Easy groundwork ideas to build your bond

You don’t need to be in the saddle to grow your confidence. Some of the best trust-building (and bravery-boosting!) moments happen with your feet on the ground, just you and your pony, working together.

Groundwork isn’t just for big-time trainers. It’s for you. It’s fun, it’s safe, and it helps both of you feel calm, focused, and connected.

Let’s try a few simple activities to grow your pony superpowers, no riding required!

1. Follow my feet

What it builds: Focus and calm communication

This is a soft, low-pressure game where your pony learns to mirror you, like a pony dance partner! You’re helping them tune into your energy, without needing tools or touch.

Here’s how to try it:

1. Stand beside your pony with the lead rope loose.
2. Walk forward slowly and see if they follow.
3. Stop after a few steps. Do they stop with you?
4. Try turning, backing up, or moving sideways.
5. Reward them with a scratch or soft voice when they copy you.

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Top tip

If they’re distracted, gently wiggle the rope or make a kiss sound, but stay calm and kind. This is about connection, not control.

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This game helps both of you feel more tuned-in, and it’s a great warm-up before trick training or obstacle courses.

2. Leading like a pro

What it builds: Focus and teamwork

Pop on a headcollar and lead rope, and walk your pony around like you’re heading to the Olympics! Keep their nose by your shoulder, stop and start together, and try walking in zigzags or around cones.

• Mix it up with halts, slow steps, and quick steps
• Can you stop together without tugging the rope?

This helps your pony learn to listen to your body language, which also helps when riding!

3. Obstacle fun

What it builds: Bravery and curiosity

Make a mini obstacle course using things you already have at the yard. Try leading your pony over:

• A tarp or towel on the ground
• A line of poles
• Empty feed bags
• Cones or buckets to weave through

Let them sniff each obstacle. Some ponies might step over bravely, while others may need a few sessions to even go near to an obstacle! Both are okay! Just give your pony lots of praise and let them figure it out at their own pace.

Want to level up? Try walking the course backwards or in-hand trotting through it.

4. Teach a simple trick

What it builds: Fun and feel-good vibes

Try teaching your pony a trick like:

• Target touch: Let them touch their nose to a cone or tennis ball
• Give a hoof: Gently lift a front foot when you tap their leg
• Smile: Use treats to encourage a lip lift

Always use calm voice cues, be kind, praise even the smallest try and keep sessions short (5–10 minutes is perfect).

Groundwork tips

• Always work in a safe area (no loose ponies!)
• Wear a helmet, gloves and boots
• Take breaks and end on a good note
• Give lots of praise, even for small tries
• If your pony seems unsure, go slower and reward more often

Why it matters

When you do groundwork, your pony learns to trust you, and you learn to trust yourself. You start to understand how your pony thinks, how he feels, and how to help him feel safe.

That means when you hop back in the saddle, you’re not just sitting on a pony… you’re riding a partner.

You don’t need to be perfect when doing these exercises. You just need to be present.

Try one of these exercises this week and see what magic happens!