My dressage trainer has always said that we use posture as an aid. This includes the shoulders, arms, core, seat, legs, joints, etc. Body awareness allows a rider to move joints and limbs independently or together in order to cue the horse properly. Easier said than done! When I was younger I slouched and jutted…
Knowing your horse’s weight is important when designing a feeding program and also for administering supplements or medications such as bute, banamine, or dewormers. The problem is that most of us don’t have a horse-sized scale on hand!
Many people tend to estimate that their adult horse is about a…
On November 1st riders across the United States dropped their stirrups for the ‘No Stirrup November Challenge’. Most equestrians are not sure how this trend started, but it has been going strong for quite a few years now. If you want to improve your position and strengthen your legs,…
The feeling you get when the wind rips through your hair as your ponytail falls out. Hearing the hooves underneath you beat like thunder racing through the night sky. Feeling your heart race as you understand that you and your horse are moving as one. Knowing that you’re on…
Your horse should naturally have a good topline. There should be a smooth line from their neck to their nail. Unfortunately, potential issues can arise. An improperly fitted saddle, starting a horse too young and lameness are just a few reasons why your horse may have a weak or…
In many areas, the horses are already starting to get fuzzy! With winter quickly approaching, their thick coat is gearing up for the cold temperatures. Each season presents its own grooming challenges. Specifically, your horse’s winter coat is likely to trap dirt, sweat and stains more easily. Fear not!…
Autumn is one of the best seasons for trail riders. The crisp air, blue skies and trees full of color are just a few highlights. From daytime rides to overnight camping adventures, all riders can enjoy the spectacular scenery of fall. Saddle up for an experience of a lifetime!
It’s…
Fox hunting in this area has been taking place since the mid 1800s. Today it continues to be an important cultural tradition and social event.
For the past ten years I’ve been visiting Middleburg, once or twice a year, because my horse trainer lives there. I had never been fox…