Work in-hand
Working a horse in-hand from my point of view is a very important part in schooling a horse classically. This way I can prepare the subsequent work from the saddle.
First exercises from the ground encourage the horse to relax and accept the bit as something comfortable. I believe that is very fundamental for those horses, which have already gained negative experiences with the bit and as a consequence have developed problems with the contact (e.g. overbended necks, pushing against the hand etc.). By means of the classical work in-hand, I can positively influence the horse's balance already from the ground and help it to effectively relieve his forehand as well.
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| Very nice position with a free shoulder movement. | By increasing that, you have a great preparation for the Spanish walk. |
Lateral movements and other exercises can often be prepared better and quicker without the rider's weight since the horse will then find its own balance much easier.
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| Correct Shoulder-in with a clear relief of the forehand. | Half-pass well bend and in balance. |
Besides work in-hand is not only a reasonable addition to riding dressage but also is another variety in your daily training. By that I have the chance to keep a horse fit, for instance when there is currently no properly fitting saddle available.
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| Beginnings of a shoulder-in | Haunches in |
Especially horses recovering from injuries also benefit from this kind of work. Since they don't have to carry the rider's weight and mainly move in walk, work in-hand is not that straining for them. Simultaneously they have the chance to build up muscles and by that optimally stabilize the weakened body parts.
