Double lunge - exercises, harnessing, tips for beginners & advanced riders
The double lunge is much more than just lunging with two lines: it enables gymnastic work, targeted aids and effective muscle building - without any rider weight. In this practical guide, you will find out how to strap the double lunge correctly, what equipment you need, when a pulley is useful and how you can work on your horse's position, bend and balance with simple exercises.
Contents
What effect does the double lunge have on the horse?
The double lunge is a real all-rounder in horse training. It combines the advantages of lunging with those of classic ground work and enables you to achieve a finely tuned effect - without the need for rider weight. It is ideal for:
- activate back activity,
- to improve the contact,
- promote permeability and assembly,
- or to specifically work on position and bending.
The double lunge offers a gentle but effective training option, especially for young horses, rehab horses or for muscle development .
Higher lessons such as shoulder-in, travers or even piaffe can also be prepared on the double lunge - with fine aids and precise communication.
Is the double lunge an alternative to riding?
The double lunge does not replace riding, but can be a very useful addition in many situations - for example:
- in the development phase of young horses,
- during breaks in riding or after injuries,
- if certain lessons are to be prepared specifically on the ground.
The big advantage: you work in a rider-like manner, but without putting any weight on the horse. This allows you to promote collection, position and back activity - with precise control and a better overview.
Double lunge vs. long reins - what's the difference?
Both methods work with two lines from the ground - but they differ significantly in terms of objective, position and impact.
| Feature | Double lunge | Long reins |
|---|---|---|
| Position of the human being | Sideways to slightly behind the horse, usually at the edge of the circle | Directly behind the horse |
| Line management | Through lunging harness, often with pulley | Along the side of the horse |
| Aim of the work | Gymnastics, position, muscle building | Dressage work, collecting exercises |
| Influence | Over nose/mouth, controlled rein control | Rider-like action directly behind the horse |
| Difficulty | Easy to learn for beginners | For advanced users with lots of experience |
| Areas of application | Training, rehab, groundwork | High school, transitions, fine dressage aids |
What do I need for double lungeing?
The right equipment is crucial to ensure that your horse can work safely, relaxed and effectively on the double lunge.
Double lunge
The classic double lunge consists of two lines (approx. 16-20 m), often connected with carabiners or buckles. Biothane is easy to care for, has a good grip and is durable. For beginners, cotton or nylon are softer and often more comfortable to hold. A multifunctional double lunge with several buckle points is suitable for advanced applications.
Lunging harness
A well-padded girth with several rings at different heights is a must. Depending on the ring position, you can influence the bending, uprightness or hindquarters.
Cavesson or snaffle?
| Feature | Cavesson | Snaffle |
|---|---|---|
| Influence | About the bridge of the nose & neck | Directly via the mouth |
| Fineness of the aids | Easy to dose, especially for young horses | Very fine - but only with a steady hand |
| Horse comfort | Gentle on the mouth | May interfere with sensitive horses |
| Who is it suitable for? | Beginners & sensitive horses | Experienced riders & well-prepared horses |
Lunging whip & gloves
The whip serves as an extended arm. It should be light but long enough. Gloves protect your hands and provide a better grip.
Optional: Guide pulley
With a pulley, you can guide the outer lunge line particularly smoothly. It reduces friction, increases control and is ideal for young or sensitive horses.
Double lunge for beginners
The thought of the double lunge initially triggers respect in many people: two lines, several buckling options and a horse that has perhaps never been worked with anything like this before. But don't worry: if you proceed systematically, you will quickly realize how much potential there is in this form of training. Here you will get a simple, practical introduction - perfect for your start.
Why double lunge at all?
The double lunge is like a bridge between ground work and riding. You can use it to train your horse:
- and strengthen the back muscles,
- Improve position and bending,
- work on transitions, beat and balance,
- prepare for riding or collecting lessons.
Unlike simple lunging, you have influence on both sides - that means you can lead your horse finely, check its position and accept it on both reins. This makes the work much more differentiated and therefore more effective.
The right structure: step by step
Step 1: Getting used to the equipment
Before you get started, let your horse get to know the double lunge in peace. Place it loosely over the horse's back and lead it a few rounds with the lunge line in place - without pressure, just to get to know it. This will give your horse a first feel for the lines on its body.
Step 2: Buckling the double lunge
For beginners, the following buckling is recommended:
- Inner lunge: attach directly to the cavesson.
- Outer lunge line: pass through the deep rings on the lunging girth and also attach to the cavesson or bit.
This type of buckle allows you to have good lateral influence without blocking your horse. More on this in the next section.
Step 4: Your position
Don't stand directly behind your horse, but slightly offset to the side - at about shoulder height, with enough distance. This way you can see the horse, have a clear influence and are out of the "line of fire" at the same time.
Step 5: The first steps
Start by walking in a large circle. Pay attention to this:
- That the lunges do not sag, but also do not stretch,
- That you follow the outside lunge line cleanly - it lies loosely but ready to receive in your hand,
- That you calmly motivate the horse with your voice and, if necessary, the whip.
Only when you feel confident do you switch to trot. Cantering is often too much to start with - wait until you feel more coordinated.
What you should NOT do with the double lunge
- Tugging or pulling on the lunge line - everything happens via impulses.
- Keep the lunges tangled - keep them tidy in your hands.
- Standing too close to the horse - this causes stress and restricts freedom of movement.
- Demand lessons such as piaffe or travers - start with basic work!
When is your horse ready for the double lunge?
In principle, almost any horse can work with it - whether young, old, large or small. Watch out for:
- physical health (e.g. no acute lameness),
- a minimum level of basic obedience (stop, go, react to voice),
- a quiet environment - this makes it easier for both of you to concentrate.
Buckling the double lunge
Correctly buckling the double lunge is crucial for effective and safe training. For beginners in particular, it is important to approach this slowly and to understand how the different rings of the lunging belt change the effect. Incorrect buckling can confuse or even block your horse - so it pays to be particularly careful here.
How do you buckle a double lunge correctly?
Basically, you have two lunges: the inside lunge, i.e. the side facing the center of the circle, and the outside lunge, which is led around the horse. Both end at the cavesson or the bit - depending on what you use.
Standard buckling for beginners (recommended for beginners):
- Inner lunge line: Attach directly to the side ring of the cavesson.
- Outer lunge:
- From the outer handpiece
- through the deep side ring of the lunging belt (at belly height)
- then to the opposite side ring on the cavesson (i.e. to the outside of the horse's head).
- From the outer handpiece
This buckle gives you good control over the shoulder and hindquarters without putting too much pressure on the mouth or neck.
Alternative buckles - depending on the training objective:
| Aim of the work | Harness recommendation |
|---|---|
| More position and flexion | outer lunge through middle or upper ring on the lunging belt |
| Stronger influence on hindquarters | outer lunge through deeper ring (at the height of the flank) |
| Preparation for long rein work | Both lunges led directly backwards through the belt rings |
Should I lead the double lunge over the back or the hindquarters?
Both variants are possible, but they work differently:
- Over the back: The classic version. The outer lunge line runs over the croup or back and gives the horse lateral restraint. Well suited for balance and position.
- Behind the hindquarters: For very experienced horses. The lunge line runs behind the horse, which enables a strong influence on the hindquarters - but can also easily lead to misunderstandings.
To get started, we clearly recommend leading over the back. This keeps the influence gentle, controlled and clearly understandable for the horse.
How do you lunge correctly with the double lunge?
You move sideways to the horse, not behind it. Your body language and position influence the speed, direction and contact:
- At shoulder height: driving effect
- Further forward: braking, parrying
- Too far back: Horse pushes strongly forward
Avoid permanently taut leashes - work with short impulses, voice and a steady hand.
Use clear voice aids to initiate transitions. Keep moving, check your position regularly and give your horse time to get used to the new way of communicating.
Pulley double lunge
The use of a pulley with the double lunge is particularly widespread in classical training and with particularly sensitive horses - and not without reason. A pulley allows you to guide the outer lunge line smoothly over the lunging girth without it rubbing or catching on the horse. This can be a real advantage, especially with young or sensitive horses.
What is a pulley for the double lunge?
A pulley is a small, rotating element that is hooked into the lunging girth - usually at the middle of the side. The outer lunge line is passed through the pulley before it goes to the cavesson or bit. This creates a smoother line, with less friction and more direct signal transmission.
What are the advantages of the idler pulley?
- Even line guidance - particularly helpful for horses that react sensitively to uneven pulling
- Less friction on the lunging girth - ideal for horses with sensitive skin or during longer training sessions
- Better control over the outer shoulder as the leash does not "snag" or slip over the harness
Clearer aids for position and bending thanks to a more constant connection
| Sensible | Less suitable |
|---|---|
| for sensitive or young horses that are not yet familiar with the double lunge | if you want to consciously work with varying lead handling (e.g. more dynamics in the hindquarters) |
| if you want to develop a precise position and bend | for experienced horses that move safely with the classic buckle |
| for prolonged training where a consistent effect is important | if you want to work specifically on the horse's natural balance - without mechanical support |
Double lunge exercises
Working with the double lunge offers you countless opportunities to gymnasticize your horse in a meaningful way. From simple straight lines and curved lines to preparation for collection exercises such as the piaffe - with the right exercises, you can specifically promote back, balance and suppleness.
The double lunge is particularly effective for building muscle because it allows you to work the horse over its back - without the rider's weight, but with finely dosed impulses from the outside.
Basic exercises to get you started
These simple exercises will help you to develop a feel for the lunge line and teach your horse to work on the double lunge step by step:
- Large circle at walk and trot
Goal: balance, rhythm, contact
Make sure both lunges are in even contact and that your voice is calm and clear. - Eight or alternating turns
Goal: Improving the bend, suppleness
Gently change hands by yielding with the outside rein and slightly accepting the inside rein. - Walk-trot-stride transitions
Goal: Reaction to voice, activation of hindquarters
Use voice and body language to request precise transitions.
Gymnastic work
- Snaking lines and voltes: Promote bending and mobility of the spine.
- Holding exercises: Train concentration and body tension - particularly valuable before backing up.
- Tempo changes within a gait: make the horse attentive and promote carrying power.
Targeted double lunge exercises for the back
The double lunge is ideal for building up the back muscles in particular, because you can work your horse in a stretching position - with gentle rein contact on both sides.
- Large arches with position: Let your horse trot along large lines, leaning evenly on both lunges. This loosens and strengthens the back.
- Lane changes and snaking lines: Promotes coordination and core stability.
- Half parades over the lunge line: activate the back and promote permeability.
For advanced users
- Reversing on the double lunge
Training of shoulder control and reaction to light impulses. - Lateral movements such as shoulder-in on the circle
Encourage straightness and weight bearing. - Piaffe preparation
For experienced horse-human pairs with clear communication - start small, praise a lot!
Piaffe on the double lunge
The piaffe on the double lunge is a fine art - but also a feasible challenge if your horse can already walk collected. It is not suitable for beginners, but is an exciting goal for advanced horse-human pairs.
What you need:
- a well-prepared horse that already knows transitions, backing up and tensioning
- Fine timing and a sure feel for body language and aids
- Patience, praise and clear breaks as a reward
Biothane, cotton or multifunctional double lunge?
Not every double lunge is the same. The handling, weight, ease of care and also the effect on your horse differ depending on the material. The terms biothane double lunge, multifunctional double lunge or classic models made of cotton or nylon are frequently searched for. Here is an overview to help you find the right model for you:
Biothane double lunge
The double lunge made of Biothane is particularly popular with professionals and frequent users. It is made from a lightweight, weatherproof synthetic material that feels pleasant in the hand and does not swell.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Easy to clean (simply wipe clean) | slightly stiffer than cotton |
| Does not absorb water | it can appear hard at low temperatures |
| lies smooth and non-slip in the hand |
Cotton double lunge or nylon
These classic materials are particularly suitable for beginners. They are soft, flexible and comfortable to handle.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Soft in the hand | Can soak up water |
| Inexpensive to purchase | Higher friction on the belt and hands |
| well suited for sensitive horses | Difficult to clean when heavily soiled |
Multifunctional double lunge
The so-called multifunctional double lunge is a combination of classic double lunge and long reins. It offers various carabiner and guide points, some with additional handles or stoppers.
Areas of application:
- Particularly flexible in training
- Ideal for trainers or advanced users who want to combine different working methods
FAQ - Frequently asked questions about the double lunge
Why pulleys for the double lunge?
Pulleys ensure that the line runs more smoothly, especially on the outer lunge line. They enable precise action, prevent chafing on the lunging girth and offer a smooth connection - especially with sensitive horses or advanced buckling. They offer real advantages, especially when buckled directly into higher girth loops or during lateral movements.
How long should a double lunge be?
The length of the double lunge is typically between 12 and 18 meters. For beginners, 14-16 m is often ideal. The longer the lunge line, the more distance you have - this is helpful with larger horses or collection exercises, but more challenging to handle.
What effect does the double lunge have on the horse?
The double lunge line helps you to position, bend and straighten your horse and activate its back activity - without any rider weight. It promotes suppleness, musculature, concentration and balance. Young horses also learn their first rein aids.
How do you hold the double lunge correctly?
You can lead the double lunge with one or both hands. We recommend using both hands to get started: the inner lunge line in one hand and the outer lunge line together with the whip in the other. It is important that the lines are not taut, but are kept loose and controlled.
Which lunging girth is suitable for the double lunge?
A lungeing girth with several rings at different heights is a must. This allows you to guide the lines according to your training goal - low for more hindquarters activity, high for more uprightness. The girth should be well padded and non-slip, preferably with a lunging pad.
What is the double lunge good for?
With the double lunge, you can work on position, bending, balance and back activity - without the rider's weight. It is suitable for gymnastics, for the release phase, for preparing for riding or driving, as well as for correcting crooked or stiff horses.
How do you buckle the double lunge?
There are different types of buckles. The so-called remont buckle is suitable for beginners:
- Inner lunge directly to the cavesson
- Outer lunge through an eyelet over the back to the outer snaffle or cavesson ring
Experienced horse-human pairs can also lead the lead around the hindquarters - but only with a lot of practice and calm.
Which bit for the double lunge?
A simple water snaffle bit or a cavesson are ideal. A cavesson is recommended for beginners, as the hand action does not act directly on the mouth. If you want to work more precisely or work on more advanced lessons, a soft bit can be used - provided your horse is used to it.
Is a cavesson or snaffle better for the double lunge?
A cavesson is better suited for beginners, as you lead the horse via the nose and poll - without working directly in the mouth. A snaffle is suitable for advanced work or specific dressage lessons, but requires calm, finely dosed aids and a well-prepared horse.
What do I need for double lunge work?
You need:
- A double lunge (cotton or biothane)
- A well-padded lunging harness with several rings
- A cavesson or snaffle
- A lunging whip
- Riding gloves and sturdy shoes
- A safely demarcated lunging area or round pen
What is the difference between long reins and double lunge?
When double lunging, you stand at a greater distance to the side of the horse. The lines run through the lunging girth and you work as you would when riding - but from the ground.
With long reins, you work directly behind the horse. The reins run along the side of the body towards the head - similar to riding. Long rein work requires more proximity, more control and a lot of experience.
Should I lead the double lunge over the back or the hindquarters?
For starters: over the back. This variant is simpler, clearer for the horse and less prone to interference. The lead around the hindquarters increases the effect on the hind legs, but should only be used with an advanced horse-human team - ideally with a pulley.
How do I get my horse used to the double lunge?
Start by leading your horse at a walk with a double lunge attached. Praise it regularly and work with patience. Then start on the circle with a simple bit and minimal pressure. Avoid sudden movements and give your horse time to get used to the new body feeling.
How do I hold a double lunge?
In the two-handed lead, you hold the inside lunge in one hand and the outside lunge together with the whip in the other. Your arms form a kind of rein guide - similar to riding. Advanced riders also use the one-handed lead, where the lunges are passed through different fingers - but this takes practice and experience.