Swording a horse is a centuries-old technique used to train horses to respond to pressure from a rider’s legs during riding. The technique can be used as a form of discipline or to condition a horse to move away from pressure. It is a controversial technique, with some equestrians believing it is a cruel practice while others see it as a useful tool for horse training.
History of Swording Horses
Swording horses has been practiced since at least the 16th century, when it was used by Spanish conquistadores to train their mounts. It was also used by the French cavalry in the 17th century, and by cavalry officers in the British Army in the 19th century.
The technique was also used by some Native American tribes, including the Sioux, who used a spear to touch the horse’s sides when it was being ridden.
The Technique
Swording a horse involves using a long, blunt object—such as a short sword or stick—to touch the horse’s sides while the horse is being ridden. This is done to condition the horse to move away from pressure, which is a useful skill for riding.
The rider will use the sword to lightly tap the horse’s sides, usually just behind the rider’s legs. This should not be painful for the horse, but rather a light tap that the horse will feel and understand as a cue to move away from the pressure.
Benefits of Swording a Horse
Swording a horse is a useful tool for horse training, as it can help to condition the horse to respond to pressure from the rider’s legs. This can make it easier to control the horse during riding, as well as in other situations such as leading and loading.
Swording can also help to create a bond between the horse and rider, as it encourages the horse to trust the rider and respond to their cues.
Drawbacks of Swording a Horse
The main drawback of swording a horse is that it can be difficult to perform correctly, and if done incorrectly it can cause the horse unnecessary pain or distress. It is important to use a light touch and make sure the horse does not feel any pain when being swordered.
The technique can also be seen as a form of discipline, and some equestrians believe it is a cruel practice.
Alternatives to Swording a Horse
If you are uncomfortable with the idea of swording a horse, there are a number of alternatives that can help to condition a horse to respond to pressure from the rider’s legs. These include:
- Leg Yielding – This involves using your legs to gently push the horse’s sides in the direction you want to go. This helps to condition the horse to move away from pressure.
- Side Passing – This is a more advanced technique, which involves using your legs to move the horse sideways. This can be useful for teaching the horse to move away from pressure.
- Lungeing – Lungeing is a useful tool for teaching a horse to respond to pressure from the rider’s legs. The horse is attached to a long rope, and the rider uses their legs to move the horse in a circle.
Is Swording a Horse Cruel?
The debate over whether swording a horse is cruel or not is ongoing. Some equestrians believe it is a cruel practice and should be avoided, while others argue that it can be a useful tool for training horses.
Ultimately, it is up to the individual rider to decide whether or not to use the technique. If you choose to use it, it is important to make sure you use a light touch and that the horse does not feel any pain or distress.
Where to Learn More About Swording Horses
If you are interested in learning more about swording horses, there are a number of resources available. You can read books on the subject, watch videos online, or take a lesson from a qualified instructor.
Conclusion
Swording a horse is an ancient technique used to condition horses to respond to pressure from the rider’s legs. The technique can be beneficial for horse training, but some equestrians consider it a cruel practice.
It is up to the individual rider to decide whether or not to use the technique, but if you choose to use it, it is important to make sure you use a light touch and that the horse does not feel any pain or distress. There are also a number of alternatives to swording a horse, such as leg yielding and side passing.