[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Do you stop or reduce your riding over the winter months? Too much snow, wind and very cold temperatures and not enough day light can make it difficult – or just not fun – to ride. And this winter was particularly challenging! So, if you and your horse have had a few months of light or no work, how do you keep your horse (and yourself) comfortable and healthy when you return to riding?
I recently started taking Pilates classes. Even though I have a fairly active life, I do have some muscles that don’t get much work or only get worked in a certain way. So, when I was doing one of the exercises in class, my ham string cramped up. The instructor explained that I was doing the exercise incorrectly. Instead of using my core muscles, I was using the muscles in the back of my legs. That’s why I strained my ham string. When I did the exercise correctly, I immediately felt the difference in my body. I couldn’t lift my legs as high off the floor, but I also didn’t hurt anything.
What does this have to do with re-starting your horse after a lay off? When you bring your horse back into work it’s important for his health and comfort to ensure he is using the correct muscles for the job he has to do. Just like us, he needs to build his core muscles to support and lift his back. You can help him do this by doing exercises that encourage him to engage his hindquarters. Exercises like serpentines, leg yields and walking diagonally up hill.
Your horse’s behaviour is his communication. So, pay attention to what he is telling you. If he resists going forward in some way (e.g. is lazy, grumpy, kicks out, opens his mouth, bucks, etc.) then he is telling you there is a problem. He may be sore somewhere (check his muscles and joints). He may be saying that he isn’t ready yet (physically or mentally) for the work he is being asked to do.
When starting my horses back into work after a lay off, I always start with a few short sessions of ground work – lunging or long lining. Starting with sessions of only 10-15 minutes of walk and a bit of trot – increasing the trot time with each session. Then I add a bit of under saddle work – again focusing mostly on exercises at the walk. This is also a good routine to use if you are building your confidence.
As you work with your horse – including everything from leading, grooming, and lunging to riding – pay attention to what he is communicating through his behaviour. Take things slowly and you will both enjoy your time together – comfortably and safely.
YOUR TURN: Do you have a training routine for bringing your horse back into work after a lay off? Leave a comment below.
If you found this post helpful, why not share it with a friend who might benefit from it as well?[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_separator color=”grey”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]The Bottom Line – The absolute best way to develop a true partnership with your horse is by building your confidence and trust in each other.
You can get your Free Instant Access to my report “The 3 Most Important Skills You Need to Develop Confidence With Horses” when you visit www.ConfidentHorsemanship.com
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You’re welcome to use this article in your newsletter or blog as long as you notify me and include my credit information: ~ Written by Anne Gage, Confident Horsemanship www.confidenthorsemanship.com.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
