics of the trot, including the rising trot and long trot. Additionally, the video introduces a new type of horseshoe made of a flexible polyurethane material that has helped another horse, Jake, with a leg issue. The Dennis is hopeful this new shoe will also benefit their other horse, Rooster, who has been retired for a while but still has heart.
- The video discusses the concept of vertical flexion, which is when a horse releases to bit pressure and flexes at the poll.
- Vertical flexion is the first step in engaging the horse and controlling the different "zones" of the horse's body - the head/neck, shoulders, barrel, and hindquarters.
- The rider needs to develop a "feel" for how to engage the horse's mouth and head in order to then control the rest of the horse's body.
- Collection is achieved by having the right balance of "go" and "whoa" - too much "whoa" will cause the horse to back up, while too much "go" will cause the horse to lose collection.
- The video emphasizes the importance of the rider's mechanics and nuanced use of the reins, legs, and seat to communicate with the horse.
- Posting the trot originated as a way for mail carriers to ride more efficiently over long distances by rising on the outside diagonal.
- The different gaits (walk, trot, lope/canter, gallop) have different beat patterns that the rider needs to understand.
- The video introduces a new type of horseshoe made of a flexible polyurethane material that can help accommodate issues with a horse's leg conformation.
- The new shoes have copper-coated nails that help prevent rusting and bacterial issues in the hoof.
- The video discusses using these new shoes on the speaker's 18-year-old horse, "Rooster", who has been dealing with lameness issues in his right front leg.