Over Bending / Too Deep / Curling Up Behind Bit

Alex's Dressage Tips

Over bending / Too deep / Curling up behind bit 

This is not as common as 'Above the bit' or 'Lacking Connection 'but does happen from time to time.

It's when the front of your horse's head is behind the vertical and is a form of evasion to the contact. At the lower levels it's not penalized severely as tbh at least it's working through its back and not above the bit! There's an issue though when the chin is on the chest (or close to) and the horse is bowling on irrespectively.

If your horse is consistently over bending then there are things you can do... 

- Try changing the bit to one that allows more room for the tongue. Check it's the right size and not pinching him. There are bit banks and bit specialist that will help. My wife uses Bomber bits that remove pressure on the join and are softer on the sides of the mouth.

- Work in short bursts, not long drawn out sessions.

- Vary your work, throw in lateral work to encourage concentration.

- Think forwards more and try engage hocks further under to achieve better carriage.

- Practice more stretch exercises in slow paces to strengthen back muscles.

- Allow more hacking in the routine encouraging him to raise the forehand.

- Use more effective half halts before and after each movement/ transition to engage hocks further under and lighten forehand and connection.

- Don't let him lean on you in training. If he tries then release the contact.
 

There will be other things I've missed I'm sure, but the above points come to mind first. 

Enjoy the fact that your horse is happy to work over its back as there are millions of riders who are extremely envious of your issue!