Lunging help?

[Bossdog]

I just started lunging a really really unfit mare, we only did 5 minutes today with most of that being a warm up and cool down but she leaned on the line the entire time... I just did it in a cavesson with the line on the centre ring and she went really well, obviously knows her voice commands and definatly found it hard work!! I'm guessing the leaning is a lack of balance as she is a lot worse on one rein than the other. Her head is either up in the air or down round her knees, I really want to teach her to carry herself properly. She is quite cobby and I'm sure she has a nice topline under the fattiness!
Any suggestions on getting her balance established, I'm not usually into excessive tack and gadgets but I'm wondering if a pessoa will be of benefit?

Any advice appreciated
Jules

 

[TicTac]

Personally I would lunge her for very short periods as you have been doing without any equipment other than the cavesson or even a headcollar. Once she is able to be lunged for a good 10 mins on each side at a steady trot then you might consider using a pessoa. I have always found that piece of equipment good for getting a horse to work properly except my new mare who seems to prefer her new lungie bungie! Anyway don't be in a rush as lunging is quite hard work for horses especially if they are unfit. Little and often and build up gradually. Good luck!

 

[Bossdog]

Thanks for the reply, I think you're right, we will carry on as we are until she is finding it a bit easier before I start introducing anything fancy.... oh, and I love the pic of your black horse, what a stunner!!!! (dreams of a big black oldenburg at night, has a big fat bay cob during the day

)

Jules x

 

[cyrilsmum]

I have a cob and I find lunging with two reins fron a bridle is the best, The rein around their quarters encourages them to use their back ends rather like the Pessoa or using a wrap. I also find I can half halt and help him to balance and adjust his stride. Hes also an absolute pig at times and the two reins stop him thinking he can mow me down when he feels like it!!