Liberty and Ground Training

Training on the ground is essential for creating a relaxed and willing partner. Heather prefers to work at liberty in a large area.

 

Heather and Extra
Heather and Extra

Benefits of liberty play are:

  • Improves balance and movement
  • Teaches the handler to read and express body language
  • Allows the horse to feel safer and free of restraint
  • Encourages connection and learning of the basics without force
  • Teaches the handler to earn the horse`s cooperation
  • Allows the horse to choose their involvement and make decisions
  • Liberty is a lot of fun!
Brooke and Teddy
Brooke and Teddy

Whenever ground work is used correctly the horse builds strength, balance and flexibility for the work under saddle. Ground training is also a fantastic opportunity to build respect and willingness in the relationship.

Training on the ground is the foundation for all work with horses. Horses tend to understand movements easier when they learn them from the ground first and this leads to a more relaxed and confident partner. A horse that is confident, relaxed and respectful on the ground will easily transfer this attitude to work under saddle.

 

Maddie and Whimsy
Maddie and Whimsy

Heather teaches her students that through their energy, intention and body language they can affect their horse’s behavior, on and off the lead line.