Ground-driving is an amazing training activity for any equine, and is not limited to horses pursuing a vocation in carriage driving. Infact ground driving has been a successful training technique used for centuries in a variety of equine activities. In this article we will cover some of the reasons ground driving can benefit your horse’s training program, and just how easy it is to get started.
What is Ground-driving?
Ground-driving is a training activity involving a handler walking behind the horse holding two lines which run from the bit (or halter) along the horse’s body to the handler.
What can Ground-driving achieve?
Ground-driving is an amazing tool to teach your horse a number of important lessons before saddling or harnessing up. These lessons include: moving forward independently, halting, backing, steering, introducing bit contact, and desensitization to tack. This solid start in a horse’s education will not only help build their confidence, but often give everyone involved a safer start once hitched or ridden for the first time.
How do I get started with Ground-driving?
Ground-driving is super accessible and you may very well already have everything you need. To get started here is a quick rundown of your basic equipment needs:
Driving Lines: Driving lines can be made up of driving reins, lunge lines, or simply a long lead rope. We suggest using a piece of equipment that is snapped on vs. buckled during the training stage for added quick release safety.
Training Surcingle: A surcingle is a band that lays over your horse’s back and girths up around the chest similar to a saddle. They are often fitted with multiple D-Rings which allow for adjustments when positioning your driving reins and side reins while training. Don’t have a Surcingle? You can use a saddle or harness saddle for similar results! By running the driving lines through the stirrups of your saddle or the terret of the harness saddle you can create a similar effect.
Headpiece: Depending on your preferences a traditional bridle, side pull bridle, halter, or cavesson can be used to attach the reins. Each will provide a different type of contact and connection. Remember when using a bit to connect your driving lines to consider your horse’s pull and mouth – for young horses, or those having a late start in training it may be advisable to have someone heading at the halter or snapping your lines to a halter until they are accustomed to the activity.