Horse Training: Using Long Lines

In our next session we will do the same thing, with less time in prep before hooking up the long lines. I will also stay mounted longer, and take a short ride around the round pen in both directions at the walk, possibly the trot. As each session gets better we will add more time in the saddle in the round pen and the indoor arena. By a month from starting we will be taking rides in the pasture without escort. Then the real training can begin.

Long line training helps your horse learn to give to the bit before you mount. This way you have much more control than if you just got on with no ground work. You should be able to ask for a stop, turns, and a step back on your first ride. Use the same tapping or light pull and release you use while working on the ground.

This training can also be used when teaching various Dressage Movements. You can also us long lines to re-train a spoiled horse. Using the same principles outlined here, begin at the beginning, establishing new lessons, trust and time spent together without riding. Some horses appreciate the ground work and learn to respond better to the bit than ever before.

The same type of lessons are used when preparing your horse or pony to drive. There are additional steps involved to teach them to pull, wear a harness, and not fear the shafts. Never just hook your horse or pony to a cart without thoroughly preparing by ground work. You could at the least ruin the horse, and at the worst serious injury or even death could occur - to you or your horse. Driving is an involved sport, it takes training and skill.

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