FAQ Groundwork

1. How often should I integrate groundwork into my horse’s training schedule?

Since groundwork basically starts with every encounter with the horse, there is no limit. The basics for safe and respectful handling of the horse (leading, standing, etc.) should be worked on consistently and permanently. Intensive groundwork should be included in the training plan at least 1-2 times a week in order to achieve lasting success.

2. How long should a groundwork session last?

The duration of a groundwork session should take into account various factors: Age, temperament, daily form and state of health play an important role. Some horses like to work for half an hour with high motivation, others are already exhausted after 5 to 10 minutes of intensive work. Of course, it also depends on the type of groundwork. Lunging challenges horses more physically, while composure training puts mental fitness to the test.

For example, the FEI guidelines for lunging state that a training session should not last longer than 30 minutes. The following applies to all groundwork disciplines: regular hand changes every 5 to 10 minutes are a must for consistent gymnastic training!

3. When can I start groundwork with a young horse?

Unconscious groundwork actually begins at foal age. The so-called „foal ABC“ is worked on at a very early age, so that the horse learns to interact with humans in a playful way and gains trust. Putting on a halter, giving hooves, being led by the rope are the basics of groundwork.

Intensive groundwork training, which serves to exercise and build up the muscles, usually takes place around the third year of life. Especially with young horses, the training should always be built up according to the horse’s age and care should be taken not to overtax or put the horse under pressure. If the horse experiences at a young age that working with people is fun, it will be more motivated to cooperate in the long run.

4. What are the benefits of groundwork?

Depending on the groundwork discipline, different goals can be worked on with the horse. While work on the lunge line is more about gymnastics and the development of condition and muscles, the mutual trust between man and horse is strengthened during composure training or horsemanship work, for example.

5. Which exercises are suitable for beginners?

This depends on the respective groundwork discipline. A first sensible introduction to groundwork is lead training, in which important basic exercises such as standing, reversing or turning can be gently worked on together.

6. Does it make sense to take part in a groundwork course?

This depends on the level of training of you and your horse and on your individual learning style. Taking part in a course or enlisting the help of a trainer is ideal for beginners who need more guidance and confidence in dealing with the horse. If you are already experienced and confident in handling your horse, learning a new groundwork discipline can also be done through specialist literature.

When it comes to lunging, it is recommended that you complete the lunging courses. These build on each other and give you the structures to carry out the training with your horse according to your level of training.

7. I don’t have a riding arena available? Is groundwork also possible without a riding arena?

Of course, groundwork is also possible without a riding arena! Theoretically, any free and flat surface is suitable for groundwork. However, you should make sure that there are no trip hazards in the form of stones, holes in the ground, etc. This means that the fallow ground is also suitable. Therefore, the fallow field of the farmer next door is also suitable for lunge work, provided you have obtained express permission to use the area! Leadership training, composure exercises or horse walking are also disciplines suitable for off-road use. Depending on the horse’s temperament and level of training, it is nevertheless advisable to use a fenced and secured riding arena in certain situations, e.g. for initial liberty exercises.

8. What length should the groundwork rope be?

This depends on what you want to do during groundwork. With a minimum length of 3 m, the groundwork rope is considerably longer than a conventional tether. For lead training, 3 m is sufficient. If the horse is to move more freely and independently, which is the case, for example, with trust work or dual activation, a longer groundwork rope is advantageous. In addition to the length, the weight also plays a role: a certain dead weight is essential so that the signals can be passed on to the horse via the rope. If it is too heavy, the horse will perceive even minimal movements through the pull of the rope on the halter. With lighter ropes, the difficulty lies in the fact that even more intense signals are not transmitted as strongly to the halter.

9. Why is the rope halter so often used for groundwork?

The rope halter is a special training halter which, due to the way it is knotted and its nature, has a finer but also a sharper effect. Therefore, the rope halter should only be used by experienced persons. Please do not use a knotted halter as a stable halter or for tying up.

10. Is there also groundwork for dogs?

Yes, there is. Besides agility, there is also the Tellington Touch Method, which is not only used for horses, but also for dogs. The groundwork elements are worked out in varied courses. Conscious training with the dog promotes the dog’s self-confidence, concentration and fitness. Groundwork also supports the trusting and respectful relationship between dog and human.

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