Long Lining

I have started to learn how to long line Webby! Not only is this a great skill to have in general, but Webby is responding to it very well AND it is helping me literally see the improvements he is making instead of me just feeling them or Betsy telling about them :)

Basically long lining is a form of lunging except there are two lines that connect to either side of the horse. So when then horse goes around you in  a circle, you hold the two lines like they are reigns. The main purpose of long lining is to allow the horse to find balance and roundness in their body. Long lining is an important toll because it allows you to teach the horse things without someone on their back getting in the way or muddling signals. Long lining is a very straightforward way of show the horse how you want them to use their body, and you have more leverage on the ground so you don't have to fight with them if they are having a hard time understanding.

Good news though is that Webby is doing so well! He totally gets the long lining and seems so happy to do it! It has greatly improved the quality of his gaits, and I hope that it will continue to have this effect. I am also taking to it pretty well- Betsy said I am a natural :) which is exciting! I am excited to continue to learn more and get better at this and continue to watch how it helps Webby grow. The best part is after a few times of long lining, I could really feel a significant difference is Webby's movement the next time I rode him. So we are long lining Webby at least once a week since it has been so successful thus far.