A stuffy ride

■ If your horse is reluctant to move off your leg to open the stride needed for the extension, give with your hands when you put your leg on, so you’re not giving two conflicting aids. This will help him to stretch forward into the contact and work over his back.

■ Remember to reward your horse for every effort and think of positive reinforcement — a small offer to give a larger stride should be acknowledged so that he understands what it is you’re asking for.