A quiet revolution: discovering horses beyond riding

A student learning how to approach and care for horses

Until not so long ago, most people believed that the only way to engage with horses was by riding them. For centuries, horses were used for war, transport, farming, and carriage work—and more recently, for leisure riding and competition. Riding was seen not only as the primary interaction between humans and horses, but often as the only one that mattered.

But in recent years, two quiet revolutions have been reshaping the horse world—transforming the way we understand, connect with, and work with these incredible animals.

The first revolution: from dominance to dialogue

In the past few decades, the horse world has seen a growing movement towards more compassionate, non-violent training methods. At the heart of this shift is the idea that horses are not machines to be controlled, but sentient beings with their own psychology, instincts, and emotions.

Leading the way in this transformation have been a group of trainers often referred to as “horse whisperers.” These individuals have developed approaches rooted in horse behaviour and body language, working with the horse’s natural instincts rather than against them. These methods—sometimes called natural horsemanship—emphasise trust, partnership, and respect over force, fear, or submission.

For many, this shift is not just about training—it’s about a whole new philosophy of being with horses.

The second revolution: the rise of groundwork

For as long as horses have been trained, groundwork has been part of the process—used quietly and consistently by professional trainers behind the scenes. Groundwork refers to all the ways we interact with and train horses from the ground, without riding them. This includes leading, lunging, desensitising, liberty work, and body language-based communication.

What’s new today is that groundwork is no longer just for professionals. As more people seek meaningful connections with horses—without necessarily riding them—groundwork is becoming a powerful and accessible way to build those relationships.

This shift has opened up the horse world to a broader audience: people who may not want to ride, cannot ride, or want to do more than “just” ride, people who want to experience the deep connection that horses offer. For the first time, laypeople are learning how to communicate with, care for, and even train horses—on the ground, eye to eye.

Let’s go back a little: what is groundwork?

Groundwork is exactly what it sounds like: interacting with the horse on the ground. It includes a wide range of techniques that help build trust, establish boundaries, and develop mutual understanding—all without ever putting a foot in the stirrup.

Unlike ridden work, where much of the communication is done through reins, legs, and the rider’s seat, groundwork relies heavily on body language, intention, energy, and spatial awareness. It teaches you to read a horse’s subtle cues—and to become more aware of your own.

Why is groundwork so important?

Groundwork is the foundation of all good horsemanship. It:

• Builds trust and mutual respect

• Helps horses understand your cues and expectations

• Establishes healthy boundaries and communication

• Improves safety—for both horse and human

• Provides a strong base before riding, or as an alternative to riding

And perhaps most importantly, groundwork invites us to slow down and listen. It reminds us that connection doesn’t require control—and that presence matters more than performance.

What do you learn when you learn groundwork?

When you study groundwork, you’re not just learning how to train a horse. You’re learning how to:

• Understand how horses think, feel, and communicate

• Develop patience, empathy, and calm leadership

• Tune into subtle signals—both theirs and yours

• Respond rather than react

• Create a partnership based on mutual understanding

These are skills that extend far beyond the arena—they change how you show up in the world.

Ready to join the revolution?

Whether you’re new to horses or have been around them for years, the groundwork revolution offers a fresh way to deepen your relationship with these extraordinary animals. It’s not about giving up riding—it’s about expanding what’s possible.

If you’re curious to learn more, we invite you to join one of our upcoming courses. You’ll discover how to build trust, communicate with clarity, and form lasting partnerships—on the ground, where it all begins.

Come be part of the quiet revolution. The horses are waiting.

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Manjeev is the first (and currently only) natural horsemanship trainer certified by Monty Roberts in Asia. From wild mustangs in California to young thoroughbreds in India about to start their racing careers, Manjeev works diligently to empower the horses with the tools, ability, and confidence to face the life ahead of them. Manjeev loves to share his knowledge and teach students through courses. He helps owners understand their horses better and rehabilitate trauma. He also trains grooms to handle horses.