What are the Best Exercises for a Green Horse?
Training a green horse—a horse that is young or inexperienced—can be an exciting journey filled with opportunities for growth and learning. However, it requires a thoughtful approach to build the horse’s confidence, strength, and understanding of basic aids. Below, we outline some of the best exercises to help develop your green horse into a balanced, willing, and responsive partner.
1. Groundwork Basics
Before climbing into the saddle, it’s essential to establish respect and communication through groundwork exercises. These exercises help the horse learn to respond to cues and build trust with you.
Key Groundwork Exercises:
- Leading: Practice leading at a walk and trot, making sure the horse stays beside you and doesn’t crowd your space.
- Yielding to Pressure: Teach your horse to move its hindquarters, shoulders, and head away from gentle pressure.
- Lunging: Work on circles at different paces, focusing on voice commands and smooth transitions.
- Desensitisation: Gradually expose your horse to various objects and sounds to build confidence.
2. Mounting and Dismounting Practice
A green horse needs to feel comfortable and balanced during mounting and dismounting. Practice this process slowly and calmly.
Tips:
- Use a mounting block to reduce stress on the horse’s back.
- Reward the horse for standing still.
- Ensure the horse is comfortable with weight shifting in the saddle.

3. Basic Walk and Halt Transitions
Once mounted, start with simple transitions between walking and halting. These exercises teach the horse to listen to your aids and maintain focus.
How to Practice:
- Walk a few strides, then gently apply pressure with your seat and reins to halt.
- Reward the horse for smooth transitions.
- Gradually decrease the amount of rein pressure required for halting.
4. Large, Balanced Circles
Circles are an excellent way to encourage balance, rhythm, and suppleness.
How to Practice:
- Start with large 20-meter circles to make it easier for the horse to maintain balance.
- Keep a steady rhythm and ensure the horse isn’t drifting out or cutting in.
- Gradually introduce smaller circles as the horse gains strength and coordination.
5. Serpentines and Changes of Direction
Serpentines are ideal for teaching a green horse to stay balanced and responsive while changing direction.
How to Practice:
- Ride gentle S-shaped curves across the arena.
- Keep the horse’s head and body aligned with the path.
- Use subtle rein and leg aids to guide the horse.
6. Pole Work for Focus and Engagement
Incorporating ground poles helps keep the horse mentally engaged and improves coordination.
How to Practice:
- Start with a single pole and encourage the horse to step over it confidently.
- Gradually add more poles, spaced evenly, to create a line.
- Vary the distances between poles to challenge the horse’s stride.
7. Introducing Trot Work
Once the horse is comfortable at the walk, introduce trotting exercises.
How to Practice:
- Start with short bursts of trot on straight lines.
- Gradually increase the duration and incorporate large circles.
- Focus on maintaining a steady rhythm and smooth transitions.
8. Trail Riding for Confidence
Taking a green horse out on the trail can be an excellent way to build confidence and expose them to new environments.
Tips:
- Start with short, familiar routes.
- Ride with a calm, experienced horse if possible.
- Be patient and offer reassurance when encountering new sights or sounds.
9. Desensitisation Under Saddle
Once the horse is comfortable with groundwork desensitisation, practice similar exercises under saddle.
How to Practice:
- Introduce harmless objects like tarps or flags in a controlled environment.
- Keep sessions short and positive.
- Allow the horse to investigate and build confidence at its own pace.
10. Patience and Positive Reinforcement
Finally, remember that training a green horse takes time and patience. Consistent, positive reinforcement is key to building a trusting partnership.
Tips for Success:
- End sessions on a positive note.
- Reward small achievements.
- Be patient and adaptable to the horse’s learning pace.
By incorporating these exercises into your training routine, you can help your green horse develop the skills and confidence needed for a successful riding partnership. Stay consistent, patient, and always prioritise the horse’s well-being and comfort throughout the process.