What is double lunge horse? Double lunge horse is an advanced training method where a horse is worked on a large circle using two long lines (lunging lines) instead of one. This technique allows the trainer to influence both sides of the horse equally.
The double lunge is a powerful tool. It helps develop balance, strength, and precise movements in your horse. Many top trainers use it. It bridges the gap between simple single lunge work and riding. If you want high-level equestrian techniques, mastering this skill is key. It is a step toward advanced dressage movements.
Why Use the Double Lunge?
Single lunge work is good for fitness. However, it often encourages the horse to lean or fall onto the inside aid. The double lunge fixes this problem. It offers true, equal pressure on both sides. This equal pressure builds horse core strengthening. It also promotes equine forward flexion beautifully.
This method gives the rider direct control over the horse’s bend and frame. You are essentially “riding from the ground.” This builds trust and body awareness for the horse. It is a form of specialized horse lunging.
Pre-Requisites for Double Lunging
You cannot jump straight into the double lunge. Your horse needs a solid foundation first. Attempting this too soon can cause frustration or injury.
Foundational Skills Needed
Your horse must master basic single lunge work. This includes:
- Maintaining a steady gait (walk, trot, canter).
- Responding quickly to the whip cue for speed changes.
- Moving away from gentle pressure on the circle.
- Accepting the roller or surcingle correctly.
The handler must also be skilled. You need good balance and timing. You must manage two long lines smoothly. This takes practice and coordination.
Essential Equipment for Double Lunging
Proper gear is vital for safety and effectiveness. Do not skimp on quality here.
The Lunging Gear
| Item | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Two Long Lines | Control both sides. | Should be sturdy, non-stretching material, 10–12 meters long. |
| Surcingle/Roller | Holds the equipment. | Must have multiple D-rings for various attachments. |
| Bit/Bridle | Communication. | Use a snaffle or a double bridle if the horse is trained for it. |
| Whip (Long) | Directional aid. | Used mainly for encouraging forward movement. |
| Training Aids (Optional) | Focus on frame. | Side reins or Pessoa systems might be used initially (see below). |
Incorporating Horse Training Aids
Many riders use horse training aids when first introducing the double lunge. This helps the horse find the correct outline before the handler relies solely on the lines.
- Side Reins: Attach these from the bit rings to the surcingle rings. They teach the horse to maintain a consistent level of flexion. Start with them set to encourage a vertical poll position.
- Pessoa System: This aid works well for developing controlled hindquarter engagement. It gently cues the horse to step under itself from behind.
Use these aids to teach the shape. Then, gradually reduce reliance on them as the horse learns the feel. The goal is true connection, not just hanging on equipment.
Steps to Introducing the Double Lunge
Start slowly. Think small goals. Success builds confidence in both of you.
Step 1: Establishing the Circle and Direction
Begin with single lunge work as a warm-up. Get the horse moving forward willingly.
- Attach the first line to the inside bit ring. Hold it loosely.
- Attach the second line to the outside bit ring.
- Walk out with your horse. Keep the inside line relatively slack.
- Hold the outside line, keeping slight tension. This line acts as a gentle “wall.” It prevents the horse from drifting out or leaning against the inside aid.
Step 2: Applying Equal Tension
This is the core of the double lunge. You must create equal opposition on both sides.
- Walk slightly ahead of the horse’s shoulder. Maintain a steady, forward-moving position.
- Adjust the slack in the lines. Both lines should feel “live.” They should follow the curve of the horse’s body without pulling constantly.
- Use the outside line to maintain the circle’s size. Use the inside line to ask for a slight bend away from you (toward the center of the circle).
Step 3: Developing Equine Forward Flexion
Forward flexion means the horse stretches its neck down and out, engaging its back.
- Use the long whip gently near the horse’s flank or shoulder if it slows down. The goal is forward energy first.
- Once forward, slightly shorten the inside line just enough to feel the horse yield at the poll. This should be subtle.
- The outside line keeps the shoulder positioned correctly. It stops the horse from popping the shoulder inward.
This exercise is excellent for horse stretching exercises. It encourages the neck and topline to lengthen.
Deep Lunging Exercises: Going Beyond Basic Circles
Once the horse moves well on a wide circle, you can introduce deep lunging exercises. These are movements that demand greater collection and flexibility.
Shoulder-In on the Circle
Shoulder-in on the circle is a true test of collection. It requires the horse to move its inside hind leg deeper under its body.
- On a large circle (e.g., 20-meter), ask for a slight degree of bend using the inside line.
- Use the outside line to maintain the angle of the shoulder. You are asking the horse’s shoulder to move slightly inward relative to the haunches.
- The horse’s body should be slightly angled toward the center, but the haunches should remain on the main track.
- This movement strongly promotes horse core strengthening. It requires deep abdominal muscle engagement.
Leg Yield on the Circle
Leg yielding on the circle is tricky but rewarding. It teaches suppleness across the body.
- Move the horse slightly outward on the circle track with the outside line.
- Use the inside line to ask for a slight diagonal bend. The horse moves away from the pressure of the inside line.
- The horse travels on three tracks: the inside hind leg travels on the main circle track, while the outside legs step slightly further out.
These exercises drastically improve improving horse suppleness. They prepare the horse for lateral work under saddle.
Mastering Transitions and Tempo Changes
The double lunge is superb for practicing transitions without the added complexity of a rider’s weight.
Tempo Changes Within the Gait
This involves speeding up or slowing down the pace while maintaining the frame and circle size.
- Slowing Down: Lighten the feel on both lines simultaneously. Use a quiet verbal cue. If the horse rushes, use the outside line as a gentle check to re-establish the previous energy level.
- Speeding Up: Encourage with the whip. Release the tension slightly on the lines to allow the horse to lengthen. This practice teaches the horse to respond to subtle contact changes.
Transitions Between Gaits
Moving from canter to trot, or trot to walk, requires precise balance.
- To transition from canter to trot, briefly increase contact on both lines. Shorten the stride cadence.
- Once the trot is established, immediately soften the lines to maintain the desired energy level.
- If the horse breaks to a walk prematurely, stop, re-establish the trot tempo, and try again.
These exercises build responsiveness needed for advanced dressage movements like piaffe and passage later on.
Developing Engagement and Collection
True collection happens when the hindquarters step well underneath the body. This is where the double lunge excels at building muscle memory.
Fathoming the Mechanics of Engagement
When the horse is correctly engaged, the energy moves up through the back, not just forward.
- Work on small circles (e.g., 10-meter diameter). This forces the horse to shorten its stride and engage more.
- As the horse shortens, maintain the equine forward flexion. The nose should stay forward, not dropped behind the vertical.
- Use the long whip behind the girth area gently. This signals the hind legs to step further under the belly. This is a direct way to work on controlled hindquarter engagement.
If the horse drops its back or rushes, reduce the circle size immediately. Go back to larger circles until it can hold the shape calmly.
Safety and Common Pitfalls
Double lunging requires focus. Errors can lead to bad habits or trips.
Pitfalls to Avoid
- Pulling Instead of Guiding: Never yank on the lines. The lines are guides, not reins for brute force. Use steady, consistent pressure.
- Uneven Pressure: If one line is always tighter, the horse will learn to lean on the relaxed side. Always aim for symmetrical feel.
- Over-Bending: Do not force the horse’s head to the inside circle wall. This causes stiffness in the poll and jaw. Seek a soft, steady bend that allows the horse to stretch forward.
- Allowing Rushing: A horse that rushes is not truly engaging. It is just running away from the contact. Maintain impulsion, but control the speed.
Safety Considerations
Always lunge in a fully enclosed arena. Ensure there are no obstacles near the circle. Wear appropriate riding boots and gloves. Two long lines can tangle easily if you lose control of your own footing.
Integrating Double Lunging into Training
How often should you use this technique? Double lunging is intense work. It is anaerobic exercise that builds strength quickly.
A Sample Training Week Snippet
| Day | Activity | Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | Rest or light trail ride | Recovery |
| Tuesday | Single Lunge (Walk/Trot) | Warm-up, straight lines |
| Wednesday | Double Lunge (Trot/Canter) | Deep lunging exercises, circle work |
| Thursday | Flatwork under saddle | Reinforcing frame, light work |
| Friday | Double Lunge (Canter/Transitions) | Controlled hindquarter engagement, suppleness |
| Saturday | Trail Ride or Free Lunging | Relaxation and movement |
| Sunday | Rest | Full Recovery |
This is just an example. Adjust based on your horse’s fitness. Use this specialized horse lunging system perhaps once or twice a week.
Linking Double Lunging to Advanced Dressage
The skills learned here translate directly to complex movements.
Developing Piaffe and Passage Prep
Piaffe and passage require immense collection and self-carriage. The double lunge builds the necessary muscle memory.
- When asking for engagement, focus on vertical elevation, not just stepping under.
- Use the lines to maintain an uphill balance. The horse’s neck should be slightly raised, creating tension in the top line.
- The frequent application of horse core strengthening exercises during the lunging session prepares the topline to support a rider during collection.
Improving Suppleness for Lateral Work
Lateral work (like leg yields and shoulder-in) under saddle requires the horse to move its shoulders independently of the haunches.
The double lunge allows you to isolate these parts. You can maintain the haunches on the main track while the shoulders track slightly inward. This isolation is crucial for improving horse suppleness without the rider adding confusing weight cues. This is why it is considered one of the high-level equestrian techniques.
Comprehending the Horse’s Response
Pay close attention to what your horse tells you through the lines.
- Chewing the Bit: Often a sign the horse is softening the jaw and seeking release. Good job!
- Tensing on the Outside Line: If the horse braces against the outside line, it means you are asking for too much bend or pushing the shoulder too far in. Lighten the inside bend cue.
- Hollowing the Back: This means the horse is leaning on the bit or the core is weak. Slow down the work. Focus only on forward movement and rhythm before attempting collection again.
Effective communication means the horse moves willingly into the aids, not against them.
Final Thoughts on Mastery
Mastering the double lunge takes patience. It offers immense rewards in terms of horse fitness, body control, and connection. It’s a crucial technique for any rider aspiring to higher levels of dressage or seeking an incredibly well-balanced horse. By focusing on equal aids, promoting equine forward flexion, and utilizing targeted deep lunging exercises, you build a powerful, supple partner ready for the next challenge.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use the double lunge if my horse is very green (young)?
A: It is best to wait until your horse is fully mature (around 5 or 6 years old) before attempting intense collection work. Use the double lunge initially only for teaching the concept of equal outside control on large, steady circles at the walk. Avoid intense horse core strengthening exercises until they are physically ready.
Q: How long should a double lunge session last?
A: Keep sessions short and focused, especially when introducing the technique. Start with 10-15 minutes total. As fitness improves, sessions can extend to 20-25 minutes, but prioritize quality over quantity.
Q: Should I use side reins every time I double lunge?
A: No. Side reins are a teaching tool. Once the horse accepts the frame with gentle contact from the lines, remove the side reins. The ultimate goal is for the horse to maintain the correct frame using only the feel of the two lines, which mimics the independence needed for riding.
Q: My horse keeps tripping or getting tangled in the lines. What am I doing wrong?
A: This usually points to handler error. Ensure you are walking slightly ahead and on the outside edge of the circle. Keep your arms low and move fluidly. Do not let the lines drag near the horse’s hind legs. If this persists, use shorter lines or practice on a much larger circle until your coordination improves.
Q: What is the difference between double lunging and longing in a harness?
A: Longing in harness (using a driving harness) is aimed at teaching the horse to accept bits and harness contact for driving. Double lunging uses standard lunging tack and focuses solely on developing suppleness, balance, and collection for riding. Both are forms of specialized horse lunging, but their primary goals differ.