Training a horse can be done both from the ground and in the saddle. Lunging is a common practice used when training horses from the ground. 

What is lunging?

Lunging is a common training method used when it comes to horses, particularly young horses or those that are a bit hot. Usually, lunging is conducted where the horse travels around the handler on a lunge line typically 15-20 ft away from them. 

Benefits of lunging 

Lunging has a lot of benefits including improved communication between horse and rider, gives the horse the ability to warm up and loosen its back and allow them to be more relaxed and can allow the horse to develop better rhythm and balance. Lunging is a great alternative to riding or warming up for the horse before the rider gets on the horse's back. 

A lunge line, the main equipment used in lunging a horse, is a singular long rein that the horse travels on the end of and allows the handler to give aid to the horse. Typically the larger the circle the horse is traveling on the better it is for the horse's joints and tendons. Along with a lunge line, a lunging surcingle can be used to assist in lunging a horse. A lunging surcingle is a wide strap made out of either leather or synthetic material and goes over the horse's back and under the belly of the horse, where the saddle and girth would usually sit. A lunging surcingle has metal rings on it when you can attach side reins. 

Side reins are also another piece of equipment that handlers commonly use when lunging. Side reins run from the lunging surcingle and attach to the rings of the bit. Side reins can encourage the horse to accept and travel into contact with the bit. 

A horse lunge whip is a training tool which can also be used when lunging a horse. The whip is used in place of what the rider's leg would do when in the saddle, to encourage the horse to move forward and to keep out on the circle. 

Riding gloves are also a great tool to use when lunging a horse as they provide your hands with the protection and grip needed. With a horse on the end of a lunge line, there may be times when the lunge line is pulled through your hands and there is a risk of rope burn, particularly when you have a horse that is needing to exert some built-up energy. Wearing gloves can reduce the risk of the handler hurting themselves and should always be worn when lunging. 

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