How Do You Train A Horse In A Round Pen?
Many people mistakenly believe that a round pen is a good place to tire a horse out, thus making them easier to train. Horses are permanently injured every day because of this archaic thinking; they are run ragged in fear, suffering damage to their tendons by being forced to run in a contained circle until their spirits are broken. When properly practiced, round pen training allows a trainer and his equine partner to develop a closer bond while building trust and communication. Familiarize yourself with the round pen. It is simply a fenced, round area that is 40, 50 or 60 feet in diameter (the larger the better). It is a completely man-made artificial environment which can be very helpful in the early stages of training a horse. (People often mistakenly believe it is a natural environment because training in a round pen should be done at liberty, with no halter, saddle, lead ropes, etc.) Be very aware of body posture when doing groundwork with your horse. The hind quarters represent th
