Side reins can be extremely beneficial, when used correctly, to improve a horse’s understanding of rein contact, as well as help him to correctly develop his topline. Of course, the key phrase here is “used correctly.”Why side reins? The...
Nearly every breed and discipline organization in the United States has to address the issue of bringing youth back into equestrian sports.Youth today face multiple pressures unique to this tech-friendly, ultra-digital generation: they are pressured to get the grades,...
Preparing for a 100-mile horse ride is no small feat. I’ve trekked across Mongolia as an official for an endurance horse race, but that seems like a warm-up for The Tevis Cup, which spans across the Sierra Nevada mountains...
January 2020 showed promise as an eventful year for equestrians worldwide. It was to be an Olympic year, with many excited to visit Tokyo for the Summer Olympic Games, and the FEI World Cup Show Jumping and Dressage Finals...
Trail riding is among the most popular equestrian pastimes, and competing on the trail was once something many trail riders enjoyed. But due to a variety of factors, two organizations that sanction competition on the trail have seen a...
Summer and fall are fine times of year to get out of the arena and onto the trail for some new scenery. But some of the most interesting and exciting places to go horseback riding on the trail may...
Many equestrian disciplines require the horse to go on a loose rein, at least part of the time. But in dressage, there is a constant connection between the horse’s mouth and the rider’s hand, called contact.Developing and maintaining correct...
To score well in horse show trail classes, you must pay attention to details. Glancing in the wrong direction or allowing your horse to take an extra step between carefully measured poles can cost precious points. Top trainer Shaun...
When my daughter was 2 years old, she was playing at a friend’s farm that was home to a pony ride business. I’d started the search for her own pony, because I wanted something she could lead around the...
You’ve been practicing your maneuvers and getting your horse ready to show off his moves in western classes. But now you need the best western show outfit. You want your clothes to be appropriate for each class without distracting...
