subject: Horse Lunging, Part 3: Communication [print this page] Horse Lunging, Part 3: Communication Horse Lunging, Part 3: Communication
We lunge our horses as a means of fostering communication. And communication can only be accomplshed if the two of you are speaking the same language. Of course, when you do achieve a familiar language, it will be entirely up to you to convey your message consistently. Your horse will be trying hard to read your expectations, and if he's getting mixed signals, he will quickly become frustrated and give up trying at all. Don't blend your messages and be certain to reward every effort by your horse with praise and by letting off any pressure you're applying.
For example, don't use the same command to try and elicit two different responses - if pointing and clucking means "speed up" it can't also mean "change direction." As for releasing pressure, that could be actual physical pressure of pulling on the lunge line or pressing on his flank with the end of your whip. It could also mean implied pressure, such as spanking the ground behind him you aren't actually touching him, but he still feels pressure to move away from the action. Regardless of which type of pressure you're applying, it's critical that you release it, i.e., stop doing whatever you're doing, as soon as he offers a correct response. He'll learn quickly which response results in less pressure. Your horse doesn't like pressure. That's why he moves away from it. He'll learn quickly what to do to relieve the pressure you're applying.
Considering all of these things - shared language, consistent message, and frequent reward - I highly recommend you lunge inside of a round pen whenever possible. Using the same body language horses use while lunging them in a circle and keeping them close enough to hear your voice and see your body language will feel very natural to a horse and will make it easier to see your intent. You will of course have spent time with your horse prior to this point to get them familiar with the lunging routine, and what you are asking of them - whether it's to go right or left, reverse, give face, give at the poll, etc.
Your early efforts should have been focused primarily on body language. Now it's time to add verbal commands. You've already laid the foundation for them to understand what you are asking with your body, by combining a command with the body language, it's easy for them to make the association between body and voice. This is all the preliminary work that's neceassary to ensure that your horse can make the shift from ground work to work under saddle.
At this stage, your body language and position are crucial when communicating with your horse. When you do saddle and mount your horse, your body language should be a relfection of what you've taught on the ground to assure your horse that you can be counted on and trusted and he will listen. Yes, it does happen that you get the occasional horse who figures they know better than you. When this happens, your best course of action is to find a reputable horse trainer who can work with you. Choosing a good trainer is an important step - ask your horse friends, fellow boarders, or even check out local horse websites for recommendations. Whatever you do, don't give up. You can continue working on the basics with your horse until you find the right trainer.
One of the most basic lessons you can always work on is teaching your horse to stop. As simple as it sounds, all you have to do is stop all forms of communication. Quit walking, lower your head, and softly say "Whoa!" If you want a nice stop, quiet and relaxed, you have to give your horse the right language to do that. If they don't stop, keep on walking and try it again. Patience is key here. She's still learning, so allow enough time for the lesson to take. Remember that your horse will reflect you. If you're agitated and abrupt, your horse will be the same. Your calm quiet manner will inspire the same in him over time.
