Retraining a Racehorse: Lunging with training aids

In the fifth part of the series on ‘Ground Training’, Fred and Rowena Cook (of Equine Management and Training) look at how training aids can be effectively used with racehorses out of training.

When re-training the use of a training aid can be helpful but must never be deemed as a short-cut to save time or force a horse into a false outline in order to achieve ‘results’. An aid should not be used until a horse is responding positively and is responsive to your cues.

The Harbridge, as it is attached between the front legs is a good aid for horses that carry their heads way too high; as a consequence of head-lowering the back muscles begin to be stretched out. Before using, check that a high head carriage is not due to discomfort somewhere.

Use of an aid can help a horse lift his back, which brings the hind legs more under the body which leads to the development of the all-important outline.

We very rarely use side reins as we prefer to double lunge but many people elect to use them. They can be useful to encourage acceptance of the bit, help with balance and encourage lifting of the back.

• Corrected fitted side reins should form a straight line from the bit to the roller/saddle, not angled upwards or downwards
• Initially the side reins want to be set in a way to encourage a lowered, stretched head carriage i.e. exerting very little bit pressure. If at any time the horse stops, runs backwards or tries to rear or spin, if encouraging more forwardness does not have the desired effect, loosen them further as the horse is feeling too restricted. He must not be forced into lower his head or round; he must work out that actually that is the most comfortable thing to do.
• Side reins can have the effect of shortening a horse up so keep him up to the bridle.
• Watch your horse carefully as many will invert or hold themselves incorrectly. A curve in the neck does not equate to a correct outline. The musculature a horse presents tells us all!

How a horse should work on an Equi-Ami.

The Equi-ami is a very useful aid once a horse is established enough in his lunging routine understanding and obeying commands. It does not restrict lateral movement as many other aids do such as the pessoa as everything moves so horses are more relaxed with it. It is proven to improve stride length as the hamstrings soften and stretch. It is also really good for achieving lift through the shoulders, withers and back.

Fred and Rowena Cook

In the next part of this in-depth series, Fred and Rowena look at problems when single line lunging.

Thoroughbred Training Consultants – Equine Management and Training
Inc Rehoming Racehorses – A Life After Racing
RoR Approved Racehorse Retrainers
Retraining Consultants to Greatwood Charity
UK Agents: Ardall Equine & Rider Safety System
Authors: “Re-Educating Racehorses – A Life After Racing”

To find your own ex-racehorse, please visit Source an Ex-Racehorse