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This page was last updated: March 25, 2010
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Ground horses are slow and steady, thinking horses. They can be sensitive but never react without having a good reason. They are commonly used as lesson horses because of their reliability and stability. They need a good reason to exert energy and will try to find the most energy-efficient way to achieve the desired result. Because of this, they can be quite trainable but often misunderstood and seen as "lazy" or "obstinate." If they do not understand a request, they are likely to wait patiently for a better explanation. Unfortunately for them, most people do not recognize this and see their lack of performance as "stubbornness" or "unwillingness." Ground horses tend to hold in emotions and "shut down" rather than react when they are faced with stress or asked too hard. It is important to recognize when your horse is beginning to "shut down" and to change the way you ask your horse for whatever it is you want. Because Ground horses are so reliable and stable they are often used for riders with disabilities and beginners. It's important to recognize that this is their learning style, to try not to take advantage of their quiet nature, and to remain sensitive to their needs. It's easy to overuse a horse that does not make a big deal about letting you know that they are tired. It is also easy for these horses to become "stuck" or "blocked" so it is also important to remember to keep them stimulated. It is common for a Ground horse to shut out a rider who is too high energy or not connected to ground at all. It's helpful when working with a ground horse to find your center and take things slowly and remain extremely aware. Ground in the rider can mean clear boundaries and patience for the horse but also it can be inflexibility and being stuck. The energy is down and forward. This type of rider goes well with Fire, Wind or Water horses.
