Performing Half Steps In-Hand

When the horse can perform all the smaller pieces easily, she is ready to try the actual half-steps. In this video, Michael picks up the contact, walks backwards first and then asks for the half-steps. Rewarding for a good attempt is to drop the reins, take the whip away (removing the pressure) and praise the horse profusely. He does several passes showing different parts of the training with both an established horse and one that is younger.