How To Train A Horse To Lunge On A Line
Introduction
Lungeing, or riding a horse on a long line, is an extremely useful tool for training horses and riders alike. When lungeing, the handler uses these lines to control the horse’s turns and speed while standing in one spot. A properly trained horse that can move forward and back at the handler’s command can then be ridden with more predictability; he’ll respond well to basic cues such as pulling back on the reins or pushing him forward with a leg. In this article, I’ll explain how you can train your horse to follow basic commands when you lunge him.
Get the Horse Used to the Line
Now that you have your equipment, it’s time to train. A horse should be completely comfortable with the line before stepping onto a lunge whip or a saddle, and he should know that it’s only for walking on. If you start out with a heavy line, you are setting yourself up for failure in future steps.
Start small by using just a light rope at first, then gradually move up to heavier weight lines as your horse shows comfort with this new sensation. You can use three different lengths of lines to help your horse get used to moving at different distances from you: short (about 5 feet), medium (about 10 feet) and long (20-30 feet). The shorter the distance between you and the horse when training, the easier it will be for them to respond quickly so start with short lines at first until they are consistently responding well enough before progressing further away from each other.
Add Directional Commands
As your horse becomes more comfortable with the lunge line and edging, you can begin to incorporate directional commands. Begin by directing your horse to move forward in a straight line. If your horse begins to wander or change direction, use the whip at a 45 degree angle toward the ground and toward their shoulder (for left turns) or hip (for right turns). For example:
- Forward
- Left/right turn
Ask for Transitions
When you are lungeing your horse on a line, it is important to ask for transitions. Transitions are when you ask your horse to change direction. Your goal should be for the horse to do so easily and smoothly, without resistance or losing his balance.
Once you’ve developed basic control of your horse’s body as you ask him to move in a circle on the ground, you’re all set for this next step.
Step 1: Develop Basic Control of the Horse’s Body on the Ground
The first step to teaching your horse how to lunge on a line is developing basic control of his body as you ask him to move in a circle on the ground. This will help establish good habits for when you’re working with him from the saddle later on.
To do this, have someone hold your horse while you stand facing him at his shoulder (or wherever feels comfortable). You’ll want someone who knows what they’re doing here—if your horse has any bad habits that might cause injury or panic, like bolting or rearing up, this step will not be safe for everyone involved. When it comes time for you both to turn around and begin moving forward together, take small steps with caution so as not to frighten him too much; if he starts getting nervous or panicky (i.e., acting like he’s going crazy), stop immediately! Don’t let yourself lose control of what’s happening here just because things aren’t going exactly how they were supposed to go according…
Conclusion
That’s all there is to lunging a horse on a line! It’s such an easy way to build trust between rider and horse, as well as prepare your horse for more advanced training on the ground. The only thing that might hinder progress is the lack of proper equipment. Be sure you’re using a rope halter and rope lead, and that their lengths are just right for your horse. Stay consistent with his training and work with him regularly, even if it’s just a few times per week. For example, if you can get in three sessions every five days, that’s more than enough time to make serious strides in his skill level. It can take months before he’s comfortable enough to lunge in either direction on command without being led around by his handler or getting wrapped up in the line completely loose—but it will be worth it when you see how far he has come!