A horse’s natural response to human pressure is to flee from it, become defensive towards it, or to physically “challenge” it, which causes him to be unable to “hear” the person. The horse needs to learn that pressure offered by a person can similar to feedback he'd receive from interacting with other horses.

Pressure should be thought of as a tool that affects the clarity of communication between a person and their horse. It can be used to teach the horse to offer respectful personal space, defining literal and imaginary boundaries. Whether from the ground or in the saddle, teaching the horse to follow, soften and yield to the pressure of a lead rope, rein, leg or your seat are quality and necessary aids. It can be used to teach the horse to become mentally available before offering physical movement.

The term “pressure” often has a negative association due to the misuse of it through a person’s attempt of controlling and micromanaging the horse's movement. One's intention completely influences how the horse "receives" the human's communication.

Pressure forcing a horse into submission whether through physical dominance, using gadgets and devices, or mentally and physically wearing down the equine tends to lead to a "battle." Pressure by forcing something concerning upon the horse and increasing its intensity until he has to choose to quit fleeing, contributes to his learning to be defensive.

Aggressive pressure tactics such as continuous “driving” (with a flag, whip, etc.) basically scares a horse into physical compliance (crossing water, trailer loading, passing the scary spot on the trail) but simultaneously increases his mental distrust and emotional concern. This "teaches" him to have anticipation as more is asked of him.

Due to misunderstanding, inattentiveness, distraction, and lack of awareness, many people unintentionally communicate a barrage of chaos through both spatial and physical pressure.

Constant “busy-ness” from a person in their activity with the lead rope/rein/leg dulls the horse and teaches him to "but down" or ignore the human while also becoming defensive towards pressure.

Slow, after-the-fact critical responses towards the horse, inconsistent ignoring or allowing certain equine behaviors, and not establishing clear boundaries to create a safe "space" for the horse to function in, are also common contributors leading to an equine's resistance towards any form of pressure.

If you are interested in learning more, here is a link to the Pressure Points webinar offered on the Remote Horse Coach video catalog.