LUNGING & TRAINING

Training Systems, Lungeing Equipment, Natural Horseman Equipment and more. All at Horseland.

Lungeing and Training

Lunging is a skill that requires training and regular practice for both horse and handler. When done the right way, with good footing, lunging can be a useful aspect of a horse's training and exercise routine.

Your choice of lunging equipment for horse training will vary depending on your experience, the level of training the horse has achieved, and ultimate the goal of the lunging session.

Here are a few guidelines in choosing and using the right lunging gear for your needs:

The Lunge Line

The lunge line is a long, single rein and the main means of communication between the handler and horse when training. Through the lunge line, a handler provides subtle aids as when riding. Lunge lines are available in varying lengths for use in smaller or wider circles. Generally, the wider the circle, the better it is for the horse as circling is stressful to the horse's tendons, ligaments and joints. The smaller or tighter the circle, the harder it is on the horse's body.

Gloves

Always wear gloves when lunging a horse. A helmet and sturdy footwear are also appropriate gear as well for added safety.

Training Surcingle

A training surcingle is a wide band of leather or webbing that goes onto the horse like a girth and is for use with side reins or long lines. Surcingles may be placed over a saddle or used in place of a saddle.

Side Reins

Side reins run from the surcingle to the rings of the bit. They can help a horse learn contact with the bit. A horse has to become accustomed to the feel of side reins slowly over time, with them adjusted loosely at first and gradually shortened to where they need to be.

Lunge Cavesson

A lunge cavesson is a piece of lunging gear that resembles a bridle. When fitted properly, a lunge cavesson remains securely in place during lunging and provides a solid method of control without involving the use of a bit.

Lunge Whip

A lunge whip is yet another training aid for the handler. This piece of lunging equipment acts like a rider's leg as it is used primarily to move the horse forward or outward on the circle. Lunge whips vary in length, and have soft, light lashes if needed as a driving aid.

Protective Boots or Leg Wraps

Always use some type of protective leg wear or wraps on a horse that is being lunged. A horse is more likely to interfere, which is when one of its own hooves hits an opposing leg, when it is traveling on a circle. Bell boots are also an option and generally preferred by experienced trainers and horse owners.

These are just a few of the horse riding and training equipment we have here at Horseland. Browse the rest of our site or visit us in store.