Warm-bloods are generally late maturing, meaning they will be three to four years old before they are ready for extensive training. You should start doing ground work during their second year to teach respect. Remember to keep training sessions short, and end on a good note. Teach your horse to go forward, back, right, and left. Light riding should be started in their third year. Generally, ride the horse for one to two months, and rest for six weeks to allow for rest and remodeling of the bones and supporting structures. Remember to gradually build up to spending more time working the horse. Follow this system throughout the third year. When the horse is four years old, it should be ready for extensive training. Always watch for signs of soreness or discomfort. These are indications of a need for a recuperative rest.

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