Mary Allen
Introduction: American Saddlebreds
American Saddlebreds, also known as the "peacock of the horse world," are a popular breed among horse enthusiasts. These horses are known for their elegant appearance, high-stepping gait, and friendly disposition. They are versatile horses that can be used for various purposes, including pleasure riding, trail riding, and showing.
Before American Saddlebreds can be ridden, they undergo extensive training to ensure that they are safe and comfortable to ride. The training process involves a combination of groundwork, lunging, saddle and bridle fitting, mounting and dismounting, and various riding techniques. Let’s take a closer look at the kind of training that American Saddlebreds undergo before they can be ridden.
Groundwork: Basic Training
Groundwork is the foundation of any horse’s training. It involves teaching the horse basic commands and manners, such as standing still, leading, and tying. American Saddlebreds are taught to respect their handlers and respond to cues before they are ridden. Groundwork also involves desensitizing the horse to various stimuli, such as loud noises, objects, and people. This helps the horse become more confident and less reactive.
Groundwork is an essential part of the training process because it establishes a solid foundation for the horse’s future training. A well-trained horse on the ground is more likely to be well-behaved and responsive under saddle. Groundwork also helps the horse develop trust and respect for its handler, which is crucial for building a strong partnership between horse and rider.
Lunging: Preparing for Riding
Lunging is another essential part of the training process for American Saddlebreds. It involves working the horse in a circle on a long line, using voice commands and body language to direct the horse’s movement. Lunging helps the horse develop balance, strength, and suppleness, which are essential for riding. It also helps the horse become accustomed to carrying a rider’s weight.
Lunging is typically done in a round pen or arena, and it is important to use proper equipment, such as a lunging cavesson and long line. Lunging should be done at various gaits, including the walk, trot, and canter, to help the horse develop proper rhythm and balance. Once the horse is comfortable lunging, it is ready to progress to riding.