Groundwork

Groundwork exercises are great for building relationships and working on specific issues. Freework is really only the first step, and there are a lot of other exercises we can do with horses on the ground. As with our Freework the main focus of any exercise, ridden or on the ground, is not the outcome of the exercises themselves but the relationship. By always focusing on the relationship, and not being too outcome driven, you will in time achieve both a good relationship and a good result. A strong relationship of trust and understanding is the foundation that makes teaching horses new things quick and easy, without the big drama and resistance that can often accompany learning a new task.

Little lunging session

This is a little bit of circle work with Sugar from before she was ridden. Still such a lovely girl!

How we start our horses

When do you say you are "starting" a horse? The first time you come into contact with them. Every time you do anything with them is a part of the process. I bred Sugar, so have been around her for years and she had basic handling as a baby. She has had a few Freework sessions and general leading and rope exercises. I've got my son Ben helping me. I like having someone with me because it makes it easier to make use of the Freework she knows already. The whole process today took 15 minutes. I edited it for length but tried to keep all the important content. She was so good!