Groundwork Beginner 15 min

Liberty Leading at Trot

Focus: Communication, Bond, Trust

Equipment: Halter (carried, not on horse), Treats optional

Remove the halter and lead rope. Stand at the horse's left shoulder with a treat or target stick.
Trot forward. Use your body language and the target to encourage the horse to trot beside you.
If the horse follows at your shoulder, reward immediately with a treat, scratch, or verbal praise.
If the horse wanders off, calmly trot to it, reposition at the shoulder, and try again.
Take 5-10 steps at a time before rewarding. Gradually increase the distance.
The goal is the horse choosing to stay at your shoulder without any physical connection.

Starting in too large an area where the horse can easily leave.
Getting frustrated if the horse doesn't immediately follow — liberty takes patience.
Chasing the horse, which teaches it to move away from you.
Over-relying on treats to the point where the horse mugs you for food.

Tip: Start liberty work in a small, enclosed area. Success builds confidence for both you and the horse.