How to Guarantee Your Horse Refuses Fences

Looking for a reliable way to make your horse slam on the brakes at every fence? You’re in luck - I’ve put together a foolproof system. If you apply all of these tips, you can wave goodbye to confidence, rhythm, and fun, and say hello to refusals for life.

Step 1: Lean forward at the last stride

Nothing says “don’t jump” quite like tipping onto your horse’s shoulders right before take-off. Extra weight on the forehand guarantees the front legs have to hit the ground first, which makes leaving it a whole lot less appealing.

Step 2: Whip it out at the worst possible time

Your horse looks at a jump? Perfect moment to yank out the whip. If he was hesitant before, you’ve now given him a real reason to be worried about fences. A great way to turn small doubts into full-blown fears.

Step 3: Jump every single ride

Flatwork? Boring. Poles? Pointless. The fastest way to refusal-town is to jump every day until your horse’s legs are sore and his joints ache. Burn out the body and the desire to leave the ground in one efficient package.

Step 4: Start them far too young

Why wait until a horse is physically or mentally ready? If you want refusals, start jumping at two or three years old. Overfacing them early sets the stage for long-term breakdowns - and lifelong avoidance of fences.

Step 5: Skip flatwork entirely

Who needs steering, balance, or an adjustable canter? Not you! Going straight at a fence in whatever speed your horse picks is clearly the best way to make sure things go wrong.

Step 6: Avoid lessons at all costs

Why waste time learning? Either you and your horse are born talented, or you’re not. Coaches can’t possibly help you with rhythm, balance, or problem-solving. Keep that ignorance strong if you want refusals to stick.

Step 7: Use the harshest gear you can find

Crank nosebands, heavy shank bits, short martingales - the tighter and harsher the better. Restrict the jaw and neck so your horse learns the only safe answer is “don’t leave the ground.” After all, nothing says confidence like discomfort.

And there you have it…

Follow this program to the letter and you’ll 100% create a horse who believes that stopping, spinning, or running out is the safest option. Congratulations - you’ve achieved guaranteed refusals.

(For those who don’t enjoy sarcasm: please don’t do any of this. Refusals aren’t solved by shortcuts or punishment. They’re prevented by building confidence, balance, and understanding - one step at a time.)

Thank you so much for being here!
Until next time,
Merindah