Durangogramma
Posted : 11/22/2013 6:23:50 PM
Longeing is actually hard on the legs so I wouldn't do much if she's young. If you can afford the lessons, I'd do that. You might even want to try doing "passenger lessons" (from the horse's standpoint) where you just kind of let her go wherever she wants (obviously in an arena) so that she gets the experience of learning how to balance the extra "load" without you interfering by trying to steer her. Also, PLEASE be sure she really has *stop* down well before you do this with her at a trot.
Another thing you might try (hopefully your trainer will know how to help you with this) is long lining her. It's not exactly the same as ground driving and my opinion is that she should be able ground drive well before trying this (because it can go bad in a hurry if you don't know what you're doing and/or she is not comfortable with the lines). With long lining, you are "longeing" her in a circle, but you are using two LONG reins on the bit. You will use the reins to move her subtly in toward you and out again onto the circle. Be sure not to overwork her, and be sure to work both sides. ALWAYS begin anything new at a walk and be sure the horse is solid (BORED solid) before moving up in speed - things always get worse again when you add speed.