What to expect in your download:

Backing

30-Day Backing Checklist & Progress Tracker

A proven, systematic approach to starting your horse under saddle with confidence and safety

Starting your horse under saddle is the most critical phases in their training. This 30-day checklist gives you a clear, step-by-step roadmap that ensures your horse is truly ready for each stage before moving forward.

Based on 45 years of working with horses, this systematic approach helps you track progress, recognize when your horse needs more time, and build confidence for both of you through the entire backing process.

Inside Your Complete Backing Guide

  • ✓ Complete 30-day progression plan: A day-by-day checklist covering everything from groundwork preparation through those first rides, so you always know what comes next and nothing gets skipped
  • ✓ Built-in progress tracker: Check off each skill as it’s mastered, with space to note your horse’s reactions and identify any areas that need extra time before moving forward
  • ✓ Safety-first approach: Clear indicators for when your horse is ready to progress versus when they need more foundation work, helping you avoid dangerous situations before they happen
  • ✓ Flexible timeline: Designed to move at YOUR horse’s pace, not an arbitrary schedule. Some horses master it in 30 days, others need 45 or 60 – this tracker helps you recognize which timeline is right for YOUR horse
  • ✓ Skill mastery checkpoints: Each step includes clear criteria for what “ready to move forward” actually looks like, so you’re not guessing whether your horse is truly prepared
  • ✓ Notes and observations section:Track patterns in your horse’s behavior, identify triggers, and document what works best for your individual horse throughout the process

Perfect for: Anyone starting their first horse under saddle, experienced riders taking on a young horse, or trainers looking for a systematic client-friendly progression guide. This checklist ensures nothing gets missed and your horse builds confidence every step of the way.