Lunging: An Integral Part of Performance Horse Training

Many riders think that lunging is just for getting the "kicks" out of their horse. Lunging - done in the proper manner - is an excellent training and conditioning tool.

Equipment:

Lunge line with a chain, Lunge Whip, Snaffle Bridle, Side Reins, Saddle and Girth (or a surcingle is ideal)

Free lunging a young horse using simple voice commands is the basis for lunging. Once your horse understands (and obeys) voice commands and has accepted the saddle and bridle, it is time to introduce lunging with side reins. Remember, your lunge whip is your driving aid and the lunge line is your reins. The horse should remain between the lunge whip and the hand holding the lunge line at all times. The whip is to be used instead of your legs. Your horse should learn to move away from the whip - not be frightened of it. This may take some extra ground work in order to establish this form of communication with your horse.

Put the bridle (no reins are necessary) and saddle (or surcingle) on. Attach the side reins from the bit either through the dees at the top of the saddle or through the each side of the girth, depending on the horse. Put the chain of the lunge line through both rings of the bit and clip it to itself. The chain under the chin will serve as added control, if necessary. Start with no mouth contact on the side reins - you don’t want to frighten a young horse. When the horse seems ready, tighten up the reins a notch at a time until you lunge with some contact, keeping the inside rein two or three holes tighter to get the inside bend. This may take a few days or a few weeks, depending on the horses’ progress.

Don’t let your horse just poke along. Keep the horse moving forward, using your voice and your whip. If you horse is naturally energetic, you may not need a whip at all. The horse should move up into the bridle and drop his head, thus engaging his hindquarters.

If your horse is having trouble adjusting to the contact of the side reins, you may not be able to tighten them up as quickly as you would like. Keep the walk active. Do a lot of walk-trot transitions and trotting work, before you ask for the canter. It is important for a trainer to be flexible when training a young horse. Don’t be afraid to back up a few steps, rather than rush a youngster into something he is not ready for.

Some Important Safety Tips:

Make sure your lunge line is not wrapped around your hand or hanging in loops that may tighten around your hands (or legs) should your horse bolt!
Working in a small enclosed area with few distractions is best for starting a young horse.
Keep your attention on your horse. Now is not the time to be chatting to your friends. Remember your horse is listening to you for direction!

If done properly, within a few weeks, you should see your horse moving in a better frame, rounding its’ back and using its hindquarters. It is excellent for developing your young horses’ muscles and even for conditioning your Grand Prix horse!