Lungeing - tips for getting the right position

Hi!

🐴 Picture yourself, the line and the horse as a triangular slice of cake, with the horse's muzzle and tail at the two outer corners of the wide end. Position yourself just behind the horse's shoulder, so that your driving aid comes from behind and forward. As soon as you happen to come in front of the shoulder, slow down and invite the horse in towards the middle.

Do take a whip to define that triangle further and to extend the arm that is not holding the line. The idea is not to use the whip on the horse, but to use it as a steering aid. Raising the whip increases the drive; lowering it eases the energy off and signals the horse to slow down.

🐴 It also helps to have someone with you who can lead the horse at first and show it where to be.

🐴 To begin with, it is usually easier to lunge with a little forward momentum in trot than in walk. Walk off on a straight line, trot a little on both reins, pause in walk, and walk off again on a straight line.

Good luck! 🦄