If you’ve been to a horse expo, you’ve probably seen a bridleless riding demonstration. The lack of tack looks like an inspiring next plane of communication and connection with your horse. But is bridleless riding an attainable goal for...
The horse spins to the right, then left, at a reining show. With his full body engaged and his hindquarters carrying his weight, it appears that the spin is a fast turn on the haunches. However, to master this...
Ranch riding tops the list as one of the most popular western show classes. The appeal? A class that riders can succeed in without expensive silver-adorned saddles or fancy clothes. Most any horse-and-rider team that prepares for the pattern...
Success in the arena with your horseback riding starts with the right mindset. Riders can learn from athletes how to prepare for competition.Professional boxer Muhammad Ali was once quoted as saying, “In the big leagues everyone has the ability....
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...
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...
Trick riders at work are a sight to behold. Watching them swing around, perform handstands, and dangle inches from the ground, all from the back of galloping horse, is a rush. For those of us who work hard just...
In the fifth episode of The Horse Illustrated Episode of Horses in the Morning, sponsored by Title Sponsor Straight Arrow Products, hosts Glenn the Geek and Sarah Evers Conrad talk to breakaway roping superstar Jackie Hobbs-Crawford about her illustrious...
Along the short end of the arena sits an enclosed play area filled with toys, a small trampoline, Tonka tractors and trucks. For any parent who rides horses, it’s a dream space to let kids play while still being...
The sliding stop is reining’s signature maneuver. The horse runs at top speed down the length of the arena, and then on a loose rein, lowers his hindquarters to the dirt as his front feet pedal for another 10 to 20 feet until...