Longeing Logic

Master this important skill with the right technique and equipment.

- LAURA BOYNTON JOBSON

Longeing a horse takes as much skill and common sense as riding one does. This on-the-ground training method comes with a lot of responsibility, but it can also be a fun way to interact with and exercise your horse.

There are many different reasons why equestrians choose to longe, such as warming up a horse before riding, safely burning off his excess energy, improving ground manners, developing balance without a rider, practicing gait rhythm, training verbal and physical cues, detecting lameness, and rehabbing injuries.

Here, U.S. Equestrian 'r' judge and hunter/jumper trainer Lesley Cox shares her advice and gives tips on how to be an effective longeur. She operates Lesley Cox Equestrian in Parrish, Fla., where she works with all ages and experience levels and specializes in young horses to produce amateur-friendly mounts. Lesley actively shows with her clients at USEF-recognized competitions.

Get Ready, safely

Lesley says that longeing a horse requires strength, good balance, and coordination.

"Anyone learning should have the opportunity to work with a seasoned horse that is very experienced with longeing-one that understands voice commands and is familiar with a longe whip being used as a tool," she says. "A beginner should get a professional to help with the basics to become more comfortable while learning all the techniques and maneuvers correctly."

Equipment for Handler

Lesley recommends wearing gloves when you longe to ensure a better grip on the line and to protect your hands from any possible rope burns if the horse pulls harder than expected.