Training

Usually a horse begins training as a yearling. First it is worked on a longe (lunge) line . A longe line is a long rope attached to the horses halter or bridle. It is usually 25 feet long. The trainer holds the longe line in the center of a large ring surrounded by tall fences to prevent distractions. The trainer uses a long whip to keep the horse moving. It will give the same messages that the riders legs will give later on.

After a horse has learned how to work on a longe line it will be worked under tack.

After the horse is accustomed to tack, mounted training will begin. The horse will learn aids (signals) and how to obey his riders commands.

Created on November 13, 1998.