How to Lunge Train Your Horse

When you lunge a horse it moves around you in a circle on the end of a lunge line. Lunging is a useful exercise for both horse and handler. It is a way to let your horse safely burn off extra energy without you riding it and can help when teaching horse obedience.
When done correctly lunging can help a horse learn to be more flexible and balanced as well as increase fitness if the horse has not been working. You can also use it to observe a horses gaits to see if it is lame. And lunging can be done to help a rider learn skills without having to worry about controlling the horse.

Get Prepared
Before you try to lunge your horse make sure you have everything you need. A lunge line is essential and should be about 30 to 35 feet long. Flat webbing is preferable to rope because its lighter and easier to handle. You will also need a lunge whip and lunging cavesson or sturdy halter some people find the cavessons too cumbersome. Exercise boots or wraps help protect your horses legs.
Additionally you will want to lunge your horse in a ring arena or round pen. Its important to prevent as many distractions as possible especially when just starting.
Gear for yourself will also help out considerably. Sturdy boots or shoes are essential so you dont trip or slide. Gloves can help prevent rope burn if your horse pulls and its not a bad idea to wear your helmet just in case. Finally get your voice ready because it will be the primary aid you will use to cue your horse.
Halter the Horse
To lunge your horse it should be outfitted with a lunging cavesson or a sturdy halter. A cavesson is not a necessity and many horses are trained to lunge without one. Do not lunge with the lunge line attached to a bit or hackamore.
Enter the Ring
Lead your horse to the ring or arena. Place your horse where you want it to travel and walk to the center of the circle you want your horse to work on.
Hold the Lunge Line and Whip
If your horse will be working to the left hold the lunge line in your left hand and your lunge whip in your right. When your horse is traveling in a circle to the right the lunge line will be held in the right hand and