Stall Mats 

Boomerang stall mats are crafted using the highest-quality recycled rubber, ensuring unmatched durability and performance. Unlike crumb rubber mats that break down and lose shape over time, they’re engineered to withstand heavy impact, resist wear and tear, and provide long-lasting comfort and protection for your horses.

Shop at boomerangrubber.com.

Stall Gates

The robust design crafted from high-gauge steel features a European yoke opening and a safe mesh lower section. Suitable for large horse breeds, such as warmbloods and draft horses, but the sturdy mesh design at the bottom means they can also be used for smaller breeds.

Shop at americanstalls.com.

Hay Feeders

The InStall Hay OptiMizer is a durable slow feeder that takes just a few seconds to load with a day’s worth of hay. Your horse will love having a pasture in a box.

Shop at rammfence.com.

Barn Windows

Armour’s smooth fascia panel swings open to one side of any barn window opening of adequate size. One-panel design allows for easy open and close with the slide of one bolt latch. The smooth interior surface panels provide an “edge free” surface. Custom sizes are available.

Shop at armourhorsestalls.com.

End Doors 

Enhance both the functionality and curb appeal of your equine property. Selkirk offers a unique blend of security, craftsmanship, and elegance for horse owners who demand both quality and style. With custom breezeway doors, your barn is sure to make a striking impression.

Shop at selkirkstallsystems.com.

Automatic Waterer

The state-of-the-art Cascada automatic horse waterer fills your horse’s water bucket using an advanced contactless sensing design for unrivaled reliability. The device monitors water levels every minute and has the ability to send data to your Cascada app.

Shop at cascadaequine.com.

Stall Partitions

Classic Equine Equipment’s horse stall partitions are heavy-duty, solid welded, and designed to complement any Classic Equine horse stall fronts. Available in multiple styles and designs, choose from a full frame construction or a component style.

Shop at classic-equine.com.

Rubber Pavers

Great for barn aisles or any place that needs anti-slip flooring. The interlocking rubber paver blocks are easy to install. Available in two thicknesses with an extra-fine finish on top for longevity. Unlike cheap alternatives, Premier Rubber Pavers create a comfortable, cushioned surface that promotes wellbeing for you and your horse.

Shop at premierequestrian.com.

This article about barn building components appeared in the September/October 2025 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post Barn Building Components appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Neuroscience is also reshaping our understanding of fear. We can harness these insights to unlock greater confidence, focus and performance in the saddle, whether you’re a grassroots rider or elite competitor.

Ultimately, the goal of harnessing neuropsychology in equestrian sports is to enhance your enjoyment of riding. Photo by Christiane Slawik

The Science of Fear

Fear is a complex emotional response intricately linked to your brain’s wiring. Traditionally, fear has been viewed as a negative force that can paralyze you, especially in high-stakes situations like riding. However, neuroscience has revolutionized our understanding of fear; it isn’t just something to be eradicated, but rather a natural response that you can learn to manage and even remove in times when there is no need for it.

When faced with fear, your brain activates the amygdala, which signals a “fight or flight” response. While this mechanism was crucial for our hunter-gatherer ancestors, it can be a hindrance in the arena, leading to anxiety and self-doubt.

The good news is that the human brain is neuroplastic, which means it can adapt and rewire itself. This plasticity allows you to reshape your fear response and redefine your relationship with riding.

Marian Diamond, Ph.D. (1926-2017), a pioneering neuroscientist, discovered that our brains are not fixed, but rather constantly evolving. This insight is crucial for equestrians looking to build a more resilient mindset.

The concept of neuroplasticity suggests that with practice and intention, you can retrain your brain to react differently. Imagine walking into the arena or being out on a trail, not consumed by anxiety about a challenging course, but excited for the challenge ahead.

Imagine walking into the arena or being out on a trail, not consumed by anxiety about a challenging course, but excited for the challenge ahead. Photo by Sundry Photography/Adobe Stock

The Power of Neurochemicals

Equestrians can benefit from understanding the transformative effects of key neurochemicals (neurotransmitters) that regulate mood, motivation and comfort levels. The most researched ones are dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin.

Dopamine is often referred to as the “feel-good” neurotransmitter. It’s associated with pleasure, reward, and motivation. Serotonin plays a vital role in mood regulation and emotional stability. Oxytocin is the “bonding hormone” and is crucial for social interactions and forming connections.

Dopamine is often referred to as the “feel-good” neurotransmitter. It’s associated with pleasure, reward, and motivation.

“Dopamine is released in response to rewards and helps reinforce behaviors that lead to those rewards,” says Andrew Huberman, Ph.D., a neuroscientist at Stanford University.

For equestrians, achieving small goals—like mastering a tricky maneuver or having a successful ride—can trigger dopamine release, creating a positive feedback loop that motivates you further. The key is to keep the goal small enough to ensure success or use as a steppingstone toward success.

Serotonin plays a vital role in mood regulation and emotional stability.

“Serotonin is fundamental for emotional wellbeing and contributes to feelings of happiness and calm,” according to John Ratey, M.D., a clinical associate professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School.

In the context of riding, maintaining balanced serotonin levels can help you manage stress and anxiety, allowing for a more enjoyable and focused experience in the saddle. Since your gut provides approximately 95 percent of your body’s serotonin, you can benefit from looking after your digestion and making sure not to overdo sugar, alcohol, or processed foods.

Oxytocin is the “bonding hormone” and is crucial for social interactions and forming connections. It is released during positive interactions, such as stroking or grooming a horse or experiencing moments of trust with your equine partner.

“Oxytocin enhances social bonding and can promote feelings of trust and safety,” says Sue Carter, Ph.D., a leading researcher on oxytocin. This is particularly relevant for riders (and their horses), as a strong bond can lead to improved communication and performance.

By consciously engaging in activities that boost these neurotransmitters—such as setting and achieving riding goals (dopamine); practicing emotional regulation using mindfulness, hypnotherapy or neurolinguistic programming, as well as attending to your diet (serotonin); and building a trusting relationship with your horse (oxytocin)—you can significantly enhance your overall riding experience and performance.

Unlocking Confidence & Focus

For equestrians, understanding neuroplasticity opens up many new possibilities. By recognizing that you can rewire your brain’s fear circuitry, you can shift from a mindset of dread and being burdened by pressure to one of empowerment.

One effective strategy is through the cultivation of micro-habits. James Clear, in his bestselling book Atomic Habits, highlights the importance of small, even tiny, consistent changes that lead to significant improvements over time.

For riders, this could mean setting small, achievable goals each time you mount. Whether it’s focusing on your posture, breathing, or an aspect of schooling, these micro-habits can build a foundation of confidence that makes larger goals feel more attainable.

Former Olympic eventer Jonty Evans, who is now competing in Para Dressage for Ireland, reflects on his journey through pressure in riding.

“When I was eventing seriously, I got to the stage where I really didn’t notice pressure of any kind; nothing was stronger or more prominent than my plan for each particular horse,” he says.

His experience illustrates how shifting focus can alleviate personal pressure and enable you to approach your goals with a clearer mindset.

Emotional Regulation

As you rewire your fear responses, you also gain better emotional regulation—an essential skill for any equestrian. Riding can be a rollercoaster of emotions, from excitement and joy to frustration and fear. Learning how to manage these emotions can significantly impact your performance.

One technique I often recommend is a form of mindfulness, which involves being present in the moment instead of focusing on outside distractions. You can do this by running a non-stop commentary in your head, such as constantly giving yourself instructions (for example, the degree of bend, the pressure of your aids, where you are going, and the movement you are making), which occupies your conscious mind and blocks negative self-talk.

Be present in the moment by running a commentary in your mind to block negative self-talk. This could involve instructions about your degree of bend or the pressure of your aids. Photo by Christiane Slawik

This brings you into the “now” moment. Once you achieve this, you develop a new narrative for your riding. You train your mind to remain calm, have a clear plan for the ride, communicate decisively with your horse, and regulate your emotions effectively.

Evans also emphasizes the importance of where he places his attention.

“Since my accident, my take on pressure has been far more to do with me and what I’m doing on the horse,” he says. “My drive is to make sure I’m as good as I can be. I’ve been riding a couple of young horses, which has made me focus more on them.”

This shift toward concentrating on the horse’s way of going, rather than creating what-if scenarios, is perfect for calmer, more attentive and responsive riding.

Rewiring the Fear Circuit

To actively rewire an unhelpful fear circuit, you need to engage in deliberate practice. This means confronting your fears in a controlled, gradual manner, which prevents the amygdala from firing the “fight-or-flight” response.

For instance, if you’re anxious about competing, consider attending a low-level event first, something you find exceptionally easy in terms of riding level. This exposure allows you to practice managing your fear in a supportive environment, ultimately reinforcing positive experiences associated with competition.

To rewire a fear circuit, confront your fears in a controlled, gradual manner, such as competing at a much lower level that you find easy. Photo by Christiane Slawik

Once you find a level where you are calm, your nervous system can start to make this experience more and more of a default for you. This is known as long-term potentiation (LTP). This is the process by which the connections between neurons are strengthened and that pathway becomes habitual.

For riders, repeated positive experiences can lead to lasting improvements in confidence and performance. Each time you successfully execute a maneuver or overcome a challenge, LTP reinforces the neural pathways associated with those experiences, making it easier to replicate that success in the future.

Over time, these strengthened connections can help reduce anxiety and build a more resilient mindset, allowing you to approach your training and competitions with greater assurance and confidence.

“Fear can impact the way you communicate with the horses,” says Gemma Moss, a British Grand Prix dressage rider and coach. “[This] highlights the connection between fear and the need for regular mental training; it affects the body, causing stiffness and affecting aids and fluency when riding. I work very hard on managing my emotions, nerves being one of them. For me, that side of training is as important as your monthly lessons.”

If you aren’t sure where to start with reprogramming your thoughts, consider working with an equestrian mindset coach or hypnotherapist. They can help you diminish specific fears and develop a personalized plan to tackle them when mounted. This tailored approach can be particularly beneficial for fine-tuning your mental game, no matter your riding level.

Enjoying the Ride

Ultimately, the goal of harnessing neuropsychology in equestrian sports is to enhance your enjoyment of riding. When you learn to manage fear, foster confidence, and improve your focus, you unlock a deeper connection with your horse and the sport itself. Riding becomes less about battling your inner demons and more about enjoying the partnership you have with these magnificent animals.

As you embark on this journey of mindset transformation, remember that it’s a process. There will be ups and downs, but each small step you take toward rewiring your brain brings you closer to a more fulfilling riding experience.

Embrace the challenges, celebrate your successes, and above all, enjoy the ride!

This article about equestrian neuropsychology appeared in the March/April 2025 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post Harnessing Neuropsychology in Equestrian Sports appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Photo by Kirkikis/Adobe Stock

Laminitis Risks in the Fall

Many horse owners are aware that spring’s lush new grass has higher NSC content due to rapid growth, but changing temperatures in the fall also increase the amount of sugar, upping the risk of laminitis for some horses.

After the first killing frost in the fall, NSC levels in grass will be higher than normal, with levels remaining elevated for up to a week.

Unfortunately, some breeds are more predisposed to laminitis than others, including equines that are genetically more likely to have metabolic issues. Andalusians, pony breeds, Miniature Horses, and donkeys fall into this category.

“Not every horse will develop laminitis on high NSC pastures,” says Kathleen Crandell, Ph.D., an equine nutritionist who works with Kentucky Equine Research (KER). “Certain breeds, like the ‘easy keeper’ types and ponies, are more likely to be sensitive to the sugar content of the grass. Particularly if a horse is already overweight, the high sugar content could push him over the edge into full-blown laminitis.

“If a horse has not been turned out on grass and then is suddenly allowed unlimited access, the drastic change can provoke an episode of laminitis,” she continues. “In cases like this, it’s best to offer pasture access for 15 minutes the first few days and increase the time out on grass gradually in 15-minute increments.”

Inflammatory Condition

In the most basic definition, laminitis is inflammation of the sensitive laminae of the hoof.

The horse’s hoof is comprised of both sensitive (living) and insensitive (non-living) laminae that are closely interwoven to form the lamellar bond, which attaches the coffin bone to the hoof wall.

If inflammation occurs in the sensitive laminae, the blood supply in the hoof is disrupted. Without treatment, the lamellar bond can become compromised. Should this bond fail, the coffin bone loses support and can rotate, permanently altering connections within the hoof. When that happens, the horse is said to have “foundered.”

Many horses can suffer a bout of laminitis but not founder, provided they receive timely, proper treatment.

Immediate treatment involves relieving inflammation and pain. This typically includes icing the feet, a course of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and complete stall rest during the initial period. Support with hoof boots or special shoeing may also be indicated.

After immediate treatment measures following a bout of laminitis, special shoeing may be needed. Photo by Christiane Slawik

Causes of Laminitis

Ben Flakoll, DVM, a veterinary farrier and podiatrist in the Saratoga Springs, N.Y., practice of Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital, routinely works with laminitic horses. He explains that laminitis is a clinical syndrome with three main causes:

• Secondary to a systemic inflammatory response, such as a horse with pneumonia or colitis, or a mare with a retained placenta after foaling.
• Support limb laminitis, when a horse develops laminitis in the main weight-bearing limb after injury to the opposite foot.
• Endocrinopathic laminitis, which primarily occurs because of insulin dysregulation in horses who have elevated insulin levels secondary to an endocrine disease like pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID), previously known as Cushing’s disease, or equine metabolic syndrome (EMS).

“Endocrinopathic laminitis is the most common type, and accounts for 70 to 90 percent of all laminitis cases,” says Flakoll. “The elevated insulin level is tied to elevated levels of NSC in the diet.”

When insulin levels are chronically elevated, the laminae in the foot can slowly stretch over time, eventually resulting in coffin bone rotation, even if the horse doesn’t exhibit acute lameness.

Signs of Laminitis

Contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice any of these signs:

• Hooves feel hotter than usual
• Strong, bounding digital pulse in fetlock area
• Increased heart rate
• Increased respiration rate
• Shifting weight from foot to foot
• Standing with back legs well under body
• Stiff, awkward gait
• Walking on heels
• Lying down more than usual
• Reluctance or refusal to move or pick up feet

Photo by Christiane Slawik

Managing the Diet

With elevated insulin levels to blame for the most common type of laminitis, it’s critical to control the diet of affected horses.

To reduce NSC content during the acute phase of endocrinopathic laminitis, Flakoll recommends only feeding soaked hay and eliminating any grain or concentrate.

“After the horse has recovered from the initial bout of laminitis, we can consider adding a ration balancer back into the diet,” he advises.

If the horse is overweight, as is the case with many metabolic horses, you should work with your veterinarian on how to restrict calories until the horse is at an ideal body weight.

Ideally, horses dealing with insulin dysregulation should only have hay with NSC content of less than 10 percent. Warm season grasses usually have lower NSC content than cool season grasses, so certain types of hay are naturally higher in sugar than others.

“The amount of NSC in [the same type of] hay can vary, depending on when it is harvested,” says Crandell. “The less mature the grass, the more likely it is to have higher sugar content because it isn’t pushing all its energy stores toward producing seed heads. A leafy orchardgrass harvested before going to seed will generally be higher in NSC than one that is stemmy with seed heads.”

More mature, stemmy hays that are harvested later in the growth cycle tend to be lower in NSCs. Photo by Valeri Vatel/Adobe Stock

She says that warm season grasses, like Teff, have become popular for metabolic horses because they are naturally lower in NSC.

However, a warm season grass, like bermudagrass, can have NSC levels similar to a cool season grass if harvested at an early growth stage. Timothy hay is mainly harvested at a more mature stage of growth when it has seed heads, so the leaf and stem will be more fibrous.

“The nonstructural carbohydrates are what we’re worried about, and the majority of NSCs in hay are water soluble,” says Flakoll. “If you soak the hay at least an hour, this removes most of the NSC. Soaking hay is really the single best thing you can do to reduce the level of NSC in forage. This takes away most of the sugars so you’re not worried about when the hay was baled.”

To soak hay, simply put it in a net and soak it in a tub of water for at least an hour. Drain the water before feeding.

“For those thinking they’ll just feed hay pellets, nothing beats soaking the hay to get the sugars out of forage,” says Flakoll. “Even pellets will have higher sugar levels than soaked hay.”

Soaking hay before feeding is the best way to remove sugars. Soak for one hour (and flip over if repurposing a bathtub, as shown here). Photo by pholidito/Adobe Stock

Modern Grasses

Many of the typical grasses used in improved pastures today have higher sugar contents than native pasture grasses did a century ago.

“Plant scientists in the 1900s developed strains of high-yielding, higher NSC grasses to meet the increase demand for energy of high-producing livestock, such as dairy cows,” says Crandell.

“Modern-day perennial ryegrasses are notorious for being able to maintain high NSC levels and are grown in this country mostly for dairy cattle,” she says, adding that ryegrass pasture and hay should be avoided when feeding horses or ponies with insulin dysregulation.

To Graze or Not

A horse that has already had a bout of laminitis should not be allowed unrestricted access to pasture, since sugars in the grass can trigger another episode. The horse may be able to have some managed time on pasture, but your veterinarian should advise you on this.

Since time of day greatly affects the NSC content of grass, the safest time for grazing is early morning between 5 and 10 a.m., so long as there hasn’t been a frost.

The safest time for grazing is between 5 and 10 a.m., as long as there hasn’t been a frost. Photo by Margaret Burlingham/Adobe Stock

“Grass will produce and store sugar when there is sunshine, so it builds up during the day,” explains Crandell. “Sugar levels will be highest in the evening and then gradually drop as the plant uses the sugar for respiration. So the lowest level will be just before sunrise [before] the plant starts photosynthesizing again.”

She adds that sugar levels in grass aren’t as high on cloudy days as during sunny days.

For some horses, grazing is simply not an option. Especially when a horse has had recurrent bouts of laminitis, turnout can only be done safely on a dry lot.

After recurring bouts of laminitis, the only safe turnout is in a dry lot. Photo by Margaret Burlingham/Adobe Stock

For the insulin dysregulated horse, a grazing muzzle is not the answer unless it fully prevents him from eating grass. Flakoll says such horses should have zero access to grazing.

“For these horses, spacing out meals and feeding smaller meals more often is better and keeps them from having large insulin spikes,” he advises.

Regular exercise is helpful since it uses up sugars as fuel, provided the horse is sound.

Helpful Tools

For horses that have had past bouts of laminitis, Flakoll recommends regular testing of insulin levels. Even if a horse hasn’t had laminitis, he advises owners to have metabolic testing done once the horse is a teenager.

“This is to monitor their metabolic levels, see what their insulin levels are, and to see if there are any signs of PPID or EMS,” he says.

This information is helpful in managing diet, including pasture access.

Annual radiographs will help your vet and farrier keep an eye on any changes in the feet from year to year. Photo by Shawn Hamilton CLiX/Adobe Stock

Yearly radiographs of the hooves are another valuable tool.

“Chronically elevated insulin levels will cause the laminae in the feet to stretch over time, so having yearly X-rays gives a comparison if the horse ever has a laminitic episode,” says Flakoll. “Most farriers would be very happy to get a yearly set of radiographs to see how things are looking.”

This article about fall laminitis concerns appeared in the September/October 2025 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post Fall Laminitis Concerns appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

I was reminded of this recently while listening to internationally renowned liberty trainer and performer Sylvia Zerbini, a ninth-generation circus artist who has performed everywhere from Ringling Brothers to Cavalia, speak about her life’s work with Arabian horses. The amazing performances of a dozen Arabian horses move as one, entirely at liberty, is genuinely breathtaking. 

Ask Sylvia if she is a horse whisperer, and she will correct you. The term she prefers is horse listener. That distinction deserves our attention, and not only from equestrians.

Photo courtesy Arabian Horse Association

Connection Cannot Be Rushed

Liberty work has become much more popular in recent years, but it is often reduced to pattern training. Horses are creatures of habit, and it is fairly easy to train a horse until it repeats the same movements. What is much harder, and much more meaningful, is building a relationship rooted in connection. One in which the horse is free to walk away, and chooses to come back instead.

That kind of trust cannot be forced or rushed. It is built over time, through careful observation and a genuine effort to understand each horse as an individual. Sylvia does not train any two horses the same way. She studies their personalities — who is confident, who is insecure, who acts tough but would spook at a sudden noise — and she builds her team around those traits. The sensitive horses go toward the back. The confident leaders go up front. The whole approach depends on knowing each horse well enough to protect it, place it correctly, and set it up to succeed.

If that sounds like a lesson in leadership, it should. The best leaders, whether in barns, boardrooms, or volunteer organizations, succeed for the same reason. They take the time to understand who they are working with, and they earn trust before they ask for performance.

Why the Arabian?

Sylvia works with many breeds and loves them all. But she is very clear about which horse taught her to listen: the Arabian.

Those of us who live with this breed know exactly what she means. The Arabian’s sensitivity is not wildness or fragility; it is intelligence, awareness, and an almost uncanny attunement to human energy and intention. Arabians read us. They watch our eyes, register our body language, and respond to what we communicate before we have said a word. For Sylvia — a trainer who works without whips, lines, or fences — responsiveness is not simply helpful; it is the entire foundation of the work. 

There’s a telling story from Sylvia’s Cavalia years. When she first proposed bringing Arabians onto that grand stage, there was skepticism. But her Arabian liberty act became one of the show’s most beloved features, winning over audiences around the world. Anyone who has watched an Arabian in motion understands why they are so captivating. 

What Audiences Are Really Responding To

Sylvia has described audience members moved to tears at her performances, and her explanation is instructive: it is not the trainer they are responding to. It is the horses — their evident joy, their individual personalities, their freedom. They break formation, get distracted, look out into the crowd, then scramble happily back into place. What audiences witness is not obedience; it is a relationship.

This is why liberty work resonates so powerfully right now. In a world that moves faster and faster, and where so much is automated or transactional, people are hungry for real connection that fills a void — the honest, natural, reciprocal connection. A horse choosing to partner with a human, with nothing forcing it to do so, is about as pure of a connection you can get.

Photo courtesy Arabian Horse Association

It feels especially fitting for the Arabian. This is a breed that did not simply live near humans, it lived with them. For centuries, Bedouin families raised Arabian foals alongside their own children, often bringing mares into their tents for safety and warmth. That closeness shaped the breed itself: an intelligence that reads people easily, a sensitivity that responds to the smallest shift in tone or body language, and a willingness to bond deeply with the humans in its life. The same qualities that drew Arabian horses and humans together in the desert centuries ago are the qualities people are searching for today.

An Invitation to Every Horse Owner

You don’t need a herd or an equine theater to apply these lessons. The invitation is simpler: slow down. Spend unstructured time with your horse. Watch where they look because a horse will always look somewhere before it goes there. Learn their signals, their moods, their individual character. Pay attention to their energy, and you will know when something isn’t right long before a problem announces itself.

For those of us in the Arabian community, there is also a stewardship responsibility. Performers like Sylvia introduce our breed to audiences who may never have experienced the majesty of an Arabian horse. Every performance, every clinic, every barn tour is an ambassador moment, a chance to show the world what we already know: that the Arabian is not just intelligent and beautiful, but profoundly connected to the people who take the time to listen.

Our horses are constantly communicating with us and we need to take the time to connect and listen back.

Learn more at arabianhorses.org.

This article is a web exclusive for Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post The Art of Listening: What Liberty Work Reveals About Communication and Connection appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

The physical aspects of riding are often described as a blend of stability, balance, and strength, but there’s a critical piece missing from this conversation: mobility. This may surprise you, but even the best riders struggle with areas of suppleness in the saddle.

I see it often in dressage, where some riders are more stable and others are more flexible. Neither is better than the other, but it’s important to know that each rider should strive to build more stability before moving on to suppleness. Incorporating mobility training in your program in the right ways can help you move more freely with your horse without limitations.

Photo by Jamie Isaacs Photography

Have you ever felt stiff, struggled to maintain a deep seat in the sitting trot, or found yourself gripping through transitions while riding? Chances are mobility, or a lack thereof, is playing a role in some of these common habits.

Most equestrians don’t think about mobility until something starts to feel a bit past “off.” You might focus on stretching tight muscles or building strength, when what you really need is a foundation of controlled, functional movement. This foundation and strategic process is supported by my essential four pillars for riders: stability, suppleness, strength, and stamina.

So, how can you improve your mobility to ride with more ease, effectiveness, and confidence?

Why Mobility and Suppleness Matter

When we talk about mobility, we’re referring to how well a joint moves through its full range of motion with control. Suppleness refers to the ability to bend, twist and move with ease and without discomfort.

It’s not just flexibility. The ability to stretch your hamstrings doesn’t necessarily translate into the mobility to ride well. Mobility is dynamic, meaning you need to be able to move in and out of positions without stiffness or tension through a certain range of motion.

Think about your pelvis, for example. It’s the foundation of your seat, responsible for absorbing motion and keeping you balanced. If your hips are stiff, your pelvis can’t move properly with your horse, which often leads to compensation in your lower back, knees, and even shoulders. Suddenly, riding feels like more effort than it should.

The same goes for the spine. A stiff rider in the upper body can’t adjust fluidly to the horse’s movement, making it harder to maintain an upright posture through various forward and backward movements, and especially rotational movements.

Then there’s the lower leg. If your knees and ankles lack mobility, you’ll struggle to keep your weight in your heels, causing your leg position to become braced rather than supportive, which lacks stability.

All of this means that mobility isn’t just a bonus—it’s a necessity. When you have it, everything about your riding feels more efficient and natural. Without it, you’re constantly fighting against your horse’s forces and your body.

On the Subtle Side

Mobility issues don’t always show up in obvious ways. In fact, many equestrians don’t realize they have a mobility restriction until they start noticing certain patterns in their riding or horse, such as:

• Feeling tense or stiff, especially during sitting trot or transitions.
• Issues maintaining an upright riding position, often riding with upper body pitched forward (in front of the vertical).
• Struggling to keep a deep, stable seat without gripping.
• Difficulty adjusting your pelvic position smoothly; for example, shifting your weight for halts and transitions.
• Persistent aches in your low back, hips, or knees during and/or after riding.

Or perhaps you have the experience of feeling like no matter how much stretching or strengthening work you do, something still feels “off.” If so, mobility training might be the missing piece in your riding routine.

The good news is that improving mobility doesn’t require hours of extra work, just a little focused effort in the right areas consistently over time.

Simple Mobility Exercises

The best way to improve is to move with intention, and this extends to mobility as well. Instead of forcing extreme stretches and looking for pain, think of mobility work as training your body to access movement with control.

Here are a few exercises that can make a real difference in the saddle.

1. 90-90 Hip Transitions

90-90 hip transitions strengthen your hips while improving their ability to open and rotate, which translates directly to a more supple seat in the saddle. Photo by CMJ Photography

Your hips are your connection to the saddle, and if they’re stiff, your seat will experience restrictions. I share the 90-90 hip transitions mobility drill with my clients, it’s a foundational movement for improving internal and external hip rotation, which is key for riders seeking a balanced seat.

Start seated with both knees bent at 90 degrees: your front knee positioned with the knee out (external rotation) and your back knee pointed inward toward the front foot (internal rotation), forming two right angles. Sitting upright with your hands behind you for support, alternate slowly side-to-side, maintaining control as you rotate through the hips.

This movement strengthens your hips while improving their ability to open and rotate, which translates directly to a more supple seat in the saddle.

2. Standing Calf Stretch

The standing calf stretch enhances flexibility through the posterior chain and encourages ankle flexion. (Variation 2). Photo by CMJ Photography

If your ankles are stiff, you’ll struggle to keep your weight in your heels without tension. One of the simplest ways to improve ankle mobility is the standing calf stretch. This mobility stretch targets the ankle, calf, and hamstring all in one simple motion.

Variation 1: Stand with one foot forward and gently bend your knee over your toes while keeping your heel down. Slowly rock forward and back, feeling a gentle stretch through the ankle joint.

Variation 2: Start upright with your front leg extended and heel grounded, then hinge forward at the hips and reach toward your front foot while your back leg remains straight but slightly bent for support.

This movement enhances flexibility through the posterior chain, encourages ankle dorsiflexion (heels down), and helps you maintain better lower-leg mobility and alignment in the saddle.

3. Standing Knee Hug

The standing knee hug is a mobility stretch that targets the glutes and hip flexors while improving balance and posture. Photo by CMJ Photography

Tight hips can cause an arch in your lower back while riding, inhibiting pelvic movement and making it harder to stay balanced and upright. A quick hip stretch can help release this tension and relax your pelvis to move more freely.

The standing knee hug is a mobility stretch that targets the glutes and hip flexors while improving balance and posture. This stretch promotes single-leg stability and enhances hip mobility.

Stand tall with your feet less than hip-width apart, then lift one knee and use both hands to gently pull it in toward your chest, keeping your standing leg straight but not locked. Keep your pelvis slightly tucked to avoid overarching your lower back. Hold for 15 to 30 seconds per side.

4. Wide-Stance Windmill

The wide-stance windmill enhances cross-body coordination and improves spinal mobility, helping your spine and core stay engaged without stiffness. (Variation 2). Photo by CMJ Photography

A strong core is important, but so is core mobility—your ability to move fluidly while remaining stable. The wide stance windmill is a core rotational movement, designed to activate your core, open up the thoracic spine, and increase hamstring and hip flexibility. Talk about an all-in-one exercise!

Begin in a wide-legged stance with your feet pointing forward. Hinge at the hips and reach one hand toward the middle of your feet while extending the other arm straight up toward the ceiling.

Variation 1: Look down while doing the movement.

Variation 2: Look up, adding an extra stretch through your neck as your eyes follow your raised hand.

This movement enhances cross-body coordination and improves spinal mobility, helping your spine and core stay engaged without stiffness. You should be able to actively breathe while holding this movement.

Incorporating Mobility Work Into Your Routine

So how do you incorporate mobility work into your routine? The key is consistency—but that doesn’t mean you need to spend an hour a day stretching. Just five to 10 minutes, two to three days per week after you ride can make a huge difference.

Think of mobility as the foundational pillar that allows all your other training to work better. When your joints move freely, your strength becomes more effective, your balance improves naturally, and your riding feels more connected. Instead of constantly “fixing” position issues, you’ll be able to focus on refining your communication with your horse.

This article about mobility exercises for equestrians appeared in the July/August 2025 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

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Writer Shawn’s first fall ride in the park was with her friends Anne and Adam, who trailered their horses to South Algonquin Trails. Photo by Shawn Hamilton

Algonquin Autumn Trails

My favorite time to visit the park is in the fall, and I can’t think of a better way to enjoy nature’s autumn display of colors than from the saddle.

There’s no better way to enjoy nature’s autumn display of colors than from the saddle. Photo by Shawn Hamilton

My first fall ride in the park was with my friends Anne and Adam, who trailered their horses to South Algonquin Trails and asked me to join them. Without a rideable horse at the time, a quick call secured me a lovely Appaloosa mare named Avery and a friendly and informative guide named Jocelyn.

It was one of those October days when everything just swings your way. The colors were peaking, it was not too hot, and the gentle breeze was just enough to keep the horses cool and the bugs away.

We lunched at the Gut, where the river narrows and creates rapids to a waterfall that cascades into a small lake. Our horses carried us through the well-maintained trails to the lookout for breathtaking views. We crossed bridges and creeks surrounded by the reds, oranges, and yellows of Mother Nature before returning to the ranch.

The view of a lake from the saddle on Anne’s horse, Baloo. Photo by Shawn Hamilton

Horse Camping

Over the years of running South Algonquin Trails, owner Tammy Donaldson noticed that a percentage of the trail riding guests had a horse at home. Realizing the market for horse-friendly accommodations, their first equestrian campsite was completed in 2018.

A high demand prompted the expansion to 13 horse-friendly camp sites, one with an electrical hookup, and three cabins available for rent. Each site is designed for easy maneuvering of large trailers and comes equipped with a fire pit, picnic table, covered stalls, shovel and wheelbarrow, its own outhouse, and a 100-gallon water tank for the horses filled by the staff as needed. Guides and extra trail horses are also available for a fee.

This past September, I was lucky enough to join a group of friends to experience horse camping at South Algonquin Trails firsthand. We booked two camp sites side by side, and with two living quarters trailers and a cabin rental, the six of us and our horses were well accommodated. Over four days of riding, we took to the trails to see rivers, lakes and lookouts followed by delicious, combined-effort meals while stories and songs were shared by the campfire.

A full day in the saddle included a ride to a lake the horses could wade in. Photo by Shawn Hamilton

Day by Day

Even with the pending forecast of rain, we geared up and headed out on day one. A slight drizzle did not deter us as our horses enjoyed the wide trail to Eco Lodge, a remote hidden gem on a small lake where visitors can hike or bike in to stay overnight and enjoy a piece of wilderness.

Eco Lodge is a remote hidden gem on a small lake where visitors can hike or bike in to stay overnight and enjoy a piece of wilderness. Photo by Shawn Hamilton

Patrons of the lodge who would like to experience the park from the saddle get picked up to ride some of South Algonquin Trails’ well-mannered horses, ride through the park, and return to the lodge on their mounts to enjoy a home-cooked meal.

Taking advantage of the nice weather for the next few days, we rode to the lookout for a picnic lunch overlooking the expansive and colorful views and enjoyed long canters on the flat, sandy trails. A full day in the saddle included a ride to a lake the horses could wade in—the perfect spot to swim with the horses on a hot summer’s day.

Anne and Ghost at Lookout Ridge. Photo by Shawn Hamilton

Along with trail riding and horse camping, South Algonquin Trails offers horse camp for all ages; even grandparents are welcome. Rides are flexible, from one hour to full days, and their special overnight package called “Come Stay With Us” features three hours of horseback riding each day, accommodations, and meals, with an available upgrade meal package to enjoy at the nearby Nomi Spa.

Other fun events include liberty and obstacle clinics, poker rides, and a new Ride for the Cure hosted by the ranch this year. If you find yourself at Royal Agricultural Winter Fair in Toronto, look for their booth, where you can hop on one of their mechanical horse simulators used for training purposes.

South Algonquin Trails is a laid-back facility that caters to all types of horse enthusiasts, from those who have never touched a horse to those who want an adventurous experience from the saddle in one of Canada’s most prestigious provincial parks. It is well worth the trip!

For more information, visit South Algonquin Trails online at southalgonquintrails.com and Algonquin Eco Lodge at algonquinecolodge.com.

This article about horseback riding in Algonquin Provincial Park appeared in the September/October 2025 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

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For the second year, limited-edition pink Grab & Go bales have been distributed to retailers across the country, helping spread awareness from barns and farms to communities nationwide. While the packaging may look different, customers can expect the same highquality forage they have come to trust from Standlee.

When customers choose a pink Grab & Go bale, they are not only fueling their animals but also helping Standlee support organizations working to make a meaningful difference for individuals and families affected by breast cancer.

“Supporting the fight against breast cancer has long been part of who we are at Standlee,” said Jessica Wright, VP of Marketing. “Each year, we are reminded that this fight affects people standing right beside us in our barns, homes and communities. Bringing the pink bales back gives us another opportunity to come together, show our support and help make a meaningful difference for those impacted by breast cancer.”

Over the past six years, Standlee’s breast cancer awareness efforts have shared stories of strength and resilience while encouraging the agriculture and equine communities to come together in support of the cause. In 2025 alone, Standlee donated a total of $65,000 to organizations supporting breast cancer research, education, resources and individuals and families impacted by the disease.

This year, Standlee’s support will benefit five organizations:

◆ Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF) – Funding innovative research to prevent and cure breast cancer worldwide.
◆ Living Beyond Breast Cancer (LBBC) – Providing education, resources, and a supportive community for people affected by breast cancer.
◆ Rein In Cancer – Supporting individuals and families affected by cancer while bringing together the Western and equine communities around the cause.
◆ Rural Gone Urban Foundation – Providing judgment-free grants and financial support to women battling breast cancer, empowering them to make memories and invest in legacies for themselves and their families.
◆ Horses and Hope – Supporting medically underserved individuals, especially those in the Kentucky horse industry and beyond, through education, screening, and support to help with early detection and care.

New for 2026, supporters can take their support beyond the barn with a collection of limitededition Grab & Go to Give apparel and merchandise available on the Standlee website throughout October. Net proceeds from the collection will be donated in support of the campaign’s partner organizations.

From putting a pink bale in the barn to wearing their support, customers across the country can join Standlee in standing behind those affected by breast cancer and the organizations working every day to make an impact.

Together, we can fuel animals, fuel hope and stand stronger in the fight against breast cancer.

For more information about Standlee’s Grab & Go to Give campaign and ways to show your support, visit www.standleeforage.com/promotions/grab-go-give/ or contact marketing@standlee.com.

— Edited Press Release

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But the mare felt pregnant. I had learned to palpate mares 10 years before portable ultrasound had been invented, so I learned the “feel” long before I learned what they looked like on the very expensive 6-inch black-and-white TV screen. (My first one cost more than a new truck.) Without ultrasound, I would have called her pregnant, and that would’ve been the end of the story. But, as you’ve probably guessed by now, this is not the end of the story.

Illustration by Madison Seamans, DVM

Making a Baby

Mrs. Barbara Goodrich had contacted me in the early spring, asking about the possibility of breeding her mare artificially. She had her eye on a real fancy, blue-blooded stallion in Colorado, but didn’t want to take the mare on a long, expensive trip.

I told her we could help her avoid the trailer ride by using shipped, fresh-cooled semen and artificial insemination, but it wasn’t cheap, and timing was critical. They weren’t going to send a sample in a pickle jar that we could just use when we had time. The mare had to be in heat, the semen had to be placed in her uterus, and she had to ovulate within 48 hours.

Fertility is not a function of how many times the mare is bred. One time is sufficient if it is the right time. Of course, if we didn’t want the mare to conceive, she could get pregnant any time—especially by the fence-jumping 2-year-old down the road that should have been gelded at birth—but that’s a whole ‘nother story.

I went on to explain that the entire process could take several visits, and the synchronization of several factors was critical. We made an appointment for the following week.

After examining the mare, I told Mrs. Goodrich that we were very lucky: if we could have a sample in 48 hours, I thought the mare would be ready. I stressed how fortunate we were, as it seldom happened so quickly. I thought to myself that it might be a sign that this case would be easy.

I was wrong.

Hiding Out

“The next step is for you to call the stallion owner and have the semen shipped to you,” I told her. “If you can call me when it arrives, I can be here within a couple of hours.”

The sample arrived as scheduled, and the insemination was uneventful.

It’s always a good idea to recheck the mare in 48 hours to ensure ovulation, and this mare did so, exactly as predicted. Though the whole process started out dang near textbook perfect, it didn’t stay that way.

I recommend the first ultrasound on day 14 after ovulation. This will usually—and the key word here is usually—tell us if she is pregnant or coming back into heat. An exam at this early date also helps us manage twin pregnancies more easily. Although twins sound like a cheap way to expand your herd, they almost always end in disaster.

Before I place the ultrasound probe in the right location (this requires a long plastic sleeve, a lot of nerve, and a very cooperative patient), I feel the cervix and uterus. In a mare during early pregnancy, the cervix feels like a pencil and the uterus feels like a banana or large sausage.

That is the way this mare felt, but the image on the screen suggested my fingers were either lying to me or they were thinking about something else. The embryo is about the size of a quarter by 14 days, and the uterus is about the size of a large banana, so there ain’t a lot of room to hide.

However, these sneaky rascals have occasionally played hide and seek with me, and I just can’t find ‘em. In mares that really feel pregnant, I like to scan again in a couple of days. This often results in the good news that the mare is, indeed, pregnant. On this occasion, however, this was not going to happen.

Storming Off

Mrs. Goodrich was beyond disappointed—she was livid.

“I can’t believe I spent all this money…” (I think her bill totaled about $250 at that point, unbelievably cheap, even 25 years ago) “…and you can’t see anything on this stupid machine!”

I told her again how fortunate we were that things had gone this smoothly, and that I was fairly confident we would see the embryo in two days.

Nope.

“I can’t believe I thought we could actually do this artificially in the first place,” she fumed (the smoke alarm in the barn was just about to go off). “I am going to take her to Colorado and let things happen naturally. It’s what I should have done in the first place!”

So she did.

The Math’s Not Mathing

Three months later, I got a call from the farm manager at the blue-blood stallion station in Danglongwaysfromhere, Colorado.

“Mrs. Goodrich brought us a mare a few months back and listed you as the vet of record,” he started, “but she said she had already spent a FORTUNE with you and didn’t want to spend another dime on unnecessary vet bills. We have been teasing this mare every other day for about three months, but she hasn’t showed the slightest interest in our stallion. I thought I’d find out if you did something to bring her in heat. Mrs. Goodrich was fairly adamant about ‘no vets.’”

I told him the condensed version of the story and that maybe another exam would be helpful. He called me back in a few hours with the news that his vet had examined her and said she was in foal—about 90 days!

Sometimes just one more try will give us a victory. It’s not like we had been breeding this mare for six cycles with no luck; we had been very fortunate with the timing of the whole process.

But let’s think about Mrs. G’s decision. One more ultrasound exam would have cost her about $50. Instead, she took a week off work, drove 1,200 miles to Colorado—twice—to deliver and retrieve her mare, paid for 90 days board, and eventually another vet exam anyway to determine the mare was pregnant all along.

With that exercise in economics, I’m sure she has a promising future in politics.

This edition of The Village Horse Doctor appeared in the May/June 2025 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post The Village Horse Doctor: Will She or Won’t She? appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Ashley Sisco selects and videos a wide range of trailers for her dealership to meet customers’ needs. Photo by Jessica O’Connor

Unexpected Opportunity

In 2012, Sisco, who was then working as the store manager for a COACH Designer Handbags and Purses location, made the decision to trade in her horse trailer for a larger model while at a horse show. The good rapport she found with the saleswoman who made the deal for her helped lead to another upgrade—and a shockingly unexpected opportunity.

“She told the owner of Shadow Trailers that I needed to be selling them,” Sisco recounts. “He flew me out to tour the plant in Florida and made it clear that he wanted a dealer in North Carolina. I’d always wanted to work in the horse industry, and I was also at a crossroads in life. So I moved to the middle of the state, opened the dealership in May of 2013, and it just escalated to where I am today.”

Personal Touch

The personable entrepreneur keeps a mixed inventory of both new and used horse trailers on her lot to help put every customer into a trailer that checks all their boxes. Sisco insists on offering a quality product, and her honesty in presenting each is just one of the reasons that repeat customers are the norm at Carolina Trailer Sales.

“Over the years, Ashley has helped me buy three different trailers, each time locating exactly what I needed,” says loyal customer Aimee Soyka. “She’s also sold two trailers for me, and each time has made the entire process as stress-free as possible.”

After personally inspecting each consignment or trade, she ensures they receive a professional cleaning and creates a thorough video walk-through of each trailer listed for sale. This extra step has proven to make the buying process much simpler and cements trust in her relationship with clients.

“I purchased my trailer ‘sight unseen,’ aside from a short video and a few pictures Ashley sent me,” says customer Kristi Welke. “It was exactly as described and exactly what I told her I was looking for. She was so easy to work with, and I won’t think twice before purchasing my next trailer through her.”

Industry Trends

Her personal involvement in the horse industry aside, Sisco makes it a point to stay abreast of what consumers are looking for in today’s horse trailer market, as well as taking the time to learn all she can about the trailers she sells and any emerging improvements and technology.

A prime example was her recognition of the need for a weekender bumper-pull model, a trailer designed for ease of use by those who may want to overnight occasionally without needing a large rig. She pitched the concept to KieferBilt Trailers, and one of her most rewarding moments in business followed when a horsewoman from Arizona traveled to her lot to purchase the model.

“Ashley has been an asset to us because she gets out there and uses the product to be able to give accurate feedback to her manufacturers and customers,” explains David Green Jr., owner of KieferBilt Trailers. “She connects well with her customers and is able to communicate with us what they’re wanting so we can build a trailer that better suits the end user.”

Secret Sauce

The secret sauce behind Carolina Trailer Sales’ success, however, lies in Sisco’s focus on building relationships, not just making transactions.

“I always put myself on the other side of the table,” she explains. “I treat people the way I want to be treated.”

Walking into Sisco’s office feels like stepping into someone’s home, a space adorned with vibrant scenes from her own life with horses and cozy western décor, reminders of what could stretch out on the road ahead for those purchasing their own horse trailer.

Sisco’s beloved pets supervise all office paperwork in the cozy space. Photo by Jessica O’Connor

“I sold several last year that were ‘first trailers’ for little girls to start showing,” she recalls with a smile. “It almost brought tears to my eyes, because I remember when my dad got my first trailer for me. I know how that felt, and it’s been great to be a part of that moment with others.”

Sisco’s laid-back, low-pressure approach during sales appointments adds to the inviting atmosphere she’s created at her dealership. By the time the paperwork has been signed (supervised by her two feline and canine companions), most feel they’re leaving the dealership with a new friend.

“She does a phenomenal job with customer service, taking care of people and making them feel good,” says Kyle Kegley, Merhow Trailers’ regional sales manager. “She obviously treats them like family, and she’s very thorough.”

Sisco’s customers tend to agree, as seen in over 100 positive Google reviews for Carolina Trailer Sales.

At the end of the day, Sisco’s ultimate goal is to simply serve the equine industry well, whether that’s through helping customers find the perfect trailer or giving back to local show circuits.

“I love what I do,” she says. “I want to continue to give everyone who walks onto my lot a great experience and keep making dreams come true.”

Follow Ashley Sisco’s business on social media at facebook.com/CarolinaTrailerSales.

This article about Ashley Sisco appeared in the May/June 2025 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

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• Teaching a young horse how to steer and stop before being ridden.
• Improving steering on children’s horses that are too small for an adult to ride.
• Building a horse’s confidence by having him taking the lead.
• Doing an enriching activity for horses that are unable to be ridden.
• Introducing a horse to obstacles or pulling a cart.

Ground driving is a great way to improve a horse’s steering and stopping before he is ridden. Photo by Jason Irwin

Getting Started in Teaching Your Horse to Ground Drive

I use a saddle, a bridle with a snaffle bit, and two long driving lines. A surcingle may also be used in place of a saddle, and you may want to carry a buggy whip to encourage forward motion.

Note: When ground driving, I run the driving lines from the bridle through the stirrups and then back to me. I tie the stirrups beneath the belly using a piece of rope to prevent them from flapping.

Before running driving lines through the stirrups, tie the stirrups beneath the horse’s belly. This prevents the stirrups from flopping around. Photo by Jason Irwin

Before putting the bridle on the horse and hooking the lines up to the bit, it’s best to get the horse used to the feel of the lines around his hind end. Sometimes when a horse first feels a line touch his hindquarters, he might be tempted to bolt, turn quickly, or even kick at it.

To train him to get used to the feeling of the lines, begin with your horse wearing a halter and lead rope and saddled up. It’s best to use a halter for this part so you don’t accidentally pull too hard on the bit in the horse’s mouth.

Assuming you’re starting on the left side of the horse, connect one line to the right D-ring on the right side of the saddle and run it behind the horse’s haunches (be careful not to get kicked). Hold the line in your right hand, leaving slack in it for now, and hold the lead rope that runs to the halter in your left hand.

Start by having the horse circle around you at a walk, and then put slight tension on the line so that it makes contact with his haunches. Have the horse circle once with a small amount of tension, and then release the pressure and then repeat this several times.

Once the horse seems to be accepting of the line, you’re ready to move on to the next part.

Ready to Ground Drive

When a horse learns to ground drive, it’s a good idea to have a second person help you for the first few sessions. Put a halter under the bridle and have the second person lead the horse while you drive him. This helps the horse figure out what he’s supposed to do and keeps him from suddenly turning and getting wrapped up in the lines.

It can be done with one person, but it’s easier with two. It’s also better to drive in a small area in the beginning, if possible, so the horse doesn’t have too big of a space to pick up speed.

To start driving, hook up the right driving line to the right bit ring and run the line through the right stirrup. Do the same on the left. Keep one driving line in each hand and don’t tie them together. You can either let the remainder trail on the ground behind you or gather up the ends and hold them.

Now stand behind the horse a safe distance away from his hind end. Here is where you can either use a voice cue, such as “walk on,” or create a little flapping motion with the lines to get the horse to walk forward. This might feel strange to the horse because he’s used to you leading him most places. This is why a second person is good to have in the beginning to give the horse confidence to move forward.

Don’t make any turns or stops in the beginning, just get forward motion and follow the perimeter of the area that you are in.

Turning, Stopping & Backing

Once the horse is moving forward nicely, try to change directions by steering through the center of the pen and heading out the other way. This gives the horse a lot of space to make the initial turns. Again, keep following the perimeter in the new direction.

Once the forward motion and change of direction is going well, you can work on stopping. It’s best to not work on stopping at the beginning of the session because the horse will have more energy and might not be content to stand still.

To stop, just pick up on the lines until he comes to a stop, then release the pressure. You can use the voice cue “whoa” as well. The first few times you practice stopping, only stay stopped for 10 or 20 seconds, then get the horse moving forward again.

He might be a bit confused as to what to do when he’s standing by himself and might start to fidget. Try to get forward motion before the horse starts losing focus. Your helper can assist with keeping the horse calm for this part.

Begin with a helper if possible to keep the horse moving forward while teaching the new cues from the lines. Photo by Jason Irwin

If the horse seems like he needs some reassurance, carefully walk up to his hip and stroke him with your hand to help him remain relaxed. Eventually, you can add in a few back-up steps by pulling on the lines and releasing as he backs up. Once all these steps are going well, you won’t need the helper anymore.

To advance the horse’s turns, you can practice rollback-type turns toward the fence or arena wall. Drive him 3 or 4 feet out from the fence and then have him turn sharply toward the fence and continue forward in the new direction. Turning toward the fence causes him to turn more sharply, which makes for better turns. Even though the turns will likely be faster, remember to keep your hands soft and light on the lines.

In early training, following the fence helps to keep to keep the horse straight. Photo by Jason Irwin

Adding Speed

To pick up speed, stand to one side of the horse and have him circle around you like you’re longeing him. Ask for a trot by using a voice cue, or flap lightly with the lines. Once your horse is trotting, keep him circling around you so you don’t have to run behind him.

To go faster than a walk, have the horse move in a circle around you, similar to longeing. Photo by Jason Irwin

If you’re moving straight, you’ll have to go as fast as your horse to keep up. By having him on a circle, you won’t have to chase behind him. Also, if your horse picks up too much speed and you find him hard to stop, just put him on a smaller circle, which will help slow him down.

Once your horse is ground driving well, you can add some obstacle work or even start cart training. Ground driving is a fun way to spend time with your horse and even has lots of benefits that transfer to under saddle work.

This article about teaching a horse to ground drive appeared in the May/June 2025 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

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