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Fast Back Focus with Matt Funk
How much to practice on your horse
During my schools I’m often asked how many steers should you rope when practicing on your horse. Depending on the arena conditions, cattle, score, etc. I would normally rope six to eight steers and score as many, or even twice as many.
Always keep in mind what the conditions are. If your horse is getting hot after two steers, you might need to score three or four more and then put him up and let him have a break. When I do this, my horse invariably works better the second time and is calmer. The reason is because they are a little tired and their mind is right, making them more responsive.
Most people don’t need to rope too many. Ride your horse and make sure they’re exercised and fit. Most people end up roping too many causing their horse to do little things wrong, which in turn causes them to rope even more trying to fix it. If they had just roped a few to start with they would have been better off. If you feel like you need more practice then rope the dummy – without your horse.
Successful practice will give you and your horse the confidence you need to win.
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