start out slow . lunging is good.limber the leg up.but yes ride is way more fun then standing and having the horse trot around you.. well in my opinion..lol. the problem with long lead rope work is with out the weight of rider and tack the hoof doesnt expand as much as it does under rider. when the hoof expands it allows the frog to pump blood. all excercise is good. keep me posted.thanks.scott