Ken McNabb: Ground Work | Preparing Your Horse to Ride

Groundwork is important to me because softness on the ground precedes softness in the saddle. A few principles I follow when training on the ground: If the horse is not focusing on me, I'll bring up the speed of the transitions to get his attention. I'm not trying to wear him out, I'm trying to change his MINDSET. Once I have the shoulders and hindquarters moving nicely, I'll move on the ribcage by stepping right toward the stirrup, releasing when he steps sideways, his front legs crossing over. If I ask him to come with me and the lead rope comes tight, I'll move him around and then ask again until he comes willingly. Thanks for watching! Until next time, may God bless the trails you ride! Ken McNabb