Lunging your horse might feel like the most natural activity in the world, but most people don't know how to do it correctly. Some people lunge because they want to wear their horse out before they start a ride, while others use it as a riding substitute.
In reality, however, lunging should be a focused and specific aspect of your regular training regimen. It should be used to complement your other training techniques, and you should have a clear goal in mind before you set out for the round pen.
Setting Goals
There are several different things that you can accomplish when lunging a horse that aren't as easy from your horse's back. For example, dressage riders and eventers often lunge their horses in side reins, also called a "rig", to help increase top-line muscle and create a more correct frame for later rides.
You should know before you start whether you'd like to focus on the trot or the canter, and how you want your horse to behave by the time you finish. You might use lunging to teach your horse voice commands or to train him to jump solid obstacles. All of these are admirable goals, but make sure you're clear on what you want before you begin.
Establishing Etiquette
Lunging shouldn't give your horse an opportunity to forget his manners, and in many respects, lunging should be more regimented than a ride. Too often, riders release their horses in the round pen and chase them with the end of a lunge line, sending the animal directly into a gallop. This is a fear-based technique, and is hardly conducive to building a relationship.
Instead, ask your horse to calmly walk out on the circle when you start the work-out, then insist that he wait for your cue to begin trotting or cantering. Similarly, your horse should halt on the circle rather than coming in to face you when you're ready to quit, and your horse should never duck in to the circle unless you ask.
Choosing the Method
Some people prefer to lunge with a lunge line, while others prefer free lunging techniques. There are pros and cons to each.
The important thing is that you choose a method and stick with it. With most young horses, it is better to work on a lunge line so they are more easily kept in control. Be advised, as well, that it will be difficult to teach the aforementioned etiquette if your horse is free to do as he pleases.
Lunging is a great way to complement your current training schedule, but make sure you're setting positive, actionable goals for each training session. Additionally, give your horse plenty of room to move on the circle, and walk with him if you're lunging in an open space so you don't put unnecessary pressure on his joints and muscles.
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