Groundwork Isn’t Optional: Why Every Horse Needs It
At Unlimited Learning Equestrian, we talk a lot about foundations—because whether you’re training a colt, retraining a show horse, or just trying to avoid getting stepped on in the barn aisle, groundwork is where it all begins.
And no, groundwork isn’t just for “problem horses” or green riders. It’s not something you graduate from and never revisit. It’s a tool. A language. And frankly? A superpower.
Here’s why every horse—at every stage—needs consistent, thoughtful groundwork.
Groundwork Builds Understanding
When we talk about groundwork, we’re not just talking about lunging in circles or teaching your horse to move over when you poke them. We’re talking about communication.
Groundwork helps your horse understand:
How to respond to pressure instead of reacting
What your body language means
When to relax vs. when to move
That you're someone to trust, not fear
Before we expect anything under saddle, we teach it on the ground. Because a horse that understands you with four feet planted firmly on the earth will carry that trust into the saddle.
Groundwork Teaches Boundaries (Kindly)
Ever had a horse walk through your personal space? Lean on the lead rope? Plant their feet and say “nah” when you ask them to load in the trailer?
That’s not attitude. That’s unclear boundaries.
Groundwork gives us the chance to show our horses what we expect—without chaos, force, or panic. It’s not about dominance. It’s about clarity and consistency.
Groundwork Builds Confidence
Scary tarp? Flapping flag? Puddle of doom? Groundwork is your horse’s safe zone for learning how to handle it all.
We love using groundwork to build desensitization and bravery—especially with younger horses or those new to the show ring. If a horse can handle the pressure on the ground, they’re far more likely to stay soft, present, and rideable when it really counts.
🤝 Groundwork Strengthens the Bond
Spending time on the ground isn't "less than" riding. In fact, it can be more powerful. Horses learn to look to you for direction, and riders start noticing subtle cues they’d miss from the saddle.
It’s trust-building in its purest form.
So… What Should Groundwork Look Like?
At Unlimited Learning, we tailor groundwork to the horse in front of us. But it often includes:
Leading with softness
Moving away from pressure (yielding shoulders, hindquarters, etc.
Backing up with light cues
Standing tied calmly
Desensitization to touch, objects, or movement
Prepping for under-saddle work with intention
And yes, we do it with our seasoned show horses just as much as our baby green beans. Why? Because it works.
Final Thoughts: It’s Not a Step—It’s a Foundation
Groundwork isn’t a phase to rush through. It’s not just a box to check. It’s the foundation we build every ride on.
So whether you’re new to the horse world or think you’ve “done all the basics”—we challenge you to slow down, drop the ego, and pick up the lead rope. Your horse will thank you.
