This video highlights another groundwork exercise I use when working with all horses, especially those just starting their journey. Disengaging the haunches will evolve into future movements as well. When I first ask this of a horse it is a tool to establish control, flexibility and can be used as a punishment for undesirable behavior. Let’s look into each use:
Control- by disengaging the haunches you are shutting down the engine of the horse. It is not easy for them to move this way. A horse needs good brakes and it is not a matter of if but when you need your horse to stop it is important to have established many ways to do this. This is one of those ways. Watch how a horse moves in a one rein stop and you are most likely to see does disengagement of the haunches. It may not always be pretty but it is effect.
Flexibility- the act of moving the haunches will be necessary for further development of lateral work and flexibility. You can gain a wider range of motion. I will begin to refine and improve the movement in-hand and under saddle.
Punishment- because the act of disengaging haunches is tedious and tiring it can be used to expedite the process of getting your point across. A main example of when I use this is when I have a horse that refuses to load on a trailer. In this instance I have found it to be beneficial to make the experience outside the trailer less desirable than being on the trailer. Therefore my option of loading sounds like more fun than disengaging haunches behind the trailer. The horse can choose which option they prefer. There is no force it is the power of choice. Move your feet outside the trailer or rest your feet on the trailer. Usually doesn’t take long to decide the trailer is more desirable.
Disengaging the haunches is one exercises that has many applications. With these groundwork exercises you will be on your way to improving your relationship with your horse.