Training
with Monique Horsemanship
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Groundwork: The Foundation of a Safer HorseWhy Groundwork Matters
At Monique Horsemanship, groundwork isn’t just the first step—it’s the most important one. It builds trust, communication, and respect between horse and handler before anyone ever gets in the saddle. It also prepares horses for the unexpected, making them safer for riders and everyone around them.
Let me share a story that truly illustrates why groundwork is so essential.
A student of mine, Rachel, had been riding with me for years. One day, while riding a well-trained mare named Coco, Rachel suffered a seizure and fell from the saddle. Tragically, her foot remained caught in the stirrup—a terrifying and dangerous situation for any rider.
Now, imagine what could’ve happened if Coco had panicked, even just trotting away. The outcome could have been catastrophic. But because of the calm, respectful mindset we had developed through groundwork, Coco simply stopped and stood still. She didn’t run. She didn’t spook. She waited quietly while we freed Rachel’s foot.
That’s the power of groundwork.
Real-World Preparation
At the Monique Horsemanship, when starting colts or working with problem horses, we aim to prepare them for as many real-life situations as possible. Some of our methods might look unusual, but each serves a purpose rooted in safety and trust.
Examples of Groundwork Techniques:
Tools & Techniques Monique May Use
While working with you and your horse at the Lazy Sum B, Monique may incorporate a variety of tools to build trust and safety through groundwork:
⚠️ A Note About Dangerous Behavior
Please be aware: there is an upcharge for horses exhibiting dangerous behaviors.
While Monique is passionate about helping challenging horses, she will not put herself—or her family—at unnecessary risk. Safety is always the top priority, for both the trainer and the horse.
At Monique Horsemanship, groundwork isn’t just the first step—it’s the most important one. It builds trust, communication, and respect between horse and handler before anyone ever gets in the saddle. It also prepares horses for the unexpected, making them safer for riders and everyone around them.
Let me share a story that truly illustrates why groundwork is so essential.
A student of mine, Rachel, had been riding with me for years. One day, while riding a well-trained mare named Coco, Rachel suffered a seizure and fell from the saddle. Tragically, her foot remained caught in the stirrup—a terrifying and dangerous situation for any rider.
Now, imagine what could’ve happened if Coco had panicked, even just trotting away. The outcome could have been catastrophic. But because of the calm, respectful mindset we had developed through groundwork, Coco simply stopped and stood still. She didn’t run. She didn’t spook. She waited quietly while we freed Rachel’s foot.
That’s the power of groundwork.
Real-World Preparation
At the Monique Horsemanship, when starting colts or working with problem horses, we aim to prepare them for as many real-life situations as possible. Some of our methods might look unusual, but each serves a purpose rooted in safety and trust.
Examples of Groundwork Techniques:
- Leg Roping: We gently rope a colt’s legs together to simulate what it feels like when movement is restricted—like getting caught in a fence or a hay net. Instead of panicking, the horse learns to pause, yield, and think through the pressure.
- Desensitization Training: We use tarps, ropes, plastic bags, flags, and other “scary” objects to expose horses to surprising sights, sounds, and sensations in a controlled environment. This prevents spooking later in unpredictable settings.
- Real-World Scenarios: From jackets being taken off in the saddle to flapping stirrup bags or flags, a horse trained through groundwork will respond calmly. A horse that kicks at a harmless flag is just as likely to kick at something more dangerous—like a person.
Tools & Techniques Monique May Use
While working with you and your horse at the Lazy Sum B, Monique may incorporate a variety of tools to build trust and safety through groundwork:
- Multiple arenas and pastures to vary the environment
- High lines, patience poles, and tying practice (teaches horses to stand quietly at shows, trailers, and events)
- Leading and ground manners on the rope
- Round pen work, including hooking on to build connection
- Safe and respectful lunging techniques
- Desensitization with flags, tarps, ropes, logs, and more
- Trailering practice using different types of trailers
⚠️ A Note About Dangerous Behavior
Please be aware: there is an upcharge for horses exhibiting dangerous behaviors.
While Monique is passionate about helping challenging horses, she will not put herself—or her family—at unnecessary risk. Safety is always the top priority, for both the trainer and the horse.
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