The What & Why of Gymnastic Groundwork
Gymnastic Groundwork is the third training element of Horsefulness Training, it exists of gymnastic exercises in hand and on the lunge. The goal of Gymnastic Groundwork is to enhance your horse's physical condition but also his body awareness. Think of Gymnastic Groundwork as yoga for horses—it benefits their physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
Natural Crookedness
Every horse has a side with long and supple muscles and a side with short, but stiff muscles. Because of this the horse bends easier to one side than the other. So a horse is either right-bended or left-bended. The horse is also not using his hind legs in a symmetrical way. The consequence of that is that the horse's point of gravity is not in the middle, but shifted to one of the front legs. So the horse moves unbalanced and not symmetrically. This is called natural crookedness.
This is no problem for the horse himself, it even gives him an advantage and you could even say that this "natural crookedness" is at the same time his "natural balance". However, if you want to do "unnatural" activities like lunging, groundwork or riding, it's better for the horse to learn to use his body symmetrically. If this doesn´t happen, this can cause al kinds of symptoms and have harmful consequences for the horse.
Example of Moving out of balance
This young horse is not moving in balance during groundwork on the circle. His body is not bending correctly, and his weight is unevenly distributed, with too much weight on his inside front leg. Over time, this way of moving during groundwork (and riding) can become harmful.
The Answer to natural crookedness
The answer to this unhealthy way of moving during groundwork and riding lies in thoughtful Gymnastic Groundwork.
The benefit of this is, that the horse learns to soften, supple and strengthen his muscles. The horse learns to move in balance and with straightness.
While most approaches to Gymnastic Groundwork emphasize preparing the horse to carry a rider, our focus at Horsefulness Training is different.
Riding in balance is a positive outcome, but it is not the primary objective of Gymnastic Groundwork according to the Horsefulness Training phylosophy. We prefer to aim nurturing the overall health of the horse that lives in a human world, and because of that often is stiffer and less agile, even if the horse has free movement 24/24, every day.
That's why I also like to call Gymnastic Groundwork "yoga for horses". Why? Because it takes away the emphasis on riding, plus, it's more than physical exercise.
Many advantages beyond riding
Yoga for horses offers many advantages beyond riding. It supports the physical, mental, and emotional health of horses. Here are some key benefits:
Empowerment through collection or through Liberty Connection Work?
Although some horses have a natural talent you could say for collection because of how they are build, there are many horses that have difficulties to collect in a "training setting". So since I now advocate for shorter rides (aka the 10-minute horse ride), I feel it's no longer essential to focus on collection or high-dressage movements, unless you choose to empower your horse through these exercises. However, it’s important to note that there are simpler methods to empower your horse.
I want you to know that you can also help your horse feel empowered through specific Liberty Connection exercises performed in a certain way. The beauty of this approach is that it doesn’t require training methods. You don’t need to "train" empowerment; you can offer it to your horse naturally, without restraints like halters or reins, allowing full freedom. Why making things complicated if it can be simple?
Contact me if you want to know more about how to empower your (traumatized) horse at info@horsefulnesstraining.com.
Bonding Time Deep Dive
A simple but powerful mini-course with clear guidance to build a deep, magnetic bond rooted in trust.
Discover a simple, heart-centered way to work with your horse.
No treats, tricks, or pressure. Just connection, clarity, and calm.
And, develop a magnetic bond where your horse chooses to be with you.
Because a strong bond comes from trust, not treats.
Ready to take the first step?
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