Should You Heel on the Gain? Roping Position vs. Timing
Practice Smarter: Roping Drills, Horsework & Strategy
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6m 50s
Is heeling on the gain a mistake—or just misunderstood? Ryan Motes and Brock Hanson break down what “roping on the gain” really means and why it's not the same as just throwing fast. This in-depth talk covers why this style might work for headers but usually sets heelers up for late stops, poor position, or missed timing.
They explain:
• Why roping on the gain usually doesn’t work for heelers
• The difference between spot throwing vs. swing-matched control
• How keeping your horse collected affects the stop
• Why proper spacing and rhythm matter more than swing speed
• How elite ropers like Holcomb and Colin do it right
This is a must-watch for anyone struggling with late catches, short draws, or inconsistent heel loops. Whether you’re learning to read the hops or trying to sharpen your stop, this conversation clarifies a commonly misused concept in team roping.
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