Ever wanted to try something new with your horse? Whether you’re looking to deepen your bond, improve your skills, or have some fun, there are countless activities you can explore. Check out our list of ten new things to do with your horse and see how many you’ve already done or spot ones you might like to try!
Ten New Things to Do With Your Horse
1. Hacking Somewhere New
Why not take a break from your usual routes and explore somewhere completely different? Hacking in a new location can invigorate you and your horse. Is there a dream destination you’ve always wanted to hack, such as the Lake District? Well, why not make it happen? Exploring new trails can provide fresh scenery and challenges that will engage both of you.
2. Try a New Discipline
Trying a new discipline can be incredibly beneficial, depending on what you and your horse are comfortable with. If you’re primarily into dressage, why not give jumping a go? Or if you’re an avid jumper, perhaps try some groundwork or liberty training. Diversifying your skills can help improve communication between you and your horse while keeping things exciting.
3. Photoshoot
Capture the beautiful moments between you and your equine friend by booking a photoshoot with a professional photographer. Not only will this give you lasting memories, but it also provides an opportunity for both of you to relax and enjoy each other’s company in front of the camera.
4. Teach Your Horse a Trick
Teaching your horse tricks is fun and mentally stimulating for them. Do some research for tips on how to teach simple tricks like bowing or fetching objects. This activity strengthens the bond between you two while providing mental exercise for your horse.
5. Free Lunging
If you have access to a lunge pen, free lunging is an excellent way to gain your horse’s trust and put your voice control to the test. Unlike traditional lunging, where the horse is attached via a lunge line, free lunging allows them more freedom while still responding to your commands.
6. Loose Jumping
If you’re nervous about jumping yourself but want to give your horse a chance to jump higher than usual, loose jumping is an ideal solution. Set up jumps in an enclosed area and let your horse navigate them freely without a rider on their back.
7. Bareback Riding
Switch up your flatwork sessions by removing the saddle altogether! Bareback riding helps improve balance and strengthens core muscles for both rider and horse. Don’t forget to use a neck strap at first if you’re unsure about maintaining balance without stirrups.
8. Lateral Movement
Make schooling sessions more interesting by incorporating lateral movements such as leg-yields or half-pass into your routine. These exercises enhance flexibility, coordination, and communication between rider and horse—making schooling sessions more dynamic.
9. Take Your Horse for a Swim
Swimming is fantastic for horses as it decreases impact shock while increasing movement range and lumbar flexion—perfect for building muscle without strain on joints! You can hire facilities that offer water treadmills specifically designed for equine use if natural bodies of water aren’t available nearby.
10. Take Your Horse on Holiday
Just like humans need vacations from time to time, horses benefit greatly from holidays, too! Whether it’s spending a chilled-out week in picturesque countryside settings or attending boot camps focused on fitness improvement—you’ll find plenty of options tailored towards equestrian needs, ensuring both relaxation & rejuvenation during breaks away from regular routines!
Heavenly Pastures Horse Cremation Service
Nobody wants to think of losing their companion, but the day must come when every horse has to move on. Whether the worst has happened and you need support or you are planning for the future to make the inevitable less of a burden, Heavenly Pastures Horse Cremations are here to help you with horse cremation services in the North West – covering the counties of Lancashire, Merseyside and Cheshire. We give you the space to grieve as our equine end of life service takes care of the practical arrangements so you have the space to grieve.
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