A spur is really just a reaching assist (a term taken from my lifeguard days – not equine related!). 

As a woodworker might choose some smaller chisels to refine the details of his project, so spurs give a rider precision and reach in delivering his cues. 

Timing and intensity of the aids we use is a popular topic on my blog. Skilled riders are intentional about their communication – they’ve learned to avoid cues that are too little, too much, too late, or too early – sometimes the hard way! 

As long as a rider has good control over her lower leg and heel, so that she won’t touch the horse by accident, spurs can help her to reach just the right spot in just the right amount. 

I know by wearing spurs that I won’t miss a training opportunity – if a horse is unresponsive to my leg, I can lift my spur to deliver just the right amount of motivation and follow through on my request. I have it available if I need it. Remember, our goal is error free horse training.