My horse had some back issues so he got used to being somewhat tense through his body under saddle. Since I’ve had him I’ve gotten him feeling a lot better and we’re starting to work under saddle again. He’s so used to being tense that he won’t offer to stretch out. I’m not sure how to introduce the idea of stretching out and using himself better. Any ideas?
Have you checked out the Art2Ride channel on YouTube with Will Faerber? He explains everything during his videos which include lunging, longlining, and under saddle. We use the concepts with western horses all the time with great results. 
You know I have heard of him but I’m not super familiar. I’ll check his videos out!
It does take some time, but it’s well worth the patience!
