Because I have to "push" him to get any forward momentum but then need to pull him back down once I get it because he breaks into a trot won't I be working against myself in instilling the gait in him? I have a really hard time getting this guy to collect as any contact with the bit seems to slow him too much or stop him all together. I am riding in a thick D snaffle, he is barefoot, and I've tried both a western saddle, english dressage saddle and a Steele saddle (though, the Steele seems to fit him better he works the same in all). Do you have any suggestions as I do not wish to ruin what gait is there???? How do you get a "pokey" horse up on the bit with forward momentum..., and keep him there?

My husband & I have had TWH for 30 years now. MOST of the training I did myself because I didn't want my horse abused by other trainers  (our first stallion was abused in the "performance" methods. I quickly removed him but not before damage had been done. I learned a lot over time and was lucky enough to have Roy Larson as my teacher (he trained many Olympic riders and steeds). We won most everything we entered which includes many regional championships, state championships (etc.) so I assume that means my training must be at least reasonable.