Why we love groundwork!

Many different types of groundwork

Did you know there are lots of different types of groundwork? It’s not just restricted to working your pony in-hand in the school. Long-reining, lungeing, in-hand hacks and practising your pony’s manners on the yard are all included, too! Be sure to always wear your riding hat, gloves and sturdy boots when doing groundwork with your pony.

All inclusive

To become a ridden pony, every pony has to learn things from the ground first! When your pony was a youngster, he would’ve learnt all about being led, long-reined and lunged before he was sat on.

Change of scenery

By being on the ground, you get to see your pony from a different perspective when he’s working. Not only will you learn more about pony paces in general, you’ll also get a better understanding of your pony’s way of going and how he uses his body.

Listen carefully

When you’re on the ground with your pony, you have to give him different aids compared with those you give when you’re in the saddle. This means his brain will be working really hard because he’s listening to you very carefully, so groundwork is great for his mental agility.

Pick ‘n’ mix

Adding groundwork to your pony’s routine is the perfect way to spice up his life! It can get boring doing the same thing all the time, so instead of a schooling session, why not take your pony out for an in-hand hack?

Better friends

Getting to know your pony from the ground up will do wonders for your relationship. He’ll quickly learn to trust you so, whatever you decide to do with him, you’ll go from strength to strength! Keeping things fun and interesting will make him super-happy, too.

Mind your manners

Having a pony with good manners is so important because it helps to keep the people who handle him safe, and groundwork sessions are the perfect time to teach your pony to behave well. Make sure you reward him when he’s done a good job with a scratch on his wither or a yummy treat!