Identification should include explaining
- all safety procedures and guidelines
- exercises to get the horse to move its feet forwards and backwards, left, and right, and with the forequarters, hindquarters, or both simultaneously
- desensitization
- fundamental groundwork
- lead exercises
- touching exercises
- yielding to physical aids (direct pressure)
- yielding to driving aids (indirect pressure)
- circle work.
Teacher Resource:
Process/Skill Questions:
- What is the goal of groundwork?
- How does groundwork challenge a horse physically and mentally?
- How does groundwork help a horse overcome fear?
- Why are lead exercises important?
- How does circle work influence a horse’s behavior?
- How does groundwork enhance the bond between the horse and rider?