NEVER go out for a ride if you are worried your horse might not do what you ask. You need to be sure you and your horse have an excellent connection before heading to places where you will likely meet new things and situations. Otherwise it is very unsafe for you and your horse!
Here are five reasons why a person should consider focusing on groundwork instead of riding:
1. Horse Won't Stand Still at the Mounting Block
If your horse is fidgety or anxious when you’re trying to mount, it’s a sign that they may not be mentally or emotionally ready for a ride. Groundwork can help build patience and teach your horse to stay calm and still at the mounting block.
đ„ Watch whatâs possible with gentle, positive groundworkâŠ
These Horse Tricks Club horses line up calmly, stand patiently, and wait for the cueâno pulling, no chasing, no frustration. It all starts with building confidence, trust, and understanding before the ride. đŽđ
2. Horse is Easily Spooked by New Things
If your horse tends to be nervous or overreacts to new stimuli, groundwork exercises can be invaluable. Desensitization training, part of groundwork, helps them to gradually get accustomed to different sights, sounds, and experiences in a controlled environment.
đ„ In this video, youâll see how a simple targeting exercise helps a worried horse overcome her fear of a moving board. Instead of forcing her to face it, her trainer gives her a familiar task â âtouch it!â â and the scary object suddenly becomes a game. This is the power of positive groundwork: building confidence through calm, clear communication. đđŽ
3. Horse Doesn't Listen to Rider's Commands
A horse that isn’t responsive to cues during riding can be a safety risk. Groundwork helps in reinforcing commands and improving the horse’s attentiveness to the riderâs instructions, ensuring a safer and more responsive ride.
đ„ This rescue horse was once labeled âdangerousâ â but by starting with simple groundwork, he learned to listen, trust, and connect. Now, heâs being ridden at liberty with no saddle or bridle. đ It all began on the ground, using kind, reward-based training to build understanding and partnership.
4. Horse is Too Energetic or Unfocused
Sometimes, horses can be excessively energetic or lack focus, making riding challenging and potentially unsafe. Groundwork can help in channeling this energy positively and enhancing the horse’s focus before any riding activity.
đ„ This horse is learning to walk over poles, wait, and calmly return â a simple, focus-building activity that channels energy in a positive way. Exercises like this improve body awareness, patience, and connection. đÂ
5. Lack of Trust or Connection
If there’s a noticeable lack of trust or bond between the horse and rider, groundwork can be a great way to strengthen this connection. Activities that focus on communication and mutual trust can greatly improve the relationship, making riding more enjoyable and safer.
