Why Your Horse Won’t Back Up—and What to Do About It
Excerpt: Backing up is more than just a training maneuver—it’s a test of balance, comfort, and confidence. If your horse avoids it, let’s figure out why.
What Backing Tells You About the Body
A horse that resists backing may be protecting sore hocks, stifles, or SI joints. Because backing up engages the hind end deeply, discomfort here often shows first in this simple movement.
Other Common Physical Causes
- Tight hamstrings or lumbar spine discomfort
- Front-end pain that makes rocking weight back difficult
- Neurological issues affecting coordination
- Posture or balance issues due to poor hoof angles
It’s Not Always Physical
Sometimes the resistance is mental. If a horse’s cues have been rushed, misunderstood, or punished, they may associate backing with anxiety or pressure. Slow it down. Re-teach with clarity and reward softness over quantity.
Ways to Help
- Have a bodyworker assess lumbar, SI, and stifles for pain
- Use Draw It Out® Gel along hindquarters and lumbar pre-ride
- Back up in-hand first, then under saddle with soft feel
- Reward just one step back—don’t drill or yank
- Strengthen with hill work and backing over poles
Final Thoughts: Small Steps Say a Lot
Refusing to back isn’t about attitude—it’s your horse telling you something. Hear it, help it, and watch them gain strength and trust, one step at a time.
Backing is a window into the hind end—use it wisely.