Lunging is a technique often used when training, exercising, and working horses. When lunging the handler utilizes commands and cues to communicate with their horse while they work at the end of a line navigating a circular pattern.
This exercise is great for horses starting their training, loosening up before a ride, and is a useful tool for helping develop a horse’s balance, rhythm, and gait.
With many forms and types of lunging equipment on the market we have put together a list of the basics required to help a handler get started:
The lunge line is a long rein of webbed nylon, padded cotton, or rope which is usually at least 25ft long. The line is typically attached to a halter or bridle with a buckle, or clip with the other end being held by the handler. The handler’s end of the line will often feature a rubber stopper or 8” safety loop.
The lunge whip
This important piece of equipment is used as an aid, and communication tool while lunging the horse. It must never be used as a punishment, or used to inflict any form of pain to your horse. A good lunge whip should have a 6ft long stock, a string long enough to touch the horse when the handler’s arm is stretched out, it must be lightweight, and have some flexibility. It is important that the whip is well balanced and does not feel heavy in hand.
The Surcingle (Roller)
The surcingle is a belt-like device that is fastened around the girth area of a horse, just behind the withers and shoulder area to keep driving, riding or training equipment in place. Surcingles typically feature several D-Rings down each side typically intervaled every 1-2”. These D-Rings allow for adjustments of long lines, side reins, and lunging systems at various heights.
Side-reins
Side reins can take many forms, with the most common being plain leather, or leather with elastic. The side-rein starts at the horse’s head clipping to the bit ring of the bridle, back towards the surcingle (roller) or girth. The girth attachment will typically feature a buckle attachment with several holes to adjust the overall length of the side reins.