Natalie Allen rides four year old Ruby on and off the lunge

14m 55secs

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Posted: 21/02/2012

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Library > Training for all disciplines > Dressage

Grand Prix dressage rider Natalie Allen rides the 4 year old mare Ruby on the lunge before taking her 'solo' for the second time only. Natalie says she is careful not to pressurise the horse but instead focuses on building trust. She trots, then canters ensuring Ruby goes forwards all the time, gets used to the contact and has a little inside bend. Natalie's seat is soft and she remains supple through her body with relaxed hands that give direction, as she gradually takes over steering from the lunger. Once Ruby is completely settled, Natalie rides off the lunge. She explains the experience and stresses the importance of making the session enjoyable for Ruby.

Comments

Natalie Allen 16 Apr 2012 I decided to do it this way as I wanted my lunge helper to develop a soft connection on Ruby's mouth . I do see your point St Loius and it would certainly not suit every horse, lunging is a very personal thing and it has to be tailored to each horse and handler. I do sometimes do it the way shown or with a cavesson, if in doubt though a cavesson works well.

st louis 13 Apr 2012 Lovely horse. It is surprising to me though that a line would be attached in this manner ESPECIALLY on a young horse that at any time could bolt and seriously hurt itself in the mouth. Why did Natalie prefer this method?

Natalie Allen 2 Mar 2012 Thank you for watching, I think everyone has their own little way of doing things but I think we can all learn from each other, I am really pleased that you like Ruby she's a joy to work with.

EveKEF 2 Mar 2012 Thank you Natalie for a fab video highlighting the correct starting point for a recently backed horse (and a smashing one too!). This is the same way I back and I totally agree with everything you have said regarding tack and the diagonal. In fact I always back in a dressage saddle as this is what I'm used to and therefore I'm more secure in my position, and I have found that I prefer a breastplate to a neckstrap as you then don't have to worry about it going over the youngsters head should something happen. I don't change my diagonal on a just backed horse if I feel it will cause them to become unbalanced or tense over their back as a happy relaxed ride is what we are all aiming for. I hope you're going to keep showing us her progress.

Phelpsie's Boys 2 Mar 2012 Really enjoyed this, lovely young mare and the commentary was great, lots of great tipss, really liked how Ruby softened and relexed into the inside flexion with Natalie allowing her to 'find' the bend.. I didn't know that about changing diagonal aids for suppleness, interesting, will try, thanks.

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