I already wrote a brief post about the importance of working your horse on the lunge line - both during the early stages of training, and as training continues. It is also very beneficial for the rider to train on a well-schooled horse on the lunge line, under the guidance of a skillful trainer. It is important that the trainer is skilled at this process, so that s/he can focus on developing the rider's skill while expertly guiding the horse.
The greatest benefit to having lessons on a lunge line is that it allows the rider to focus completely on her/his own position and balance without having to give the horse any aids whatsoever. Through such focus the rider can develop balance and core strength, and develop the proper feel for the horse and how horse and rider move together. An experienced trainer can provide specific feedback about the rider's position, and can give exercises that are safer on the lunge line, such as riding without stirrups....a great way to develop a stronger, more balanced and more confident rider.
In the photo, Helena Ripley takes a lesson from Pam Larson on the Andalusian gelding Armani.
This is a comprehensive overview of the importance of lunging at all stages of training! These lunge lessons really do help develop a rider's feel for the horse's movement, and allows them to finesse their connection with them.