05/26/2026
There’s so much controversy in the horse world when it comes to training. Everyone has different methods, different opinions, and different ways of doing things. But one thing I will always stand on is this:
If you cannot work your horse proficiently on the ground, you should not be riding them. Period.
Groundwork is the foundation of everything. Respect, softness, responsiveness, trust, confidence, all of that starts before you ever swing a leg over.
I’m not the type of trainer that just hops on a freshly turned 4-year-old and “sees what happens.” I will lunge. I will do groundwork. I will move feet. I will desensitize. I will spend the time needed to make sure not only the horse is comfortable, but that I am too. That foundation matters.
Because if your horse is running you over on the ground, dragging you around, disrespecting your space, or shutting down mentally but “rides great” under saddle you do not have a well broke horse. You have a horse that has learned to listen only on their terms. And eventually, that becomes dangerous.
The best horses aren’t just broke to ride. They’re respectful, willing, mentally soft, and safe both on the ground and in the saddle.
A solid horse starts with solid groundwork. Every single time.
