Lunging: The best techniques for beginners and advanced participants: The gentle dance of freedom

Welcome to Lunging: The Best Techniques for Beginners and Advanced

Dear readers, we want to introduce you to the world of lunging and bring you closer to the best techniques for beginners and advanced. Whether you are just starting out or already have experience, in this post you will find valuable tips and exercises to improve your lunging training.

What is Lunging?

Before we get into the techniques, let’s first clarify what lunging actually means. Lunging involves leading a horse in a circle around the person lunging with a long line, called a lunge line. This helps to promote communication, balance, and movement of the horse.

Basics for Beginners

If you are new to lunging, it is important to start with the basics. Here are some techniques that can help beginners learn to lunge:

The right equipment: Before you start lunging, make sure you have the right equipment. This includes a well-fitting lunge line, a lunging surcingle, and ideally a whip to support your aids.
The right body posture: Make sure you maintain an upright and relaxed body posture. Your movements should be smooth to send clear signals to the horse.
Sending the horse forward: Start lunging by gently sending the horse forward. Use your body language and the lunge line to show the horse that it should move.

Advanced Techniques

For advanced lungers, there are numerous techniques to deepen the training and further promote the horse. Here are some advanced techniques:

Working on the volte: Working on the volte can improve the balance and bend of your horse. Make sure the volte is well-rounded and even.
Canter work: Lunging at a canter requires good conditioning and coordination from both the horse and the person lunging. Make sure the horse canters evenly on both hands.
Changing directions: Changing directions on the lunge line helps promote balance and the horse’s trust in you as the person lunging.

Summary

Lunging provides a great way to promote communication and movement of your horse. Whether you are a beginner or advanced, the techniques presented can help you improve your lunging training and strengthen the bond with your horse.