If you've ever wondered why your half halt isn't working, you're not alone. The half halt is one of the most commonly referenced tools in riding, yet it's also one of the most misunderstood!

In this episode, we strip away the confusion and break down what the half halt actually is, what it isn't, how to tell if your half halt worked, and what to do when it doesn't deliver the rebalancing and clarity you were hoping for.

Whether you're a newer rider or you've been in the saddle for years, this conversation will help you simplify your approach and start getting more consistent results with your horse.

Here's what you'll learn in this episode

• What the half halt actually means (and why it's much simpler than you've been told)

• Why so many riders struggle to ride an effective half halt

• The real purpose of the half halt; hint: it's not just slowing down

• How to ride the half halt correctly

• Signs your half halt is working

• Why your half halt isn't working (and how to troubleshoot the most common issues)

• The role of timing, feel, and forward energy

• How to start practicing and refining your half halt today

If the half halt has ever felt mysterious, complicated, or just plain ineffective… you'll walk away from this episode with clarity and practical next steps.

Connection - Deep Dive the Half Halt

Inside Connection, my online membership for equestrians working alone without a regular trainer or coach, we are dedicating October, November, and December 2025 to refining the half halt. We are working on the lunge, on the ground, and in the saddle.

Each month includes:

• Weekly live training sessions

• Audio riding lessons

• Clear step-by-step guidance

If you want to go beyond "knowing what the half halt is" and begin feeling it consistently, Connection is where we do that work together.

Learn more here: https://stridesforsuccess.com/join

Your Signature Ride Challenge

Ready for something fun to add to your training? Join the Your Signature Ride Challenge, where you'll use seat and leg aids to "write your name" with your horse using a tracking app.

It's a playful way to improve accuracy, body awareness, and communication, while having a laugh at the same time.

You'll get:

• A guided audio lesson

• Direction and support

• The chance to win access to Connection

https://stridesforsuccess.com/ride

Join the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community

If you enjoy this episode, you'll love the free Daily Strides Podcast Online Community. Share your experiences, ask questions, learn from other riders, and stay inspired, especially if you're riding alone without a trainer.

Come join us here: https://facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast

Subscribe, Rate & Review

If this episode helped you understand why your half halt isn't working - tell someone :) Please subscribe, rate, review, and share the podcast with a friend. It helps us reach more riders who are working alone and want reliable, supportive guidance.

Thank you for being here and for riding with us.