Holding a Horse Back Without Pulling His Head
When you have a horse that tries to get in front of you, here is an alternative to just pulling him back. It has the huge benefit of bringing his mind from wherever he was focused right to the place indicated quite far in front. This then draws his attention to YOU as the person who had him feel safer in that moment, right when he needed just that. So instead of a minor (or major) confrontation, we get the result we want while he actually experiences something he values from us. A win win for the respect and trust we want to build.
If you are having trouble with the "square" exercise, for example your horse moves when you cross in front of him, this is an excellent preparation to change his perception about "bumbling" into the space - among many other uses!