Lunging Accessories: Training aids, couplers and cavessons

Lunging Accessories: the details that make lunging work

Around the lunge line and roller there are plenty of small helpers that make the work safer and more refined. Lunging accessories include lunging couplers, training aids such as side reins, neck stretchers or running reins, long reins, lunging headcollars and replacement clips. There are also groundwork lanes for varied exercises. Used correctly, these items help your horse stretch on the lunge and move in balance.

Using training aids with feel

Training aids should give your horse a frame but never force it into an outline. Start with side reins or neck stretchers on the long side and only shorten them a little once your horse has warmed up. The nose should always stay in front of the vertical. Unclip the aids when you lead your horse to the arena and during the walk at the end. If you are not sure which aid suits your horse, ask your instructor to show you how to fit it.

Lunging couplers, long reins and headcollars

A lunging coupler links both bit rings so the pull of the lunge line is spread evenly and the bit is not dragged through the mouth. Long reins are designed for working behind the horse and belong in experienced hands. A lunging headcollar with rings on the noseband is an alternative to a cavesson. Groundwork lanes add variety and train coordination and attention.

Frequently asked questions

Which training aids are suitable for beginners on the lunge?
Simple side reins or elastic neck stretchers are a good place to start because they are easy to fit. The most important thing is getting the length right. Ask someone experienced to help you the first few times.

Should I use training aids from the very start of a session?
Better not. Let your horse do a few circuits in walk and trot without aids first so the muscles can warm up. Only then clip them on, and unclip them again at the end of the session.

What is a lunging coupler for?
It connects the two bit rings under the chin. This way the lunge line acts evenly and the bit does not slide to one side. When you change rein, you simply clip the line on the other side.