What is Working In Hand/lines?
Working in hand describes exercises that are used to teach the language of riding to young horses, where the aids are gently applied in hand, and the horse is guided and supported in learning how to respond in a relaxed and calm manner. Early exercises in hand can begin with very young horses, to start the process of learning the language, and allow them to develop relationship and confidence. In hand work teaches horses to use their bodies so they develop suppleness, balance and strength without a rider. Working in hand and in lines is not only beneficial in the beginning stages of training, but is used to support the training process ongoing, to help horses become clear, confident and light in their connection while keeping their top line strong and flexible.
Work in Hand
Work in hand begins with simple exercises in leading correctly. Teaching horses to go and woah, teaching how to understand and respond to pressure, and to move in each direction. Lateral bending exercises, turns, and lateral movement help to engage the hind quarters. This work begins in the cavesson, and is later expanded to work in the bridle, where teaching connection and relaxation with the bit, suppling the jaw and poll, becomes a focus.
Working with lines
Working with lines is an extension of the lessons in hand, where the beginning turns are now driven forward and on a longer line (lunge). This work is likened to YOGA, which is all about relaxation, calm, balance, flexibility and strength. It will continue to supple the horse and prepare him for riding. The program has a developmental progression from the cavesson to the bridle and using single, double and triple lines - all held in hand.
Side reins, draw reins and other auxiliary reins are not used in this program.
Working in long lines
Once the horse has developed proficiency and confidence with the lessons on the lunge in lines, it is now ready to begin doing patterns in dressage. This may involve turns, pirouettes, and lateral work beginning at walk and moving in to trot and canter in the more advanced stages. Working in lines can support the work under saddle by helping the horse to engage, and remain light in the bridle.
Advanced work in hand
Continuous work in hand supports the horse's development throughout the progressive learning in dressage and are used to supplement riding exercises. Advanced exercises like piaffe help the horse to bend the hocks and carry more collection. Advanced work in hand also reminds the horse to raise and liberate the shoulder and to be light in the contact, where he can become stronger without rider weight or interference. Advanced work in hand also helps riders to better understand the timing of the aids.