Resistance in the bridle is *always* related to the state of tension in the back. Sometimes it's hard to say which comes first, like the chicken & the egg. Is the horse's tense, braced back causing him to resist the bit? Or is bracing against the bit causing the back to tighten?
From Facebook fan Dorothy Smith ~ "In riding, as In a dance, one leads, one follows, but both must love to dance for it to become art."
Give your older horses even more time to fully warm up before any challenging or strenuous work.
"Sit on your bum. If you do that you’re part of the movement. If you squeeze with your thighs you can’t sit. Stay soft in your hips, draw yourself into the saddle and keep the calf just against his rib cage." ~ Bettina Hoy
In addition to the suppling benefits provided, basic lateral work helps the horse to understand that the rider's leg creates engagement of the hind legs, rather than merely speed.