Poles for performance

Welcome

HORSE&RIDER February 2023

THIS MONTH’S CONTRIBUTORS

Fizz Tickridge-Marshall Fizz discussesthemost obviousdifference between mares and

Discovering Normandy

If you’re dreaming of a horsey holiday abroad, you might be surprised to hear that your dreams are just a short Eurostar ride away. Staff Writer Sarah Burgess tells us all about her trip to Normandy...

Horse AND Rider hub

Want to comment on an H&R article or share your thoughts? Drop a line to Letters Editor Megan Xavier-Witherington

Displays of diversity

The 2022 edition of the British Dressage Associated Championships proved more popular than ever as riders came forward to contest the 108 titles up for grabs

The National Equine Show

Save the date for a brand new equestrian event that’s happening this March... 

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with horses

It’s all go for Cheshire-based vet Geri Long, but she wouldn’t have it any other way, as she talks us through a typical summer’s weekek inherlife

Bend and balance

Does a horse have to be naturally bendy to succeed in dressage, or can he become more flexible through training? This month, Gareth Hughes talks suppleness 

Come rain or shine

Hacking on gloomy days is one of our favourite winter activities – here’s why it should be one of yours, too

7 ways to spice up your riding this winter

Motivation matters when it comes to getting through winter, so let our ideas make ridden sessions more inspiring for both you and your horse

Go arena cross-country schooling

Wondering how to introduce your horse to arena cross-country? Eventer Felicity Collins explains how to structure your first session

Better body, better mind

Being more aware of your mind and body, and learning to listen to them, can be life changing both in and out of the saddle, says Kathryn Thakrar

Coping strategies

Once established, stereotypical behaviours are hard to eliminate, but they can be managed. Kayna Prescott explains how to help your horse...

Ageing gracefully

Looking after an older horse presents its challenges and requires some adaptations in how we manage him, as vet Hannah Birch explains

Safety matters

Reduce the risk of your horse being injured by paying close attention to his management, says vet Martina Neidhart

To herd or not to herd

My horse is turned out with one other fieldmate, but seems fairly unhappy in the field. Would he be happier in a bigger herd?

Rocky road

I hack my horse on lots of roads and stony tracks. Should I put shoes on him to prevent his hooves from wearing down too much, or becoming sore?

Trimmers of terror

How can I keep my horse tidy through the winter when he’s not used to clippers or trimmers?

Spinning around

How can I get my horse used to going on the walker?

Inner peace

I suffer with anxiety and find being around my horse really comforting. How can I keep these positive feelings when I’m not with him?

Who let the dogs out?

My horse is very nervous of dogs. How can I help him feel more comfortable around them?

Balancing act

How much difference can my horse’s hoof balance make to his long-term soundness and what conditions are most affected by it?

Trotting technique

How can I teach my horse to trot up?

Straw dilemma

Is it ever safe for horses to eat straw?

Overnight exercise

My horse’s legs fill overnight when he’s in the stable. What can I do to help him?

Stop the clock

Why do so many riders use stopwatches for cross-country?

Snug and dry

Should I have my horse’s turnout rugs reproofed?

Stretching strides

My horse struggles to make the distance in a two-stride double. Is it better to push on or pull up a bit to fit in an extra stride?

Flick those toes

I tend to shy away from working on my horse’s medium trot. What are the best exercises to use that will keep it fun?

Keeping fit

I don’t have lights in my arena and struggle to find enough daylight to ride in during the winter. How can I keep my horse fit?

Straighten that hunch

Because of my desk job I find that I hunch over in the saddle. How can I correct this?

Stop swinging

My lower leg feels very unstable as I ride. How can I stop it from swinging backwards?

Winning at winter

It might be chilly out there but winter can provide the perfect opportunity to enjoy your horse. Fizz Tickridge-Marshall explains how

Perfect policies

Insurance can be a minefield if you don’t know what kind of cover you need. Our experts clarify what’s involved

Chasing the dream

For any mare owner, the trotting of tiny hooves might seem an attractive proposition. Fizz Tickridge-Marshall explains what you need to consider before embarking on the journey of having a foal

Memories start here

Planning your perfect horsey holiday? Tauseef Qadri says your dream vacation could be just a click away

Feeding for fibre

BUYER’S GUIDE HAY REPLACERS

No-rinse washes

Every grooming kit needs a no-rinse wash to keep horses’ coats clean and refreshed. Let’s take a look at some of the choices on the market

This month we love

Take a look at some of our favourite horsey products

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