Longeing (pronounced lunge-ing") is the technique by which a person holds a horse on a long line attached to the bridle and encourages the horse to circle around the person holding the line. Although used primarily as a way to exercise a horse without its having to be ridden, longeing is also a way for riders to develop and perfect their equestrian skills; with someone else controlling the horse from the ground, riders don't have to worry about using reins or stirrups. Emily Esterson, an active rider and instructor, offers valuable advice that ranges from selecting the right horse for the job (equine temperament is as important as physical ability) and the necessary tack that the horse should wear to a series of mounted exercises, each designed to improve the rider's form, control, balance, and timing as well as correct specific position and timing problems.   In addition, the person holding the longe line has the opportunity to improve his or her understanding of the elements of horsemanship by observing and commenting on the rider's form and timing, and then applying the same skills after switching places. Whether you ride English or Western, dressage or jumping, for pleasure or in competition, longeing is an essential technique for equestrian improvement.The Adult Longeing Guide will take you every step of the way.