Why This Style of Turn Matters

Most of my life I trained horses that were either:

Or

Before I ever thought about getting on their back or teaching anything technical on the ground, I needed one thing first:

Their attention on me.

I’m excited for this challenge because with the change in the weather (deep snow, no indoor), I’ve been feeling directionless and unmotivated.
So this will give Harry and I a purpose as we wander up and down the laneway.

Sylvie Hand

The truth is, I didn’t often have a round pen or arena to rely on, so the turn I’m teaching in this challenge was born out of necessity.
I didn’t invent it, but I’ve spent years refining it—with hundreds of horses and students into a clear, simple skill anyone can learn.

It works anywhere.

This style of turn became my go-to because:

Once the horse and human understand how to move hindquarters and shoulders through a change of direction, it becomes a tool you can use whenever you need it.

During the challenge we’ll also get subtle with the request, which teaches the horse to stay tuned in, so they don’t miss it.

And the timing, and subtlety teach us to stay aware of them so the horse learns you’re present and engaged.

Clear. Consistent. Worth listening to.

I’m looking forward to the challenge this week. Gatsby and I need to get back on track.  
Our weather varies moment by moment! The challenge exercises should give us fun things to focus on.

Monica Falk

When You’d Use This

Yes, sometimes you just want to change direction at the end of your line.

But this turn is so much more than that.

You can use it anytime your horse:

There are optimal moments to ask (it's not what you think), and we’ll work on recognizing those.

Not bad for something you can practice 5 minutes at a time.

If you’d like clearer communication, lighter responses, and more reliable control, this challenge will guide you step by step. Join the challenge and lay the foundation for a better ride.

What We’ll Do in the Challenge

During this challenge, we will:

I consider this one of the most valuable and impactful groundwork skills a handler can learn.

I’ve used it with green colts, problem horses, and high-level competition horses, because it improves:

And without these skills on the ground, we’re simply less safe and less clear in the saddle because everything we do here directly supports our ridden work.  

That’s why I created this challenge.
To help you build the focus and communication that makes riding better and safer.

The Turn & Go Challenge isn't about mastering one obstacle or skill—it’s about building the foundation your horse needs to excel in any discipline.

Through targeted exercises, you'll help your horse become more focused, and responsive, while your horse teaches you to be more aware, enhancing your shared communication.

Key Benefits