What is groundwork, and why is it important in horse training?
Groundwork is a foundational aspect of horse training that involves working with the horse from the ground, rather than from the saddle. It encompasses a variety of exercises designed to teach the horse how to respond to cues, move its body correctly, and manage its emotions. While it may seem basic, groundwork is a crucial step that sets the tone for all future training, whether you’re working towards ridden work or addressing behavioural issues.
Groundwork and Body Control: Building the Basics
One of the primary objectives of groundwork is to teach the horse body control. This is achieved through exercises that encourage the horse to yield to pressure and move specific parts of its body (such as the shoulders, hindquarters, or entire body) on command. For example, asking a horse to step its hindquarters away when you apply light pressure helps develop responsiveness and suppleness. This level of body awareness and control is essential for creating a balanced, athletic horse that can carry a rider correctly and perform more advanced manoeuvres.
Groundwork also instils the concept of personal space and aids in establishing good manners. By teaching the horse to respect boundaries, lead quietly, and stand still when asked, you are laying the groundwork for safe and harmonious handling.
Managing Pressure: Teaching Emotional Self-Control
Horses are prey animals, and their natural response to something unfamiliar or stressful is to flee. Groundwork provides a safe environment to teach horses how to handle pressure, both physical and psychological. For example, desensitisation exercises—where the horse is introduced to new stimuli such as tarps, whips, or flags—help the horse to confront its fears in a controlled manner.
The goal is not to make the horse dull to these sensations, but rather to show it how to process fear and anxiety in a way that doesn’t lead to explosive reactions. This helps the horse develop emotional self-control and become more resilient when faced with unexpected situations, whether on the ground or under saddle.
Groundwork as a Tool for Emotional Balance
In addition to body control and pressure management, groundwork is invaluable in teaching horses to manage their emotions. Techniques such as changing pace within gaits, halting from a trot, or asking for specific movements in hand can help horses release tension and build focus. A horse that understands groundwork commands is generally more relaxed and attentive, as the exercises provide mental stimulation and a clear understanding of what is expected.
Different Approaches to Groundwork: Natural Horsemanship vs. Classical In-Hand Work
There are different styles of groundwork, each with its unique focus and techniques:
Natural Horsemanship Groundwork: This approach is often associated with the likes of Parelli and other “natural” training methodologies. It emphasises building a strong relationship between horse and handler through exercises that mimic natural herd dynamics. Techniques include yielding exercises, circle work, and join-up methods that are designed to create trust and respect.
Classical In-Hand Work: Rooted in traditional dressage, classical in-hand work is more formal and focuses on precision and collection. It includes exercises such as shoulder-in, travers, and piaffe work from the ground. The goal here is to develop the horse’s suppleness, engagement, and ability to move in a balanced frame, which is crucial for high-level dressage.
How They Complement Each Other
While these two approaches may seem distinct, they can actually complement each other. Natural horsemanship groundwork can be used to establish a relaxed, willing partner who is responsive and respectful. Once this foundation is in place, classical in-hand work can build on these basics to refine the horse’s movements and develop strength and suppleness in specific areas. Using both methods thoughtfully allows you to address the horse’s mental and emotional state, as well as its physical capabilities, resulting in a well-rounded and well-prepared equine partner.
Why Groundwork is Essential for All Horses
Regardless of your chosen discipline or training goals, groundwork should never be skipped. It offers benefits far beyond just teaching basic commands. A solid grounding in groundwork helps to build a horse that is:
Physically balanced and responsive
Emotionally stable and less reactive
Confident and trusting of the handler
By investing the time to master groundwork, you set your horse up for success in every aspect of its training journey. After all, good riding starts from the ground up!
