Arena work is essential for all types of training. A controlled environment with good, level footing allows horse and rider the opportunity to perfect form, balance, rhythm and timing without worrying about unexpected wildlife encounters, hardpan, ruts or rocks....
The average resting heart rate of a healthy, mature horse is between 30 - 40 beats per minute (bpm). When your horse starts sweating and blowing, you know he is working hard. But respiration isn’t the most reliable means...
“Oh, there’s always some point in the day when my friends and I will look at each other and ask ourselves, ‘Are we having fun yet?’ It’s usually after one of us has gone off course or blown a...
Back Country Horsemen of America has always believed in the worth of hard work.
Each year, BCHA members dedicate many hours to the hard labor of clearing and improving trails not only for equestrian use, but for everyone who...
Cleanliness is most important in horse and rider turnout, and it shows that you respect the judge, the sport and yourself. Polish your boots and take off mud, manure and hay. Remove shavings from the horse’s tail. Braiding is...
The American Endurance Ride Conference, the official sanctioning body of the sport in the United States, is hosting its annual convention this weekend in Louisville, Kentucky. The convention brings a wide variety of opportunities to all who attend.
Trade Show:...
There are countless different styles and types of bosals available, and quality will vary as much as design. The bosal should have a balanced feel, some give in the cheeks and a shape that conforms well to a horse’s...
Watch American dressage star Debbie McDonald and the legendary Hanoverian mare, Brentina, as they compete for their spot on the 2008 Olympic team.Back to the video page.
It seems impossible that woven strips of leather and hide would have any influence in guiding a creature as powerful as a horse. As ineffectual as it may appear, the hackamore is in fact a very effective means of...
DoPractice developing an even, cadenced lope away from the poles.
Make sure your cues are clear and your horse is listening before working on lope-overs.
Practice over poles and away from them.
Keep an even, motivated pace throughout the...
