The Importance of Groundwork Training
Groundwork training is one of the most often overlooked areas in horsemanship, but one of the most important. Whether used as a foundation to rider training, a prelude before riding, an alternative to exercise your horse, or a means to teach your horse new things and establish better connections; groundwork training is essential, fun and very rewarding.
About Fiona Henderson
Fiona is one of the region's most widely respected horse trainers, coaches and farm owners. As owner/operator of Green Glen Farms for over 25 years, Fiona has trained over 200 horses, and coached dozens of students in basic dressage and horsemanship.
Fiona has a gifted sensibility in working with horses, which developed her love of groundwork and natural horsemanship over the decades, years before 'natural horsemanship' became a commercial idea. Today Fiona is a strong advocate of groundwork, believing that it is the foundation to everything in the horse/human relationship: connection, communication and trust.
Understanding Natural Horsemanship & Groundwork
Natural Horsemanship
Natural horsemanship is a training philosophy focused on understanding a horse's instincts and psychology, using gentle, non-forceful methods to build trust and communication, rather than relying on fear or pain.
It emphasizes working with the horse's natural behaviors, learning to "speak horse" through subtle body language and pressure-release techniques to achieve willing cooperation and a strong bond.
What is Groundwork
Groundwork training with horses builds a crucial foundation for riding by improving communication, trust, and respect, preparing the horse mentally and physically for saddle work, and teaching essential body control and responsiveness to cues on the ground before translating them under saddle.
This enhances safety and overall partnership, develops confidence in horses, helps them understand human expectations, and addresses behavioral issues, making them more balanced, focused, and safer partners.
Key Benefits of Groundwork Training
Trust & Connection
Establish a strong foundation of trust and communication between horse and handler
Mental Preparation
Prepare your horse mentally and physically before moving to saddle work
Safety & Confidence
Build confidence, address behavioral issues, and create a safer riding partnership
Ready to Learn More?
Discover how natural horsemanship and groundwork training can transform your relationship with your horse.